The Villanovan | Volume 118, Issue 8: April 2, 2025

Athletes Break Limits on the Track

Genna Cottingham Staff Writer

After a combined total of six school records, one would think two runners had reached their limit. Not Liam Murphy and Marco Langon.

On Thursday, March 27, the fifth-year Villanova runner Murphy broke the NCAA record in the 1500 meter race at Raleigh Relays. Murphy’s time of 3:33.02 put him first among 207 athletes and set both a personal best and Villanova school record in the process.

“We weren’t even sure it was a collegiate record at the time because nobody announced it at the meet,” head coach Marcus O’Sullivan said.

Junior Marco Langon overpowered Virginia’s Gary Martin in the last lap to achieve second place. Nearly four-tenths of a second behind Murphy, Langon’s time of 3:33.38 helped him run the second-fastest NCAA time in the 1500 meters. Langon was able to accomplish a new lifetime best as well, because being in the collegiate record books was not enough for him.

“We were just excited for finishing one-two and getting the result we wanted,” Murphy said. “And the time was just a bonus because after we went into the race, we weren’t really focused on the time.”

The previous NCAA record was 3:33.74, set by Alabama’s Eliuf Kipsang in 2022. After last week’s race in Raleigh, Kipsang was knocked down to the No. 3 spot in the Division I record books.

“We didn’t know until maybe 30 minutes before the race how fast it was going to be paced,” Langon said. “We thought it was just going to be a slower race, where it’s just going to wait around and

Continued on p. 18

SGA Shares Statement On Recent Federal Polcies p. 3

Housing Registration Is Too Stressful p. 11

NOVAdance 2025: No Hero Rides Alone In a Record-Breaking Day

Emma Cote Co-News

Editor

loud enough to be heard coast-to-coast.

Editor

Finn Courtney Co-News

On Saturday, March 29, members of the Villanova community, families and individuals from far and wide packed under the roof of Jake Nevin for one goal: raise money FTK (for the kids) and raise money for families fighting the brave fight against childhood cancer. The cheers from Jake Nevin this past weekend as the seniors of NOVAdance committee revealed the NOVAdance total were

The 12th annual NOVAdance saw the organization successfully meet its goal of raising $700,000 and in fact surpass it, with a final total of $708,269.10 raised for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation. That final total means that there has been more than a $100,000 increase since last year’s day-of, which raised just over $600,000, a feat the committee has been working towards for the past year.

Finally, after a year of social media promotion, countless fundraising emails, merch sales and many hours spent tabling

and canning, NOVAdance - from members of Morale Committee (MoCo) to Sidekicks to Recruitment to HR to its two Co Executive Directors - successfully passed their fundraising goal for a truly great cause.

“[We’ve] been rallying around the goal of $700,000 since the beginning of the school year, and to see all other members of the NOVAdance community rally in a similar way all the way up until 10 p.m. on the day of the Dance Marathon was the greatest portrayal of community I have seen at Villanova,” MoCo Chair Sam Blume said. “Villano -

va students are go-getters just as much outside of the classroom as within it, and for each of us to develop an understanding of a cause like pediatric cancer, some of us having direct relationships with the subject and some of us not, was a really beautiful way of showing how we can use our power to make a difference for those who can’t.”

Year after year, the B+ Foundation assists families in need of financial assistance while a child battles pediatric cancer, pairing B+ Heroes (pediatric cancer patients) with different Greek life and student organizations

Continued on p. 3

Willard Was Worth The Wait

Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor

This past Sunday, March 30, marked the beginning of a new chapter for Villanova basketball. Villanova University announced in a release that Kevin Willard would be the next head men’s basketball coach. The decision was made after a two-week search to replace former head coach Kyle Neptune. But it was a decision

Kids Helping Kids Fight Cancer: Joe McDonough Reflects on NOVAdance p. 4

Love Run 2025: Wildcat Takeover p. 12

that has the potential to prove it was worth the wait.

“My family and I would like to thank the Villanova Board of Trust-

ees, President Father Peter Donohue and Eric Roedl for this incredible opportunity,” Willard said in the school’s press release. “Villa-

Villanova Named Top Fulbright Producer p. 5

VillaVogue: Transcend Into New Styles Of Spring p. 15

Unitas, Vertias, Caritas Values or Suggestions? p. 8

Technology And Screentime At Villanova p. 16

nova Basketball has a deep tradition of excellence and a culture that is second to none in college basketball. We are thrilled to be a part of it and join the Villanova community.”

Before Willard agreed to come to Villanova, he verbally agreed to a contract extension with Maryland that would have made him one of the top 10 highest-paid coaches in college basketball, according to CBS’ Jon Rothstein.

Continued on p. 17

Sof Says: Students Give Suggestions For New Coach p. 9

Villanova Student Ryan Allen Finishes First In The Love Run p. 15

NOVAdance 2025 surpassed its goal of raising $700,000 for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation. Courtesy of NOVAdance Media Team

Coach KevinWillard will lead the Wildcats for the 2025-26 season. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

March 25, SULLIVAN HALL

A male resident student intentionally caused property damage inside of a residence hall.

PARAPHERNALIA

March 26, SULLIVAN HALL

Drug paraphernalia was found in a residence hall restroom.

LIQUOR UNDERAGE

March 26, SULLIVAN HALL

Two male resident students, under 21, were found in possession of alcoholic beverages.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

March 31, SULLIVAN HALL

A staff member dscovered damaged soap and towel dispensers in

CORRECTIONS

NOVAdance: The Impact And The Legacy

Lauren Armstrong Associate EIC

Isabella Carlin Co-News Editor

The 12th-annual NOVAdance may have drawn to a close, but participants will carry their experiences far beyond the dance marathon.

NOVAdance held its day-of, 12-hour dance marathon on Saturday to celebrate the University’s B+ heroes and to announce the final fundraising total for the year. Students had the opportunity to get involved through multiple positions, including Sidekicks, Engagement Coordinators, Team Captains, Hero Liaisons, Morale Committee and as NOVAdance Committee members.

Jack Doolin is a senior who served as one of the 2025 co-Executive Directors for this year’s NOVAdance. Doolin served alongside senior Lanie Aries, and they set the ambitious goal of fundraising $700,000 for the B+ Foundation this year.

Together, Doolin and Aries led the NOVAdance committee to this goal.

“There was a big sense of relief to me [when they found out they reached the fundraising goal],” Doolin said. “I already knew that people had done incredible, beautiful work the whole year, but I wanted us all to know that, and feel assured of that and so, that was a big piece of that, a sigh of relief that we had done it.”

Tom DeWitt is also a senior who has served on NOVAdance committee for the past three years, after serving as a Sidekick his freshman year.

“Throughout this year’s NOVAdance dance marathon, and in reflecting on how NOVAdance has impacted me over the last 4 years, the message of “Be Positive” calls out to me, and it is something that I will carry with me,” DeWitt said.

The Engagement Coordinators (ECs) are a group of more than 100 sophomore, junior and senior students who planned fundraising events throughout the year. On the

day of the dance marathon, ECs were responsible for working shifts in Jake Nevin, participating in fundraising challenges and welcoming NOVAdance participants and the B+ heroes.

“On the day of, there’s a moment that’s really ingrained into my mind,” junior Engagement Coordinator Maggie Dreifuerst said. “We formed tunnels for the heroes to run into Jake Nevin and I was at the start of the tunnel for a hero named James, and he was so excited, he could barely stand still and had the biggest smile on his face.”

Hero Liaisons also played a significant role on the day-of. These individuals served as representatives of their organizations and were paired with a B+ hero throughout the year. During the dance marathon, the Hero Liaisons welcomed their hero when they arrived at Jake Nevin, shared their stories with the Villanova community during Hero Hour and spent time with the hero and their family during the day.

“I was able to form a special connection with Christos and his family over the course of the year and then celebrate the amazing day alongside him,” Alpha Phi Omega Hero Liaison Dominica Delayo said. “Christos was at the Dance Marathon for over 10 hours and we played so many games and sports together, like basketball to spike ball to soccer.”

Sidekicks is the freshman only leadership opportunity associated with NOVAdance. Through this program, first year students are able to become highly involved with the organization and help raise money and awareness throughout their entire first year on campus.

Freshman nursing student Charlie Blajda was inspired to join NOVAdance after a sophomore friend on committee encouraged him to apply.

“[Angie Rodriguez] told me what [NOVAdance] was about and immediately I was hooked,” he said. “I love the idea of raising money for these kids that have so much going on and just need support.”

Sophomore Dylan Cahill was on the NOVAdance committee, working on the entertainment team. Cahill emphasized the importance of reflec-

tion and remembering that the day is for a cause bigger than themselves.

“Emotionally, it was hard,” Cahill said. “In between dancing, we would have to run around and coordinate performers. A lot of it was so stressful all of the day, and during the last hour, we could see all the little things that had gone wrong and all the little mistakes that happened, and those are easy to focus on because we wanted it to run so perfect. The last hour, our director had us go in the back and get on top of the stairs and just look out and see how much joy and happiness we brought people and everyone was so proud of themselves…we could finally see all our work pay off.”

What binds everyone involved with NOVAdance together is their love for the cause and the B+ Heroes.

“I got to talk to Correll,” Blajda said. “Hearing how passionate he is, he is a pre-medical student, a freshman in college now, and I think that is so cool that he is not letting anything define him, so really meeting the Hero I met, and seeing how he is still carries positivity with him in everyday life is just so amazing.”

Team Captains are a way to get both involved in NOVAdance and

the organization they are representing. They work to relay information from NOVAdance to their respective organizations.

“It was a great way to get involved in both NOVAdance and my chapter,” senior Alpha Phi Team Captain Sidney Howell said. “As a senior, this was a really great way to stay connected.”

Sophomore Chi Omega Team Captain Riley Kalejta agreed.

“Being part of such an impactful initiative has made me realize that, although our efforts, like sending fundraising emails and creating social media posts, may seem small, it is these little actions that collectively contribute to meaningful change,” she said.

NOVAdance cannot occur without all the different positions andmany individuals who spread awareness throughout the year. The day-of serves as a celebration of these efforts.

“A huge thank you to the Committee, ECs, Sidekicks, Team Captains, Hero Liaisons and everyone that came,” Doolin said. “We wouldn’t have gotten to seven without all of Villanova…whatever people did to make it happen, it was an incredible gift that they gave to the kids.”

Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography

NOVAdance 2025: So No Hero Rides Alone

Emma Cote Co-News Editor

Finn Courtney Co-News Editor

Continued from p.1

at Villanova and countless other colleges to foster a sense of hope and happiness in the hardest part of their lives.

At Villanova, this includes everything from social media fundraising to different themed hours on the “Day Of,” like various on-campus musical groups performing to the annual Lip Sync competition, won by Alpha Phi Omega for the third consecutive year. The bottom line? Those organizations do whatever they can both leading up to and on the “Day Of” NOVAdance to raise spirits and raise as much money as possible for the Heroes and their familes.

“We have 17 B+ heroes who have been diagnosed with cancer and who are paired with organizations on campus,” Family Relations Co-Chair Carissa Van Veen said in an interview with The Villanovan last week. “Our role is really to oversee peer liaisons from each organization who are paired with those heroes and get to know them, their family and really bring them into the Villanova community to be a support system.”

Traditionally, the seniors on the NOVAdance committee participate in the reveal, when the total fundraising number is shared with the attendees on stage right before 10 p.m. Final donations are typically received up until 9:45 p.m. each year on the “Day Of,” to maximize donations brought in.

This year was also the first year in NOVAdance’s history that the committee shared its goal of $700,000 or more, in hopes of bolstering support for the B+ Foundation.

“Turning around and seeing

Haley Smith hold up that ‘7’ filled me with more emotions than I could describe,” Blume said. “But among those was immense pride in the Villanova community, limitless hope for all NOVAdance could become in the time after I graduate, and the utmost amount of positivity for the amount of families and Heroes that would be impacted by our support.”

Students across all sections of NOVAdance involvement were thrilled at the long-awaited reveal to see that this goal had been met. Throughout the year, these various groups planned and participated in fundraising efforts, all culminating in the day of and making true the plans committee members set in motion months ago, amongst them Operations Team member Pat Cregan.

“Seeing big smiles on the faces of our B+ heroes, their families and all the marathon participants filled my heart with so much joy,” Cregan said. “There is so much work behind the scenes that goes into executing the NOVAdance marathon and seeing those smiles makes it all worth it.

Blume, in her last year as a member of NOVAdance, agreed.

“I truly believe that Villanova is a magical place, as never in my life have I seen such a large concentration of students that are so eager to serve others and devote so much time to doing so,” Blume said. “As someone who does not have a personal connection to cancer, I consider myself truly lucky and privileged to be able to support a cause that many people [do] relate to through family members, friends and even themselves, and it has become so important to me through my work with NOVAdance that I am able to use this privilege to advocate for others.”

The NOVAdance committee took to Instagram on Monday, March 31 to both share the good news and to thank all who came out Saturday, March 29.

“708,269.10. NOVAdance helped 708 families in the fight against

childhood cancer,” the post read. “From everyone at NOVAdance, thank you to those who danced, fundraised, and supported us on Saturday. We could not have had this record-breaking year without your help.”

Along with this post shared by the committee, the B+ Foundation also took to its Instagram to congratulate NOVAdance on a job well done.

“Please join us in congratulating the 2025 NOVAdance Committee Co-Executive Directors - Laine Aries and Jack Doolin, Advisor - Jack Sherwood, and the entire NOVAdance community on this impressive accomplishment,” the B+ Foundation shared.

Now, with the big day over, committee members like Cregan hope Villanovans take away the scope and scale of the organization, as anyone involved with NOVAdance knows it’s more than one day in March.

“I hope the Villanova community saw the monumental impact they can have on children and families in need,” Cregan said. “Not only does NOVAdance provide financial support, but emotional support as well. At events like the dance marathon, our B+ heroes and families get a break from their daily hardships

and are embraced with love and care. Everyone deserves to live a cancer free life, and NOVAdance and the B+ Foundation give children the opportunity to do just that - but it can’t be done without the presence and passion of the Villanova community.”

This year was another year of the $100,000 increase streak, a testament to the growth and development of NOVAdance and support on campus. And if the last three years of an over $200,000 increase are any indication, more success can be expected for the 13th annual. But, the happiness from the 12th annual won’t be disappearing anytime soon. For some members of its committee, they hope one day the need to raise money will disappear and instead, finally, a cure will be found.

“The joy that could be heard through cheers, seen through tears, and felt through hugs of the Villanova community on Saturday after our final reveal is a testament to the beauty of service and how it feels to contribute to easing the hardships of 708 families,” Blume said. “In the years of NOVAdance to come, I have so much faith that the Villanova community will take this organization to new heights until one day, we no longer have to dance for a cure.”

SGA Shares Statement on Recent Federal Policies

Emma Cote Co-News Editor

This past week on March 20, the Villanova Student Government Association (SGA) posted a statement online to formally address recent federal policies that impact the University student body.

Co-posted alongside the Villanova SGA DEI Department, the statement covered the recent attacks on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Departments and their efforts on college campuses.

“We reaffirm our commitment through structural changes that support students from a variety of lived experiences through the creation of the SGA’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Department, which advocates for all students finding a sense of belonging at Villanova,” the post read.

This post falls in line with much of the current Student Governments goals to increase inclusion on campus.

In a previous interview with The Villanovan , current Stu -

dent Body President Dean Millard shared his ideas on diversity, equity and inclusion on campuses, just in the beginning of federal policies taking shape to attack these institutions.

“I am confident that we can all come to the table together and exchange and uphold mutual respect and discuss diversity, equity and inclusion,” Millard said. “It’s not political, you just have a place here. Were an education institution, it’s important that we share different perspectives”

Now, college campuses are facing threats or legitimate removal of federal funding for noncompliance with several federal policies. The University thus far has established several discussions on the current political climate and what it means for the campus, including one hosted by the Communication Department just last week.

The Student Government statement also argued that protecting DEI falls in line with existent University values.

“In doing so, that also means we are advocating for a

better Villanova that embraces our university values of Veritas, Unitas and Caritas,” the post read. “Our Augustinian mission at Villanova is maintained to ensure that all students–no matter where you come from, what you look like, or who you aspire to become– feel welcome.”

On March 10, in the midst of these federal actions, the Student Government Association even hosted a panel for students to get to know leadership of diversity, equity and inclusion at Villanova.

The Q&A featured Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Ariella Robbins and additionally, also featured Eloise Berry, the Vice President and Director of the Office of Belonging and Inclusion.

Currently, Kenza Idrissi Janati serves as the Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion. When she was appointed to the executive board, she shared online that she chose to participate in SGA in pursuit of inclusion.

“I wanted to continue cultivating meaningful and sustainable action on diversity, equity

and inclusion issues at Villanova University,” SGA shared in a post as a part of its leadership spotlight series.

While campuses across the country scramble to hide DEI initiatives in an effort of compliance with federal policies, SGA has clearly established its stance online.

“Our goal since our inception has been to empower the student body,” the statement read. “By providing support for any students currently struggling and creating a climate where all students can thrive, we will continue to uphold the mission statement we abide by. Each student within our community matters, and we will continue to stand by you.”

Students with further inquiries for SGA are encouraged to come talk if they are struggling with the recent political events to come speak with members of SGA.

The office is located in Room 206 on the second floor of Dougherty Hall, and students are also able to email anytime at sga@ villanova.edu.

NOVAdance 2025 broke records, raising over $700,000 and successfully helped 708 families. Courtesy of NOVAdance Photography

Kids Helping Kids Fight Cancer: Joe McDonough Reflects on NOVAdance

Brooke Ackerman Co-Editor-in-Chief

Leading up to NOVAdance’s annual “Day-Of,” which is a 12-hour dance marathon dedicated to raising money for pediatric cancer and the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, Villanova students, faculty and community members are asked a simple question: “What is Your Why?”

Some may perceive that question as “why do you partake in NOVAdance?” while others are answering “who do you dance for?”

The question is left up to interpretation for a reason — because there is no wrong answer.

Joe McDonough, Andrew’s father and the founder of the B+ Foundation, reflected on this question, and the “DayOf,” in a broader sense.

By looking at love.

“Everything about this is sharing love,” McDonough said. “We have a choice to hold on to our love or share our love and every person in [Jake Nevin] has chosen to be here and share our love with a vulnerable

population.”

The B+ Foundation, which is the largest provider of financial assistance to families of kids with cancer in the United States, has 80+ school partners across the country. This includes on-campus organizations, clubs, sports teams, residence halls, fraternities and sororities.

These partnerships were an idea that McDonough had after his son, Andrew, lost his battle with AML Leukemia, just 167 days after first being diagnosed.

“I had this idea,” McDonough said. “I was going to pair kids with cancer with fraternities and sororities.”

The very first child that McDonough ever paired was a little boy with Sigma Epsilon Phi at the University of Delaware. After he successfully paired them, he turned to the boy and asked if he had any questions for his new brothers.

“Just one,” the boy said. “When do I get to play beer pong?”

While the first ever B+ hero didn’t get to play beer pong, his relationship with Delaware and its fraternities started a slogan much bigger than

McDonough could have ever anticipated.

“Kids Helping Kids Fight Cancer.”

Since the founding of the B+ Foundation in 2007, this slogan has helped raise millions of dollars by college students and college campuses throughout the nation.

“Kids these days give me encouragement that we have a bright future,” McDonough said. “They [work] all year for kids with cancer who are not related to them.”

But what surprised McDonough the most wasn’t the impact that the pairing had on the B+ heroes. It was the impact that it had on the college students.

“I was fairly certain that it was going to be a positive thing for the children to be put up on a pedestal,” McDonough said. “Allow them to forget chemo and hospital visits for a while and have some big friends. You know, college students are rock stars to a little kid. But I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t do it for the college students. I absolutely did it for the children with cancer. And then when I saw how happy the kids were and how much the college students were getting out of it, it was just this eureka moment. I’m like, damn, this is great. Everybody’s winning.”

And that eureka moment is one that college students share in on during the “DayOf.” This year, NOVAdance raised $708, 269.10. Nearly $125,000 of that money was raised during the 12-hour dance marathon alone.

“This is the cherry on top,” McDonough said. “The ‘Day-Of’ is the cherry on top. This is the celebration of a year’s worth of work, and when you put those kids, those B+ positive heroes on stage, it’s just a very tangible reminder why we do what we do.”

Yet while each college campus and each dance marathon is fighting and working towards the same goal, McDonough is observant to point out that each campus goes about it in a different way.

“The students that make up the schools have a personality,” McDonough said. “And the personality of Villanova students, and I think there’s a large self-selection, because it’s a faith based institution, is that it has a very strong service component, and that’s reflected in NOVAdance.”

And for McDonough, that Villanova, service-driven personality is what makes NOVAdance all the more special.

“You just see so many kids rallying around our children with cancer,” McDonough said. “The [Villanova] students, they just give up so much of their time. And to me… I would look at this as just as important as an educational class that the student takes. This is a co-curricular activity that prepares Villanova students for life. This is the real world.”

And the truth of the matter is that pediatric cancer, and the 46 children who are diagnosed with it every single school day, is in fact the real world.

But that’s exactly why McDonough, NOVAdance and the 80-plus schools nationwide continue to fight each day.

“When I saw all those kids on the stage [of Jake Nevin], I had very mixed emotions,” McDonough said. “On the one hand, my heart was warm seeing these kids being on the stage, but on the other hand, did you see how many kids were on that stage? I pray for a world where there’s three kids on stage, two kids on stage and eventually maybe no kids on stage. That’s the fight. That’s the goal.”

Co-Editor-in-Chief, Brooke Ackerman, and McDonough on the “Day

Of” at Jake Nevin Fieldhouse. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

Joe McDonough joined NOVAdance and the Villanova community this past Saturday. Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Photography

Villanova’s Study Abroad Program at All-Time High

Isabella Carlin Co-News Editor

Villanovans are jetting off to pursue their academic, professional and personal ambitions abroad this school year. The Office of Education Abroad saw the largest spike of students studying abroad for the 2024-25 academic year since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

770 Villanova students participate in education abroad programs throughout the 2024-25 academic year. Students have the opportunity to pursue various abroad experiences including two-week intensive courses, summer, semester-long and year-long opportunities. These programs are either led by Villanova faculty members or university-affiliate partner programs.

The most popular program that Villanovans selected this year was the partner-program semester.

“I think a lot of [the increase] does have to do with students that were impacted by COVID in high school and realizing that the world has opened up a bit more after that, and really taking advantage of all the opportunities that Villanova has available for its students,” Director of Education Abroad Liz Campanella said. “I think that’s really been the big point for us, is that the opportunities are available and that students have been taking advantage of them. And in fact, actually, right now we’re on pace to surpass our numbers for next fall.”

55.9% of Villanova students who studied abroad this year participated in semester-long programs, compared to 44% of participants engaging in maymester and summer programs.

“I’m a bio major and I want

to go to med school, and a lot of med schools don’t accept the core curriculum science courses that you would need so you have to do those during the school year, and it’s just difficult to find places abroad and programs that fit that requirement,” junior Joey Kirner said. “I decided to go over the summer and just take a one course, three weeks long, in Copenhagen just to wet my feet a little bit, but also enjoy Europe and everything that it had to offer.”

Villanova will be offering two new summer programs this upcoming term. The six-week Amsterdam and Global Interdisciplinary Studies Shanghai programs will allow students to explore their academic interests in history, English, and the Chinese language while abroad.

“I’ve loved traveling since I was young, so it had always been a dream of mine to study abroad when I came to college,” junior Emily Jo who participated in the Honors politics, philosophy and economics Cambridge University program said. “Studying abroad is such a special opportunity to live somewhere new for five months and get to experience a new culture and way of living. My time abroad shaped so much of who I am and my overall university experience.”

The College of Arts and Sciences saw the greatest number of students (392) participate in both university and partner-affiliated programs this year. VSB followed with 300 abroad participants, while the College of Engineering saw 37 students and the College of Nursing had 28.

During the application process, students work alongside major advisers in the Education Abroad Office to gain guidance in creating the best academic abroad plan.

“As a nursing major, colleges with study abroad programs are very

rare since the curriculum and schedule is so strict,” sophomore Maeve Cantwell, who participated in the Sophomore Nursing Experience in Dingle, Ireland, said. “That is one of the things that attracted me to Villanova. They had the option to go abroad to Ireland for a whole semester which I knew I could not pass up that opportunity.”

Although Villanovans have studied on every major continent this year, Italy and Spain were the top countries that students called home during their times abroad.

“I think these are cultures that our students are interested in exploring, maybe from a family background or a language background,” Campanella said. “You know, students have taken a lot of Spanish in high school. We have a lot of students that come to us along those lines. So I think those are some points that, at least initially, get students into those locations. I mean, certainly we would love to see more variety in students choosing things and then, like differentiat-

ing themselves, there are program options, and we can send students through our partners anywhere in the world.”

The Office of Education Abroad usually sees the greatest traffic in their office in September, but students can engage with advisers throughout the academic year.

“I think that students should study abroad, really, to grow as a person, to grow academically, to ignite your intellectual curiosity about the world and to meet people that have different points of view and different upbringings,” Campanella said. “I think those types of opportunities when students can kind of really get into where they are and take advantage of all of the various opportunities to change their place, to change their mindset, to change just to be open and be curious about the world.”

Students can begin planning their abroad experiences in their first semester by visiting Garey Hall and learning about all the opportunities that could lie ahead.

Amidst Uncertainty, Villanova Named Top Fulbright Producer

Zoe Schack Staff Writer

For the 17th year in a row, Villanova University has been named a top producer for the prestigious Fulbright scholarship. However, considering the recent political trajectory of cuts to funding across federal departments, the legacy of the Fulbright Program as we know it may be drawing to a close.

Last week, thousands of people participating in similar scholarship programs through the U.S. State Department received word that the funding for these initiatives would be put on hold until further notice.

Out of 99 applicants at Villanova, 46 of these undergraduate students were named semifinalists. According to a press release from Feb. 25, these students will be notified of their status within the next two months, allowing winners of this esteemed grant to teach or research abroad for the 2025-26 academic year.

“Our students and alumni continue to distinguish themselves as scholars and leaders, using their Villanova education to foster meaningful connections across cultures and make lasting impacts worldwide,” University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. said in a press release.

At a school that prides itself on its top-ranked academics, emphasis on principled civic engagement, and cultural awareness through various study abroad opportunities, this program serves as a chance to combine these values and apply them to a unique experience gaining expertise in a new environment.

The Fulbright Program was founded in 1946 to foster understanding among people in the United States and other countries throughout the world. The majority of funding for the Fulbright Program, which has benefited more than 400,000 scholars over the past 80 years, comes from annual appropriations from the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

“As a semi finalist for Fulbright, I am disappointed at the United States’ lack of commitment to cultural exchange,” junior psychology major Emma Stecher said. “Immersive experiences abroad are crucial to becoming a global student and citizen for the betterment of the country. Educational grants that fund those opportunities help us grow as people and as a country to continue to engage critically with ideas of justice and politics at the heart of international relations.”

These funding changes will also impact current undergrads across

America, regardless of their plans after college.

Others, like those who work in Residence Life who daily interact with students whose Villanova education can be negatively affected without funding, agree with Stecher.

“As an R.A., I see firsthand how crucial funding is for my residents and myself,” sophomore Jack McLaughlin said. “My residents often come to me with concerns, worried about how they’ll afford their education in this new Trump presidency. It’s heartbreaking not to have all the answers or solutions for them, especially when cuts to many programs like Fulbright would limit opportunities for students who rely on these resources to succeed.”

In addition to the Fulbright scholarship, countless upperclassmen at Villanova who are looking into graduate education are rethinking their plans. Considering recent headlines that highlight the intent to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and cut funding for research in the social and natural sciences, the future of graduate education may seem uncertain to say the least.

For instance, the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, has seen a 25% cut in graduate school admissions this year, and similar measures are expected at Duke University to accommodate anticipated changes in

federal support.

Partner organizations that seek to promote equity in graduate school opportunities are similarly being targeted. The Department of Education is now investigating 45 universities partnered with “The Ph.D. Project,” a non-profit aimed at supporting students from minority groups pursuing advanced degrees in business.

“The funding cuts are scary,” junior neuroscience major Marie Loroz said. “I applied to several summer research internships that completely shut down their programs after Trump froze funding, and I am becoming increasingly concerned about applying to grad school following cuts to admission rates. I may be forced to rethink a career in research.”

Although the future may be difficult to predict at this point, the University’s commitment to supporting education for all students was emphasized in a statement from Fr. Peter.

“I know there has been much uncertainty regarding what these changes might mean for you, your family and your friends,” Fr. Peter said. “In the fullest sense of transparency, we will need to make some changes to comply with these orders, but I assure you that all community members will continue to have a place at Villanova.”

Villanovans are enjoying all the destinations study abroad can whisk them away to, like Morocco (above). Brooke Ackerman/Villanovan Photography

This Week in Politics: Signal Chat Leak and Tariffs

Zoe Garrett Political Columnist

Breaking news relating to national security information, as well as new economic policy, defined the past week. Private knowledge relating to the country’s plans for airstrikes in Yemen occurred was leaked by top government officials over Signal, a messaging application.

Additionally, the Trump administration announced significant tariffs on all auto imports. These developments have sparked heated political debates, which have called for accountability measures on both security and economic fronts.

Last Monday, March 24, The Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg published an article explaining how Pete Hegseth, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, had leaked secure information regarding the country’s military plans in a group chat on the platform Signal.

Goldberg explained how the March 15 security breach had occurred just two hours before the U.S. began carrying out the described plans against the Houthi-rebels in Yemen.

The Atlantic editor had been looped into the text thread along with Hegseth and other top government officials, including Vice President JD Vance, C.I.A. Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and more, reported The New York Times.

The private information Hegseth had disclosed within the group chat “contained operational details of forthcoming strikes on Iran-backed Houthi-rebels in Yemen, including information about targets, weapons the U.S. would be deploying, and attack sequencing,” Goldberg explained in his Atlantic tell-all.

Congressional Democrats promptly called for the resignation of both Hegseth and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, who had issued the group chat invitation to Goldberg.

Many senators and representatives alike claimed that such a breach of national security information was too consequential a mistake to be forgiven.

House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries, in a letter to President Donald Trump the following Tuesday, demanded that Hegseth be fired, highlighting the extreme national security risks associated with the accidental disclosure.

“The so-called secretary of defense recklessly and casually disclosed highly sensitive war plans… during an unclassified national security group chat that inexplicably included a reporter,” Jeffries wrote. “His behavior shocks the conscience, risked American lives and likely violated the law.”

Republicans, on the other hand, redirected blame and disdain towards Goldberg himself, attempting to relieve GOP members’ culpability while also downplaying the incident.

In his initial comments on the matter, Hegseth hurled insults at the Atlantic editor, labeling him as “deceitful” and as a “discredited so-called journalist,” reports AP News.

In conversations with reporters, President Trump deemphasized the significance of the information leak, framing the incident as “the only glitch in two months” by his administration, reports AP News. He further asserted that this “glitch… [was] not a serious one,” trivializing the magnitude of the security breach. In response to calls for Hegseth’s termination, the president told NBC News that the Secretary of Defense “has learned a lesson, and he’s a good man.”

Statements concerning the security breach were not the only ones made by President Trump last week. On Wednesday, March 26, the executive announced a blanket 25% tariff on all auto imports into the U.S. to be implemented on April 3, reported The New York Times.

In the release, the White House explained how the tariff would benefit American companies, spurring domestic manufacturing and weaning in-house automakers off of foreign supply chains. However, many critics are weary about such ambitions, arguing that these tariffs will put a significant strain on automakers who depend on importing foreign car parts.

The new economic policy could cause carmakers to face higher production costs, a burden which could ultimately be passed onto car

buyers through higher prices. In some cases, vehicle prices could jump up by as much as $12,500, a sharp increase which directly contradicts President Trump’s original campaign promise to lower consumer prices, reported AP News.

World leaders expressed skeptical views on the incoming economic policy.

“This is a very direct attack,” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said. “We will defend our workers. We will defend our companies. We will defend our country.”

European leaders shared similar perspectives.

“Tariffs are taxes– bad for businesses, worse for consumers equally in the U.S. and the European Union,” President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement.

The past week has been marked by significant developments in both national security and economic policy.

Secretary Hegseth’s breach of sensitive military plans regarding airstrikes in Yemen, leaked through the Signal app, has raised serious concerns about the security of private information and the competency of top government officials.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s decision to impose new tariffs on auto imports has ignited fierce political backlash. As these events continue to unfold, matters of both national security and economic accountability remain steadfast in the public eye.

Communications Department Hosts Career Day

Ava Petrosky Staff Writer

Friday, March 28 was not quite homecoming, but many Villanova alumni still returned to campus. Communication Career Day is an annual event at which students can learn from and network with Villanova alumni who were members of the Department of Communication. It is sponsored by Lambda Pi Eta, the official communication honor society of the National Communication Association (NCA).

This year, the event took place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Garey Hall, the Communication Department’s home base.

Approximately 50 students and nine alumni registered for the event. The event began with introductions and a panel, during which the alumni directly answered some of these questions. Next, students were broken into small groups based upon their career interests for a round robin to speak with the alumni.

“I think, honestly, the best part was the round robin discussion,” junior communication major specializing in PR and advertising Olivia Belasco said. “Getting to talk to different people one-on-one, I think, starting off with a panel and getting to learn a little bit more about each person, and then being able to go and ask them specific questions in groups of three to four people was really helpful.”

Finally, there was an optional networking hour for students to pursue any connections formed in the

round robin.

Katie Tuberosa is the Senior Director of Career Day in Lambda Pi Eta. She and her junior co-Chair, Eva Van Der Goes, had a large part in organizing the event.

“We have an alumni base, and there are just tons of communication alumni that want to come back and help support students,” Tuberosa said.

There are eight specializations, or disciplines, for communication majors to declare. They are organizational communication, interpersonal and intercultural communication, media production, media studies, journalism, performance studies, rhetorical studies and public relations and advertising. Public relations and advertising has the largest student base of all the specializations. Some students that attended the Communication Career Day had reported it to be beneficial to their career growth, and eased their post-graduate concerns.

“It really, like, caused me to stop stressing so much about what I am doing,” junior communication major specializing in PR & Advertising Ella Metzler said. “A lot of these members on the panel were saying that they didn’t have a job lined up out of college…they really reassured me that everything works out, everyone finds a job and everyone ends up where they need to be.”

Hannah Logue is a sophomore communication major specializing in PR & Advertising. This was her second time attending Communication Career Day and it will not be her last.

“I feel like I really got more out of it this year than I did last year, and I’m sure that, you know, I’m coming to continue to build on that next year, as well,” Logue said.

Logue had particularly connected with alumna Julia Lull, an Emmy-nominated documentary filmmaker and journalist, and co-Founder at Working Tens Inc. Lull graduated from Villanova in 2013.

Both Logue and Lull connected over their shared experiences being involved with Villanova Television (VTV).

“Without me even asking, she offered that she would love to facilitate some technical workshops,” Logue said. “She was really excited about the idea of coming to us at VTV and putting on workshops to help us deepen our technical knowledge from someone who’s working in the industry…I’m gon -

na connect with her, really, as soon as I sit down [home] and invite her to the VTV page, and [I’m] really really excited about this opportunity that came about solely because I attended this event.”

Meltzer does wish one thing was done differently.

“The one thing I will say is I wish [Lambda Pi Eta] released information about the panelist members prior to the meeting, just so we could do some research,” Metzler said.

Having Communication Career Day hosted in March aligned well with the internship recruitment period, as well. This provided students with potential opportunities.

Overall, some students have reported they are excited to return to Lambda Pi Eta’s Communications Career Day.

Students met with professionals in communications to gain insight on potential careers

Courtesy of Villanova University

Breakdown of Cabrini Campus Updates

Emily Shultz Staff Writer

On March 12, Villanova students received new updates on the Cabrini Campus.

An email by Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A, Ph.D. announced the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Graduate Programs in the Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the Department of Education and Counseling, the Ethics Program and a portion of the Department of Communication would move to Cabrini Campus in the Fall of 2026.

Villanova also announced plans to rename multiple Cabrini buildings to honor both Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini and Saint Augustine.

In June 2023, Cabrini declared closure at the end of the 2023- 24 academic year after facing “significant financial challenges, exacerbated by declining enrollment and the COVID-19 pandemic,” according to its closure announcement email.

Villanova bought the campus and eventually assumed ownership through a deal between the two schools. In a joint statement released in November of 2023, Villanova emphasized the importance of honoring the Cabrini legacy while finding ways to “incorporate and utilize the Cabrini campus for the benefit of its students, faculty, staff and alumni.”

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Fitzpatrick College of Nursing Graduate programs will move to Iadarola Hall. Nursing students will have the opportunity to utilize a clinical simulation room.

Additionally, the Department of Education and Counseling, Ethics program, and a portion of the Department of Communication are set to move to Founders Hall.

The Cabrini Campus will also provide new housing opportunities for Villanova students.

“I think that it provides a solution to the issue of so many students not getting the housing they wanted or housing at all on campus,” junior Bryn McConnell said.

“There’s, of course, going to be a lot more going on Cabrini’s campus, including classes, offices, a new dining facility, new recreational athletic facility. I think those are all great additions.”

Brooke Protesto, a senior and former Cabrini student, was initially upset by the email, but expressed gratitude that the campus would still have a purpose.

“As someone who adored Cabrini for what it was, it was painful to see it get, like, a whole new facelift,” Protesto said. “But that facelift is going to really improve the quality of life for Villanova students and for the employees that work on Cabrini campus currently.” Protesto also discussed

Woodcrest Mansion’s name change.

“I respect that they’re putting in a lot of work and still keeping the charm of it,” Protesto said. “I was a little upset that they were changing the name of the mansion from Woodcrest Mansion to Montefalco Hall. Since it’s a historical building, I don’t think they should change the name of it. But, I do respect what they’re doing with the campus.”

Future Cabrini Campus residents will have more student parking options.

There is a parking garage located next to Bellesini Hall (formerly Founder’s Hall).

“I believe a shuttle will be running every five to 10 minutes between both campuses for very long hours,” McConnell said. “So in theory, transportation between campuses should be both, like, free and accessible for all students.”

The email also brought up questions for some students, such as freshman AJ Koukou.

“I’m definitely excited about it,” Koukou said. “You know, it’s definitely a good expansion for our school. I wish we had a little bit more information on what exactly is going to happen. I’ve only heard of rumors. I haven’t heard exact things of what’s going to happen here. So, I just want to know more about it.”

Villanova students can look forward to learning more about the future of the Cabrini Campus in the upcoming months from the University.

Vigils for the Vulnerable Aims to Unite Campus

Allie Hesler Staff Writer

The Office of Mission and Ministry has begun hosting a series of Vigils for the Vulnerable every Tuesday. Starting three weeks ago, the office began choosing a different community that is seen as vulnerable and hosting a short moment of solitude each week.

“We just felt like the Villanova community and a lot of different parts of the community from staff, students and faculty are feeling the impacts of some of the current environment and not necessarily having places to gather and feel like we’re together,” Director of Residential Ministry John Edwards said.

The event takes place in a short, 15-minute period each Tuesday from 12:45 p.m. to 1 p.m. The time was specifically chosen as it is a time between class changes so that way the students who wanted to stop by for just a few minutes in between class would have that opportunity.

“We wanted it to be a short but regular space where the Villanova community can come together, hear about the mission related to a particular topic that feels like it is being impacted in the current atmosphere that we’re in,” Edwards said.

Edwards elaborated deeper on the University’s mission.

“We believe that as a Catholic university, we have the responsibility to support, to have

an international and global perspective in how we look at poverty and economic development and that we think that our institution as a university should be helping our community and others to be able to see why that is essential to who we are as Catholics and as Augustine,” Edwards said.

Despite Villanova’s being a Catholic university, Edwards believes it is important for the Villanova community to know that these vigils are not restricted to only those who practice the Catholic faith.

“A lot of people either pray together or either have a Christian prayer, a multifaith prayer or a period of silence in a way of just being in solidarity and maybe some way of engaging that issue in particular,” Edwards said.

These vigils are not just limited to the Office of Mission and Ministry. In fact, they are actively looking for ways to collaborate with other offices and groups.

“We’re really open, seeing as a way that the whole community can engage not just Mission and Ministry,” Edwards said. “Asking community members to say what do you think should be highlighted, who do you think is vulnerable right now? We’ll happily work with you to you know, put together a short program for one of the week’s vigils”

The office has been reaching out to campus partners, putting out announcements in their newsletters, and asking the community to request any ideas they

may have for an upcoming vigil. If students have a certain community they want to be recognized as vulnerable are more than encouraged to reach out.

“If students had other communities that they wanted to be able to name as vulnerable and have uplifted they could absolutely reach out to me,” Edwards said. “Noticing and paying attention to people that do feel vulnerable that do feel like maybe they’re not sure if they’re protected, not sure if they’re going to have what they need, not sure what the future looks like and we’re wanting to say be able to say Villanova’s is about your particular needs, your particular concerns and we want the Villanova community to gather together and say this is a place

where everyone can come together and say we are in solidarity with those being impacted.”

The Office of Mission and Ministry plans to continue this weekly service until the week of finals.

The office has not confirmed every community they plan to host a vigil for as they are strongly encouraging students and other organizations to reach out with communities they think are the most important to support.

Ultimately, both student input and engagement is critical to the mission of the vigils, and both of these things are encouraged as the vigils continue this year.

If one has suggestions or questions, they can email Edwards at john.p.edwards@villanova.edu.

The University discloses more information on Cabrini to students. Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

The series of vigils seek to support various vulnerable communities. Maggie Fitzgerald/Villanovan Photography

OPINION

Unitas, Veritas, Caritas—Values or Suggestions?

Majo James Staff Writer

The giant inflatable rat at the intersection of Ithan and Lancaster is familiar to many students on campus. By this point, The Villanovan ’s articles about it have become common, too. This is the latest of several articles written by students urging the University to do the same thing: please use union labor.

Although it’s not obvious, the rat (or Scabby) is a protest by union workers to raise awareness of Villanova using non-union labor in construction. Unions provide workers with the ability to negotiate in ways that an individual could not. As one of my bosses once said, a union is like your brother you run to after you’ve been beaten up on the playground.

Unions have been historically important in getting workers higher wages, better benefits, safer working conditions and improved quality of life. Unfortunately, the power of unions has waned over time, allowing workers to be exploited.

Unfortunately, despite the workers’ protest and repeated requests by students, Villanova refuses to change its policies.

The University said this in a statement:

“The University uses a competitive bidding process when selecting the best partner for construction projects which encourages participation from union

contractors and sub-contractors. We seek to work with the most qualified contactors across several areas, including experience, training, and safety record in addition to financial considerations. Villanova has a responsibility to man -

age financial resources and make decisions that are in the best interest of the University and reflect a commitment to our Augustinian Catholic mission and values.” Augustinian Catholic mission and values, indeed. As

previous articles about non-union labor have discussed, Villanova constantly stresses unitas, veritas and caritas. It’s emblazoned on our school logo, embroidered on merch, and dropped during almost every speech.

And yet Villanova is failing to live up to these ideals. “Financial considerations” should never trump our commitment to creating a high quality work environment and paying fair wages. This is not to say that the contractors Villanova employs fail to uphold these principles, only that choosing non-union workers raises the possibility of exploitation without consequences and weakens unions in general.

We were unable to reach the protestors for comment, but we wanted to highlight the sign beside Scabby that reads: “Shame on Villanova.”

This is a tumultuous time in our nation. Many institutions are under attack by those who would impose their will, constitutionally or otherwise. It’s time for Villanova to reflect on what its legacy will be. Yes, non-union contractors and attacks on DEI from the administration are different issues, but Villanova’s response to both will hinge on the same thing: how committed Villanovans are to their ideals. Will we follow in the example of Georgetown, proudly standing by its Jesuit and Catholic values, refusing to cave to nefarious forces? I would only hope so, but our hypocrisy is cause enough for worry.

No Taxation Without Representation

Lauren Armstrong Associate EIC

When Donald Trump was running for president, the most common reason I heard that people were voting for him was for the economy. However, while the economy is currently steady, the tariff war started by Trump is set to lead to an economic downfall.

Goldman Sachs currently predicts that the probability of a U.S. recession is 35% within the next year, citing policy uncertainties and increased inflation due to the tariffs.

Arthur Laffer is an economist honored by Trump. Laffer warns that the proposed 25% tariffs on auto imports could add approximately $4,700 to the cost of a vehicle, potentially weakening the competitiveness of U.S. automakers.

Jan Hatzius, the Chief Economist for Goldman Sachs, said that economists believe upcoming tariffs to be announced on April 2 hold a greater risk “than many market participants have previously assumed.”

So, why is Trump doing this?

To appear to be “for the

American people.”

Trump stated that these tariffs were due to the American people relying too much on foreign nations for goods. Thus, he decided to impose large taxes on foreign goods to promote American products.

For Trump and other American citizens in upper income groups, it does not matter how much of an increase in cost certain items may have.

“I couldn’t care less if they raise prices, because people are going to start buying American-made cars,” Trump said on a phone interview with NBC News.

“If you build your car in the U.S., there’s no tariff.”

The tariffs will begin on

April 3, and as of now the Trump administration states that they will be permanent. He shared his belief that the United States could collect upwards of $100 billion in revenues.

Since Trump’s announcement, shares of the top United States automakers have fallen sharply with General Motors down more than 7%, Ford off 4.6% and Stellantis lower by 4%.

Former Vice President Mike Pence shared his opinion on the tariffs in March on X.

“Tariffs are good as a means to bring nations like China to the table, but free trade lowers the costs of goods and improves the quality of life for every American,” Pence said.

I agree with Pence’s stance on this topic. While tariffs can be useful in influencing nations like China into negotiating better trade deals, or altering their unfair trading practices, free trade practices tend to be beneficial for overall economic conditions.

If Trump wanted to make an economic decision for the American people, he would recognize that the majority of the American people would benefit from lower average costs.

In addition, countries that trade more tend to grow faster due to increased production and efficiency. Thus, a free market would improve the economy without these additional tariffs. As economies grow through trade, wages tend to rise, and increased access to affordable goods improves the overall quality of life.

Trump’s policy on tariffs is not for the average American person. Rather, it is aimed to benefit the wealthy and American owned companies. Like many of his policies and orders throughout his first term in office and over the past months, the American people are at the back of his mind, while he makes decisions that will continue to exclusively benefit him, the wealthy and his donors.

‘Scabby’ The Union Rat, seen here, should remind us of the importance of labor unions. Natalie Zickel/Villanovan Photography

Armstrong details the economic effects of Trump’s presidency thus far. Courtesy of Shutterstock

EDITORIAL BOARD LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

BROOKE ACKERMAN

Editor-in-Chief

NICOLE LIDDICOAT

Editor-in-Chief

LAUREN ARMSTRONG

Associate Editor-in-Chief

AVERY CHALK

Opinion Editor

KAILEY FAHY

Opinion Editor

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

Sof Says: Students Give Suggestions for New Coach

Sof Quaglia Satire Columnist

The following content is purely satirical. Don’t believe everything you read. If you could go to dinner with anyone–dead, alive or fictional–who would it be? Anyone. Historical figure, celebrity, family member. You pick.

We all know this question. It’s a classic ice breaker. Like all ice breakers, it tells you nothing about the person. You get nothing from it.

I think we can tweak this question to be more applicable to Villanova and our current situation. That is why I did a survey around campus asking a similar, but way more important question.

I know that technically the school already answered this question because they actually picked the person, but this isn’t about the real answer. This is about who you would pick if you were asked the following question:

If you could pick anyone–dead, alive or fictional– to be Villanova’s new men’s basketball coach, who would it be?

Here are some of the answers I got. Jay Wright

I felt as though this answer

Brooke Protesto Staff Writer

When I started my academic journey, I only had one destination in mind: Cabrini University. It was already woven into my life, thanks to my dad. He was a hard-working employee, straight-A student (now alumnus) and Cavalier softball coach. As a child, he would take me to work with him, and that is where I got to witness Cabrini’s prime firsthand. It was so quaint and charming, and I knew that by the time high school was over, I was going to thrive as a Cavalier.

Eventually, it was time for me to start applying to schools and going through the decision process. My decision process was sort of atypical. Thanks to my family’s influence, I always knew it was going to be Cabrini. It was the only school I applied for because I was certain of my decision. I was drawn to its close-knit community and its academic programs. Once I got there, I found my niche at Cabrini. Being a part of the communications department, residence life and the softball team was truly an enriching experience. I had so many different outlets on the campus where

was too simple. Too easy. You can’t repeat the past. Plus, there is no way he would want to come back.

Sam Barry

Again, this one feels like a pretty basic answer. Like, been there, done that. We already know he’s a great coach. He’s so great that he’s in the Hall of Fame and all that.

With that being said, I do think it would be fun to have a ghost as a coach. I did say that the answer could be a dead person, but this was the only dead guy answer I got.

Plus, the whole triangle thing is cool.

Bugs Bunny (“Space Jam,” specifically)

Technically, I didn’t ask for a human, so this is a fair answer. I’ve only seen the original “Space Jam,” but to my knowledge, Bugs Bunny was an excellent leader and player. I think he would bring greatness to our program.

I also just think it would be really cool to get involved in an intergalactic basketball battle with aliens. It would make Wells games even better.

The ‘Nova Knicks

Now, I actually got Brunson, Hart, Bridges and DiVincenzo as individual answers. I have no doubt that they would all do a great job coaching on their own.

I just think that we need their

powers together, similar to the Avengers. They’re all great on their own, but I think they are only at their highest potential when they are together.

Even if the Knicks and Timberwolves don’t agree with me.

Troy Bolton (High School Musical)

This is a complicated pick. Troy did end up going for a life of both basketball and music. While some might think that this is valuable, others might say that it just means he can’t make up his mind.

I have no doubt that Troy would make an excellent basketball coach, but who’s to say he wouldn’t end up leaving for a role on Broadway? He’s a flight risk.

Ted Lasso/Jason Sudeikis

I got both of these answers, and I figured it was only fair to include both.

Of course, we have all heard the news about Ted Lasso coaching a new team in season four. Yes, the news did say it was a women’s soccer team, but there’s no proof that season four isn’t about Ted coming to Villanova.

Also, Lasso’s portrayer, Jason Sudeikis, is a huge basketball fan. He mostly only cares about women’s sports, but I’m sure he would take one for the team. Literally.

A Man with Hair

Villanova students agree that

A Cavalier’s Perspective

I was truly thriving and discovering myself.

Little did I know I would have to go through the college decision process all over again, and it was much harder this time around. I was bitter that my school was closing as I wanted to have my full college experience at Cabrini. I was dreading the process of picking a new school because of my emotional connection to Cabrini. I was losing a lot of my friends, clubs and teams at the end of the academic year. I was more preoccupied on enjoying my last year at Cabrini and making memories, rather than picking a new school.

I applied to four schools, and I was excited to have many choices to make. However, this also made the decision process more overwhelming. After a deep dive, the choice became clear. Villanova and Cabrini had very similar core values. Both institutions

are grounded in Catholic values, and they are dedicated to social justice. However, what sets Villanova apart is its academic excellence, a strong sense of community and opportunities for personal and professional development. Also, the campus is gorgeous. The more I learned about Villanova, the more I was drawn to it. Villanova had the brightest light at the end of the tunnel, and I knew I had made the right decision. Once I finally arrived at Villanova, I knew I had a lot of adjusting to do. Overall, I was not prepared. I was met with hordes of people walking on campus, and it was very different from the environment of a school shutting down. I was overwhelmed by the size of the student body, as well as the sheer size of the campus. Adapting to a much larger campus was a struggle.

Regardless, anytime I asked

it’s odd (not bad, just odd) that our last coach was bald and now our new coach is bald. It’s just a concern. We didn’t do a great job with a bald coach, so why would we hire another bald coach?

It might be the lack of hair that is holding us back, and students are concerned. All I’m saying is that Jay Wright had hair.

A Woman

I got a lot of female answers.

Kylie Kelce, Caitlin Clark, Diana Taurasi, Simone Biles, Serena Williams, Denise Dillon. The list goes on and on. And on. Seriously, there are so many women who could coach this team, and the students on this campus agree.

I would love to talk about each and every single one of them, but I think it is most important to talk about their one commonality. They are women.

Really, the student body does not care which woman becomes the next coach. They just want her to be a woman.

We’re not saying that we’d definitely have a better outcome if our coach was a woman. We’re simply saying that we didn’t have a great one with a man.

Why not mix it up?

For the record, I do think we would do better if we had a female coach. Like, I fully believe that.

someone for help with directions on campus, my peers would assist me with no hesitation, with no questions asked and no judgment. The simple acts of kindness spoke volumes about the culture at Villanova. When my past at Cabrini was revealed to those around me, rather than being met with indifference or pity, my fellow Villanovans were sympathetic and curious about my Cabrini experience. They wanted to welcome me as one of their own. That alone is what makes Villanova different. Everyone is polite and considerate, not just in a surface-level way, but in a way that makes people feel valued. The sense of community here isn’t just about being polite, it’s about making others feel truly valued. It’s the small gestures, like holding doors open, checking in on one another, and having meaningful conversations that reveal a deep-rooted culture of care.

For many of the Cavaliers who transferred this year, our path was not linear. There were a lot of challenges along the way, but through it all, we adapted and grew from the adversity that stood in our way. Being welcomed with open arms was what we needed most during this time, and at Villanova, we were met with it. The Cabrini community is lucky to be embraced by Villanova.

Villanova acquired Cabrini University in November of 2023. Courtesy of Villanova University

Where Are All The Female Coaches?

Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer

As we bid adieu to Kyle Neptune and welcome Kevin Willard to the Villanova community, I cannot help but wonder, when are we going to consider a woman for the job? We see so many men coaching female sports in the NCAA but we don’t see hardly any female coaches in male sports. According to the NCAA, across all Divisions in college sports, only 41% of teams are coached by women. In my opinion, this percentage is embarrassing and we need to do better in college athletics by giving women more head coaching opportunities.

My entire high school career, I was coached by strong and powerful women. Not only did this help in the logistical sense because my female coaches understood how my body felt and its limitations, but it also allowed me to feel empowered by seeing someone like myself in a leadership position. Over the years, the stigmas have piled high. Men are better coaches especially at the college level because women get too emotional and they cannot do their jobs when feelings get involved.

Well, guess what? I have watched multiple videos of male coaches across various NCAA sports losing their minds at referees in fits of rage and emotion. The difference is men are allowed to lead with whatever feelings they may have while women are seen as too

Zoe Schack Staff Writer

As a tour guide, I’ve gotten a lot of tough questions: “How’s the food here?” “Is Catholicism forced on students?” “Does it live up to the ‘VillaNoFun’ reputation?” Luckily, I’ve felt equipped to answer these with the help of my training and advice from older students who have tackled these concerns for years. However, one question that’s new for all of us has been growing more and more prevalent among prospective and current Villanovans alike: “What’s the deal with this new Cabrini campus?” A source of ambiguity, excitement and debate, depending on who you ask, the news about Villanova’s merger with the now-defunct Cabrini University has been a hot topic since the decision was announced in June of 2023.

“We have been working with Cabrini leadership on a plan to transition Cabrini University’s operations to a close—one that would also preserve Cabrini’s legacy and mission, honoring our shared commitment to advancing Catholic higher education,” University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D. said in an email to the Villanova community at the time.

After continued financial difficulties and decreasing enrollment on its end, the university decided a merger would be the best option for the Cabrini community, especially thanks to the similarities in location, Catholic mission and school values between Cabrini and Villanova.

“Initially I was surprised by

emotional for these positions. In the past five years we have seen an influx of women succeeding in these coaching positions. Kim Caldwell, the Tennessee women’s basketball head coach, is currently having an impressive season as her team just advanced to the Sweet 16 of March Madness. Less than two months ago, Caldwell was pregnant courtside, left to give birth to her son and was back on the court with her team a week later.

If anything, the depth of the dedication of women has gone beyond that of our male coaches in college sports. I am lucky enough to be growing up in an era where these women are being given op-

portunities to make a statement and create an impact on these decorated programs. However, I believe that we can do more, and the next era of little girls deserves to see a female head coach for Villanova men’s basketball. The NCAA has a long way to go in order to bring more female representation into the business. Athletes like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have gained fame over the years, but so have their strong relationships with their female coaches.

It is these “emotional” women who are building meaningful relationships with their athletes and creating results. In turn, sending their athletes onto successful

Students React to Cabrini Plans

the merge, as one of the things that really drew me to Villanova was the fact that the campus was walkable,” sophomore Noelle Barczak said. At the time, I could not imagine a campus where shuttles were required to go between different locations. I’m excited for all the new buildings Cabrini has to offer, but I’m still unsure about the idea of shuttling between campuses. I wish the University did a better job highlighting exactly what Cabrini will be used for, but I’m hopeful more information will be made public soon.”

Opening in the Fall of 2026, two miles from Villanova’s main campus, the Cabrini satellite campus will provide resources and much-needed space for Villanova while ensuring that the campus will continue to be used for its intended purpose. One key aspect of the Cabrini campus that will benefit Villanova students is the additional housing it will provide for sophomores and juniors.

In addition, a recent email outlined which academic departments will be headquartered on the Cabrini campus. Most notably, the Psychology and Brain Sciences Department, as well as certain communication resources, will move from Main and West Campuses at Villanova to Cabrini.

“Something that I like about our campus now is that, even when I have to take [communication] classes on West, it’s still not far of a commute,” freshman communication major Allyson Collette said. “I’m worried about how taking classes on a separate campus will impact what other classes I can take and my ability to get from one to the next on time.”

professional careers as well.

“I think as a female college athlete we definitely need to see more representation of women in sports,” freshman Margot Randall, who is on the Villanova women’s volleyball team, said. “I think we are definitely turning a new leaf, professional volleyball has finally started a year or two ago, and many women are getting recognition. However, still, coaching is a male dominated field which can be difficult as a female athlete. I have definitely had more male coaches which can be tough because it is harder to build a connection [and] take orders from, however I still really enjoy my coach and wouldn’t change it for the world.”

It is so important that we continue to bring more women into college coaching staffs because not only is it vital to sports in general but it is so valuable for female athletes to see women like themselves leading other strong groups of women and men. This recent leadership shift in Villanova’s men’s basketball program has given us the ultimate reminder—why don’t we throw a woman’s name around for the job?

Just because we have never had one in this position before doesn’t mean we can’t start a new era today. It’s time to break barriers—because the future of college sports needs more women leading the way, and it starts with giving them the opportunities they have earned.

Another key point is that the shuttles students will rely on to get between campuses may be unpredictable as they travel farther distances under potentially a new company.

“I love the current shuttle system and find it really reliable,” freshman Maya Harner said. “I often have to go to West or off campus in the Bryn Mawr area, and the shuttle is very helpful to get there. I think it is great that there will be shuttles to Cabrini, though I am a little more concerned about the reliability since it is a further distance than the current on-campus shuttle’s route. It might run into more traffic than the current shuttle routes do, which would make it harder to know arrival times.”

According to recent updates from the University’s Office of Admissions, more than 900 new spots will be available for Villanovans on the Cabrini campus beginning the fall it opens. Considering much of the community’s reaction to recent

housing lottery cycles, which have left rising sophomores, juniors and seniors with options they weren’t hoping for, this change could address the root of the problem: a lack of suitable spaces for each class year. After all, despite the potential inconveniences brought about by transportation issues and classes moving, housing is a big part of what defines one’s day-today routine in college, impacting quality of life and the college experience on the whole.

Seeing whether these benefits outweigh the challenges they come with is something that only time will determine.

Echoing the hope and excitement that many Villanovans have expressed, about one aspect or another, Kathy Byrnes, VP of Student Life, made a statement:

“The opportunity at Cabrini is so exciting; it is a transformative moment in Villanova’s history,” Byrnes said. “It’s wonderful to be a part of it.”

Female coaches, like Denise Dillon, bring diverse perspectives, skillsets and experiences. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography

Villanova’s acquisition of Cabrini University has sparked discussion on campus. Courtesy of Villanova University

Shopping “Ediktion?” All About Overconsumption Culture

Betty Lundborn Staff Writer

Well, we are officially in the home stretch for broke college kids. We are attempting to ration the remaining money we have left in our bank accounts in order to make it through the rest of the year. I know that for me, Spring Break was really the killer. It is almost as if the countless shifts I spent running around a loud, sweaty restaurant this summer and Winter Break meant nothing. I mean, how do I stretch what little money I have left all the way until move-out? Well, one solution is that I could quit buying clothes. Maybe I will start by deleting Depop. Crazy idea.

This isn’t as easy as it may sound though, even with the limited funds I have. To me, going to a largely affluent university has really opened my eyes to the overconsumption that some students are able to take part in. I’m even a part of this problem sometimes.

As spring formal season is just around the corner, I’ve found myself browsing online at shops like Lulu’s and Francesca’s. The irony is that I’ll do this at my desk, which is directly next to my closet which contains more than a few perfectly good options. There is the senior year homecoming dress that I just had to buy because “it’s senior year and it should be special,” right next to the satin slip dress I purchased over break because it was half-off and “such a good staple to have.”

This is me admitting that I’m a part of the problem so that

Massimo DiLeo Staff Writer

no one accuses me of pretending to be holier than thou.

Now that I’ve gotten this out of the way, the question is: why do we all feel the need to buy a new dress for every formal? Why do we feel like every season, we need to “update our wardrobes?”

Well, part of this could be attributed to the toxic cycle that is social media, and the microtrends that come along with it. Going to a school at which many students come from more well-off backgrounds, it may be easier for certain high-end, short lived trends to catch on. But even aside from this, it’s easy for any college campus to be plagued with overconsumption.

It’s important to actually define what a microtrend is. According to Trend Bible, a microtrend is “A niche or industry specific consumer behavioural trend which is mass market ready and actionable.”

Specifically on Villanova’s

campus, examples of microtrends are things like ballet flats with jeans, the Love Shack Fancy Stanley and especially whatever style of formal dress is popular. None of these things are bad or ugly, but what makes them microtrends is that they weren’t popular until relatively recently, and they probably won’t be around for long due to the emergence of new trends.

Online shopping is truly the Achilles heel for most college students, including me, because it makes the temptation to buy something even greater because of its ease. Especially with fashion influencers becoming popular in recent decades, trends have spread faster, as well. But how is one supposed to find their personal style in a world like this? It definitely isn’t the most pressing question in the modern world, but many people still stress about it. Do you want to be old money or cottagecore or rockstar girlfriend or whimsi-goth or office

siren or twee?

Well, one thing that I’ve found helpful is trying my best to reduce my online shopping and buy my clothing primarily in person. It makes the experience more meaningful and fulfilling. Fashion can also be a sensory experience. If one wants to branch out with their hobbies, maybe even take up sewing or crochet.

Senior environmental science major and Mullen center costume shop employee, Ally Szabo, was asked about her thoughts on the importance of sustainable consumption.

“Starting in high school, I learned about the impacts of fast fashion and it quickly became something that I’m very passionate about,” Szabo said. “I started thrifting more than buying new clothes and I love to upcycle my finds. I think that sewing is an extremely valuable and sustainable skill.”

Thrifting and upcycling are not only great ways to save the Earth, but also fantastic ways to make sure that all of your clothing is uniquely you.

Most importantly, keep in mind that no one is truly paying attention to what you’re wearing. Chances are, if you liked a dress enough to splurge on it for one formal, then you’ll probably like it enough to wear it again– and you’ll probably get the same amount of compliments.

At the end of the day, we are all broke college students in some capacity, no matter how many Edikted packages with which we are seen leaving the mailroom.

Do not be afraid to rewear, recycle and reinvent.

Housing Registration is Too Stressful

Between March 17 and March 21, the rising sophomore class selected their housing assignments for the 2025-26 academic year. Housing selection times were randomly assigned a few weeks before giving students with earlier times an unseen advantage. Although it didn’t seem to be a problem at the time, students with selection times between March 19 and March 21 would be forced to select overflow housing during their selection times. The housing selection process has become a period of unnecessary dread for students on campus.

The first two days of selection for rising sophomores posed relatively no problems as roommates selected assignments for their groups in popular residence halls such as Sheehan, Sullivan and Alumni. However, when the third day of selection rolled around, students were prompted with Stanford Hall, a freshman dorm located on South Campus.

Although residence life communicated to rising sophomores via email that Stanford Hall will only house freshmen next year, students were still forced to select the residence hall as their assignment for next year until further notice.

This caused frustration amongst the current freshman class as all students currently listed under Stanford Hall do not know which area of campus or residence hall they will be living in next year. Students who wished to select a single room prior to selection time were also forced to be paired with random roommates. Currently, all single rooms in Corr, Austin and St. Mary Hall are occupied by students who residence life claims will most likely cancel for study abroad or off-campus housing. Although this may be true, there is no guarantee that this will be the case to the point where there are enough cancellations to occupy the number of students currently stuck in Stanford Hall. Rather, it is a matter of luck and patience.

Although this issue has been present in previous academic years and ultimately most students end up satisfied, what occurred in previous years is not necessarily a guarantee today. Although there is a very high chance that there will be a good number of cancellations that open up rooms for overflow housing and transfer students, the exact number of cancellations is undetermined and will not be fully known until late summer. For rising sophomores whose friends may have already finalized their housing assignment for next year, late summer is a long way ahead. For students who find

Some first-year dorms, such as Stanford Hall, are currently being used as “placeholders.” Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography

themselves in this situation, it is best to make sure that you have filled out the housing waitlist form.

The waitlist form can be found in the housing portal under ‘housing and dining forms.’ By completing this form, you are indicating to residence life that you were unable to be placed in your preferred residence hall or location on campus. The waitlist has already begun review by the office of residence life following the end of the housing selection period. It is best to make sure you have filled out this form earlier than later as the office of residence life reviews

these forms on a rolling basis. Overall, housing selection has been stressful for Villanova students in the past as well. However, Villanova is actively working to reduce stress with the implementation of the Cabrini College campus which will provide 900 additional beds for students, increasing the number of seniors who can receive on-campus housing. Housing selection will become less stressful in years to come, so it is best to stay patient and have faith that things will work out in favor of all students’ preferences.

Consider thrifting or up-cycling for eco-friendly, unique, pieces. Avery Chalk/Villanovan Photography

CULTURE

Love Run 2025: Wildcat Takeover

Sophie Latessa Co-Culture Editor

On March 30, love was in bloom for Villanova students, and they were willing to run for it. On Sunday, March 30, Villanova was well-represented at the annual Philly Love Run, where many students ran 13.1 miles through the streets of Philadelphia. The Love Run featured a half marathon, as well as a 7K run, and the majority of Villanova runners were found on the half-marathon course. Though about 11,000 participants ran the race, the faces of Villanovans were abundant.

“What I really enjoyed [about running the race] was seeing everyone from ‘Nova supporting,” sophomore John Tropeano said. “I felt like every half mile I saw someone I knew.”

Villanovans truly supported one another, creating an atmosphere of community that encouraged runners to keep pushing through the half marathon.

“I felt like at every turn, there was another Villanova runner or supporter there to pull me along and carry me one step closer to the finish,” sophomore Sarah Butler said. “Each familiar face I saw gave me another boost of energy.”

Junior Jenna Bellet echoed this, and described the inspiring environment with so many community members coming together.

“The Love Run was an unforgettable experience and a beautiful celebration of both the Philadelphia and Villanova communities,” Bellet said. “Throughout the

race, I had the chance to connect with so many of my friends and peers, whether they were running or volunteering.”

Many students ran, and many also came to the race to cheer on their friends, making the Villanova presence in Philly even more prominent and motivating for runners.

“Being able to run and recognize so many Villanovans encouraged me to keep on going,” junior Megan Le said. “Not only that, strangers cheered for me just because I was wearing Villanova merch.”

For many, including Le, it was their first time running the Love Run. For freshman Abby Wyckoff, the Villanova and club running communities made her first Love Run experience a special one.

“You just felt like everyone was cheering for you the whole time because Villanova had such a strong showing both in the race and watching,” Wyckoff said. “It was awesome getting to finish surrounded by all my running friends, people from class and other nova students.”

The Love Run is always a popular race for students, but even more so this time around than in years past. The run also happened to fall on the day after the 12-hour NOVAdance dance marathon, making the sense of community at the race feel even stronger for some runners.

“Running a half marathon was a huge testament to how amazing our human bodies are, especially with the NOVAdance community running the Love Run, after the 12hour dance marathon,” Le said. “It

was so motivating to see the amount of people who chose to run, challenge themselves, and accomplish something huge.”

Tropeano agreed, saying the weekend felt like a big community-builder for the student body, the Love Run being an important component.

“With it being the day after NOVAdance I felt like the energy was just so high for the Villanova family this weekend,” Tropeano said.

The energy was so high that a Villanova student even won the half marathon; Junior Ryan Allen took home first place overall. Many

other Villanovans also performed impressively with such an enthusiastic support system surrounding them.

“We loved hearing random strangers yell, ‘Go ‘Cats,’ and seeing signs with Villanova puns and jokes made the miles fly by,” sophomore Dorothy McCarthy said. “It didn’t matter if they knew us, but anyone who saw Villanova merch would cheer extra loud and we did the same for anyone we saw.”

Though the Love Run is past, one thing is for sure: the Villanova community will always cheer one another on. And, man, those Wildcats can run.

Villanovans pose for a smiling picture following the half. Leah Smith/Villanovan Photography

Love On Lancaster: Calling All My Sisters

Maggie Fitzgerald Co-Culture Editor

Sorry, fellas, while we might be in the City of Brotherly Love, this one is for the sisters. Enough talk about dating and romance for crying out loud. Let’s be real, the odds of your spring fling making it to see the summer sunshine are painfully low. This week, it’s time to talk about something permanent. You grew up together, wanted to be each other, possibly wanted to kill each other and most definitely made each other who you are today. Sisters, after all, are forever.

While I don’t claim to be an expert on many things, I am particularly well-versed in the language of sisterhood. As the middle child in a family of three girls, my time on Earth has largely consisted of having a sister and of being a sister. This is practically my native tongue. In my world, nothing is certain but death, taxes and sisters. Whether a pioneering eldest or an aspiring youngest, we sisters are uniquely attuned to the non-replicable nature of sisterhood bonds.

Like any other relationship, sisters are complicated. One moment, they are your heroes, capable of no wrong, and the next they are initiating World War III over the theft of their beloved red sweater. But regardless of the fights, name calling or tattling to mom, there is a magic to sister-

hood that can’t be replicated. This past Saturday, sitting in the Philly sunshine around a table of my closest friends and my older sister, I was reminded of this magic. So naturally, I had to share my thoughts. For my brothers, only children or nothing of the kind, tune in while I break down the intricacies of a new and unfamiliar world. For my sisters, it’s time to speak our language.

Here are the distinctions of sisterhood, as defined by your local renowned sister. (I am referencing myself here.)

To have a sister:

Anyone can have a sister. Big whoop. So you were born into biological sisterhood. What does it really mean? Simply “having” a sister is a stage of sisterhood in which the relationship is nothing more than familial. There is no investment, no intentionality and no growth towards entering the “more than just siblings” stage of the relationship. This stage consists of forced family hangouts and brief, if any, intentional alone time. The permanence of a sister almost serves as a crutch for a complacent, unexcited and neglected relationship.

Often, this is a natural, and hopefully temporary, era of sisterhood. If you have been on the receiving end, I know, it hurts to be taken for granted. You are more than just a biological counterpart. Never lose hope that you can enter the friend zone.

To befriend a sister:

Now, to befriend a sister, this is the real feat. Sometimes it happens overnight. Other times, it takes years. At some point you realize that your little sister isn’t the pest you made her out to be. Maybe her years of copying your every move were kind of sweet after all. One day you will look at her and see an opportunity: an opportunity for friendship.

Speaking from personal experience, it is riveting to realize you have unlocked a friend in your sibling. Whether you were the overlooked, or the overlooker, embrace your new companion. You have just discovered a friend who is, quite literally, stuck with you forever.

To choose a sister:

Up until this point, we have wrestled purely with our sisters by blood. But reader, those are hardly the only sisters a girl needs to get through life. We ladies need an army. Throughout a lifetime, there are friends we acquire that turn into more than just casual companions. At some point, they too become sisters.

Choosing a sister from scratch is arguably just as important as befriending one you were born with. These chosen comrades will most likely be with you on the most important days of your life, holding your hand at graduation or watching with a smile as you walk down the aisle. Choose wisely.

To be a sister:

Not to get too sappy, but to be a sister is one of the biggest joys there is. To be on the receiving end of sisterly love is almost unparalleled, whether it be from a biological or a chosen sister. The solidarity amongst sisters is capable of getting you through the darkest of times, and fills the happiest of times with even more joy.

For those of you unfamiliar with the power of sisterhood, I have to offer two sincere apologies. The first is for your loss. The second is for dedicating this week’s column to something completely irrelevant to your life. Again, my condolences. I had to.

It’s time to put aside the petty disagreements over clothes and who the favorite child is (it’s still me) and see your sisters in all their shining glory. Whether they are by blood or perfect strangers who stuck around, sisters are a gift. To have, to befriend, to choose or to be: I’m calling on all my sisters.

With love.

It’s time to put aside the petty disagreements over clothes and who the favorite child is (it’s still me), and see your sisters in all their shining glory. Whether they are by blood or perfect strangers who stuck around, sisters are a gift. To have, to befriend, to choose or to be: I’m calling on all my sisters.

With love.

Villanovans Gather to Celebrate Ramadan

Christopher Brown Staff Writer

On March 24, the Muslim Students Association and other followers of the Islamic religion celebrated the annual Ramadan Iftar dinner. The Villanova family came together not only to participate in a celebration of this important part of Islamic culture, but also to further their understanding of the rich diversity the world offers.

“It’s almost like strangers coming together to enjoy a meal and also enjoy the holiday,” freshman Sophie Mehdizadeh said.

Ramadan represents the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and it is celebrated by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, charity, community and self-reflection. After followers pray the Maghrib prayer at sunset, they come together daily to break their fast with the iftar dinner.

The event was made possible through the efforts of the Muslim Students Association, led by President Aya M’Nadi and Vice President Sara Ouaqerrouch, and the contributions of various departments on campus, from the Office of the President to the Villanova Initiative to Support Inclusiveness and Build Leaders (VISIBLE).

Rev. Julie Sheetz, Director of Multi Faith Ministry in the Office of Mission and Ministry, began the program with an opening speech about Villanova’s commitment to fostering an inclusive campus. The University’s goal is to serve as a microcosm

of a wider community where the line between similarities and differences becomes paper thin.

“Interfaith events like this one give us the chance to celebrate the many religious perspectives that are part of our life together here, and the ways that our community is enriched by this spiritual diversity,” Sheetz said in her introduction.

Following Sheetz’s speech, attendees were treated to an hour-long panel led by Muslim Student Advisor Asheq Fazlullah and featuring three Islamic U.S. leaders. Ajoa Abrokawa works as the Associate Director of the University of Pennsylvania’s MPH program, Jude Husein serves as the Chief of State Advocacy and Strategic Initiatives for the Pennsylvania State Senate, and Afsheen Shamsi serves as the Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York.

Attendees learned much from their responses, whether it was about what Ramadan means to them, how they live out their faith or their experiences growing up in a world where differences are abhorred.

Abrokawa sees Ramadan as an echo, meaning she can set aside time to remove herself from life’s daily worries and be amongst friends and family. Husein sees Ramadan as a time of self-discipline, where one centers themself closer to God. Shamsi sees Ramdan as a time of empathizing with people who are less fortunate than oneself and maintaining empathy for eternity.

To M’Nadi, president of the

Muslim Students Association, Ramadan is much more than a simple month. It is a time for Muslims to focus on strengthening their relationships with Allah, improving themselves and becoming more involved in their communities.

To Ouaqerrouch, Vice President of the Muslim Students Association, Ramadan is about practicing appreciation, whether it be for one’s family, one’s well-being or one’s everyday needs. She sees fasting not as a means to torture oneself, but rather as a means to develop empathy and heightened awareness for the less fortunate. There are millions of people in the world who lack proper access to food, shelter or even a loving community.

“With events like these, it enables students to broaden their perspectives and build awareness, which enables and helps create a more inclusive and understanding

community,” Ouaqerrouch said.

After the Maghrib prayer, attendees were treated to delectable servings of Middle Eastern food by Villanova’s caterers. Attendees could not get enough of the fattoush, rich Arabic Salad, toothsome tabbouleh, mouthwatering hummus, appetizing falafel and yellow basmati rice. Sweet street foods like baklava pastries and harissa cakes lined the edges of the dessert table.

“I hope that non-Muslim students who attended the event now recognize that their Muslim peers are no different from anyone else,” M’Nadi said. “For the Muslim students who attended, I want you to know that we have a community here at Villanova. Although small, it exists, and we are here to support each other.”

Further information about the Muslim Students Association can be found on Instagram, @villanovamsa.

Students in attendance enjoyed a selection of delicious food. Courtesy of @villanovamsa

From 12 to 13(.1)

Lauren Armstrong Associate EIC

For decades, Boston College students have taken “Marathon Monday” off from classes to support runners of the Boston Marathon. Drinks in hand, they flood the streets and sidewalks of Boston to cheer on and encourage the fastest and most talented runners in the world.

At Villanova, “Marathon Monday” looks a little bit different.

Villanova student’s twist on this tradition is attending, planning, setting up, breaking down and participating in a 12-hour dance marathon on Saturday, running the Philly Love Run half marathon on Sunday and still going to an 8:30 a.m. class on the fourth floor of Tolentine on Monday. Villanova students filled Jake Nevin Saturday, March 29 for the 12th-annual NOVAdance dance marathon and raised a cumulative $708,269.10 this academic school year for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation. On Sunday, March 30, many of these same students woke up at 5 a.m. and made their way into Philadelphia to run the Love Run, a half marathon which takes place annually in March. This Villanova “double-header” showcases the dedication and high pain tolerance of many Villanovans.

In addition to serving as one of the co-Executive Directors of NOVAdance this year, senior Jack Doolin also ran the Love Run. When planning the date of the dance marathon for this year, the intent was not

to plan for the same weekend.

However, when they happened to fall together, it became clear that it was going to stay.

“We chose this date because we wanted a longer fundraising season,” Doolin said. “I was really excited that it lined up together because it has become like a bit of a tradition for students [to attend both].”

Doolin ran the race alongside other committee members, including senior Carissa Van Veen, senior Evan Eames, sophomore Dylan Cahill and sophomore John Tropeano. Members of Morale Committee (MoCo), Team Captains (TCs), Hero Liaisons and Engagement Coordinators (ECs) and general dancers also attended the run.

Junior Grace Janofsky and sophomore Viola Lake were both

ECs who also ran the half marathon.

“For me, it wasn’t just about running another half, it was about proving to ourselves and everyone else that after dancing for 12 hours straight, we could keep pushing,” Janofsky said. “We know that the kids and families we fundraise for have to fight everyday, whether it be through treatments, insurance or finances, these challenges that they are able to overcome drives and inspires us to dance for 12 hours and run 13.1 miles the next day. It really felt like we were continuing the mission and our dedication to a cause that doesn’t stop just when the marathon ends.”

While the task at hand was difficult, many of these runners found motivation in the community.

“The community of NOVA-

dance was like ‘you’re going to do awesome, push yourself, you can do it,’” Cahill said.

Van Veen echoed this statement.

“So many Villanova people do it,” she said. “It is such a sense of community.”

However, it physically was not an easy task.

“While it was a physically demanding and exhausting weekend, the lack of sleep, soreness and energy consumption were more than worth it,” Lake said.

Janofsky agreed.

“Standing for 12 hours is not easy,” Janofsky said. “There is just such great motivation throughout the day for NOVAdance…I think you could definitely feel the physical toll, especially by the end of the day. Going into the next day, standing on the starting line, you know your feet hurt, but they hurt for such a good reason.”

For Doolin, the wake up on Sunday was rough, but running was the easy part.

“There was so much positive energy from the day before,” he said. “The day before was such a testament to what can happen when you have a positive mindset about something… it felt like riding the high of the night before.”

Pushing limits for an important cause, these students showcased what it means to be dedicated to both others and themselves.

“Although this weekend was exhausting, it was worth every minute and every mile,” Janofsky said.

Exploring Philly One Bite at a Time: Middle Child

Natalie Manzo Staff Writer

This past Saturday, I found myself in Philadelphia with a friend and a couple of hours to kill. We finished our morning activity and weren’t quite yet ready to venture back to Bryn Mawr, PA. So, with a couple of empty stomachs, we set out to find a place to grab a bite to eat.

We searched on Google Maps for a few minutes before stumbling upon a place called Middle Child. The name struck us as interesting and after a quick scan of the menu, we decided to walk to the mysterious restaurant.

When we arrived at 248 S 11th Street in Center City, we were greeted by a lovely, and quite aesthetic, store front. The name of the restaurant was proudly painted on the crisp exterior in a fitting shade of Kelly green. To our surprise, and perhaps delight, there was a line almost out the door. A good sign, right?

As we waited in the queue, we perused the menu and narrowed our choices. From classic reubens to a vegan “Phoagie,” there was not a shortage of choices. My dining partner, the self-declared splitting-scheme queen, suggested that we choose two sandwiches and split them.

Our first choice was the Shopsin Club: house turkey, sweet pickles, avocado, bacon, cranberry-miso mayo and lettuce on ciabatta. After much debate on our

second sandwich, we settled on the So Long Sal: salami, prosciutto cotto, onion, sharp provolone, house dressing, artichoke spread and arugula on a seeded hoagie roll.

After placing our order and waiting for a seat, two spots at the counter opened up and we quickly perched on the stools to fill the vacancy. Our front row seats were the perfect choice. With less than an hour to closing time, we were offered two great dill pickles on the house, and the man seated next to us even got a free cookie.

As we sat at the counter we took in the buzzing, and somewhat eclectic, nature of the joint. From string lights tacked to the ceiling to quirky posters and painted skateboards, there was certainly not a lack of personality at Middle Child.

Before we received our order, we noticed that a sold-out sign had been taped to the front door. We had made it just in time. Within a few minutes, our sandwiches appeared, and we got to work.

While we both agreed that the So Long Sal was a great take on a classic Italian sandwich, the real star of the show was the Shopsin Club. The unique cranberry-miso mayo and thick-cut turkey were the perfect complements and made the spinoff club sandwich truly stand out. As we sat and enjoyed our lunch, we talked about how surprised we were that we hadn’t heard of this place sooner. In fact, we realized we hadn’t heard much about any

Philadelphia restaurants at all. With full stomachs and a desire to find some more Philly haunts, we made a pact: this would not be the last time we did this.

Our successful adventure serves as a reminder to Villano -

va students that there is so much waiting for them beyond campus. Exploring a city by exploring their food is often one of the best ways to get to know a place, and Philadelphia is no exception. So cheers to Middle Child and cheers to exploring Philly…one bite at a time.

Many participants in Saturday’s dance marathon also ran in the Love Run on Sunday. Courtesy of Carissa Van Veen

Middle Child is a hidden gem in Philly where hungry travelers can sit down for a sandwich. Natalie Manzo/Villanovan Photography

VillaVogue: Transcend into New Styles of Spring

Ciara Dursee Co-Digital Editor

Spring is the season of transformation. The cold grey months transition to warmer mornings, when we find ourselves throwing those puffer jackets back into storage and stripping layers off for daily walks through the quad. It’s a perfect time to embrace change – both in the weather and in our wardrobe.

If someone is anything like me, they can no longer bear the same old winter styles that have been exhausted this past season. While solid oversized sweaters and wide leg denim are a comfortable duo, I am thrilled to be entering a season of change. So, as we slowly tiptoe into the warmer months of the year, we can finally play around with new clothing trends entering the beginning of April. I insist you take full advantage of this thrilling chance to reinvent yourself and transcend into a new fashion motive.

After endlessly scrolling through Pinterest boards and Vogue’s spring fashion predictions, I can meticulously piece together my ideal outfits for this coming season. Below are a handful of outfit suggestions matched with the seasonal occasions I am eager to dive into. I am hoping to see these tasteful pieces as the weather transitions to 70 degrees and sunny. Spring Day in the City:

The star of the show: peplum tops. One simply cannot neglect the chic peplum style, with a loose fit and

Lilly Semprevivo Staff Writer

a wide fluff to the sleeves. This top is truly angelic. Paired with micro, lowrise linen shorts for enchanted flair and mild comfort. Finished with short white socks and black sleek loafers. Perfection.

Your Casual Class Attire:

It starts with your favorite pair of wide-leg jeans. Take a trip to Suburban Square’s Brandy Melville or King of Prussia’s Zara to invest in a collared short-sleeve top; perfect for your daily class on campus. Lastly, it’s time to secure your first pair of ballet flats, if you have not already spoiled yourself with this purchase. Hair clipped back in a half-up-half down, and you’re set for the day.

Weekend Festivities:

The conventionally elegant maxi dress is a timeless piece that will never go out of style. It continues to evolve into an even more wondrous creation with each passing season.

Specifically, the maxi poplin dress. It combines elements of classic style with modern fashion trends. This spring, we can anticipate styling with patterns; whether that is polka dots or floral, to sleek boho and vintage-inspired designs. Pair with any wedge sandals and you are ready for a Saturday afternoon party or brunch with your friends in Bryn Mawr.

Spring Brunch:

You may come to understand my deep love for Pinterest. This find was on one of my recent scrolls. The Bohemian babydoll plaid blouse. They come in endless variations, combining the eccentric, relaxed style from Boho and the sweet feminine details of the babydoll ensemble. This design is often paired with cute features, like soft pleats, ruffles or gathers, which give it a dreamy, airy feel. The plaid is just a fun pattern to spice up your wardrobe. Fix with any wide-leg,

white pants that simply scream spring, and flats for a laid-back yet stylish look. It’s an effortless outfit choice that beautifully combines comfort and chic, making it ideal for sunny days.

Dinner with Friends:

It’s always a bold choice to wear the same shade for both the top and bottom, but when done right, it creates a sleek, monochromatic look that radiates confidence and style. A tailored, sleeveless top is suitable for any formal or casual occasions you may take on during the semester. It creates a sharp and flattering silhouette. Style with a blazer for a business casual look or Levi jeans for an effortless day around town. But for the monochromatic choice: high-waisted barrel jeans in a soft cream shade. Barrel jeans have a loose fit that tapers slightly at the ankle, creating a shape that’s wider at the top and gradually narrows down toward the bottom, adding volume. To finish, slip on a pair of black flats.

Sweet and Casual Date Night:

The gingham mini dress. I don’t have to do much convincing with this one. The gingham style is playful, feminine and versatile. The youthful silhouette is what I adore most, giving it a fun feel perfect for incoming spring and summer occasions. Match the blooming energy of spring with lively styles and fresh vibrancy –the Dolce Vita sneakers complement the effortlessly playful look. These shoes have the potential to resurface this spring, available in a range of vibrant color options.

Pet Therapy Spotlight: Pals for Life

Feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork? Weekly pet therapy sessions on campus provide a much-needed respite from academic stress, and many Villanova students are finding comfort in furry companions.

The Office of Health Promotion works with organizations like Pals for Life to offer regular pet therapy sessions at Villanova. These popular sessions bring trained therapy animals to campus on Wednesdays, allowing students to step away from academic pressures and unwind. The sessions, usually held in Room 113 of the Health Service Building, are available to all students seeking comfort and relaxation, also allowing students to learn about the Office of Health Promotion and all the events that it hosts.

“One of the main goals, especially for visiting students, is to reduce stress and then produce joy,” Program Director of Pals for Life, Kristen Abbott, said. “Just by petting an animal, your brain starts making oxytocin, which lowers blood pressure and reduces your stress hormones and anxiety. Mentally, it is a nice break from studying and from all the stress of being a college student.”

There are countless advantages to pet therapy, especially when it comes to struggles with depression and anxiety. Endorphins, serotonin and oxytocin are released

when people spend meaningful time with animals. These improve mood and general well-being. Pet therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who are lonely or struggling, as animals provide non-judgmental companionship.

“It’s nice to just be able to focus on a cute animal and not think about other things,” Abbott said.

Pals for Life is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the healing and therapeutic benefits of activities with animals. The organization works with a network of trained volunteers to provide comfort, companionship and emotional support to those in need.

The animals are carefully chosen based on their temperaments and trained to get along with individuals in a variety of settings. Although dogs are the most common of these animals, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and even small horses are welcome. Sprinkles the bunny has become particularly popular with Villanova students, along with therapy dogs, including Bella and Calvin.

“All our animals have to pass a test which takes about an hour,” Abbott said. “We create different scenarios they may encounter. I run, I make noises and I slam doors. The dogs must be able to get along with the bunny and not jump and bark. We want pet therapy to be good for them, and them to be good for pet therapy.”

Pet therapy is a vital part of Villanova’s wellness initiatives.

The program provides students with opportunities to interact with animals, reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness. As academic pressures grow, these interactions help students feel more relaxed and at ease, promoting overall well-being. By partnering with Villanova, Pals for Life remains an essential resource in supporting these efforts and creating a healthier campus environment.

“This week, I was feeling super overwhelmed with schoolwork,” sophomore Summer Kelley said. “But after just 10 minutes

with Calvin, I felt so much calmer. It’s crazy how much just petting a dog can boost your mood.”

Whether meeting Sprinkles the bunny or petting the dogs, these animals are helping students find joy in the middle of their busy schedules. They offer a source of connection, supporting those dealing with physical or mental health challenges. The next pet therapy session will be held Wednesday in Room 113 of the Health Service Building. If one is feeling overwhelmed, some special animal will be there to brighten their day.

Patterned maxi dresses are a stylish option for a weekend brunch this spring. Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography

The animals at Pals for Life visit campus on Wednesdays to help students destress. Lilly Semprevivo/Villanovan Photography

Reel Talk: Moonstruck

Kate Koslow Staff Writer

Welcome back another edition of Reel Talk, a column to explore the fabulous world of movies. Each week I will dive into a new film, from classics to hidden gems, breaking down what makes them unforgettable.

“Do you love him, Loretta?”

“Ma, I love him awful.”

“Oh, God, that’s too bad.”

Spring has sprung, flowers are blooming and love is in the air. It’s only appropriate to gush about the dazzling rom-com, Moonstruck by Norman Jewison. This film embraces the imperfections and messy complications of life, while clinging onto a sense of magic nearly impossible to capture on screen.

The story follows Loretta Castorini, a Sicilian-American widow living in Brooklyn Heights. After getting engaged to the moronic Mr. Johnny Cammareri, Loretta is tasked with convincing his estranged brother Ronny to come to the wedding, while Johnny is out of the country. In a turn of events, Ronny falls madly in love with Loretta, leading to his passionate pursuit and a story overflowing with charm.

Played by the fabulous Cher, Loretta is a realist. After becoming a widow years ago, she has lost all interest in romance. Pragmatic and guarded, she keeps her emotions in check and her hair pinned up tight, a symbol of control and unwilling-

ness to be vulnerable. Yet, as the movie progresses, Loretta’s hair transforms into a big, dark and wild mane, mirroring her awakening to love and livelihood. Ronny, played by the dashing young Nicholas Cage, is quite a drama queen. After losing his hand and his fiancé in a freak accident in the bakery he works in, Ronny feels trapped in a universe out to get him. Hilariously enraged, he will often make statements like, “Chrissy, over on the wall, bring me the big knife. I want to cut my throat.” Now a bundle of rage, turmoil and theatrical despair, Ronny lives his life like a broken poet, cursing the world

around him eternally and existentially. However, upon meeting Loretta, his brooding turns to an intense passion, exclaiming his unfiltered romance within seconds.

While these two definitely steal the show, the film is filled with wise yet humorous characters, reminiscent of the neighbor you once knew or the older man down the street who always spoke in riddles. However, these nostalgic characters are just pieces to Moonstruck’s romance. The soundtrack, a blend of familiar love songs and amorous Italian opera such as “Musetta’s Waltz,” can make anyone feel like they are strolling through New York

on a summer evening, thinking back to the one that got away. The setting, a cozy Brooklyn neighborhood, is just as enchanting with its classic brownstones, warm restaurants and local shops where everybody knows everybody. This, joined with humor, banter and realistic family dynamics, forms a movie impossible to look away, as all viewers will laugh and melt together in this beautiful story. Moonstruck teaches that love is messy, frustrating, unpredictable and surprising, and totally worth it. One doesn’t have to believe in fate, or soulmates or even cheesy romances to be “moonstruck.” Even the most pessimistic people may find themselves yearning for another. But isn’t that the beauty of it all? Love, through its many forms, has a sneaky way of getting us when we least expect it. This movie implores us to never forget this, despite the cynicism we may face.

These days, it’s easy to feel like romance is fading. I mean, when was the last time you saw a person dramatically profess their love for someone they just met? The love in Moonstruck is intense, to say the least, and maybe even silly or idealistic. Yet, this movie has this way of making viewers see the world through rose-colored glasses. It’s about time to embrace the magic around us, whether through spending time with those we love, sitting with a stranger or confronting confusing emotions. Whether we notice it or not, love, platonic or romantic, is around us all: within our families, our friends, our pets… and yes, even the moon.

Technology and Screen Time at Villanova

Marco Kelly Staff Writer

As the seasons shift, and the weather transforms, an exciting new atmosphere arrives on campus, making time spent outside more enjoyable. But there is a common thread among Villanova students: everyone is constantly looking down on their phones. Why?

Today’s apps use specific principles to engage users, such as encouraging scrolling with endless content, providing a dopamine rush for instant gratification, creating a fear of missing out (FOMO) and fostering social connections with peers. These contribute to habit formation and can ultimately lead to addiction. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and even LinkedIn have an infinite scroll feature. This means that as soon as one video ends, another starts automatically. This eliminates decision-making and makes it easy for users to lose track of time. The algorithms of social media apps analyze one’s behavior and personalize content to ensure that each video or post is something a person is likely to enjoy, making it even harder to stop scrolling.

“TikTok, for sure, [is my most-used app],” freshman Lelani Hencinski said. “Even when it was banned, I would subconsciously tap the spot on my phone where the app normally was.”

In our generation, owning a phone has become a social norm. We rely on our phones for daily

communication and even activities like meditation and listening to music.

“I become so anxious when I don’t have my phone on me during the day,” junior Finn Spiers said. “It feels like a part of me is missing.”

FOMO, or “fear of missing out,” creates anxiety about not participating in exciting experiences that others are enjoying. Social media apps like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat amplify this feeling through features like disappearing stories, live updates and trending challenges, prompting users to check their phones frequently. These platforms encourage constant engagement with elements such as streaks and algorithm-driven recommendations. Some experience this FOMO constantly, while others only use their phones for specific purposes.

“I do experience some anxiety, but that’s because I’m waiting for my long-distance boyfriend to text me back,” freshman Katty Martin said. “But for the most part, I could go the whole school day without my phone, no problem.”

In today’s digital age, constant online availability has become the norm, fueled by social expectations and work culture. Messaging apps like iMessage and Snapchat create pressure for immediate responses, with features like read receipts amplifying this expectation. Not responding quickly in group chats can lead to feelings of exclusion or criticism. Additionally,

society demands require social media updates to stay relevant. Universities like Villanova rely on digital communication, making it difficult to unplug, as notifications from professors and employers often blur the line between personal time and responsibilities, leading to anxiety about missing out.

While our phones do have many useful functions, such as communication with professors, they can also be detrimental to productivity.

“I just go on my phone when I’m procrastinating doing my work,” sophomore Antonio Difulvi said.

This is true for many students, but sophomore Arik Behar has a technique to combat distraction by his phone.

“I use the Pomodoro technique, which gives me a set amount of time to work on my assignments, usually for 25 minutes, followed by a five-minute break repeated three times,” Behar said. “It helps me be in the present moment and focus on the task at hand because I know I can go on my phone later.”

Any form of addiction has its harmful effects. That is not surprising, but what are the adverse effects of constant phone usage? We are already familiar with a couple. Reduced attention span and mental health concerns are included, and face-to-face communication skills for Gen Z have withered significantly.

“My average screen time is 14 hours and 23 minutes,” freshman Nadia Cenolli said. “I normally feel

pretty tired after looking at screens all day.”

Since we all suffer from phone dependence sometimes, here are some solutions that can help.

Delete social media for a week. Social media is the main reason why we use our phones. So, try it out, see how long you can last without it and see if you notice any positive change in your mental state.

When walking between classes, instead of taking that time to look down for a phone break, take that time for a non-judgmental awareness break. Notice how you feel in the present moment, all the colors around you and all the sounds you can hear.

One can also change their phone to black and white. It’s as simple as saying, “Hey, Siri, turn the grayscale on.” This will make the entire phone black and white. It makes the phone much less enticing to look at.

Most people have a good awareness of their average screen time, which means they also recognize how much of the present moment they overlook, even if they don’t consciously think about it.

“I just feel like we all need to be constantly stimulated,” Cenolli said.

Our phones set that standard for us. Technology creates a fast-paced world, but occasionally it is important to put the phone down and take a moment to appreciate the small details in life. As our mothers would say, “It’s all because of that damn phone.”

Moonstruck is the perfect rom-com to watch this spring. Kate Koslow/Villanovan Photography

SPORTS

Villanova Breaks NCAA Record in Raleigh Relays

Genna Cottingham Staff Writer

This past weekend, Villanova men’s and women’s track competed in the Raleigh Relays at the Paul Derr Track & Field Facility.

The three-day meet commenced on Thursday, March 27 in Raleigh, NC. Fifth year Liam Murphy set a new NCAA record in the 1,500 meter race, with a time of 3:33.02. Junior Marco Langon came in right behind Murphy, at 3:33.08, marking the second-fastest time in collegiate history.

Later that night, sophomore Nick Sullivan set a new PR in the 10,000 meter race, coming in at 29:09.13. Sophomore CJ Sullivan lowered his PR by 12 seconds at 13:36.04.

Also on Thursday, a quartet of men’s distance runners achieved personal bests in the 5,000 meter race.

Sophomore Bailey Habler had a third-place finish out of 233 runners in the 5k. Habler’s time of 13:28.55 landed him No. 6 in school history. Senior Devon Comber lowered his previous record by more than nine seconds with a new 5k time of 13:36.28. Comber reached 13th place as well, as No. 7 in Villanova history.

“In the five, you had Bailey leading the group,” O’Sullivan said. “That was really good with a big PR. And then you had Devin

Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor

Continued from p.1

That is now in the past. Willard is tasked with getting the Wildcats back to the NCAA Tournament just like three years ago when Villanova made a Final Four appearance. He has a lot at his disposal to make that happen again.

First, Willard now has a larger Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) pool to work with. Harry Geller, the founder of Maryland basketball collective Turtle NIL told John Talty at CBS that Maryland spent around $3 million in NIL for its most recent roster that went to the Sweet 16.

With Maryland having a Big 10 football team, a lot of money from the athletics budget went to football instead of basketball. Compare that to Villanova this year, where graduate forward Eric Dixon made a ballpark of $1.7 million in NIL as of February 2025, according to On3 Sports.

That means Willard built a Sweet 16 roster using just two Dixon NIL salaries. That also means that at Villanova, Willard can bring in more talent due to more NIL funding.

Villanova’s lone high school recruit Dante Allen decommitted after Neptune was dismissed which

Comber, who…can be up and down at times, but I think he kind of got it right this weekend and that was a really good run for him, too.”

Australian freshman Charlie Moore also achieved a PR in the 5k, with a time of 13:53.17.

On the women’s side, four Wildcats ran personal bests in the 1,500 meter race. Freshman Bella Walsh led the Wildcats to No. 25

out of 227 entries with a time of 4:19.99. Freshman Rosie Shay ran her personal best, coming in at 4:20.40. With a time of 4:24.01, sophomore Tilly O’Connor had the best race of her career. The last of the four runners was senior Emily Robinson who came in at 4:25.63.

Two sophomores claimed personal bests in the 400 meter race. Ethan Walls had a time of

Willard Was “Worth the Wait”

means the program will have no freshman joining this offseason.

The 2024-25 Villanova starting five are also all out of eligibility.

The transfer portal will be the only way to build a competitive roster. At Maryland, Willard and his staff did a great job at finding junior guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie in the transfer portal. Gillespie transferred from Belmont and averaged 14.7 points and 4.8 assists at Maryland this season.

Gillespie entered the transfer portal on March 31, following Willard to the Main Line is not

48.08 in the men’s race and Olivia Allen had a time of 54.70 in the women’s race. Allen now sits at No. 8 on the all-time Villanova performance list and achieved 11th place in her event.

Sixth-year Adria Retter came in at third place in the discus event by throwing a distance of 51.39m. Sophomore Parker Turner reached a personal best in the 200 meter, at 21.38. Junior Sal Baretta also ran a PR of 54.87 in the 400 meter hurdles.

Fifth-year Justin Miller set a lifetime record in long jump on Saturday and third place overall, jumping 7.37 meters. Walsh ran again in the 800 meter to achieve her second PR of the weekend. She crossed the finish line at 2:08.32.

“Coming off this weekend… a lot of the guys that race this weekend won’t race [the] next one,” O’Sullivan said. “We usually don’t race them two weekends in a row. So it’ll be kind of a mix and match. So you get half the team training one weekend, half the other, depending on the caliber.”

Several Wildcats will return to the track this weekend. On Saturday, April 6, Villanova will compete at the Sam Howell Invitational in Princeton, NJ.

The competition starts at 4 p.m., with the women’s unseeded 5k race at Princeton’s Weaver Track Stadium. The meet can be livestreamed on FloTrack.

out of the question.

While Villanova has previously brought in talent such as senior guard Wooga Poplar and graduate guard Jhamir Brickus, a lot of the Villanova transfers could not translate their performances from previous schools or could not adapt to the Villanova gameplan.

As of Monday, March 31, there are eight scholarship spots on Villanova’s roster. Willard has to make Villanova a convincing landing spot for transfer players after three down seasons. Outside of NIL, Willard has a long rap

sheet of success in college basketball – and a lot of it was in the Big East.

In his 18-year head coaching career, Willard spent 12 of them at Seton Hall. His Seton Hall teams constantly gave Jay Wright’s Villanova squads good competition. Willard took the Pirates to five NCAA Tournament appearances.

Before Villanova won the NCAA Championship in the 2015-16 season, the Wildcats fell to the Pirates, 69-67, in the Big East Tournament Championship. Willard was only 40 years old at the time, holding his weight amongst one of the best coaches in college basketball history.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 and shut down college basketball, Seton Hall finished 20-9 that season.

Under the direction of Willard, the Pirates won both the Big East regular season title and the Big East Tournament Championship. He has the experience and proof that he can win against other elite schools. The Big East currently holds the AP Coach of the Year, Rick Pitiino, and backto-back national champion Dan Hurley.

While Willard is not Wright, he is a coach that can succeed in the Big East conference. He was worth the wait.

Willard’s desire to embrace the new era of athlete NIL makes him a promising hire for Villanova. Erick Quezada / Villanovan Photography

Senior Liam Murphy and junior Marco Langon set two new NCAA records in the 1,500 meter race. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Men’s Lacrosse Defeats No. 20 Denver in Overtime

Elijah McDow Staff Writer

Villanova men’s lacrosse (3-5) opened Big East play on Saturday, March 29 with a 10-9 overtime win over host University of Denver (5-5).

Redshirt sophomore Colin Michener scored the game-winning goal with two minutes and 52 seconds left in overtime.

“To get a win in the opener was a great way to start the Big East season,” Villanova head coach Mike Corrado said. “Getting the first one in conference is always important, especially being able to beat Denver, who’s been an elite team and very good at home.”

Freshman attacker Gavin Michener, graduate attacker Matt Licata and Colin Michener each scored two goals in the victory.

In the first quarter, Denver scored less than three minutes into the game.

Colin Michener’s first two shots on goal didn’t pass Denver senior goalie Malcolm Kleban, but his third attempt was successful, leveling the game with 10:18 to play in the first period.

The Pioneers quickly responded.They went on a two-goal run to take a 3-1 lead with 6:10 left in the quarter.

A goal from senior attacker Luke Raymond and seven firsthalf saves from freshman goal -

keeper Denis Fargione helped the Wildcats remain competitive.

Villanova took its first lead of the game in the second quarter, 4-3, on freshman midfielder Daniel Flaim’s first collegiate goal. However, the Wildcats’ lead was short-lived, as the Pioneers scored back-to-back goals to go into halftime with a 6-4 lead.

After three minutes of second-half play, Gavin Michener scored a second goal to trim the lead to 6-5. With four seconds left in the third quarter, Colin Michener scored his second goal of the afternoon to level the game.

Minutes into the fourth quarter, a goal from Denver senior midfielder Mic Kelly put the Pioneers back in front.

After a one-hour lightning delay, the Wildcats instantly tied the score on a goal by Licata.

Four minutes later, Licata gave the Wildcats the lead with

6:38 left to play. Senior attacker Dan Martin doubled the lead a minute later.

The Pioneers narrowed the lead to 9-8 with 3:26 to play. The Wildcats ultimately conceded a ninth goal with 1:37 left in regulation.

Behind Fargione’s shot-stopping and Michener’s overtime game winner, the Wildcats left with a win.

“It’s a long flight and you’re not there very long,” Corrado said. “It’s a quick turnaround time, but the guys were great. I love being on the road. I think it’s a good time for your team to really bond and get to know each other, out of their normal setting. I thought overall the trip was great. The win made it even better.”

Up next for the Wildcats is a matchup on the road with Providence (4-6, 0-1 Big East) on Saturday, April 5 (noon, Flosports).

Murphy and Langon: Breaking Limits

Genna Cottingham

Staff Writer

Continued from p.1 go for the win. We weren’t really rattled by it.”

Murphy and Langon’s aggressive competitiveness is nothing new to the team. The past few months, the runners have been neck and neck in every race they compete in together.

This one was a little different. Raleigh Relays was the first meet in which Murphy set an individual NCAA record.

“The fact is, at the 1,200, they were fast, but they weren’t that fast,” O’Sullivan said. “You couldn’t have predicted they were gonna run that fast from the pace that they were already going at.”

At Penn Relays 2024, Murphy and Langon, along with now-alum Sean Donahue and Charlie O’Donovan, broke the NCAA record in the 4xMile with a time of 15:51.91.

This accomplishment turned out to be the second-fastest time ever. The Wildcats brought yet another Penn Relay Wheel home to campus.

“This school is really built on a foundation of winning Penn Relay wheels, and that’s not all we want to be known for, but that’s something that we have to win,” Langon said. “It’s just expected from you, and it’s not really something you have to think about. It’s just that we go in there, and we

give everything we have to impress the alumni and make our school look good.”

When Langon committed to Villanova, a large factor in his decision making process was his teammate and training partner Murphy.

Langon and Murphy both grew up in New Jersey and raced each other once in high school. Murphy is two years older, and since Langon’s sophomore year, has been an avid mentor for him.

“I remember when he won the state meet that I was at I was

WEEKLY SCOREBOARD

March 26 - April 1

Wednesday, March 26

Men’s Tennis @ Lehigh 5-2 L

Thursday, March 27

M&W Track @ Raleigh Relays No Team Scoring

Women’s Basketball vs. Portland 71-61 W

Friday, March 28

M&W Track @ Raleigh Relays No Team Scoring

Softball @ Seton Hall 3-2 L Baseball vs. LIU 10-7 L

Saturday, March 29

Rowing @ Lake Wheeler Invite No Team Scoring

M&W Track @ Raleigh Relays No Team Scoring

Softball @ Seton Hall 9-4 W

Women’s Lacrosse vs. Butler 18-6 W

Men’s Tennis vs. Xavier 6-1 L Baseball vs. LIU 17-7 W

Men’s Lacrosse @ No. 20 Denver 10-9 W (OT)

Sunday, March 30

Softball vs. Seton Hall 4-1 L Baseball @ LIU 3-1 W

Monday, March 31

Golf @ Columbia University No Team Scoring

Women’s basketball @ Belmont 66-57 W

Tuesday, April 1

Baseball vs. Rider University Post-Production

Men’s Basketball @ Colorado Post-Production

a tumble at the finish to beat out Murphy in the mile.

“[Coach O’Sullivan] understands first-hand what it’s like to compete, all experiences being experienced,” Murphy said. “He already has felt that himself, and he knows what it’s like. I think that’s really cool because he’s been successful at every level, high school, college, all that stuff, so he’s professional. His wisdom, I think that’s my favorite part about him.”

like, this is a kid who I want to be when I’m a senior,” Langon said. “I want to be just as good, if not better than him. When I chose to come here, he was a huge factor in that. From that day I committed, he’s been one of my best friends, and I look at him like a brother.”

Now both on the Main Line, the duo continues to outpace each other in every meet, to the point where O’Sullivan has taken measures to prevent clashes and ensure they are in different heats if possible. Back in January at the Penn 10 Elite, Langon took

With Murphy nearing the end of his final season of collegiate competition, he is hoping to go professional post-graduation. Both Wildcats are looking forward to the rest of the regular season together as well as championships, nationals and worlds.

“I think I’m trying to enjoy the little things more,” Murphy said. “Just appreciate the moments I have now to be on the team. It was just really special to see that I’ve accomplished pretty much all my goals and I’ve really gotten as much as I wanted to. I’ve made some really great friends, had some really amazing teammates along the way, and built some really great relationships that I will keep forever.”

Senior Liam Murphy (left) and junior Marco Langon (right) broke the NCAA record in the 1,500 meters. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Redshirt freshman Colin Michener Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Wildcat Watch: Women Throwers Make School History

Amanda McKean Staff Writer

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, two members of the Villanova women’s track and field team honored the spirit of the month by making history of their own.

Back in the beginning of the month on March 1, senior thrower Alex Payne became Villanova’s first champion in women’s weight throw with her performance at the Big East Indoor Track and Field Championships, recording a lifetime best of 19.18 meters in the fifth round of

competition.

“It’s been one heck of a roller coaster ride,” throwing coach Peter Koumlelis said. “Unfortunately, Alex has been dealt her share of injuries over her time here at Villanova, but we’ve been able to figure out a way to navigate it. It all kind of culminated at the Big East with that just incredible series of throws that led to the performance that secured the first ever women’s weight throw title. I almost don’t have words for it. It was very surreal when it happened.”

In addition to being the first female champion, Payne now holds the third largest throw in school history, owning three of the six top finishes on the Villanova record books.

“It’s something I’ve been manifesting for the entire season,” Payne told Villanova Athletics’ Victoria Newsome on Wildcat Rewind. “I knew I could do it. At the end of the day, I knew it was possible for me, and I didn’t want to not live up to my potential. We have great athletic trainers, great medical staff that really helped get me through that. Teammates and coaches that helped pull me along on the days I didn’t want to go to physical therapy. All of that work and support was necessary, but deep it was truly the belief that I knew I could win the Big East. So I did.”

Most recently, sixth year thrower Adria Retter has been cementing her name in the Villanova record books, recording Villanova’s second and fourth longest discus throws within a week of each other

at 52.31 meters on March 23 at the Penn Challenge and 51.59 on March 29 at the Raleigh Relays.

“I’ve been able to kind of slow down, really figure out what specific cues with my throw to focus on, and then have time to only focus on discus this year, which is new for me,” Retter said. “In the past, I’ve done shot put and hammer throw but because discus is my best event, and it’s my last season, we decided that it would be kind of cool to put all the chips in one basket and then see what we could do.”

Competing during her undergraduate just a couple of miles away at Swarthmore College, Retter finished out her senior year the Division III individual national champion in discus.

Arriving at Villanova in 2024, Retter’s transition to Division I was seamless. She became the fourth athlete in school history to be an outdoor conference champion in women’s discus.

Retter is one of six athletes, and fourth indoors at Villanova, to make the Big East Championships podium in the shot-put.

“Adria has made a phenomenal transition,” Koumlelis said. “She had an instant impact last year during her first year here and continues to do so in her last year of eligibility. It’s just been a very positive experience, and working with her I see her knocking on the door of the school record. The season still has a while before it’s done, but [Retter] has been able to come

and make the transition to the Villanova throws program and excels by example.”

Now with two months of heavy competition left, Retter is eyeing to leave a final mark as a Wildcat with the school record for discus throw.

“It’s been exciting,” Retter said. “I feel like the school record is within reach. I’m excited for Penn relays, it’s always been a goal for me to do really well there. It would also be great to repeat and win the Big East again. But my bigger goal is to make it through the first round of the [NCAA Championships]. I’ve never made it to Nationals so it would be cool to do that for the team.”

Catching Up with the ‘Cats: Greta Gibode (‘02)

Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor

Greta Gibode (’02) took a path to Villanova she did not expect to follow.

She ended up at Villanova in 1998 and walked on to the women’s rowing team. Gilbode was part of a Dad Vail gold medal team her senior year and that same year graduated with a bachelor’s in communications.

Now, Gilbode has put in almost two decades of hard work to get where she is today. She is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Penn Presbyterian Medical Center — one of the city’s acute care hospitals and Level One Trauma Centers.

Her path to Villanova was not ordinary.

It was all basketball growing up for Gilbode. She had the dream of going on to play basketball at a small New England school that was located near her home in New Hampshire.

That all changed when Gilbode tore her ACL, MCL and meniscus. She felt like the rug was pulled out from under her. There was never a day she went without doing some kind of physical activity.

The injury sidelined her from doing what she loves, and still loves. Post-college, Gilbode tackled triathlons, marathons or whatever she could get her hands on.

“I wasn’t going to play Division I or Division II [sports],” Gilbode said. “When [I got injured] it really took away a lot of my opportunities. So, my dad drove me to Villanova and I went to candidates weekend

[at Villanova] and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is where I’m supposed to be.’”

Quickly, Gilbode discovered rowing at Villanova — a sport she had no experience in at the time.

“I had a really great physical therapist, and he was like, ‘Hey, you’re going to Villanova. Philadelphia is like a big rowing community. I’m sure you could walk on the team.’” Gilbode said. “So I showed up freshman year with a giant knee brace, and we had to do a run test for the first part of the tryout. My coach was like, ‘You don’t have to do the run.’ I was like, ‘No, I’m doing it.’”

Not that many people are willing to push themselves to do hard things. Gilbode translated that mindset into her professional career.

After spending five years working at Howell Partners as a director of media, Gilbode returned to school.

She attended Saint Joseph’s University to receive her master’s in Health Care Administration to pursue a career in the healthcare field.

Since then she has spent her entire time in the Penn Medicine facilities in different aspects. Just over a year ago, Gilbode was promoted to vice president and COO after being Vice President of Professional Services for two years, becoming one of the first women at Penn to do so in recent time.

“It’s about a 366-bed hospital with a wide outpatient footprint,” Gilbode said. “I oversee our licensed cancer facility in the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey as well. So on a day-to-day basis, I have the responsi-

bility for all the ancillary services. All of the radiology services. All of our lab services. I’m involved in all the facilities, so all the day-to-day maintenance of the hospital.”

Like most Villanova graduates, Gilbode cannot stay away from Villanova.

After meeting her husband, Michael (‘99) at Villanova, who is a native of the Philadelphia area, she decided to stick around with him. Her first job was also located in the Philadelphia area.

Now, with their two kids,

Ella and Owen, Greta and Michael Gibode still make it out to Villanova sporting events.

“I think it has a lot to do with the mission [of the University],” Gilbode said, when asked about why alumni stay connected to Villanova. “I enjoy [older alumni’s] company as much as I enjoy the people I graduated with. It’s a special group of people. My brother and sister both went to Boston University, and they think I am crazy. But I think until you’ve lived it, until you’ve experienced it, you don’t understand it.”

Senior thrower Alex Payne Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Gibode rowed at Villanova before going onto a career in healthcare administration. Courtesy of Greta Gibode

Sixth-year thrower Adria Retter

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Ryan Allen Finishes First In The Love Run

Katie Lewis Co-Sports Editor

At the eight-mile mark in Sunday’s Philadelphia Love Run half marathon, junior Ryan Allen led thousands of runners by more than a minute.

But when he looked back, Allen realized he wasn’t totally alone. His Villanova club teammates, senior Liam Baker and sophomore Justin Williams, were just behind.

“There’s one point around the eight miles where you turn around and see everyone chasing you,” Allen said. “I saw [my Villanova teammates], and they were top three at that point. It was getting really exciting.”

While Allen came in first, nearly 50 Villanova club runners enjoyed a spirited morning of racing and Philadelphia sightseeing at the annual Love Run half marathon. The course pays homage to the “City of Brotherly Love” by beginning and ending at the “Rocky steps” of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

“It’s a very unique event because everyone [in club running] feels like they’re racing together, which we don’t really get in any other competition,” club running President Emma Spagnola said. “I always encourage everyone to wear Villanova stuff, because the crowd will cheer for you, say ‘Go ‘Cats’ and put their Vs up.”

Allen’s race ended with a first-place trophy. He finished the 13.1 miles in a time of 1:10:05. Baker

finished fourth, with a personal-best time of 1:13:22.

“It was all so surreal,” Baker said. “Once I crossed that line, I was so grateful just to know that I could get to the end and that my teammates were close by, and Ryan [Allen] winning. This being my last year as a senior, I knew I had to make the most of it, and I did.”

In his first-ever half marathon, Williams came in sixth with a time of 1:14:02. Sophomore Wylie Dell’Olio also made strides in the 1519 age group race, finishing second in 1:35:16.

For Williams, the supportive environment and opportunity to run alongside his teammates served as motivation to push himself throughout the race.

“I look up to Liam [Baker] a lot and wanted to have a good race with him for his senior year,” Williams

said. “Sticking with him for as long as I did helped me finish in the top ten, which was unbelievable.”

Spagnola said the team looks forward to the Love Run as an opportunity for both the competitive and recreational rosters to race together. She finished 21st overall in the half marathon, running a personal-best time of 1:27:57.

Spagnola oversaw the registration and planning process for the club running team to participate in the Love Run. She worked with Ashley Vero, Villanova’s assistant director of club sports and recreation, to arrange a race tent and hotel rooms in downtown Philadelphia for the athletes.

The Love Run has become an annual tradition for Villanova club runners.

“Last year, I was telling myself afterward that it’s probably the most fun that I ever had during a race,”

Baker said. “The crowd cheering on Villanova and so many of my Villanova classmates running the race made the environment a lot more fun. So this year I was looking forward to it more and more.”

Villanova club running, which was founded in 2006 by varsity head coach Marcus O’Sullivan, competes under the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association (NIRCA).

“Most of our competitive athletes came onto the [club] team wishing to walk onto the [varsity] Villanova team, so a lot of our top men’s and women’s athletes are very fast,” Spagnola said. “Most people assume a club sport would be very low-key. We do welcome anyone who is interested, but it’s awesome how we’re not running D-I, but we’re still racing so well.”

In the fall, both the men’s and women’s teams qualified for NIRCA national championships.

Freshman sprinter Mason Canton and distance runner Nate Goldsborough will head to Richmond, VA this weekend for nationals, hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University.

While Allen participated in the Love Run to enjoy the experience with his Villanova peers, his forte is race walking, as a member of Team USA. Allen will race walk in the Penn Relays on April 26.

A highly anticipated event for the whole team is the club Penn Relays, hosted at Franklin Field by the University of Pennsylvania club running team, in late April.

Rowing Has Stong Performance At Doc Hosea Invitational

Aidan Shay Staff Writer

The Villanova women’s rowing team delivered a strong team performance this weekend at the Doc Hosea Invitational. The Wildcats captured a Petite Final Finish in all four boats to open the spring season at Cooper River in Pennsauken, NJ.

In collegiate rowing competitions, events typically start with preliminary heats to determine seeding for the finals. Boats with the fastest times in these heats advance to the finals, then compete for accolades and top placements. The teams that do not qualify for finals move into the Petite Final, a secondary round that allows the teams to race again to further improve their times.

Villanova’s varsity eight (V8) boat — which was composed of junior Gianna Zajac, junior Maggie Coyne, senior Bailey Bryan, junior Slyvia Marks, sophomore Jalyn Colon, graduate student Jadyn Ramos, graduate student Cecilia Jenkins, senior Silvana Torres and senior Jira Capaldi — opened the competition with a fourth-place finish in their heat, securing time of 6:45.161.

In the Petite Final, the boat finished sixth, with a time of 6:53.364.

“Times are really hard to compare from race to race, especially year to year, because conditions are so different,” head coach Carrissa Adams said. “But being that close to a team like Navy is

really neat. We’ve never been that close to other programs before, so I think that’s what should be highlighted, more than it being our fastest time.”

The Wildcats’ secondary varsity eight (2V8) boat also achieved notable results, as junior Cate Donnelly, sophomore Natalia Peng, junior Sarah Robillard, sophomore Ava DeJong, sophomore Anna Primmer, sophomore Olivia Weglarz, sophomore Maddie Sumnar, sophomore Ella Carriero and senior Grace Quirk significantly improved their times.

The group initially rowed a time of 7:17.377 in the preliminary heat, and reduced it to 7:08.201 in the Petite Final, resulting in a fifthplace finish.

Training leading up to the spring season determined team selection and boat positions.

“Our first starting point is performance we’ve seen on land with the ergometers,” Adams said. “Then we do selection on the water, doing races against each other, switching rowers around to decide who moves the boat more efficiently. We also look closely at rhythm and how athletes gel as a lineup.”

In the varsity four (V4) competition, junior Kate Shipley, sophomore Natalia Brozyna, sophomore Mary Tracy, junior Sabrina Pauli and sophomore Isabelle Rotival raced to a fourth-place finish in their heat, with a time of 8:14:232. They finished fifth in the Petite Final with a time of 8:18.569.

“Typically, the third 500 is the most difficult, because you start

to feel the fatigue set in right before the sprint,” Brozyna said. “We did really well in the first heat, but the second race always tests our endurance and strategy.”

Villanova’s third and final varsity eight (3V8) crew, consisting of senior Abby Shang, junior Meg Wolf, senior Rose Baker, sophomore Emmi Stanton, sophomore Sarah McKee, freshman Lilly-Kate Foley, freshman Mary Eagle, freshman Abigail Saraceno and sophomore Taylor Pansy, completed their preliminary race with a time of 7:56.522. They would then improve their standing by finishing third in the Petite Final with a time of 8:05.386.

“We performed pretty well in the heat, but our performance in the final was not as good,” Adams said. “Moving forward, we have to analyze our training. Do we need to tweak training so the athletes can handle racing twice in one day, or is it a mental preparation issue? We emphasize recovery techniques like being off your feet, staying out of the sun, and hydrating, but we may need to do more to prepare athletes for their second race of the day.”

Villanova rowing will take a break from meets before returning to competition on April 12 and 13, at the Knecht Cup on the Cooper River.

Villanova club running team had two top five finishers at the Love Run. Courtesy of Villanova club running

All four Villanova boats captured a Petite Final Finish this past weekend. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Softball Loses Weekend Series to Seton Hall

Jon Hunn Staff Writer

Villanova softball (16-16, 8-4 Big East) had a tough weekend against Seton Hall (19-14, 7-5), losing two of three games in the series.

The Wildcats fell, 3-2, in the opener and 4-1 in the finale, but secured a 9-4 victory on Saturday’s game.

The Wildcats dropped the series opener on Friday after a comeback bid fell short in the seventh.

Seton Hall put up the first runs of the weekend in the bottom of the fourth inning, taking a 3-0 lead on senior right fielder Taylor Hill’s threerun home run.

Villanova trimmed the lead to two in the top of the fifth, when redshirt senior first baseman Brooklyn Ostrowski knocked in a run with a sacrifice fly.

After a scoreless sixth for both sides, the Wildcats looked to rally in the sixth inning. With one out, sophomore DP Maranda Runco smacked a solo home run, cutting the Pirate lead to just one.

However, the momentum was short-lived, as the next two hitters grounded out and struck out, respectively, to end the game.

Junior Kat Gallant took the coplete-game loss. She allowed three runs on eight hits and two walks in six innings, striking out three.

Villanova tied the series on Saturday with a 9-4 come-from-behind victory.

Seton Hall ambushed the ‘Cats in the first, plating four runs on a sacrifice fly, an RBI single, a passed ball and a bases-loaded walk.

After going scoreless in the first three innings, the Wildcats exploded for eight runs in the fourth inning to flip the game.

Ostrowski started the barrage with a single that Seton Hall second baseman Caroline Hobbes booted, leading to the first Wildcat run.

Freshman catcher Ava Mahnken knocked in the second run with an RBI single to left field. Sophomore third baseman Grace Reed’s bases-loaded walk added the third run before junior left fielder Madison Ostrowski knotted the game at four with an RBI single.

To cap the inning, Runco demolished a grand slam to give the

Wildcats an 8-4 lead, marking a stunning turnaround.

“[Runco] has been huge for us,” Villanova head coach Bridget Orchard said. “[Opposing teams] either have to pitch around her or come right at her, and she was able to hit a couple of key home runs.”

The Wildcats would add another run-in the sixth on senior shortstop Ava Franz’s run-scoring double to widen the lead to five.

“As a senior, Ava [Franz] has faced [Seton Hall’s] pitching a few times, so she was confident and had a good approach,” Orchard said. “She was able to square up a few pitches and get some big hits.”

Seton Hall failed to score after the first inning, a testament to the dominant relief effort of Villanova freshman pitcher Lexi Kobryn, who

earned the win. After entering with the bases loaded and two outs in the first inning, Kobryn finished the rest of the game without being charged with any runs.

In all, Kobryn pitched 6.1 scoreless innings out of the bullpen, scattering seven hits and one walk. She also recorded three strikeouts.

In the series finale on Sunday, the Wildcats were defeated, 4-1.

Seton Hall senior first baseman Olivia Gilbert’s second-inning home run gave the Pirates a 1-0 lead. The Pirates would make it 2-0 in the fourth on an RBI groundout.

Graduate pitcher Kelsey Carr added to the lead in the fifth, blasting a solo shot to help her own cause.

A run-scoring double in the sixth pushed the Seton Hall lead to 4-0.

With the Wildcats three outs from defeat, Franz attempted to start a Wildcat rally with a leadoff home run to begin the top of the seventh inning. The comeback bid was quieted shortly thereafter, but a pop out and a pair of strikeouts ended the game.

For Villanova, Gallant took her second difficult loss of the season. She pitched four innings and allowed two runs on six hits, walking one batter and striking out four.

The Wildcats will host the University of Pennsylvania (2-23, 0-9 Ivy League) for a single game on Wednesday. Villanova will then head to Brighton, Massachusetts, for weekend matchups against Boston College (5-15, 3-9 Atlantic Coast Conference) and Army (21-12, 5-0 Patriot League).

Baseball Wins Three-Game Series Over LIU

Jack Flannelly Staff Writer

Villanova baseball went 2-1 against Long Island University (LIU) in a three-game weekend series from March 28 to March 30.

LIU took a 10-7 win in Friday’s series opener. But Villanova (15-11) won the series, with a dominating, 17-7 victory in seven innings on Saturday and a 3-1 win on Sunday.

“Great to get two wins,” Villanova head coach Kevin Mulvey said. “Proud of our guys and how they handled themselves, hopefully we can keep the momentum moving forward.”

Graduate pitcher Bobby Olsen got the start in game one. He went five innings, allowing five runs and striking out four.

LIU scored three runs in the first behind two doubles. The Sharks added two runs in the fifth and one in the seventh to lead, 6-0.

Villanova scored its first three runs of the game in the seventh on a double from freshman John Freitag, and sacrifice flies from freshman Brayden Leonard and freshman Austin Lemon.

In the eighth, LIU hit a three-run homer to go up, 9-3.

Mulvey called upon junior Colin Quintano as a pinch-hitter with the bases loaded in the eighth. Quintano delivered, crushing his first home run of the year to make the score 9-7.

“Coach Eddie Brown and

Jack O’Reilly are always making suggestions,” Mulvey said. “It was actually one of their suggestions to give him [Quintano] an opportunity there.”

LIU scored one in the ninth on a solo home run. The Wildcats kept battling, and managed to bring the tying run to the plate in the ninth but could not complete the comeback.

In game two, graduate Luke McCollough got the start and pitched 4.1 innings, allowing four runs. Junior Bobby Finn came out of the bullpen, threw 2.1 innings and picked up the win.

The Villanova offense put up 17 runs on 15 hits, with six different players recording multiple hits.

Graduate Jason Neff continued his power surge, hitting his 10th homer of the year and driving in four RBIs to lead the team, while junior Michael Whooley set the table all game, reaching base five times and scoring three times. Senior Connor Hale hit his first home run of the year.

The Wildcats won via mercy rule in the seventh inning, 17-7.

In the final game of the weekend series, Villanova got a strong start from sophomore pitcher Jake Francis. He went six innings, striking out five and not allowing any runs, turning in his best performance of the season.

The Wildcats scored first in the second on a Lemon RBI single to go up, 1-0.

The game remained a tight pitchers’ duel until the seventh

inning, when Freitag had an RBI single and Leonard crossed home on a wild pitch.

Junior Alec Sachais picked up his third save of the year, going three innings, allowing one run and striking out three to shut the door on the LIU offense.

“[Sachais] has shown a lot of toughness on the mound,” Mulvey said. “I couldn’t be happier with how he handled himself, not just striking guys out but his body language and leadership.”

LIU managed one run in the ninth, but it was not enough.

Villanova won the game, 3-1, to take the series.

The Wildcats fell to Rider University, 11-1, on Tuesday, April 1, in their second game of the Liberty Bell Classic.

“I’m hoping we can continue to have team at-bats and make plays in the field,” Mulvey said. “Keep our confidence and keep rolling.”

Villanova will play its first conference opponent of the season when it hosts Big East foe Georgetown in a three-game series from April 4 to April 6.

Villanova fell to Seton Hall, 2-1, in a three-game series this past weekend. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

Villanova baseball had a season-high 17 runs against LIU on March 29. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics