The Villanovan | Volume 121, Issue 1: September 9, 2026

WEDNESDAY September 9, 2026 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan VOLUME 121 | ISSUE 1

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

Cabrini Welcomes New Students

Father Peter Delivers 2026 Opening Address

Sophia Thomas Staff Writer

For the first time, the traditional sophomore experience at Villanova extends beyond the boundaries of Villanova’s main campus. Just a couple of miles down the road, students are settling into their residence halls, dining in new halls and learning the shuttle schedules as Villanova welcomes its first class of residents to Cabrini Campus. Following Cabrini University’s closure in 2024, Villanova acquired ownership of the institution’s former property and began preparing to integrate the transformed Cabrini Campus into daily university life. This fall, Cabrini became home to approximately 900 sophomore students, making it a central part of the Class of 2029’s second-year experience. For these students, the start of the fall semester meant navigating uncharted territory. While Cabrini offers many similar traditional Villanova amenities, students must also adjust to the distance between the Cabrini campus and the main campus. Before move-in day, Cabrini residents faced the prospect of becoming the first Villanovans to call this campus their new home. For some, a Cabrini housing assignment brought about excitement for new facilities and opportunities. For others, the assignment brought uncertainty. “My main motivation for the move to Cabrini was suite-style living,” sophomore Lyla Kirchner said. “The facilities are very clean, and it feels as though everyone is very accommodating.” As Cabrini residents settle in, they are focusing on establishing routines and

University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D spoke of new possibilities for the 2026-27 academic year. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography

Margaret Miller Co-News Editor

On Tuesday, Sept. 8, University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D, hosted his annual Opening Address in the Connolly Center. Gathering mostly staff and faculty, the President spoke of new possibilities in the new school year, specifically with the opening of Villanova’s Cabrini Campus. Father Peter set the tonefor the speech, elaborating on what he sees as the start of an “extraordinary year.” “Villanova is mov-

ing forward. We are growing, we are changing and we are investing and we are doing it together as a community, united in a common mission and shared hope for our future” Father Peter stated. Father Peter began by speaking on the opening of the Cabrini Campus and the dedication of the campus. He spoke with positivity, elaborating on what the expansion means to the Villanova community as a whole. Addressing students and faculty living and working on the campus, specifically those who may feel isolated from the Villanova Campus, Father Peter framed the expansion

as a growth of an existing community, not a separate community. “Augustine believed that community is not simply about bringing people into the same place. True community is created when people are united in purpose. When they come together in friendship, mutual respect, and love for something greater than themselves. This is what we are building. Not simply more buildings, but a stronger community” Father Peter noted. Father Peter also discussed some events coming up in the University calendar. These include Pops in the Pavillon, an

event during parent’s weekend that will bring in Leslie Odom Jr., along with The St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service on Sept. 19., the Sustainability Conference on Oct. 12-16 in Rome, and the Eternal City Tip Off Oct. 30- Nov. 1. The President also talked about the many changes occurring on the Villanova Campus. Father Peter focused on the construction of the new library, Falvey Library at Vic Maggiti Hall. This building will open Oct. 19, and the official celebration of its opening will occur Friday, Oct. 23 during homecoming weekend. Continued on p. 3

Villanova Commemorates 25 Years Since 9/11 Mia Galego

Co-News Editor

passengers aboard United Airlines Flight 93. Inside the Corr Hall

Chapel, students can find a stained glass window dedicated to those who died in

the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The memorial, designed by Rev. Richard G. Cannuli OSA, features an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary praying, the two World Trade Center buildings, the Pentagon and the field near Shanksville, PA, where United Airlines Flight 93 crashed. The names of the 15 Villanovans who died that day are inscribed at the

Continued on p. 10

Friday marks 25 years since one of the darkest days in American history, Sept. 11, 2001. The country and the entire Villanova community are forever impacted by the lives lost during the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well as the heroic actions of the

The Story of 9/11 Survivors p. 3

Fall 2026 Semester Preview p. 4

This Week in Politics: Renewed Conflict with Iran p. 5

Exploring Villanova’s Newest Recreation Center p. 6

Students React to Cabrini Campus p. 7

What Does “Never Forget” Mean To Us? p. 9

Stop Asking Freshmen What Their Major Is p. 10

Student Panel Breaks Myths About Dating At Villanova p. 15

Villanova Football Vs. Louisville: Preview p. 18

Catching Up With The ‘Cats: Kris Jenkins (‘16) p. 18

A stained glass window in the Corr Hall Chapel is dedicated to those who past. Scarlet Shafie/Villanovan Photography

Continued on p. 3

2 | The Villanovan

News 1 Opinion 7 Culture 14 Sports 18

VOL. 121 | ISS. 1 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

KAILEY FAHY DYLAN JOHNSON SOPHIE LATESSA EMMA COTE MIA GALEGO MARGARET MILLER EDEN ROSINI AVERY CHALK EMMA TAYLOR CALI CARSS MAGGIE FITZGERALD FINN COURTNEY CASEY HEALEY IRA NIDAMARTHY MASON CANTON ERICK QUEZADA CIARA DURSEE KORIN KOHEN ERIKA MASSIANI MICHAEL BRADLEY JJ BROWN

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PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER Liquor Underage September 1, CABRINI CAMPUS: FRANCESCA HALL. A female resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated by VEMS and transported to Bryn Mawr. Liquor Underage September 2, ST. MONICA HALL. A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.

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Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.

Stabbing Prompts Lockdown Students React To New Tech Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief On Sunday, Sept. 6, Villanova University was put under a temporary lockdown, due to a stabbing incident in the nearby area, until the suspects were apprehended by local law enforcement. At around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, a U-Haul struck the back of a Mercedes on the southbound ramp of Interstate 476 in Lower Merion Township, resulting in a crash. Following the crash, multiple subjects from the U-Haul and other vehicles assaulted the driver of the Mercedes. The assault ended with a suspect stabbing the driver of the Mercedes in the abdomen and fleeing the scene in a U-Haul. Other suspects fled in other vehicles, according to a report released by Pennsylvania State Police. The U-Haul eventually exited the interstate at the Radnor exit and was seen by Lower Merion Police at the Sunoco located in the 700 Block of West Lancaster Ave, according to the same Pennsylvania State Police report. The subject then fled the Sunoco on foot after the Lower Merion Police arrived. Eventually, the subject was captured in nearby Austin Memorial Park, which is adjacent to the Sunoco across Lancaster Ave. The incident prompted the University to put the campus under a shelter-in-place and then an eventual lockdown. The first notice came via the University’s campus alert system, NOVA Alert, at 5:56 p.m. “Local Police activity [sic] Off campus,” the NOVA Alert read. “Shelter in place. Await instructions. No imminent danger.” The initial alert was then followed by four more alerts over the span of 41 minutes. At 6:10 p.m., a NOVA Alert was issued warning that the local police were searching the area of County Line Road and Lancaster Ave for a suspected attacker in a stabbing incident that occurred in Lower Merion Township.

“The individual is reported as armed and dangerous,” the 6:10 p.m. NOVA Alert stated. “The campus has been ordered to lockdown as a precautionary measure due to the proximity of the search.” The University then suspended all bus and shuttle services until the lockdown was lifted and warned students residing in the Bryn Mawr Villas, colloquially known as Props, to exercise caution because the primary search area was focused near Airdale Rd and Lancaster Ave. An all-clear notification was finally issued at 6:41 p.m., just over 41 minutes after the initial NOVA Alert was issued. “Earlier this evening, a suspect involved in a stabbing incident in Lower Merion Township was apprehended off campus and is now in custody,” Debra Patch, the University’s Deputy Chief of Police and Associate Director of Public Safety, wrote in an email to the Villanova community on Sunday evening. “The incident did not occur on Villanova’s campus and did not involve the University or members of the Villanova community. “Out of an abundance of caution, the University followed the guidance of local authorities and placed the campus on lockdown while law enforcement searched the surrounding area. We are grateful to our local law enforcement partners for their quick response and guidance throughout the incident, as well as to our University Police and Public Safety officers for their professionalism and commitment to keeping our community safe.” The incident is actively being investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police, Philadelphia Station, Criminal Investigation Unit. They are asking that anyone who may have witnessed the stabbing or has information regarding this incident to contact PSP-Philadelphia at 215452-5216 and reference the Pennsylvania State Police incident number: PA2026-1146481. The Villanovan will continue to provide updates on the situation as they come in.

Caroline Etter Staff Writer A new school year brings changes. This includes a new Cabrini Campus, Falvey Library at Vic Maggitti Hall opening soon and changes to technology services. Starting this past summer, Villanova transitioned to D2L Brightspace, a modernized Learning Management System. Provost Patrick Maggitti chose the platform after receiving feedback from an LMS Steering Committee, which includes members of the faculty, the offices of the Provost and Online Programs, Technology Services and other administrators. The LMS Steering Committee was selected to provide feedback for the three LMS finalists: Anthology Ultra, D2L Brightspace and Instructure Canvas. While Canvas was favored by the majority of the committee, D2L Brightspace was selected for its modern and innovative features. “I can navigate Brightspace fine, and I think the software is more modern than Blackboard was,” sophomore Hattie Philips said. Villanova was previously using Blackboard Learn, an older version of the vendor’s LMS. The platform was not popular among students and professors, and many thought it was not user-friendly and difficult to navigate. “Brightspace feels cleaner and more organized, and I especially like having easy access through the mobile app,” junior Elizabeth Howard said. The positive reactions to Brightspace have their limits, though. It has taken professors some time to get used to, which can make it difficult for students to use it effectively. “The only trouble I have is that some of my professors still don’t know how to use it, which

makes it more difficult for me,” Philips added. Along with Brightspace, the implementation of Microsoft Authenticator in place of Duo Mobile has been a change students are getting used to. When signing into a Villanova account, the Authenticator sends a notification to a user’s phone, which then opens the app. From there, the user is asked to enter a number, an extra step, when compared to Duo Mobile. “I find it to be faster than Duo, but more annoying when I need to type the number in,” Philips said. Although the new authenticator may be redundant, the decision to implement it was made with the students’ and university’s interests in mind. The transition is part of the University’s “Rooted. Restless.” 10-year strategic plan, Tech Nova 2026, an initiative carried out by the University Technology Services. With the changes, the university has made a noticeable commitment to helping students and professors understand how to use the new platforms. “I think Brightspace will be easier in the long term, even if there is a slight learning curve in the short term, as there is with any major transition,” Howard said. “It has been great to see how intentionally the rollout was planned with students in mind, including pilot users, training, student guides and workshops.” Luckily, the 2026-2027 academic year is young, giving students and faculty plenty of time to iron out any issues that may pop up. University Technology Services will be hosting faculty office hours over Zoom to offer staff personalized support. With support from students and Technology Services, Brightspace and Microsoft Authenticator will be positive changes that make learning and accessing materials easier for all.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

The Villanovan | 3

NEWS

Villanova Commemorates Sept. 11 Attacks

Combined, they have given nearly $850,000 in scholarships to students. “These scholarships and Continued from p.1 funds allow the unique spirit of these individuals to live on in bottom of the window: W. David beautiful, meaningful ways that Bauer ’78 VSB, James P. Berger continue to benefit so many differ’78 VSB, Dennis Michael Cook ent members of our community,” ’90 CLAS, Jeannine Damiani Kevin Noller, vice president for Jones ’94 VSB, Christopher M. University Advancement at VilDincuff ’92 VSB, Jeffrey Mark lanova said in a press release on Dingle ’90 VSB, Christopher M. Sept. 2. “Along with the stained Duffy ’00 VSB, William F. Fallon glass memorial, they have also ’70 CLAS, Peter Gelinas ’90 VSB, helped people heal while ensuring Michael Gould ’94 VSB, Amy Jar- that however many years pass, ret ’94 VSB, Jennifer Lynn Kane Villanova will never forget.” ’97 VSB and Danielle Kousoulis This week, the University ’93 VSB. These individuals conis set to commemorate the 25th tinue to leave a lasting impact on anniversary of the attacks and pay the Villanova community. respects to those whose lives were The family of Jennifer L. lost. Kane, one of the Villanovans lost “Each year on the anniduring the tragic events, has since versary of 9/11, Villanova honors created the Jennifer L. Kane Enthe lives of those individuals who dowed University Scholarship for perished—and all of those imyoung women like her at Villanopacted—with meaningful events, va. prayer and memorials thoughtThey were the first to create fully organized by the University a scholarship in remembrance of a community,” the University said lost alum, and in 2026, 24 Villain a press release on Sept. 2. “But nova School of Business students their memory extends far beyond were awarded the scholarship. a single day of remembrance.” Since the creation of the On Wednesday, Sept. 9, Jennifer L. Kane Endowed Unithere will be a Mass for Peace at 7 versity Scholarship, five more p.m. in the Sacred Heart Chapel endowed scholarships have been on the Cabrini Campus, and on created to honor Villanovans who Friday, Sept. 11, there will be a died in the attacks. Memorial Mass in the St. ThomMia Galego Co-News Editor

as of Villanova Church with Rev. Bernie Scianna, OSA. The Matthew J. Ryan Center and the Office of Veterans and Military Service Members will install a flag memorial display at the Oreo in remembrance of those whose lives were lost. At 8 a.m., there will be a flag raising by John Barry Hall with the NROTC, followed by a lowering to half-mast. There will also be a prayer and reading of the names. The Corr Hall bells will ring at the time of impact on Friday. The Center for the Common Good and the Center for

Peace and Justice Education are also hosting a panel event on Friday titled: “The Global Legacy and Enduring Impact of 9/11/01 - Twenty-Five Years After.” The event will take place in the Villanova Room in the Connelly Center from 1:30-3 p.m. The five panelists each bring different perspectives and will reflect on the global impact of the attacks 25 years later. Whether it’s taking a minute to reflect or stopping by Corr Hall to see the memorial, there are many ways for students to honor the memory of those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.

Villanova plans to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11/2001. Courtesy of Olivia Pasquale

University President Hosts Opening Address Margaret Miller Co-News Editor Other renovations Father Peter noted were the updates to Bartley Hall and Tolentine. There are also plans to renovate White Hall and the Chemical Engineering building to add improved teaching laboratories and classrooms. He also briefly hinted at the development of the former Rosemont campus. Father Peter then moved to talking about the cost of a Villanova education, stating that the responsibility is on all members of the Villanova community to be good “stewards” of resources to keep Villanova accessible. “Every resource we manage carefully strengthens our ability to invest in our mission, and every thoughtful decision helps protect the future of this institution” Father Peter stated. Later in the speech, he mentioned that Villanova will remain a primarily need-based, and not merit-based institution, when it comes to financial aid. Father Peter also pointed out that higher education is changing, specifically due to pressures from the federal government and an increasing number of families and students questioning the importance of higher education. He touched on how federal policies have impacted research funding, financial aid for students and international enrollment. Father Peter very intention-

ally addressed the impact of the Cabrini Campus on Villanova’s economic future. He assured the audience that the expansion is part of their plan to reduce tuition costs and open doors for new opportunities for the university. “As we welcome additional students and generate additional revenue, we strengthen the university’s financial foundation” Father Peter stated. “And that can help us reduce the pressure for larger tuition increases in the future.” Then, directly addressing the faculty and staff in the audience, Father Peter mentioned upcoming changes to employment and hiring. “We will temporarily slow down hiring and establish a hiring review committee to carefully examine staffing needs” Father Peter stated “We will also explore different ways of organizing work and identifying opportunities to become more effective and efficient.” He specifically hinted at an early retirement plan for employees, but assured audience members that their purpose was not to cut positions, but to strengthen the Villanova mission. Father Peter spent a significant portion of his speech discussing the ways in which Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, will be implemented into the University’s mission and programming. This encyclical discusses what it means to be human in an age of technology and artificial intelligence. “Villanova should establish

itself as a place where one of the most important questions of our time is addressed” Father Peter stated. “What does it mean to remain fully human in a technological age? That question is at the heart of the encyclical.” Father Peter concluded his speech by pointing towards the

year ahead for the Villanova community. “Let us grow forward together, with courage, with humility and with hope, and with hearts restless to discover what more we can become.” Father Peter said. “Thank you, and welcome back, Villanova.”

Father Peter speaking to Villanova students. Courtesy of Villanova University

4 | The Villanovan

Veronica King Staff Writer As the fall semester takes off, Villanovans are looking forward to a semester filled with traditions, celebrations and opportunities to build community. From Family Weekend and Homecoming to Special Olympics and the annual Villanova Christmas Tree Lighting, the fall calendar is packed with events that will bring students, families, alumni and the broader Villanova community together. Classes resumed on Aug. 24, and Villanova officially opened the 112-acre Cabrini Campus, which is located less than two miles from the University’s campus in Radnor. The campus became part of Villanova in June 2024. This semester also includes a change in how students navigate their coursework, as Villanova has transitioned from Blackboard to Brightspace as its primary course-management platform. While the new semester brings changes, many familiar Villanova traditions continue on the calendar. One of the first major opportunities for Villanovans to come together will be the St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service on Sept. 19. The annual day of service allows students to volunteer throughout the local community and put the University’s values of Veritas, Unitas and Caritas into action. “I’m really looking forward to doing the Day of Service again this year with BSU,” sophomore Brianna Robinson said. “It’s a great way to spend the day giving back while getting closer with everyone in the group.”

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Fall 2026 Semester Preview The following weekend will bring one of Villanova’s biggest fall traditions, Family Weekend from Sept. 25 to Sept. 27. Families and friends will come to campus for a weekend of activities, including the Pops in the Pavilion concert on Sept. 25 featuring the legendary Philly Pops alongside Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer Leslie Odom Jr. Family Weekend will also feature several opportunities for students and their families to take part in Villanova traditions. On Sept. 27, NOVAdance will host its B+ Brunch, allowing families to spend time together while supporting the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation. “I’m really excited for my first Family Weekend because it’ll be one of the first times I get to show my family what my life at Villanova is actually like,” freshman Kelly Whitehead said. Another community-centered tradition, the 25th annual Soul Food Sunday, will take place that same day and will bring Villanovans together over food, conversation and connection. Villanova’s fall calendar will also feature opportunities to experience the arts. On Sept. 27, the Villanova Theatre Department will present “The Moors,” giving students another opportunity to engage with the University’s theater community. September will close with 1842 Day on Sept. 29, Villanova’s 10th annual 24-hour day of giving, celebrating the University’s founding while bringing the Villanova community together to support the people, places and programs that make campus special. October will bring another highly anticipated addition to campus. On Oct. 23, Falvey

Library will celebrate the opening of Maggitti Hall. The building will provide students and departments, including the Writing Center, with additional space to work and new academic resources. The same weekend, from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25, Villanovans will celebrate Homecoming Weekend, a longstanding tradition that welcomes alumni, families and friends back to campus for fun activities. Perhaps one of the most unique events will take place on Nov. 1, when Villanova and the University of Notre Dame meet in Rome, Italy, for the Eternal City Tip-Off. The event will include a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader, along with academic, athletic and spiritual programming. Back on campus, students and athletes will come together for the 38th annual Special Olympics Fall Festival from Nov. 13 to Nov. 15, a weekend centered around competition and community.

As the semester ends, Villanovans will have several opportunities to celebrate the holiday season. The University Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 2 will return to the Riley Ellipse with festive treats, performances from the Villanova Voices and Singers, a holiday light show, firepits, s’mores and more. On Dec. 8, the Holiday Village and Night Market will offer another chance for students to embrace the holiday spirit with carriage rides, food trucks, local vendors, photo opportunities and entertainment on the Rowen Green. After a semester packed with traditions, service and community, Villanovans will turn their attention toward finals. Final exams will take place Dec. 12 to Dec. 18, and officially bring the fall semester to a close. This fall semester will provide Villanovans with countless opportunities to make memories through service, athletics, the arts and traditions with family and friends.

Members of the Villanova community have much to look forward to this semester. Courtesy of Villanova University

Demolition Begins On College Hall Apartments received just three complaint calls from community members related to College Hall. However, a year later in On Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2023, during the same period, the the demolition process began on LMPD received 10 complaints College Hall in Bryn Mawr, PA, about the 800 block of Montgoma longtime off-campus apartment ery Avenue, where College Hall is complex for generations of Villalocated. nova students. These complaints includThe apartment complex, ed rowdy behavior, noisy parties, which was colloquially known as underage drinking and fire alarm “Courts”, was a popular party spot activation. for Villanova students for the last Community complaints several decades and is being deeventually forced Altman Managemolished after the Shipley School ment Co., the owner of College acquired the 17-acre property for Hall, to sell the property to the $12 million in August 2025. adjacent Shipley School last year. In 2024, College Hall came The Shipley School, a under pressure from Lower Merpre-K through 12 co-ed indepenion Township and the Lower Mer- dent school, had been in talks ion Police after a large number of about acquiring the complex “for complaints poured in from locals decades,” according to its Head of who lived in the surrounding area School, Ian Craig, in a message to of the apartment complex. The the school community in August complaints increased from the 2025. 2023 to 2024 school year. The Villanovan reached out At the time, around 100 to the school for a comment and Villanova students were living in was provided with a statement. the apartment complex. “We are currently engaged In The Villanovan’s 2024 in a Campus Planning process report, police reports from the first with outside architects to detertwo weeks of the Fall 2022 semes- mine the long-term use of the ter indicated that the Lower Mer- property,” Craig wrote in an email ion Police Department (LMPD) to The Villanovan. Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief

College Hall, colloquially known as “Courts” to Villanova students, was demolished. Courtesy of Michael Johnson

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The Villanovan | 5

This Week in Politics: Renewed Conflict With Iran Addy McDougall Staff Writer

Following a month-long pause in conflict, American and Iranian forces resumed hostilities this week when U.S. strikes hit Iranian territory on Sunday, Aug. 30. The U.S. struck Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island, a critical strategic island along the Strait of Hormuz, and the attack is reported to have killed two people and wounded others. The island is used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as important military purposes and for monitoring shipping through the Strait. Shortly after the U.S. strikes on Larak Island, Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones on U.S. military targets in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait, although most were intercepted. These recent exchanges have prompted foreign officials in the Middle East to advocate for a new framework agreement between the U.S. and Iran that will enable lasting peace and cooperation in the region, after the two countries failed to uphold the ceasefire detailed in the June memorandum of understanding. Amid renewed strife, finance ministers of the G-20, an international forum on global economic development, met in Asheville, North Carolina, early last week to address

American and Iranian forces resumed hostilities this week. Courtesy of Reuters Images

America’s “Operation Economic Outcast” initiative to cut Iran off from the global economy. Efforts proposed by the U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to economically isolate Iran include threatening secondary sanctions against countries that continue to do business with Iran. Officials of the Iranian regime brushed off American intimidation, and a primary Iranian negotiator wrote on social media shortly after the G-20 conference that “the United States is not in an economic position to further restrict its relations with other countries.” Further complicating matters, an American missile struck a wedding party in southern Iran on Tuesday, killing at least five civilians. Iran attributed the attack to American forces and accused Washington of committing a war crime, although the U.S. military has not yet taken responsibility for the strike.

Iranian officials have responded on social media by issuing threats to America. “American evil in the region will be met with heavier, more widespread and devastating responses, and any country that cooperates with the aggressive American army must accept its dangerous consequences,” Iran’s military command stated. Top Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei wrote on X that enemies of Iran “will soon see that Iran’s new strategy on the battlefield, in diplomacy and in countering the economic siege will shatter your very foundations.” Seemingly unfazed by renewed threats from Tehran, President Trump took to Truth Social to express his thoughts on Iran. “I couldn’t care less if they sign a worthless, to them, agreement,” Trump wrote. “I like our position now much better, with almost total control

Navigating The Red Zone

or wants to go home, we are not just breaking up the group, and someone’s going on their own,” Barnett added. “We are not leavAccording to the 2024 ing someone alone behind, or we Villanova Student Sexual Violence are not sending someone home Climate Survey Results, 14.7% alone. If we go together, we leave of cisgender women and 3.2% of together.” cisgender men who responded to Other methods of risk the survey have experienced sexual reduction include monitoring alcoassault since becoming students at hol consumption, avoiding or leavVillanova. ing uncomfortable environments The Red Zone is the recog- and watching for warning signs of nized period of time between the unsafe behavior. start of the semester and Thanks“Everyone recognizes sexgiving break when more than 50% ual assault.” Barnett said. “Evof campus sexual assaults occur. eryone agrees this is terrible. But Female-identifying and first-year what about all those other smaller students are at an increased risk. things that we let slide all throughWith the fall semester gearing up, out the day that create an environall students must remember to ment where some of these worse practice risk reduction strategies. things are happening?” Villanova’s Title IX CoAnother aspect of risk reordinator Ryan Rost and Deputy duction is bystander intervention, Title IX Coordinator and Case during which a third party takes Manager Shannon Barnett spoke action to de-escalate a harmful about what Villanovans can do to situation. If someone seems unreduce the risk of sexual assault. comfortable or at risk of potential “The buddy system never violence, there are intervention fails,” Rost said. “I have a sophomethods students can practice to more in college, a daughter, and take a stand and diffuse a situI literally sent her a text a couple ation. Bystanders are crucial in weeks ago with ‘the buddy system preventing sexual violence. never fails.’” “As far as on the other side The ‘buddy system’ is of risk reduction is the bystander essentially a ‘no man left behind’ intervention,” Barnett said. “If arrangement, and it ensures we see someone who’s uncomnobody is left alone at any point fortable, [we] check in on them, when going out. Rost notes that whether we know them or not. We this is easier said than done, esall would recognize the friend in pecially for new students who are need, but it’s the stranger too.” unfamiliar with their environment Rost and Barnett both or feel they haven’t formed trusted emphasized the importance of relationships yet. teaching effective risk-reduction “When people go somestrategies without engaging in where together, and someone is victim blaming. The only person not feeling it or doesn’t feel good at blame for sexual violence is the Mia Galego Co-News Editor

perpetrator themself. “If I leave my car unlocked, I am not reducing my risk that somebody might steal something from my car,” Rost said. “But if somebody chooses to steal something from my car, that’s on them, not on me. If somebody does not practice some of the risk reduction strategies that I am going to talk about, I want to be clear it is not intended to be blaming the victim.” It is also important to remember that these strategies are not definite prevention methods. Sexual violence can happen anywhere and affect anyone. “You can do all the things, and sometimes you’ll still lock your car, and someone will break the window,” Barnett said.

of the Hormuz Strait, and their economy totally collapsing.” Recent hostilities between the countries have yet again increased oil prices amid fresh concerns about disrupted energy supply, as roughly onefifth of the world’s oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the onset of the war in Iran. Adding to the controversy, Vance appeared for a press conference on Thursday, Sept. 3, where he told reporters, “I wouldn’t call it a war,” when addressing the ongoing conflict. “Right now, there is no active shooting,” Vance said. “I recognize there’s been places ‌where this has flared up. Major combat operations are currently not ongoing, and they haven’t been ongoing in a very long time.” The Wall Street Journal has recently reported that the Pentagon has been quietly deploying additional U.S. troops to the Middle East and extending deployments into 2027, signaling that military efforts could stretch far into the next year. Recent U.S. actions have contributed to uncertainty around the conflict in Iran, as the military operation initiated by the Trump Administration in early 2026 was originally promised to be a brief and decisive mission. However, the conflict has now dragged on for over six months, with no clear path to peace in sight.

The Title IX Office is offering numerous programs with internal and external campus partners throughout the Red Zone period to educate students on sexual violence prevention and campus resources. See the attached flyer for details. “We’re trying to normalize conversations about consent and normalize conversations about healthy relationships and, frankly, normalize conversations about sex and healthy sexuality,” Rost said. The Title IX Office is located in 207 Tolentine Hall. For more information on sexual misconduct resources, policies and procedures, or to report a concern, visit the Title IX website. It is the responsibility of every Villanovan to prevent sexual violence.

It’s On Us, Nova’s Red Zone programming playlist. Courtesy of @Its On Us , Nova

6 | The Villanovan

NEWS

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Exploring Villanova’s Newest Recreation Center Eden Rosini Co-News Editor A new campus brings new opportunities across many aspects of student life. For Villanova’s fitness fanatics, this means brandnew, state-of-the-art spaces to exercise. The stars of Cabrini’s recreational opportunities are the Dixon Center and Nerney Pavilion. This 100,000-square-foot facility is open to all students, faculty and staff from early morning on weekdays until midnight. The number of indoor opportunities is overwhelming, including an indoor pool, basketball courts, rentable exercise equipment, a weight room and a suspended running track. For those interested in fitness classes, a select few are being held in the Dixon Center’s fitness studio, including Barre, Pilates Sculpt, Abs and Glutes, HIIT/Strength and Full Body Force. A spot in the Dixon Center is reserved exclusively for faculty members. The Dixon Center will host many Villanova events this upcoming year, including basketball tournaments, club and intramural sports. In previous years, the Dixon Center has been a spot used by Villanova Special Olympics for Bocce and V-Jam, the annual cel-

Professors in the College of Liberal Arts collaborate over DEI course ideas. Courtesy of Villanova University

ebration of Special Olympics that includes dancing, food and good vibes all around. Additionally, the Nerney Pavilion Gym hosted NovaDance last Spring, Villanova’s annual dance marathon that acts as the culmination of year-long fundraising to battle pediatric cancer. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, there are plenty of options. Right outside Angelo Hall lie two tennis courts, three pickleball courts and one basketball court. During the sunny days of the early school year, students have been found playing and enjoying

themselves on each of the different courts. There is also a beach volleyball court outside Rosseter Hall, perfect for any intramural volleyball team to use for practice. These new recreational opportunities have created more on-campus jobs for students. Sophomore Molly Dunphy-Culp, a recreation center supervisor at the Dixon Center, has been on campus since early August for training. “There are about 10 of us, and then there are about 70 recreation center attendants,” Dunphy-Culp said. Their shifts follow this

schedule: one hour at the front desk, then another hour upstairs cleaning different gym equipment, and the last few hours doing laundry, additional cleaning, answering student questions, checking people in for fitness classes and reorganizing items. Cabrini Campus offers a new, permanent home for Villanova’s field hockey team. The new field for games, training and a new irrigation system is currently being developed. Additional amenities include Villanova’s branding, refreshed bleachers and a brand-new press box. The new field is taking over the space previously known as the Edith Robb Dixon Field. “The fact that it is a recreation center and not just a fitness center means everything is under one roof, whereas Davis has a single-floor fitness center,” Dunphy-Culp said. “Dixon has a pool, basketball courts, walking track, group fitness studio, fitness area and there is even a smoothie bar coming soon.” Villanova University’s Cabrini Campus is the place to be for students seeking vast athletic opportunities. The best part is that the Cabrini recreation will only keep growing. There are also plans to open a smoothie bar inside the Dixon Center and make certain spaces available to reserve on Venue VU for studying.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

The Villanovan | 7

OPINION

OPINION

Students React To Cabrini Campus Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer After almost two years of anticipation, Villanova’s Cabrini Campus opened its doors for the 2026-2027 school year. This new endeavor, one of the hottest topics at Villanova, brought concerns about how the campus would function as an extension of the Villanova campus, rather than a separate entity. The sophomores have the inside scoop, with more than half of them living on Cabrini in the brand-new residence halls. As a junior who is used to the original size of Villanova before the expansion, I see both pros and cons to the acquisition of Cabrini and what this means for our student body. When I was compiling my list of colleges to apply to as a junior in high school, one of my top priorities was finding a medium-sized-to-small campus. I didn’t want to be swallowed up in a place so large that I never saw a familiar face or had the same teacher twice. One of the main attractions to Villanova for me was the size of the campus. It was large enough to feel like a true college experience, but I did not feel overwhelmed by the size or distance between academic buildings. The Cabrini Campus could create a different feeling. However, while I am fascinated to see how this changes

The introduction of the Cabrini campus to Villanova has prompted varying reactions. Ella Johnson Chalk/Villanovan Photography

where Villanova will fall on the list for prospective students, I am even more interested in how it will change the lives of current students. My experience as a sophomore is very different from current sophomores because I never had the option to live on Cabrini. I was on the Villanova Campus and was already moving into apartment-style living when this option opened for students. Many plans, from housing maintenance to dining systems, have yet to be fully implemented, leaving students frustrated with the first few weeks of the semester. I appreciate that Villanova is doing its best to fix problems quickly and is open to any constructive feedback. However, I also understand the student frustration

with living on another section of the campus. There have been issues with shuttles and some other parts of the Campus. They are being addressed. Honestly, I am not sad that I missed out on living on the Cabrini Campus. Some students feel removed from the Villanova Campus, which is something Villanova has tried to remedy. While this name change is meant to help make students feel that no one is missing out on a certain experience or living on an island that serves as an extension of the university, for many, the Villanova Campus is the main hub for the student body. In the future, Villanova should continue to address this separation to help students feel included in student life no matter where they are.

Ryder Neves, a sophomore and Cabrini resident, shared his experience over the past two weeks. “I have no problem with living on Cabrini because I chose to come here,” Neves said. “However, I feel that some of the pretenses I came here under were lost in translation. While the dorms are brand new and spacious, it is hard being so removed from [Villanova] Campus and dealing with all of the problems of getting Cabrini up and running.” Cabrini is a positive endeavor that students are supporters of. I am all for Villanova becoming stronger by expanding and allowing more students to be a part of our community. At the same time, there is work still to be done.

The Hidden Logic Behind China’s AI Strategy

reserve currency, China could likely inherit the same imperial dominance the U.S claimed in the postwar era. To preserve its supremacy, the U.S has chosen to maintain the world’s most advanced and expansive armed Last May, President Trump forces. This allows the U.S to will the and Xi Jinping met and appeared dollar to remain the global reserve diplomatic. However, the cordial recurrency. The petrodollar system lationship between them is a political exemplifies this best. There is a facade. The United States (U.S) and China are engaged in a deep existen- striking correlation between Middle Eastern nations refusing to sell oil in tial rivalry and have been for years. The title of the world’s dominant em- dollars and subsequent U.S. military pire is the dividing issue. What follows intervention, a pattern strong enough that most nations avoid the conflict is that dynamic and a closer look at altogether, opting instead to sell oil how AI may end up deciding it. in dollars and maintain strong ties China’s “geopolitical stock” with the American government. The considers that a nation’s combined U.S has the best navy in the world, economic output, political influence and military capacity is steadily rising. which allows it to dictate who benefits from open trade and who can be The Chinese are in a threatening cut off from it through blockade or position to dethrone the American sanction. U.S. imperial dominance is empire. This creates tension between inadequate without its global reserve the U.S and China, as the U.S is invested in retaining its imperial status currency status, and the U.S. is willing to use any of its immensely powerful as the world empire. It is an internaforcible means to hold onto it. tional gridlock. In terms of strategy The covert maneuvers that for achieving, or maintaining, imperial each nation might be taking, however, supremacy, the nations have taken are far more openly debated. From starkly different paths. the American perspective, it is freChina has prioritized ties with the Global South, namely Africa quently theorized that China is building its artificial intelligence to threaten and South America, while building the U.S. The theories range from cyout its Belt and Road Initiative, a berattacks on the international grid to sprawling network of highways and direct drone warfare, yet they seem to rail lines connecting the country to center on artificial intelligence. Conthe rest of the world. Its long-term sider, though, that the spread of these goal is to translate trade dominance into currency dominance. Should the theories may itself be part of China’s yuan displace the dollar as the world’s plan: a trap designed to lure the U.S. Liam Foley Staff Writer

into an unregulated AI arms race. The CCP supports the development of AI. This serves several material purposes, but above all, it might be a favorite because the investment has an indirect potential to shake up the U.S’s political economy. By investing heavily in its own AI development, China stokes American fears that then justify pouring unchecked money into US AI development, as illustrated through Palantir CEO Alex Karp’s frequent national-security justifications for his projects. Ultimately, though, AI development in the U.S could serve the interests of Beijing. The Chinese can develop AI under a centralized, authoritarian system that allows it to move quickly and rein in the technology’s negative side effects when it chooses to. The U.S cannot do this. Its AI development unfolds within a fragmented, market-driven system, and as it sits now, it is incapable of regulating such an accelerating technology. The Chinese, however, have the ‘iron fist’ needed to coordinate or restrain it at will. On the other hand, as American AI capability grows unchecked, it is likely to accelerate the very problems already straining the country: wealth concentration, a developing K-shaped economy, an increasingly insulated elite and eroding trust in institutions. The ideal scenario for the Chinese is that these pressures will cause the U.S. to break into civil war. History suggests this is how societies often divide from within.

Economic strain compounds existing grievances, leading a population to turn on itself. To take this seriously, it helps to understand what makes China uniquely capable of executing a plan like this. The Chinese Communist Party operates on a timescale most Western governments cannot match. Its leadership is willing to design and pursue strategies that may not bear fruit for decades, even centuries. If there is even a reasonable chance that China is playing this longer, quieter game, the U.S cannot afford to be blind to it. Should the mantle of global influence pass from a democracy to an autocracy, the loss would be catastrophic. The basic principle that democratic societies are built to protect, freedom itself, would cease to dominate the global sphere. Regardless of any grievances one may have with American imperialism, a world order shaped by an authoritarian superpower would be categorically worse for the individual liberties billions of people currently depend on. The U.S is due for a wave of political momentum that shifts public opinion toward favoring AI regulation. Politicians can be voted in for being cognizant of the dangers of AI in a liberal free market. Once placed in office, the pressure of wealth consolidation, a catalyst for civil war, will dissipate. China’s goals will be undermined. And the U.S might have a fighting chance at retaining its imperial status.

8 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

OPINION

EDITORIAL BOARD KAILEY FAHY Editor-in-Chief DYLAN JOHNSON Editor-in-Chief SOPHIE LATESSA Managing Editor AVERY CHALK Opinion Editor EMMA TAYLOR Opinion Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

An Overview Of Villanova’s Newest Dining Options Camila Caruso Staff Writer The opening of Villanova’s Cabrini campus has brought many changes, which include an increase in dining options. Last summer, the newest additions to Cabrini dining were announced: La Cocina, the Corner Grill, Pacific Rim and Table 1842, a reservation-based restaurant experience. There are also new additions in Cascia Hall, such as Local Grounds, Rooted and Menu Maker. Students’ initial impressions, especially from Cabrini Campus residents, were mixed. Some appreciated the order-andgo system while others questioned its efficiency. Sophomore Cabrini resident Ella de Marval’s initial impression of the food’s taste was positive, but she says “the limited options for what I can get are a little frustrating.” Students with classes predominantly on the Villanova Campus do not have opinions on the food’s quality itself. Students who have most of their classes on Villanova’s campus do not see Cabrini dining as a first choice. “It’s more convenient to eat on [Villanova] campus because most of my classes are there,” sophomore Huyen Nguyen said. After receiving feedback from Cabrini residents, the University has announced a change in the Cabrini Campus food offerings. Beginning Sept. 6, Bellesini Hall will offer an all-you-careto-eat dining hall that resembles those on Villanova’s campus. Late-night offerings will

Rooted is one of the dining options at Villanova University Cabrini Campus. Courtesy of Villanova University

also begin on Sept. 8 at Cabrini Campus’s Corner Grill. Food will be paid for via MPE and can be ordered ahead through the GrubHub app. Cabrini residents seem pleased with the change. Positive feedback has echoed through Villanova’s newest campus, with students sharing that they are happy to have more diverse options. “I think the all-you-care-toeat model is more inclusive, since it accommodates people with different appetites and meal plans,” Morgan Lin said. “For instance, if one ramen bowl isn’t enough for someone, they have to use another meal swipe just to get more food.” Cascia Hall will keep offering Local Ground and Rooted

on an order-to-order basis, along with the “student-driven dining concept” of the Menu Maker. As the University welcomes a new space in the community, areas of improvement and experimentation appear. This process shows the agency and impact that students have in the community, and how the school is open to listening and improvement. The changes to dining in Bellisini do not carry over to the food offerings in Cascia Hall. Local Grounds and Rooted will continue to function the same way they have since the start of the year. A focus of the dining options in Cascia Hall is sourcing from local food producers. Andrew Camuso, executive

director of dining for Villanova, spoke to The Villanovan during a tour in August about the food options on Cabrini Campus. “Rooted is local produce,” Camuso said. “It is made-to-order salads, smoothies and smoothie bowls in the morning. Local Grounds are all local providers of coffee roasters.” He also delved into the training process for baristas at Local Grounds, including some latte art classes and lessons about where the coffee options come from. Camuso also discussed the new Menu Maker option offered to students. “Students get to control what we are serving there,” Camuso said. “We are opening up with barbecue, called Iron Ember, which was voted on in the Spring Semester. So from Fall break to Winter, we will have something new to vote on.” Table 1842 is scheduled to open after Labor Day and is a reservation-based dining experience. “It is an elevated experience that is not going to hit wallets,” Camuso said. “It is an elevated experience that is part of your meal plan. You come in, you get an appetizer, an entree, a dessert. The space is incredible, and we designed that intentionally.” Camuso explained that this experience offers new options frequently. As Villanova University welcomed these new spaces into the community, strengths and weaknesses are always bound to emerge. However, feedback from students will always be a strong force for positive changes to campus experiences.

Brightspace Blues

Callie Stravinski Staff Writer Entering my sophomore year, I expected some change. Changes like new dining options in Cafe Nova or remodeled Tolentine bathrooms, but not an entirely different learning management system (LMS). I spent most of my first year becoming intimately acquainted with Blackboard, learning about the ins and outs of the LMS. After getting used to Blackboard, I was less than pleased to learn that I would have to use an entirely different LMS this year. The change was going to bring “an intuitive, mobile‑friend-

ly platform that makes it easier to stay organized and engaged in your courses,” according to a June 4 email from University Technological Services. I do not think Brightspace is achieving that goal, so the change remains a nuisance for me. Fellow sophomore Nora McLaughlin shares part of my displeasure with Brightspace. “I don’t like that you cannot submit assignments from your phone,” McLaughlin said. “It makes it super inconvenient.” On-phone submissions vary depending on the assignment type, but that variance should not matter if it is a “mobile-friendly platform.” When racing against the clock, being able to submit an assignment from your phone is

important for a student in a time crunch. I would be happy with the decision if Brightspace were better than Blackboard. But it is not. Brightspace’s interface is difficult to navigate and filled with unnecessary aspects. The LMS has good qualities that are not showcased well on the website. Its assignment calendar is smart and useful, but its location renders it useless. To see all assignments and office hours, one would have to scroll past class messages to the bottom of the page. The interface is also crowded with useless tab options like the “Awards” tab. When the tab is clicked, the screen displays ‘You have not earned any awards. Click

View Available Awards to see what you can earn.’ It turns out there are no awards available for any courses. Instead of the “Awards” tab, I would love for it to be replaced with the assignment calendar, since it would be in a far more convenient and accessible location. What I dislike most about the LMS is that you cannot check all your grades in one extensive list. I would like to see my grades without clicking into each class. Having to navigate to each class is redundant and a serious flaw in Brightspace. Having “Grades” as a tab on Brightspace’s main interface would make it much more efficient and save students time. Until Brightspace has some updates, I will long for Blackboard.

The Villanovan | 9

OPINION

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

What Does “Never Forget” Mean To Us?

Emma Taylor Co-Opinion Editor Twenty-five years ago, a recurring question was born: where were you when the 9/11 attacks happened? Everyone alive and old enough, whether they were in New York City at the time or watching on their TVs from across the country, can answer. It was a defining, pivotal moment for millions of Americans. This Friday, Sept. 11, marks the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Fifteen Villanova graduates lost their lives that day, making it an event very close to home. While it is, of course, important to reflect on and observe this day, the full effect of the tragedy may feel a little absent as the years pass by. A new generation without any memories of the attacks has grown up, including practically the entire Villanova undergraduate body. Today’s students are left with things like stories, memorials, in-class discussions and social media posts about the tragedy to draw from. The well-known directive to “Never Forget” is heavily associated with the events of that day, repeated like a chant in every video, post and speech. It is our generation’s responsibility

to listen to the people who were present then, carry on the legacy of remembrance and decide for ourselves what that looks like. Kathy McRae, an office assistant who worked at Villanova when the attacks happened, shared her story of 9/11. On that day, she was in the now torn-down Kennedy Hall working in telecommunications when she first heard the news. Staff brought out a TV to watch the news broadcast right before the second tower was hit. “It was horrible,” McRae said. “It was horrible. And then you see things falling from the buildings, you know, to not learn until later that they were human beings that were jumping out the window. The whole campus congregated outside and tried to get into the church. I mean, faculty, students, everybody tried to get in.” Through stories and school lessons, we get the full picture of what happened on that day. We get the information on who did it, why it happened, how many casualties there were and what the aftermath was. But it’s difficult to understand how people actually felt in the moment. “For somebody from my generation, it was inconceivable that anyone would attack our country,” McRae said. “We thought nobody could touch us.”

The events that day left many scarred and reeling, but it also renewed a sense of community and camaraderie. People recount times of togetherness afterwards that they had never before experienced. The global political landscape has changed drastically over the decades, and divides have deepened, but those that lived through 9/11 are optimistic that we can overcome them if we prioritize it enough. “I have my confidence in your generation,” McRae said. “You’re smart and creative. You ask questions. You’re seekers of knowledge, and part of that is hearing both sides of the story, and then deciding for yourself.

You can’t do that if you only hear one side.” As the events of 9/11 recede further into the past, the lessons and sentiments from those that lived through it should be what is prioritized in the memorials. “Never Forget” will morph in meaning thorugh the years, and it is up to us to intentionally factor it in to our daily conversations and actions. Although we should not need a national tragedy to let down our arms and bridge our differences, to seek value in remembering history and to connect with those older than us, it is a good mechanism for these practices to get the ball rolling and apply them to broader issues we learn about.

This Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Courtesy of Villanova University

Sing Your Song, Find Your People opportunities and experiences as well as an interdisciplinary space for friendship and musical exploration. A cappella offers nursing, As the fall semester takes engineering, business and CLAS off, many new students are in the students the equal freedom to have midst of deciding whether or not fun and connect through music. to try out for activities that they Most importantly, a cappelexcelled in in high school. From la matters because it gives students sports to the arts, if anyone is something college increasingly considering to take an opportunity, struggles to provide: a community big or small, this week, let this be pursued for its own sake, rather the sign to try. than another résumé credential. One specific niche of stuThis is not to discount the groups’ dents prepare to take center stage ambitions, but more to emphasize through a cappella group audithat a cappella culture is the focus, tions. not what that culture produces. The nine groups, each with The ambition of some their own unique focus to offer of these groups can serve as the school, have begun the search inspiration for their members’ for new talent and are already potential entrepreneurial purworking hard on their plans for suits. Competition involvement the coming year. These groups for The Supernovas is an annual are The Haveners, Nothing but tradition through the InternationTreble, Sirens, Belles, Villanova al Championship of Collegiate Melodics (VM), the Spires, MeaA Cappella competition. They sure Up, Minor Problem and the have experienced extreme success Supernovas. The BBQ hosted last in this tradition. They won the week on South Campus to get to quarterfinals last year and made it know the a cappella community to the finals in 2022. The Spires, offered insight into the spirit of who are releasing their first album these groups. However, as audition on Sept. 10, have also historically season begins, it is only natural to had entrepreneurial and ambiwonder what each of these groups tious endeavors. Projects like these has to offer and what their plans demonstrate the creativity and are for the year ahead. ambition that extend beyond the A cappella represents far stage, reflecting the entrepreneurmore than an extracurricular ial spirit of Villanova’s undergradactivity for its roughly 136 active uate community. members and potential recruits. All of the groups are Through conversations with mem- active through on-campus perbers, it is clear that a cappella at formances such as the upcoming Villanova truly embraces commu- showcase, as well as on YouTube nitas, and that the group activities and Instagram. The groups not and performances are secondary only show off their voices but also to the bonds between group mem- highlight their human experiencbers. A cappella offers both unique es on social media. Their social Samantha Sullivan Staff Writer

media accounts provide a great way to learn more about them and hear their voices before the iconic showcase on Parents Weekend. For those interested in joining the tradition, auditions begin this week. All nine groups will be in the Connelly Center on Sept. 9 and Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer questions and meet potential members. Audition signups will take place on Sept. 11 in the Connelly Center from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and at the Oreo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students can sign up to audition for as many groups as they would like. The groups highly recommend arriving early to sign up for the ideal slot. Auditions begin at 3 p.m. on Sept. 11, and callbacks will take place the next morning on Sept. 12. The audition itself is fairly simple: students should prepare about a minute of a song they feel comfortable singing a cappella. But while the preparation may sound straightforward, the pressure of the audition process can make the most experienced performer nervous. This is why members have emphasized preparation. This is the best way to minimize stressors and mistakes in the big moment. This makes the biggest difference when last-minute stage fright can set in. The most consistent advice from members across groups is also the simplest: sing something that feels true to you. It may sound cliché, particularly in an audition where students may feel tempted to mold themselves into whatever they

believe a group is looking for. But trying to guess what a group wants can distract from what makes someone compelling in the first place. The audition process inevitably comes with rejection, frustration and all of the negative emotions we are tempted to avoid. At least one student will leave auditions unsatisfied. Many will hear a “no.” Some may walk away wondering if they were good enough. But that process is exactly why auditioning is worth doing. College is full of opportunities that ask us to risk embarrassment, rejection or failure for the possibility of a meaningful experience. As students, we are constantly encouraged to build our résumés, take the hardest classes, pursue internships and prepare ourselves for whatever comes next, and these things do matter. But so does finding a place where we can just belong and bond over shared interest in an activity. This is what makes Villanova’s a cappella community so compelling. Beneath the performances, competitions and social media posts are students who have found camaraderie in a niche that feels true to them. They have found people to laugh, explore, create and sing with, and that is irreplaceable. It takes work to create that community. That is a lesson worth carrying beyond a cappella to every organization you are a part of, both in Villanova and later in life. Sing the song that feels true to you, and those who join in will form your truest community.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

OPINION

10 | The Villanovan

Stop Asking Freshmen What Their Major Is Veronica King Staff Writer “What’s your major?” It’s an innocent question. It’s also one a freshman dreads. You can answer confidently if you’ve known since childhood that you want to be a doctor. You can answer vaguely if you’re still deciding. And if you’re completely undecided, you can brace yourself for the inevitable follow-up: “Well, what do you want to do?” after which you face awkwardness when you admit that you don’t know. That’s the answer we’re increasingly uncomfortable hearing from 18-year-olds. Within the first few weeks of college, freshmen quickly become accustomed to the deceptively simple question, “What’s your major?” It’s an easy conversation starter, but for students who are still exploring, it can feel less like a conversation and more like an interrogation. If you don’t have a sure answer, you feel obligated to explain why you haven’t already figured out what you want to do with your life. The problem is that society has turned a simple question into an expectation. We tell freshmen that college is a time to explore, discover themselves and try new things. Yet almost immediately, we begin asking them to identify the path that will

supposedly lead to their future career. Not knowing, however, is hardly unusual. A USC Pre-College Programs article states, “It’s completely normal to enter college without knowing exactly what you want to study.” College is supposed to let students take different classes, encounter new subjects and discover interests they may not have known they had. But somewhere along the way, exploration has become something students feel they need to justify. College students are constantly encouraged to optimize themselves by choosing the “right” major, building an impressive résumé, finding internships, joining organizations, networking and preparing for a career. None of these things are inherently bad. In fact, they can be meaningful and valuable parts of the college experience. The problem comes when everything has to lead somewhere. A class can’t simply be interesting. It has to benefit your major. A club can’t just be fun. It should strengthen your résumé. Even trying something new can feel like it needs to become an accomplishment. We tell freshmen that college is about finding themselves, then immediately ask them to explain who they’re going to become. We should stop asking. Not because freshmen shouldn’t have ambitions, but because they shouldn’t have to turn those ambitions into a five-year plan before they’ve figured out where the dining hall is.

The same pressure exists outside of academics. College students are encouraged to get involved, sometimes creating the impression that the busiest student is the most successful one. But being involved in everything isn’t necessarily the same as belonging somewhere. Senior Julia Stencel said she began college with a long list of clubs she wanted to join. Over time, she gradually narrowed that list down to the organizations she genuinely cared about and wanted to dedicate herself to. Sophomore Julianna Kelley took a different approach. Rather than signing up for everything freshman year, she took her time and gradually found the activities and communities where she felt she belonged. Neither approach is wrong, and that’s the point. There is no universal timeline for figuring out where you fit. Maybe you arrive at Villanova knowing exactly what you want to study. Maybe you change your major

three times. Maybe you join five clubs and hate all of them. Maybe the class you expected to hate becomes your favorite. Those experiences aren’t distractions from college. They are college. At 18, you should be allowed to be a person before you are a professional. Your major can tell someone what you’re studying, but it cannot tell them who you are or who you will become. So, the next time you meet a freshman, ask a different question. Ask what they’ve enjoyed. Ask what surprised them. Ask what they’re curious about. Ask what they want to try. Because we shouldn’t measure the beginning of someone’s college experience by how quickly they can explain its ending. And if their answer to “What’s your major?” is simply, “I don’t know yet,” that should be enough. They have four years to figure out where they’re going.

First arriving on campus, freshmen are bombarded with a common question. Emma Taylor/Villanovan Photography

14 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

CULTURE

CULTURE

New On Campus: The Mother Cabrini Institute Cali Carss Co-Culture Editor Villanova’s acquisition of Cabrini and the opening of a new campus has been a major topic of conversation for the past few years. However, an important consideration that many students have missed does not have anything to do with dorm buildings or dining halls. Instead, we as a community must think about this: how is the legacy of Mother Cabrini going to be continued and honored as a part of Villanova’s own mission? Luckily, there is a very special newly opened center dedicated to doing just that. Located in Ortiz Hall on our shiny new campus, the Mother Cabrini Institute for Immigration is already working to educate people on working with and advocating for migrants and refugees. “[The Institute] is designed, in part, to respond to and keep the legacy of Mother Cabrini alive through the work we do on campus, nationally, locally and around the world,” Founder and Faculty Director Michele Pistone, J.D., said. “At this moment, I feel so honored to be able to do this work in the name of Mother Cabrini, because she is the patron saint of immigrants.” The mission that Mother Cabrini began and the Institute is continuing is closely aligned with Villanova’s own ideals, going back to St. Augustine himself. Pistone also cites the late Pope Francis and his call to Catholic universities to expand their resources on migration. “I went to a conference in

Get involved with the Institute and learn more about migration, and yourself. Courtesy of Michele Pistone

Rome [in 2022] and it was for refugee and migrant education networks,” Pistone shared. “We had an audience with Pope Francis. It was a conference for academics who work in the field of migration, and during that conference he called on Catholic schools to do more teaching, research, advocacy and service for migrants and refugees. I was sitting in the front row, and it was as if Pope Francis was talking directly to me.” Despite the strength of feeling powering the Institute, it is still a very new center. Its material output is still taking shape. The biggest endeavor that it has undertaken so far is a multiyear initiative titled “Refugees and

Migrants in Our Common Home.” “It is an international project where we are bringing together academics, universities and community partners, and refugees and migrants from around the world,” Pistone said. “We had a meeting with Pope Leo and he specifically called us to be doing this work, and especially to look at issues of hope and reconciliation. [We] are now in a process where we are designing student chapters.” Looking to expand student involvement, the Institute is asking for student input and recommendations as it grows. Eventually, there will be a student chapter of Refugees and Migrants in Our Common Home

on Villanova’s own campus. But that is not the only way students can get involved. “We are going to be working with faculty to expand opportunities for them to be doing more teaching on immigration,” Pistone said. “We are also going to be encouraging people to do more research on immigration, including students.” Another program that is in the works is titled “Rooted Heart,” which will use a prize system to incentivise people to do research on their own genealogy and their connection to immigration. It will begin, in a way, with a one-credit course offered in the spring titled “Family History” which will jumpstart that kind of research. “So Father Peter likes to say, we are all immigrants,” Pistone said. “I think it is important for students to be curious about that. You learn so [much], it connects you to your parents, your grandparents, your extended family and it just helps you to understand who you are as a person.” One way to start one’s involvment with the Institute as soon as possible is by attending the dinner and open house the Institute is holding on Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at The Landing, Ortiz Hall. Any thoughts, questions and ideas are welcome from any student interested in topics relating to migration. “To me, the Mother Cabrini Institute is inevitable, right?” Pistone added. “It is so inevitable that we’d be working on this important topic at this time.” The Institute can be reached at cabriniinstitute@villanova.edu, or by attending the dinner featured in the attached flyer.

Paris & Other Detours: French Roleplaying Anna Lonski Staff Writer This semester, I’m putting off shuttling to Cabrini by studying in Paris. I have been here for about a week now, sitting at cafés and “playing French.” When I began writing this article, it was about my love story with Paris: how much I love baguettes, running along the Seine and dressing up for class. But right now, as I set out to finish my ideas, on a train to the south of France, I’m secretly praying it will take me home. When I arrived at the station, already too late to be calm as the Paris traffic kept adding time to my ETA, I sprinted to the gate. And it was at the gate, 15 minutes before boarding closed, that I found out my ticket didn’t work. And it was at the gate that I realized that I needed to brush up on my French. Even though I’ve been taking French since I was in sixth grade, this is the first time I’ve ever been in a place where it is actually spoken. French is suddenly not just a subject in school but a real language. A real way people say thank you and sorry, order at restaurants, yell at each other on the street and gossip in cafes. Here, the words and phrases I’d been studying for the past decade

sound more like spouts of gibberish calling me dumb. I don’t understand the thick accents and rapid speech, and every time I go to a cafe or boulangerie, I end up speaking English. I feel like I’m walking around with a big “American” target on my back. “My friend is already on the train,” I try to explain in any language I know. But “no,” they keep responding. In those 15 minutes before boarding, I ran around the station, trying to find someone who could help or at least someone who spoke English. But with each interaction, I kept getting redirected to a machine, which seemed about as old as the city itself and as effective as my broken French. Long story short, I didn’t get on that train, or even the next one. I got a croissant and a different train three hours later. Now, as I sit on this elusive train, I’m remembering all the times they told us at the study abroad meetings: it can be hard to live in another country. All the times I rolled my eyes and thought, I’ll be fine. This time is captivating, exciting and special, but it’s unfamiliar, and it’s not always going to be perfect. I’m also beyond grateful for one of my best friends, Megan, who got off the first train to wait for the next one with me. The hours we spent laughing and charging our phones in weird corners of the giant, crowded

Follow Anna’s journey across Paris and the rest of Europe through this column. Anna Lonski/Villanovan Photography

station could’ve been 15 minutes. Despite all the confusion and my intense dramatization, I’m okay. I’m still planning my permanent move to Paris, and here’s proof: Today, I went on a run along the Seine. I ran past the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and someone wearing a really great T-shirt with a picture of Taylor Swift’s Reputation album cover that underneath read, “God save the queen.” I felt like I was in a comingof-age movie or Nike ad. As I came through a park on the way back to my apartment, a family stopped me and asked if I could take a picture of them. I smiled and nodded and when I asked what way they wanted the picture, they responded, perplexed, “You’re American?”

“Yes, I’m from New York,” I said, but what I really meant was “that’s the nicest thing anyone’s ever said to me.” As if to make me more emotional, they told me they thought I was French. I was going to walk the rest of the way, as I had already run farther than I planned, but with a new sense of confidence, I nearly sprinted the whole way home. Someone really thought I was French. I’m captivated by the city, the culture and even the gibberish. If French is my most challenging role to play, I’d consider myself beyond lucky. But if you’re reading this and planning a trip via Eurail, please, buy and activate your ticket beforehand.

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Love On Lancaster: Wasting Time Maggie Fitzgerald Co-Culture Editor Summer is over. School is in full swing. Love On Lancaster is, oh so wonderfully, back. Did you miss me? As a devout Villanovan, I felt it would be appropriate to use this year’s first edition to impart some wisdom from arguably the wisest of our alumni. No. Not Jalen Brunson. Try again. If the answer wasn’t immediately obvious, I am talking about Pope Leo XIV. He, in his infinite holiness, dropped 42,000 words of wisdom on us this May. Shout-out to his Ancients professor. Hopefully he was more concise in his A Life Well Lived essay. In all seriousness, Magnifica Humanitas was the first encyclical letter from Pope to an international audience. It was a cautionary and incredibly compelling tale detailing the dangers technology and Artificial Intelligence pose to humanity. I highly recommend it for some light reading. While there are many beautiful and thought-provoking sections, I was particularly drawn to his comments on reviving dialogue. I love to talk. I assumed, given the grandeur and esteem of the text, that his thoughts would inspire us to engage meaningfully with one another. Perhaps we would be obliged to discuss the

ship, working in a hybrid role for a non-profit in the city. While the work was gratifying, the separation from college, friends and family was difficult. The cherry on top was returning home in August to get my six wisdom teeth (yes, six) removed two weeks before the start of classes. But miraculously, laid out in bed and relegated to minimal movement, I had the best two weeks of my summer. Surrounded by my best friends, we did nothing but a whole lot of wasting time. We watched the TV for hours. Getting my tires checked was a thrilling adventure. Dropping off my mom’s dry cleaning was the perfect outing. Whether it was accomplishing a laundry list of (nonstrenuous) back-to-school tasks or sitting Wasting time with the people you love is one of the best expressions of humanity. on my couch for copious amounts Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography of time, I just felt lucky to be in political and economic state of the Waste time together. the presence of the people I love. world. I was unprepared for his If we, as the Pope details, So, with what is surely a advice. wish to build a “civilization of crazy year of commitments, social “Indeed, dialogue is an love,” we must return to true diaoutings and schoolwork looming ordinary part of human life and logue. before us, take care to listen to does not only concern relations Luckily, that doesn’t require Pope Leo. between States,” the Pope writes. strenuous intellectual debates, full At the root of humanity is “It involves acquiring an attitude of lofty academic language. It is our ability to connect with others. that seeks to forge bonds of frater- simply being together. Listening. What better way to know, love and nity built on listening, an open de- Experiencing. Learning. be with each other than by expemeanor, making time for each othI was reminded of the riencing the authenticity of muner and even wasting time together. beauty of wasting time after a par- dane everyday life? For if we experience authentic ticularly lonely summer in WashGo forth and waste some encounters with others, with those ington, D.C. time. who are different, strangers and While I’m from the Chimigrants, it becomes much more cago suburbs, I ventured out to With love, difficult even to imagine war.” the capital for my summer intern- Maggie

Student Panel Breaks Myths About Dating At Villanova Will Murphy Staff Writer Dr. Kaley Carpenter has been teaching the Augustine and Cultural Seminar for nearly two decades. Every year since 2013, Dr. Carpenter has assigned a project challenging her students to apply their knowledge to the real world. The project, titled “The Life Well Lived Project,” allows students to explore a topic of discussion on campus and use the information learned to make a positive difference on campus. One topic has frequently been chosen by students: hookup and dating culture. Convoluted and false notions about hooking up and finding relationships in college cause stressed new students to paint a picture in their mind that is far from reality. As many of Dr. Carpenter’s students researched this issue, especially the lack of communication and resources for new students, they realized they could change the narrative on campus. “What I kept hearing in the years leading up to the first panel was students saying, ‘We know all about consent. We know that yes means yes. But we don’t feel like we can ever say no,’” Dr. Carpenter said. “They had lost their sense of agency. College students are free sexual agents. There are no parents, no teachers, no coaches, not even priests or nuns, checking up on them and telling them what to do.” In 2023, a group of Dr. Carpenter’s former students took the initiative to speak about their

experiences with dating at Villanova, and the panel has grown ever since, becoming a vital resource for firstyear students as they try to manage the college landscape. Students gathered in East Dougherty Lounge last Thursday to listen to a panel composed of senior Leah Saxe, juniors Jake Labella and London Lindley and sophomore Kirsten Braunius, all former students of Dr. Carpenter. Before the group took center stage, Dr. Carpenter had students take a poll. She proposed a simple survey: What percentage of 18- to 19-yearolds had more than one sexual partner in a year? The answer: 47% of the students claimed that 50% of 18- to 19-year-olds have had multiple sexual partners. The reality: only 25% of 18to 19-year-olds fit the statistic. With the room in shock, Dr. Carpenter continued to break proposed notions and biases about hookup culture with a mix of statistics and polls before segueing into the panel. “[The statistics] are a bit surprising,” Saxe said. “It feels so normalized here, and it feels like it’s what everybody is doing. That perception of that being the norm is kind of blowing up in our faces. It can feel like if someone isn’t involved, you’re doing something wrong, or it feels like, ‘Why is everybody else involved and not me?’” Throughout the night, the panel discussed topics ranging from dealing with relationships with friends to the reality of hookup culture at

The panel of upperclassmen shared their experiences with questioning first years. Will Murphy/Villanovan Photography

Villanova. The event provided an opportunity for students who have already gone through the freshman experience to share their advice and experiences. “There are all the expectations that come with college,” Braunius said. “Everyone has different expectations, and I think there are a lot of misconceptions as well. I wanted to be here to help correct those misconceptions and navigate your freshman year.” For Dr. Carpenter, the event was for first-year students to get back their sense of sexual freedom, free from societal pressures or fear of missing out. “The message is that it’s your choice, and you should know that not everyone does it,” Dr. Carpenter said. “There’s no pressure in that. It’s not what you’ve seen in the movies.” Dr. Carpenter and the student panel members hope the conversation for first-year students continues and that they continue their first-year experience with more awareness and

caution. “I think it takes time, learning, failing, hearing stories from people, having your own stories and experiencing it,” Lindley said. “I think the only thing that can really bring about change is time. This is a really great start, and it helps you come up with a good mindset about what you’re thinking and try to correct those misconceptions. That may take time to do so.” Many students who originally came just to receive the class credit ended up taking away lessons learned and an overall positive experience. “I went to meet a requirement, but it was also interesting because the topic relates to my generation,” freshman Therese Lee said. “I realized that being casual with someone isn’t ideal and that you should want a relationship. Hookup culture is overrated. As for stereotypes that were busted, I realized the assumption that everyone without a boyfriend is just hooking up with people isn’t true all the time.”

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Cabrini Campus Welcomes Its First Villanovans Sophia Thomas Staff Writer Continued from p.1 traditions of their own. Aside from the new facilities, students particularly marvel at the beauty of the campus. For sophomore Hayley Noonan, one of the greatest advantages of living on Cabrini has been increased privacy and a change of scenery. “We love spending time socializing at the outdoor picnic tables,” Noonan said. The close-knit environment fosters a strong sense of community amongst Cabrini residents as they navigate the unfamiliar circumstances together. “Everyone seems to be growing very close considering we are all faced with new and unknown experiences,” Kircher said. However, living on Cabrini campus has brought new considerations. Traveling to and from Villanova campus is a new factor for these residents. Shuttles routinely operate between Villanova and Cabrini campuses, offering students an opportunity to commute for classes, activities and events throughout the day. For Noonan, this means factoring the shuttle schedule and

additional travel into her daily routine. “The proximity to the[Villanova] campus is definitely something that will take some getting used to,” Noonan said. “Having to factor in the commute has impacted my schedule day to day.”

taining a unified community. For Kirchner, living on Cabrini campus has inspired her to make even greater effort in her student life and involvement. “Despite the physical distance between Cabrini and [Villanova], I am making a conscious effort to remain involved even more so now than ever,” Kirchner said. “It is important to remain active in both communities, uniting them as one.” As students settle in, Cabrini has begun to develop its distinct sense of community. With sophomores sharing this new experience, they play a vital role in shaping the future of Cabrini student life. “Stronger relationships will be built, and I believe a tight-knit community will come out of living on Cabrini,” Noonan said. Initial reactions offer only a glimpse of what is likely to be a longer adjustment. As Villanova integrates Cabrini into campus life, this sophomore class is not just the first students to call this new campus home, but also the A sneak peak inside the Cabrini dorms. first to shape what life at Cabrini Ella Johnson/Villanovan Photography will mean for future classes. Despite the additional “I foresee students living on commute, Noonan insists that the Cabrini becoming very adaptable benefits of suite-style living far to change and much more puncoutweigh the challenges. tual to classes given the commute Villanova’s Cabrini Camfactor,” Kirchner said. “Bonding pus expansion is much more than over these new experiences tosimply a physical commute. Stugether will make our community dents are now faced with mainstronger for the better.”

Senior Sentiments: New Beginnings Kailey Fahy Co-Editor-in-Chief Sophie Latessa Managing Editor “Seize the opportunity to embrace new beginnings” These words greeted members of the Class of 2027 as they gathered on the campus green for Orientation and began their time at Villanova. “New beginnings” is a phrase often used to soften the blow of the reality of change. Change is difficult and often scary. But when embraced fully, new beginnings are also an opportunity to change one’s life for good. Three years later, we can say that leaning into these new beginnings at Villanova has made our time here more meaningful than we ever could have imagined. We grew up just a mere fifteen minutes apart in central New Jersey, but it was not until we both timidly introduced ourselves at the first Villanovan section editor meeting that our paths finally crossed. “Seizing the opportunity” can feel aggressive, almost impossible. Faced with change, it is often easiest to retreat. However, it is leaning into this discomfort that will open doors: saying yes to joining the club you’re nervous to try, introducing yourself to your neighbor in class, asking a new

Embracing new beginnings led to opportunities like The Villanovan editorial staff. Kailey Fahy/Villanovan Photography

friend to lunch. And even as Seniors, we still find ourselves embracing new beginnings. New classes, new living situations, new experienc-

es.

Yet as graduation approaches, the one lingering new beginning feels even more daunting than the one we faced when

we first got here. It will undoubtedly be filled with big change and scary moments. However, like our freshman-year selves taught us, it is important to lean into this discomfort and put yourself out there. Doing things scared and putting yourself out there are all important life lessons that college has taught us. These are things we will bring with us as we enter this next era of our lives. However, with the time we have remaining at Villanova, we are now choosing to embrace the beginning of the end. This year, the focus is on being present and fully welcoming every moment this year has to offer. While for some that means taking tons of photos and capturing lots of videos, for us, that means sharing our thoughts in The Villanovan. This year will be full of lasts, but also of continued firsts. Like The Villanovan seniors before us, we hope to document it all here, as, in truth, our entire college journeys have been chronicled in this paper. When we think back to our freshman year selves, wide-eyed and unsure of what laid ahead, we can’t help but be proud of those girls, who, though scared, embraced new beginnings with a shaky smile and a brave determination to join the school paper. As it turns out, the opportunity to embrace new beginnings would follow us all along the way. And it is always worthwhile.

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VillaVogue: Microtrends To Personalized Ciara Dursee Co-Digital Editor Three years of back-toschool college seasons have taught me one thing: the “must-have” item of August is rarely the one you’re still wearing by October. And yet, every year, I witness the same cycle happen all over again. Welcome back, VillaVoguers. Grab your coffee and find a comfortable place to sit. This week I want to talk about microtrends. Microtrends: a short-lived fashion frenzy caused by an item that becomes popular fast, but often loses its spark almost as quickly as it arrives. From Tabi Shoes to mesh layers and polka dots, to Stanley cups and Labubu bag charms, trends go viral on Monday and are forgotten by Friday. Some blame post-quarantine fatigue. Some blame rising influencers for shedding their opinion on naive users. In general, microtrends arise from something deeper and more problematic: social media. The Media’s Influence When a famous influencer looks put-together and clean in a matching pajama set sold on TikTok Shop, the low price and pretty model make it easy to say yes. So do suggested posts on Instagram about a new pair of sunglasses that “you have to have” after just saying you needed new ones. TikTok’s algorithm is designed to show viewers

multiple seasons. It’s taken some maturing, but I’ve learned how important quality over quantity is for your closet. Creating a capsule wardrobe with basic everyday wear, stand-out statement pieces and classy timeless items is a great way to break out of the microtrend cycle. Build and curate the capsule over time with things that never go out of style. If you’re feeling uninspired, don’t go to your media apps for reference. Choose a fashion magazine instead. W, Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue have Be weary of why you opt for the fashion choices you do-timeless or trendy? some good advice. I have found more Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography inspiration from Roe Magazine, an more of the things they already like, and toxic materials and overused all-digital fashion and culture outlet, and most of us fall for the trick. landfills. These impacts go unnoticed than just from scrolling aimlessly on An hour of scrolling through when one clicks “purchase now.” my phone. It’s not about ditching TikTok each night can expose you It’s easy to depend on social media. It’s the type of media to new purchasing ideas you didn’t SHEIN to acquire items in bulk. I you consume and decide to follow know you wanted and most likely do get it. When a top is $6 and on your that makes all the difference. not need. doorstep within two days, sustainabilBefore you buy something, Sometimes it makes for an ity isn’t exactly the first thing on your picture yourself a year from now. easy resource, like how I looked up mind. But convenience should never Will you still have it, or will it be “wedding guest dresses for a rehears- come at the planet’s expense. There buried in the back of your closet? al dinner” last week and found a few are better ways to shop. As a senior, I can say one thing for options that just landed at my door certain: it’s not worth the money if a few days later. The rapid search Personal Implications it’s not you. Looking back on all the results are a positive. But consistent What ever happened to shop- times I bought something because presence on social media has more ping for yourself ? No questions. No an influencer had a paid partnership negative effects. opinions. No comparisons. We have or because everyone on campus was lost the ability to curate our personal wearing the newest version, I regret Environmental Cost and Fast style without using a phone. This putting money into something that Fashion “buy-in” culture makes it increasheld no value for me. So, next time, Microtrends are killing the ingly difficult to distinguish a trend choose for you. planet from a sustainability standto jump on versus what a consumer The battle of timeless and point. Fast fashion promotes accelactually wants and will enjoy. trendy has never felt more relevant. erated production cycles with huge It may be worth considering if what environmental costs, such as excesAdvice From Me to You you’re purchasing comes from your sive water use, release of microfibers Look for trends that span own admiration or someone else’s.

Donovan Jacobs’s 250-Mile Run For Pediatric Cancer Juliana Burke Staff Writer “Perspective.” This is the one word that kept coming to mind for senior economics student Donovan Jacobs as he ran more than 250 miles across Iceland, traversing glaciers, volcanic deserts, mountains and rivers while battling freezing temperatures, relentless wind, rain and the uncertainty of how much farther he had to go. Whenever Jacobs felt he had reached his limit during “The Great Norse Run,” he reminded himself of his “why.” Carly Collard-Cottone was diagnosed with brain cancer at just eight years old, after losing both of her parents shortly beforehand. Despite her diagnosis, she maintained a remarkably positive attitude and created Carly’s Club to bring comfort, hope and joy to other children with cancer. Today, her legacy lives on through the Courage of Carly Fund, which supports groundbreaking pediatric cancer research while providing counseling, educational resources, therapeutic activities and countless moments that remind children that, despite their diagnosis, they are still allowed to be kids. Hearing Carly’s story had a profound effect on Jacobs. What stood out most was not simply what Carly had endured, but how she chose to respond. “Despite the cancer she was fighting, Carly did not allow her illness to define her,” Jacobs said. “Instead of focusing on herself or asking people

Both Jacobs’s and Carly’s story is an inspiration to many. Courtesy of Juliana Burke

to feel sorry for her, she wanted to make other children happy.” Carly’s attitude became the foundation for Jacobs’ own challenge. Throughout his journey, he repeatedly returned to the perspective her story gave him, particularly when the physical demands of the run began to take their toll. Jacobs began seriously training about eight weeks before the event. Once the run began, the conditions changed constantly. The early stages brought desert-like heat and humidity, while later portions became brutally cold and windy. Hypothermia became a serious concern, and toward the end of the run, Jacobs even suffered frostbite on his ear. He had originally planned to complete 209 miles, with one rest day added. Instead, Jacobs decided to run approximately 250 miles. To him, taking a rest day felt like a “cop-out.” It was the perspective of the children with cancer who did not get a day off from their struggle, and to Jacobs, honoring them did not warrant a day off. His run-to-walk ratio fluctuated between roughly 60/40 and

70/30. He fueled himself with dehydrated meals, raw oats and his personal favorite, dried mango. He carried two 500-milliliter hydration flasks, and refilled them at aid stations along the route. At one point, an uncomfortable shoe became such a problem that Jacobs cut it open rather than let it stop him. But the fellow athletes Jacobs met along the way changed his understanding of what it means to persevere. He ran alongside people from Ireland, Denmark, Ukraine and other countries, many of whom were completing the journey in support of causes close to their hearts. Their stories reminded Jacobs of the strong people in his own life, particularly his mother and grandmother, whose strength and charitable influence reinforced why he had chosen to take on the challenge in the first place. Jacobs also found perspective through the children whose stories inspired his journey. Hearing what they and their families endured repeatedly reminded him that there was always someone facing something far more difficult while main-

taining a more positive attitude. “There is always someone in a way worse situation, with a way bigger smile on their face,” Jacobs said. That perspective stayed with Jacobs. A painful tendon, a blister, exhaustion or a freezing night suddenly seem smaller when compared with the suffering of children battling cancer, and the positivity they continued to show despite it. Jacobs describes his experience in Iceland as “the pinnacle of the goodness of humanity.” Nearly everyone he encountered encouraged, supported and helped one another. In a journey designed to test physical limits, Jacobs found that the greatest strength came from the people around him. Through the Great Norse Run, Jacobs raised more than $36,000 for pediatric cancer research, surpassing his original $25,000 goal, while forming lifelong friendships and gaining a new appreciation for the ordinary things many people take for granted, from a hot shower and a home-cooked meal to the unwavering support of his family. Most importantly, Jacobs will tell you that he found perspective. And perhaps that same perspective is what allows us to cross Iceland with little more than some dried mango, blistered heels and a smile. Please consider supporting Carly, children and families affected by pediatric cancer, and a fellow Villanovan through Jacobs’ fundraising campaign. You may find the giving link on The Villanovan website.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2026

SPORTS

Villanova Football Vs. Louisville: Preview Finn Courtney Co-Sports Editor On Friday, Sept. 11, Villanova’s football team will visit ACC member Louisville in an FCSmeets-FBS showdown. The Wildcats, ranked No. 21 in this week’s STATS poll, are coming off their first win of the 2026 season, over Bucknell. Last Saturday game’s included a thrilling finish with fifth-year defensive back Garrett Rogan making the game-saving tip of a field goal attempt in the final minutes. Friday’s game is a chance for Villanova to establish itself as one of the best teams in the FCS against the 24th ranked team in the FBS. However, the Wildcats enter Friday’s matchup as major underdogs and as a team still gelling and improving together. This past Saturday’s game another example of that and going forward, a step in the right direction for Villanova. Both penalties and turnovers, two things that helped William & Mary pull off an improbable comeback against the Wildcats in their first game, were lessened by their second game. Villanova didn’t turn the ball over and only committed five penalties for 45 yards compared to 15 penalties for 107 yards against William & Mary.

Louisville, meanwhile, held onto their ranking in the AP Poll at No. 24 after a hard-fought loss to Ole Miss this past Sunday but still represents a much tougher challenge for Villanova. Louisville has won nine or more games the past three seasons, making the ACC Championship game once, and last season, the Cardinals beat Miami, the eventual national runner-up, on their

home turf. Villanova and Louisville have never played each other in football before, but the schools competed for decades in the old Big East Conference, particularly in basketball. The Cardinals are led by ACC Preseason Player of the Year Isaac Brown, a dynamic weapon out of the backfield who led all of FBS football in average yards per

Pat McQuaide looks to continue positive momentum from a win over Bucknell against Louisville. Magdalena Martini/Villanovan Photography

rush (8.8) in 2025, and redshirt junior quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, who didn’t start across his first three years at Ohio State but won the starting job after transferring to Louisville. Kienholz got off to a good start in the loss to Ole Miss, throwing for 302 yards and rushing for 69 yards to lead all rushers. Brown managed just 45 yards on 16 carries. The Wildcats must play on their strengths to stay competitive with Louisville and that starts with their offensive attack. Graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide bounced back after three interceptions against William & Mary to post 218 passing yards and two touchdowns against Bucknell, both to sophomore wideout Braden Reed. The dual-headed rushing of juniors Isaiah Ragland and Ja’briel Mace also needs to continue to produce, after rushing for a combined 112 yards against Bucknell and 153 yards and two touchdowns in the loss to William & Mary. Both parts of the backfield attack must succeed if Villanova wants to stay close with the Cardinals. Kickoff from Louisville’s home turf, L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, is set for 7 p.m. this Friday. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and additionally shown on the ACC Network.

Catching Up With The ‘Cats: Kris Jenkins (‘16) Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief It’s been 25 years since the Philadelphia 76ers were last in the NBA Finals. It was the summer of 2001, and Kris Jenkins was watching it all unfold. That is when he knew basketball was his future. Watching Allen Iverson and Kobe Bryant battle it out across five games is a moment Jenkins still recalls as the moment in his life he fell in love with the sport of basketball. Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers won their second consecutive title and were on route to a third in 2002. Jenkins got his own basketball moment in 2016 when he drained a buzzer-beater three-pointer with Villanova to defeat North Carolina in the NCAA National Championship game. It has been ten years since he hit “The Shot” to win a national championship. Jenkins has traveled to parts of the world to play basketball, but now he is back on the Main Line. Three weeks ago, Jenkins started a new role at Villanova instead of being a student-athlete as an Athletics Operations Coordinator. Jenkins feels like he is back where he was meant to be. “My role is kind of to help out wherever there is help, you know, within the athletic department,” Jenkins said. “Villanova basketball is in my blood, it’s in my heart, so that’ll always be there. But, helping out men’s and women’s soccer if I

Ten years after Jenkins hit ‘The Shot’, he returns to the Main Line. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

can, helping out volleyball, helping out golf, baseball and softball, things of that nature. How can I help get their sport more visible? How can I help generate more student activity or whatever I can do to just help?” Jenkins has already made his rounds to different sporting events, popping up at the men’s soccer game against Fordham last week. He does not feel like it has been a decade since he walked the campus as a student. “That’s a big part about being here at Villanova, working here, being a student-athlete here, a former student-athlete here,” Jenkins said. “You’re always looking to be better and help someone else be better as well, you know, because it’s not just about yourself. So I would say that that fabric is still the same here at Villanova. Everybody’s just working

to make themselves better but to also elevate and make each other around them better.” Prior to returning to Villanova, Jenkins entered a career in professional basketball after graduating in 2017. He had NBA Summer League stints with the Washington Wizards, the San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat. He made overseas stops in Germany, the Dominican Republic and lastly Venezuela. In Venezuela, Jenkins suffered a hip injury that ended his professional playing career. “I think I knew it was time for me to hang it up,” Jenkins said. “I had an injury in Venezuela, and I’m limping around in this country that nobody knows my name, and I’m just sitting, and I’m like… ‘Yeah, I don’t think I have to do this. Like, I think I’m good.’”

Jenkins then spent some his time advocating for student-athletes in the Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) era. He has talked to students on how to get proper representation in the collegiate landscape as players begin to get paid, something Jenkins has pushed for since his graduated. Athletics has always been a passion for Jenkins, which made it easy for him to continue his career in it, especially at Villanova. As Jenkins continues to build out his role within Athletics, he is focused on working with current and past student-athletes to foster the best possible community for them on the Main Line. “I definitely plan on doing a lot of work with the Alumni Association that we have here as much as I can, going to events, speaking at events, just doing my part and pushing the university forward,” Jenkins said. “But it’s awesome to see that, you know, everybody has their own unique love for Villanova, and they just express it in different ways.” “So I’m just appreciative to be able to sit back, see how they appreciate the ‘V’ and continue to do it my way, but also just appreciate all the other great alumni who’ve graced this campus and all the young scholars who will eventually graduate and become alumni, doing it their way and how they see fit. I always appreciate people being original and authentic and doing things kind of their way. That’s just something that I’ve always admired.”

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Villanova Men’s Soccer Falls To FDU, 1-0

advantage in shots on goal in the first half. FDU’s Ryan Kopay scored the winning goal at 71:41, marking Villanova men’s soccer fell to the second goal that the ‘Cats have Fairleigh Dickinson, 1-0, at home on allowed this season. Monday, Sept. 7, after the Knights Senior Josh Oladele made scored in the 71st minute. Villanova his first regular-season appearance, ended its three-game streak and suffollowing an injury, and led the team fered its first home loss of the season. with three shots on goal during his 23 Villanova (3-1-1) entered the minutes on the pitch. match with three consecutive clean Head coach Mark Fetrow sheets at home and strong defensive noted the team’s defensive success momentum. The Wildcats looked to throughout the season has been continue that defensive stretch against important, but the Wildcats need to FDU, but the Knights broke through improve their attacking production as in the second half to take the lead. well. Villanova was unable to find an equal“We’ve been relying on keepizer as FDU held on for the victory. ing clean sheets, so we didn’t do that The Knights had a 10-3 today, which hurt us,” Fetrow said. Mason Canton Photography Editor

Villanova was unable to overcome a second-half goal by FDU and suffered their first loss of the season. Mason Canton/Villanovan Photography

“But at the end of the day, you’ve got to score goals to win games. That’s something we haven’t quite figured out yet. We’ve got to score multiple goals in games to give us a buffer. That’s an area we can keep improving on” Fetrow emphasized the importance of improving across all areas of the game as Villanova moves forward. “We’ve got to get better in every facet of the game,” Fetrow said. “We’re gonna stay together. This is our first loss and the first goal that we’ve given up at home, so we’ve got to improve on some of those things, get back to having clean sheets, improve our attacking side and be more efficient.” One adjustment for the Wildcats was moving junior goalie Alex Yagudayev further up the pitch. “It helps with our possession, so we have an extra player to be able to play through, “ Fetrow said. “And then it just limits their ability to hit us in transition compared to when he’s higher up, to kind of compact the space.” Yagudayev has played a key role in facilitating both Villanova’s defense and offense this season, with Sunday’s match being no exception. The Philly Soccer Six Goalkeeper of the Week notched six saves in the match. “There’s so much belief in him from our coaching staff and his teammates,” Fetrow said. ‘When he’s needed, he’s going to come up and make big plays. He did a good job to

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD Sept. 2 - Sept. 8

Thursday, September 3 Women’s Soccer vs. Penn 1-0 W Friday, September 4 Field Hockey @ Penn State 0-2 L Volleyball vs. Princeton 3-2 W Saturday, September 5 Men’s Football @ Bucknell 17-16 W Volleyball vs. Arizona State 3-2 W Sunday, September 6 Field Hockey vs. New Haven 10-0 W Golf @ Alex Lagowitz Memorial 7th of 14 Volleyball @ Colgate 3-2 W Monday, September 7 Men’s Soccer vs. FDU 0-1 L make some pretty important saves for us.” Despite the result, Villanova’s defense has been a consistent part of its start to the season. Villanova will host George Washington on Sunday, Sept. 13, at Higgins Soccer Complex. The match is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. and will be streamed on ESPN+.

Wildcat Watch: Yagudayev Plays Hero Against Fordham Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist Junior goalkeeper Alex Yagudayev played the role of hero for Villanova men’s soccer after facing 43 shots from Fordham and still leading the Wildcats to a 1-0 victory. Yagudayev kept Villanova ahead by that narrow margin after scoring their lone goal less than 20 minutes into the game and managed 13 saves compared to Fordham’s three, passing his previous career high of 12. His career-best outing marked another step in his journey, becoming an integral part of the Wildcats across his first two seasons. He continues to grow on and off the field, satisfying his decision to play at the collegiate level over an immediate jump to the professional level. Despite the praise his individual performance has received, Yagudayev did not feel the win was sufficient. “Our goal is to try to score in the first 25 minutes of the game and obviously try to get the next couple, but we were a defensively sound team, and I feel like Fordham wasn’t really a good representation of us,” Yagudayev said. “I feel like we were just a little bit slow. It was a little hot outside. I think that even though we didn’t have the performance that we wanted, we still got the win and we fought through a majority of the game in the back. The star goalkeeper is no stranger to facing competitive teams. Yagudayev has trained with the New York Red Bulls each summer since high school and joined NYC Football

Junior goalkeeper Alex Yagudayev had a career-best day with 13 saves in a narrow 1-0 win over Fordham. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography

Academy for seven seasons. In 2023, he played in the NYCFC U17s and MLS Next Pro Team for 12 professional games, and traveled to preseason camp with NYFC pros. He inherited his skills from his father, Eduard, the former owner of Queens City FC and former goalkeeper for John Jay College in Brooklyn, NY. Eduard Yaguyadev went on to play Westminster Soccer for nine years. Yaguyadev would go to the Queens City practice facilities every day after school, and all day on the weekends. No matter his age, he was playing with the advanced teams at 10 years old. His sister, Christina, is a former goalkeeper for LSU Brooklyn’s women’s soccer team, and his maternal grandmother was a goalkeeper in European handball. His younger brother, Leon, is currently a high

school goalkeeper. “Me and my friend opened up a soccer academy for kids,” Eduard Yguyadev said. “Alex was five years old at that time. I had a lot of practice. At least four, five games on the weekends.” One of his coaches from NYFC Academy, Jose Jimenez, is now an assistant coach for the New York Red Bulls. In his senior year of high school, Yagudayev had to make a tough decision. He had the ability to play on professional teams. However, playing time was not guaranteed. He felt his best option was to play at the NCAA level to further develop his game, add leadership skills and simply do what he loves without sitting on the sidelines. “I just know that in the pro world, especially as a goalkeeper, ca-

reers start to thrive later in your life, and I don’t want to waste my time sitting on a bench like a 30-year-old who [is] getting paid much more,” Yagudayev said. The 6-foot-2 goalkeeper had several offers from Big East, ACC and even Ivy League schools, but the incomparable leadership and family atmosphere at Villanova was what drew him in. “We knew his personality was gonna be a little bit different than most of the kids coming from his background, and how he would embrace going over was probably our biggest question mark,” Villanova’s men’s soccer head coach Mark Fetrow said. “I think his freshman year was the hardest thing for him, and now being a junior, he’s fully integrated in the University. He’s been a big piece of our culture, and our team continues to make our culture stronger.” Going into his penultimate season, Yaguyadev still has plenty of time to show off his talents at the NCAA level and received recognition as Big East Goalkeeper of the Week on Aug. 27. He was named to the BIG East All-Academic Team his first two years. Yaguyadev’s intense work ethic and elite skill set have taken him further than most soccer players, and he only just turned 20 years old. “I think we [Villanova] were cut short,” Yaguyadev said. “I think this coming year, since our team is older, more developed, has better chemistry, has a better identity, we can pull through and possibly make the tournament.”

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Womens Soccer Earns Fifth Clean Sheet of the Season Sophia Cratty Staff Writer On Thursday, Sept. 3, in the 76th minute against Pennsylvania (1-3-1), Villanova’s women’s soccer team (4-0-1) secured a 1-0 win on a goal from sophomore Avrie Nelsen. Thursday’s game marked the fifth shutout of the 2026 season and the third consecutive win against Big East rival Penn. Since last season, Villanova has not allowed a goal in 547 minutes of play. Villanova outshot the Quakers, 14-7, and 6-0 on goal. Going into the match, Villanova was prepared for Penn’s offensive speed but was not expecting a formation change from its rivals. “They’ve got a lot of speed up top and out wide,” women’s soccer head coach Samar Azem said. “And so we knew we would see that. What we didn’t expect was that they had some players that were out for them, so they changed their formation, which actually created problems that we hadn’t seen in some time.” Azem noted a shift from the first to second half for the Wildcats. The Quakers’ unexpected formation change took time to adjust to. “It took us some time for us to get in our rhythm,” Azem said. “In the first half, I thought that [Penn] never really threatened, but

Villanova is currently undefeated this season. Magalena Martini/Villanovan Photography

in between the 18-yard boxes, they were in control of the game. We missed the penalty kick. We missed the breakaway, and then we missed one that was right on the endline.” Villanova has been on quite a scoring streak. Nelsen scored for her third consecutive match, making her the team’s top scorer, with five goals so far. The team scored 11 goals last week against Iona, and nine on Sunday, Aug.

16, against Lehigh. “In the second half, the team came out and adjusted what we were doing and took control of the game,” Azem said. “I think we felt like we should’ve left the game with three or four goals, but we gained something just as valuable: lessons learned so we’re able to move into the next match and get better and better.” Azem highlighted Isabelle

Chukwu as a key player in Thursday’s match. She has settled into her role on the team after transferring last year. “Chukwu really came into her own in that game,” Azem said. “Isabelle Chukwu is someone who’s transferred to us from Brown University. She was playing for the Canadian U17 National Team, and she’s been in the pools for the U20 World Cup. But this spring we saw her find her own, and I thought the Penn game was a breakout game for her.” Azem emphasized DIG (Dominant in Grittiness) as a foundational theme of how the team plays. “You can have talent, but ultimately your grittiness, your toughness, your mindset, is going to set you apart,” Azem said. Looking ahead, Villanova is preparing to continue the sixweek-long stretch at home with Bucknell. Azem welcomes the challenge and hopes the Wildcats will bring the best version of themselves to the game. “I love playing Bucknell because they’re a tough team to play,” Azem said. “I love problems. I love when teams cause us problems. But 90% of the preparation is being the best version of ourselves.” Villanova’s women’s soccer team will face Bucknell (3-4) at the Higgins Soccer Complex on Thursday, Sept. 10. The match is set to begin at 4 p.m.

Golf Opens Season At Alex Langowitz Memorial Daniel Sweeney Staff Writer Villanova’s men’s golf team opened its 2026-27 season at the 10th annual Alex Lagowitz Memorial in Hamilton, N.Y., at Seven Oaks Golf Club. Led by a strong collegiate debut from freshman Evan Rohde and a career-best round from junior Vibhav Alokam, the Wildcats finished seventh overall in a competitive field that included Seton Hall, Saint Joseph’s and Holy Cross. The Pirates captured the team title at 11-under par (853), while Villanova finished at 10-over par (874). The Wildcats experienced an up-and-down opening day, shooting 11-over par in the first round before responding with a 5-under par second round, their best team score of the tournament. Head Coach James Wilkes emphasized Villanova’s ability to fight through adversity after a frustrating opening round.“The guys had faith that putts would start falling, and they had a great attitude all weekend,” Wilkes said. The turnaround was highlighted by Alokam, who carded a 67 in the second round to finish the tournament at 2-over par as Villanova’s second-leading scorer. Alokam recorded an eagle and six birdies during his second-round performance. He now has seven eagles in his collegiate

career, tying him for third in program history. Wilkes said Alokam’s performance was no surprise given the work he put in during the summer. “He’s worked extremely hard this summer to improve his game,” Wilkes said. The junior has become one of Villanova’s most dependable golfers, playing in all 12 tournaments as a sophomore, while having 93 percent of his rounds count toward the team score. A two-time BIG EAST All-Academic Team selection, Alokam was also named a GCAA All-America Scholar at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. Rohde tied for third place in his collegiate debut. Rohde posted back-to-back rounds of 69 in the second and third rounds and finished 4-under par for the tournament. His finish was the best by a Wildcat. Villanova continued its climb up the leaderboard on the final day, posting a 4-under round on Sunday, jumping to seventh place overall. Sophomore Luke Leonard was Villanova’s third finisher, placing 35th overall. Leonard enters his second collegiate season looking to build on the experience he gained during his freshman campaign, when he averaged 77.65 strokes per round. His closing-round 72 matched his best 18-hole score, while his 54-hole total gave him a new career best. Senior Nathan Marion and

Villanova finished seventh overall in the Alex Lagowitz Memorial. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

junior Ian Love rounded out Villanova’s lineup, tying for 61st place at 11-over par. The finish marked a new career best for Love. Junior Cameron Besaw competed as an individual and recorded a

career-low 4-over-par tournament score. His final-round 77 helped him earn a tie for 35th place. The Wildcats will be back in action on Sept. 19 at The Goat, hosted by the Naval Academy.

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Volleyball Finishes Colgate Volleyball Classic 2-1 Veronica King Staff Writer Villanova women’s volleyball finished the Colgate Volleyball Classic in Hamilton, New York, with a 2-1 tournament record after earning five-set victories against Princeton and host Colgate and falling to No. 7 Arizona State. The Wildcats opened the tournament on Friday, Sept. 4, against Princeton, defeating the Tigers, 3-2, in a five-set thriller, 15-25, 25-20, 25-16, 23-25, 16-14. Princeton controlled the opening frame, jumping out to leads of 10-5 and 22-13 and forcing Villanova to use both timeouts. Although the Wildcats trimmed the deficit, back-to-back attack errors allowed the Tigers to take the first set, 25-15. The second set went back and forth, with Villanova building a 13-10 lead and forcing Princeton into its first timeout. Senior middle blocker Annika Veurink made her season debut and recorded three kills to help the Wildcats even the match with a 25-20 victory. Villanova carried that momentum into the third set, racing out to a 15-10 advantage before extending its lead to 2416. Sophomore middle blocker Reagan McGivern then put away the frame-clinching kill, giving the Wildcats a 25-16 win and a 2-1 match lead. Freshman outside hitter Chloe Kelly led Villanova with

seven kills in the set. The fourth frame was the most competitive of the afternoon as the two teams traded points throughout. Princeton built a fivepoint advantage heading into the media timeout, but Kelly helped Villanova close the gap to one at 16-15 with two kills. The Tigers responded with a 3-0 scoring run, and although the Wildcats scored seven of the set’s final 12 points, Princeton held on for a 25-23 victory, sending the match to a decisive fifth set. The ‘Cats found themselves in another fifth-set battle and delivered when it mattered most. Villanova staged a seven-point comeback behind kills from Kelly and Veurink and a clutch block from McGivern and Veurink. The Wildcats erased five match points to tie the set at 14-14. Junior middle blocker Campbell McKinnon then sealed the dramatic victory with back-toback service aces, giving Villanova a 16-14 fifth-set win. Kelly led the Wildcats offensively with 19 kills, bringing her season total to 53. McKinnon added 13 kills, while junior outside hitter Cat Young recorded 10. Junior setter Alyssa Nelson led Villanova with 29 assists and 11 digs. “I thought the tournament went fine at Colgate,” head coach Josh Steinbach said. “We’ve been a little beat up with some injuries,

so it’s been a little hard to get cohesive, but we’ve got a group that is working hard together so I feel really good about where we are right now.” On Saturday, Sept. 5, Villanova returned to the court to face No. 7 Arizona State. The Wildcats could not carry Friday’s momentum into the matchup against the nationally ranked Sun Devils, falling 0-3. Despite the straight-set loss, Villanova entered its final game of the tournament with an opportunity to finish the weekend on a strong note against tournament host Colgate. The Wildcats faced Colgate on Sunday, Sept. 6, and once again found themselves in a fiveset battle. Villanova ultimately defeated the Raiders, 3-2, to close the tournament with a victory. Campbell McKinnon and Cat Young led the Wildcats offensively, recording 15 kills each. Taylor Lewis added 12 kills, giving Villanova three players with double-digit kill totals. Young also led Villanova from the service line with four aces, while Alyssa Nelson and Marikate Ritterbusch each recorded two. At the net, McKinnon collected four blocks, while Abby Harrell and Annika Veurink each added three. The Wildcats’ blocking effort helped Villanova withstand Colgate’s offensive pressure throughout the match. Nelson once again played a

major role in the Wildcats’ offense, finishing with 39 assists. Selah O’Connor added 15 assists, while Ava Harris recorded eight. Nelson also led Villanova defensively with 15 digs. Young followed with 13, while Harrell recorded eight. “Abby [Harrell] was injured in our first match against Pepperdine,” Steinbach said, “and was finally able to get back out there in the last match of the Colgate tournament, which was helpful and having her back makes a big difference.” The victory over Colgate gave Villanova its second five-set win of the weekend and brought the Wildcats’ overall record to 4-2. The Wildcats demonstrated their ability to compete in close matches, earning dramatic comeback victories against Princeton and Colgate while also facing a nationally ranked Arizona State team. “Being able to squeak out those two matches in five sets, though I don’t think we played our best volleyball was really a big deal,” Steinbach said. “So I feel like winning when playing our best is an important trait and we’re excited that we’ve been able to pull that off so far.” Villanova will now look to build on the momentum as it heads to the American Tournament this week for three games against American on Thursday and Iowa State on Friday while preparing for Big East play.

Football Defeats Bucknell, 17-16, On The Road Casey Healey Co-Sports Editor On Saturday, Sept. 5, Villanova defeated Bucknell, 1716, with a late rally in its second Patriot League matchup, marking its first win since joining the conference this offseason and sixth consecutive road win since last season. Villanova (1-1, 1-1 Patriot League) led by 14 points going into halftime, but it allowed Bucknell (0-2, 0-2) to score on backto-back drives, cutting the lead to one. However, Junior kicker Dominic Leblanc kicked the go-ahead field goal with a little over eight minutes left, giving Villanova the win. Graduate linebacker Garrett Rogan saved Villanova’s onepoint lead by tipping what would have been a go-ahead Bucknell field goal with just under two minutes left. Rogan finished the game with seven total tackles (five solo), a pass breakup and 1.5 tackles for a loss. Villanova graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide threw for 218 yards and two touchdowns. It was an improvement from last week after McQuaide tossed three interceptions against William & Mary. Sophomore wide receiver Brandon Binkowski led VU with three receptions for 71 yards, while sophomore receiver Braden Reed hauled in five receptions for 68 yards and two touchdowns.

Kickoff is set for 7p.m. on Friday against Louisville. Mason Canton/Villanovan Photography McQuaide was 13-of-20 on pass completions and surpassed 8,000 passing yards through his collegiate career and 3,500 with the Wildcats. Binkowski marked a

career high in receiving yards for the second straight game. Ja’Briel Mace rushed for 70 yards on 13 carries. McQuaide threw a 26-yard

touchdown to Braden Reed with 5:24 remaining in the first. The two scored again with a 16-yard touchdown with 1:13 left in the half. The ‘Cats held a 14-0 lead at halftime. Things fell apart in the third quarter as Bucknell scored back-to-back touchdowns, while Villanova only gained one total yard of offense. In the fourth quarter, Bucknell’s kicker Juan Garanton kicked a 40-yard field goal with 12:06 to play to take a 16-14 lead. Then, Mace rushed for 10 yards after McQuaide was sacked to bring the ball to the 4-yard line for LeBlanc. Bucknell then missed a 29yard go-ahead field goal with 1:57 left to play, giving Villanova the ball back with a 17-16 lead. Junior linebacker Omari Bursey totaled 14 tackles (eight solo). Sophomore defensive lineman Ugo Nwotite had two sacks. The win marks Villanova’s 10th consecutive win over Bucknell, and it now leads the all-time series, 16-11-2. Villanova will return on Friday, Sept. 11, to play against Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponent No. 24 Louisville at L&N Stadium in Kentucky. Villanova is currently ranked at No.21 in this week’s STATS poll. The Cardinals currernly do not sit in the FCS AP Poll after losing to Ole Miss on Sunday.

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This Past Week In Sports

Men’s soccer is currently 3-1-1 this season. Mason Canton/Villanovan Photography

Cross Country will return on Sept. 19 at The Main Line Invitational Mason Canton/Villanovan Photography

Women’s soccer defeated Penn, 1-0, to remain undefeated this season. Magdelana Martini/Villanovan Photograpy

Villanova will take on No.24 Louisville on Friday Sept. 11 Mason Canton/Villanova Photography