The Villanovan | Volume 119, Issue 10: Dec. 10, 2025
Signing Off: With Love, Your Co-EICs
Brooke Ackerman
Co-Editor-In-Chief
Nicole Liddicoat
Co-Editor-In-Chief
As we wrap up our time as Editors-in-Chief (EICs), it feels strange to put into words what this paper has meant to us. The Villanovan has been at the center of so much of our college experience. Confined to the pale blue walls of the Corr Hall basement, that place has seen us at our best, our worst and everything in between.
Letting go of something that has been such a constant is harder than we thought. We’ve spent countless hours writing, debating headlines and editing pages until it’s 3 a.m. and our eyes have gone square. We’ve eaten more CampCo than anyone should admit, ran through an entire season of Dancing with the Stars and somehow managed to produce three magazines, two special editions, and 21 issues. That basement has been our second home, and we would probably still be sitting in that basement forever if someone did not eventually come down and pry this position out of our hands. We care about it that much.
At the same time, stepping back feels right because of who we are handing it to. Watching the next group step into these roles has reminded us of why we fell in love with this work in the first place. This experience would not have been what it was, nor would we have been able to do our jobs, without the support, love and passion from every single staff writer and our 17 person editorial board.
Our News team is composed of senior Isabella Carlin as well as juniors Finn Courtney and Emma Cote.
Isabella Carlin is
Continued on p. 11
From Bryn Mawr To Belém: Villanovans At COP30
p. 2
Retiring Nova Schedule Builder Is Frustrating p. 9
Holiday Magic Returns: Annual University Christmas Tree Lighting
Villanova’s annual tree lighting celebration was held on the Rowen Campus Green on Thursday, Dec. 4. At 5 p.m. sharp, the Green was packed with bundled up students, faculty and families all waiting to officially ring in the Christmas season. The Villanova Voices, Singers and Chorale sang a succession of Christmas carols as people milled around and retrieved their hot chocolate from the nearby tent. The event was primed and ready to go off
without a hitch. Students were eager to join in a treasured campus tradition.
“I love the tree lighting every year,” junior Anna Koberstein said. “It’s one of my favorite Villanova traditions. It helps me get into the holiday spirit during the stress of finals.”
However, the tree lighting looked a little different this year. There was one major hiccup that no planning could have foretold: not having a tree at all. With less than an hour to go until the event was supposed to start, Villanova’s Christmas tree was carefully dismantled as a precaution in response to
heightened wind gusts. As the Voices, the Singers and Chorale got into position, a crew was taking the tree apart and loading it into the back of a truck. This led to a lot of confusion in the crowd as people arrived at a tree lighting celebration that no longer had a central tree. As the singing came to a close, Student Body Vice President Sidney Mbah took to the podium to introduce University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A, Ph.D.
Father Peter acknowledged the awkward circumstances that had befallen this year’s event but kept his statement positive. He encour-
aged everyone present to take it upon themselves to illuminate the darkness in the world and to keep the true spirit of Christmas in their hearts. Following his words, senior Sebastian Moreland stepped up to the podium to read the story of the birth of Christ. Father Peter then returned to the stage to say a prayer, which offered a quiet moment for reflection amidst the large crowd and commotion.
But the lack of a Christmas tree was still hanging over the celebration.
“I was really looking forward to this evening, but apparently the tree
Continued on p. 12
Marco Langon Breaks Indoor Track Record
Sammie McKee Staff
Writer
On Saturday, Dec. 6, junior runner Marco Langon ensured that Villanova track and field would kick off its indoor season in school history-making fashion.
At the Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener in Boston, MA, Langon broke the Villanova men’s 5,000-meter indoor record. After redshirting the cross country season, Langon came in second in
This Week In Politics: Hegseth Briefs On September Boat Strikes p. 4
How To Survive Finals: Student & Professor Advice p. 12
a photo-finish race that was decided by thousandths of a second.
“It’s always better to have a rust buster before going
into a big race,” head coach Marcus O’Sullivan said. “So, there was a little hesitancy there, not from [Langon’s] standpoint, but more from me.
SGA Hosts Second Town Hall p. 5
Heart Of The Matter: The Villanovan p. 13
Cabrini Expansion Threatens Campus Unity p. 7
Men’s Basketball Picked Apart By No. 2 Michgan, 89-61 p. 20
All things considered, he hasn’t raced in five months, and so the expectations were reserved from me only because it’s his first race.”
Langon lost by just 0.004 seconds to University of Mexico sophomore Habtom Samuel, the NCAA 2025 cross country champion. Samuel ran a 13:05.203 to Langon’s 13:05.207 in the race.
Langon’s new time places him amongst some of the fastest long-distance collegiate runners. Saturday’s
Continued on p. 21
Why Everyone Feels “Behind” (Even When They’re Not) p. 8
Opinion: Philadelphia Big 5 Needs To Stay p. 22
Cali Carss Co-Culture Editor
The annual Christmas tradition brought the campus community together prior to the beginning of final exams. Cali Carss/Villanovan Photography
Langon broke the record at the Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER
Harassment
December 4, ST. MONICA HALL
A male resident student reported being the victim of on going harassment by another make resident student.
Liquor Underage
December 6, STANFORD HALL
A female resident student, under 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication by VEMS Ambulance.
Liquor Underage
December 6, STANFORD HALL
A female resident student, under 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication by VEMS Ambulance.
Disorderly Conduct
December 6, SULLIVAN HALL
A male resident student engaged in disorderly behavior by kicking a door to a residence hall room.
Liquor Underage
December 6, STANFORD HALL
CORRECTIONS
A female resident student, under 21, was observed intoxicated in public and evaluated for alcohol intoxication by VUPD.
Criminal Mischief
December 6, SULLIVAN HALL
A resident assistant reported damage to a residence hall restroom.
Public Drunkenness
December 6, W-2 RESIDENT STUDENT LOT
A male resident student, over 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication and transported to the hospital
Public Drunkenness
December 6, SOUTH CAMPUS GROUNDS
A male resident student was evaluated for drug intoxication and released.
Sexual Assault
December 6, FARLEY HALL
A female guest reported that she was raped by a male resident stu -
dent in an on campus residence. The guest and the resident student were known to each other.
Liquor Underage
December 7, MCGUIRE HALL
A male resident student, under 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication and released.
Criminal Mischief
December 7, ST. MARY’S HALL
The handle and lock of a secure door appeared to be damaged intentionally.
Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.
From Bryn Mawr To Belém: Villanovans At COP30
Hannah Roszko Staff Writer
From Nov. 10 to Nov. 21, government officials, journalists, members of civil society and a handful of Villanovans gathered in Belém, Brazil for the world’s largest climate summit.
COP30, officially known as the 30th Convention of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, offers member countries their annual opportunity to collectively discuss and negotiate climate solutions.
Over two weeks, negotiators addressed the mitigation of climate change itself, adaptation to existing climate effects and disaster and the financing and implementation of it all.
In Belém, the host city’s strategic location was a constant reminder of the ecosystems and communities’ negotiators are accountable to. Sophomore Lainey
Koch reflected on her experience attending the second week of COP 30.
“The political decision to host this massive conference in the mouth of the Amazon placed negotiators in the very heart of the forest most threatened by climate change,” Koch said. “This COP saw one of the most significant Green Zones, offering opportunities for locals to get involved, and had the largest Indigenous participation seen recently.”
Though COPs are hosted by a different country each year, each summit shares a similar structure.
The Blue Zone is a designated area for climate negotiations, restricted to negotiators and members of civil society, who wear official Party and Observer badges respectively.
The Green Zone is semi-public and hosts educational and community engagement events, as well as cultural performances. In Belém, both zones were enclosed by large tents, and maintaining air conditioning and Wi-Fi across the venue, and quickly responding to
flooding and a fire, proved challenging.
A highly anticipated difference between COP30 and any previous COP was the lack of formal American participation following President Trump’s withdrawal from the 2015 Paris Agreement on the first day of his second administration.
The United States is both a top emitter of greenhouse gases and a former source of significant climate finance, so this American absence raised questions regarding new sources of international climate leadership.
Though a specific member country did not necessarily fill this power vacuum, Governor Gavin Newsom, former American negotiators and American public and private sector representatives were in attendance.
When COP30 concluded on Nov. 21, several major accomplishments had been achieved. These successes include the agreement to triple adaptation finance and the launch of the Tropical Forest
Forever Facility (TFFF) to promote innovative forest protection measures.
However, the international community has criticized the failure of negotiations to produce a clear plan to phase out fossil fuels, an effort that will continue at COP31.
The logistics of next year’s COP have been decided according to a somewhat unusual compromise. While the summit will be hosted in Antalya in Turkey, Australia will hold the presidency and formally oversee negotiations.
While the United States may continue its absence for the remainder of the Trump administration, American Observers can continue to attend through official nominations from their universities, nonprofits and the like, and young people are always especially welcomed.
For more information about COP30 and the plans underway for Villanova’s attendance at COP31, join Villanova’s COP30 attendees for the GEV Department Panel on Jan. 22, 2026.
Students traveled to Brazil to attend the world’s largest climate summit. Hannah Roszko/Villanovan Photography
Plans are currently underway for Villanova to attend COP31 in 2026. Hannah Roszko/Villanovan Photography
Isabella Carlin Co-News Editor
As finals approach and campus settles into the winter season, the semester is officially finally winding down. The past 15 weeks have delivered no shortage of news.
From Orientation to service opportunities, a new basketball season, guest lectures and new beginnings, Villanovans have stayed busy both on campus and throughout the community.
The school year officially kicked off in August, when the Orientation Program welcomed the class of 2029 and transfer students to campus.
During the annual Orientation program, Villanova became the victim of two hoax active shooter calls, one of which occurred during the Welcome Mass for new students and their families. These scares rattled the campus community.
“There was no active shooter, no injuries and no evidence of firearms present on campus,” a statement sent by University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A., Ph.D. said. “While that is a blessing and relief, I know today’s events have shaken our entire community.”
Following Orientation events, the academic year got underway. From the halls of Bartley to the labs
Fall 2025 Semester Recap
in Drosdick, students had the opportunity to engage in new classes and uncover new academic passions.
“So my academic experience this semester has been like no other,” senior Luciana Wolcott said. “As a comprehensive science major, a lot of my classes overlapped this semester and were all related to sustainable developments which was really nice to see all the connections across different classes and professors.”
On Saturday, Sept. 20, students and community members gathered to partake in the 20th Annual St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service. Throughout the day, participants traveled to service sites across the greater Philadelphia area to engage with their groups and give back to a variety of causes.
“This year I got to go to Willows Park Reserve for Day of Service where we planted trees for the organization,” senior Delia Ciamei said. “I was so happy that I was able to spread the mission of giving back to the community and go with my orientation group.”
This semester, families and alumni returned to campus to attend Family Weekend and Alumni Weekend. The annual tailgates and football games ignited school spirit and celebrations for students to enjoy.
“Family Weekend is like a blending of worlds in the best way possible,” senior Lindley Day said. “At Villanova, there are so many
different fun events to show my family around to and I get to introduce them to all my amazing friends, too.”
During Family Weekend in September, Father Peter hosted his annual “University Welcome” which addressed the future of Villanova’s campus expansion and how it will impact students in the upcoming years.
Father Peter provided insight into how the opening of the Villanova Cabrini Campus next August and the upcoming merge with Rosemont College will affect class size numbers.
“We’re going to take 250 additional students every year for the next four years,” Father Peter said. “So the undergraduate population will grow to 8,000.”
As students began to look ahead and make housing plans for next year, Father Peter’s address also explained how rising sophomores will have the opportunity to live at the Cabrini Campus next year.
“Cabrini will be a lovely place to live,” Father Peter said. “It’s [going to] be 900 sophomores over there, and then the other 900 will be in the Quad.”
Although this semester saw lots of activity on campus, many Villanova students participated in study abroad programs across the globe.
Some of these students and faculty members even had the opportunity to meet and engage with Villanova’s most famous alumnus,
Pope Leo XIV, at the Vatican.
“Meeting Pope Leo XIV was an unforgettable experience for all of us Villanovans interning and studying abroad in Rome,” junior Viola Lake said. “He made us feel seen and connected to Villanova’s values, even thousands of miles away from campus.”
From Nov. 7-9, for the 37th time in school history, Villanova hosted the world’s largest student-run Special Olympics event in the world.
Student volunteers welcomed more than 1,200 Special Olympics PA athletes, coaches and Unified partners to a weekend of athletic competitions and spreading the mission of inclusion.
“Watching the weekend unfold was nothing short of incredible, especially after witnessing the nine months of hard work and dedication from all 113 committee members to make Fall Fest 2025 a success,” sophomore Tori Phillips said.
In the midst of their academic studies and extracurricular involvement, Villanovans also found time to partake in social justice projects, engage politically during the 2025 elections and participate in faithbased programs.
As the Fall 2025 semester comes to a close and students look forward to the spring, the moments of the past few months will continue to shape the Villanova campus community.
Villanova Christmas Tree Taken Down Before Annual Lighting
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
On Thursday, Dec. 4, an hour before Villanova University’s annual Christmas tree lighting on the Rowen Campus Green, the tree was taken down out of an abundance of caution.
An hour before the 5 p.m. tree lighting event, maintenance crews blocked off the area around the tree and conducted a partial controlled demolition of it. It was taken down after the base of the tree sank into the ground due to rainfall earlier in the week, making the tree lopsided and unstable.
It was supposed to be rebuilt on Friday, Dec. 5, Villanova Director of University Events and Initiatives Nick Tumolo told The Villanovan
Instead, a new tree was ordered and brought in on Monday, Dec. 8, and was completed on
Tuesday, Dec. 9. A flat base was placed under the tree to distribute the weight and stop it from sinking.
“The rain that we had made the ground super muddy and soft underneath [the tree],” Tumolo said. “They didn’t anticipate how soft that ground gets. So the tree actually started to settle into the ground because of the weight of it. It made the frame unbalanced.”
The tree, which is larger than the previous trees, was still being built as of early last Thursday morning after delays due to rain earlier in the week.
When University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue O.S.A, Ph.D., took the stage to speak about the Advent season, he informed the crowd of the tree’s whereabouts. Fr. Peter jokingly referred to the event as ‘Christmas Trees’ lighting since the rest of the trees on the Rowen Campus Green were strung with lights and were set to be lit alongside the main tree.
“We did have a big Christmas tree standing right here a couple of hours ago,” Fr. Peter said. “And unfortunately, the wind had another idea. And the tree decided to go with the wind. [It’s] coming back tomorrow, and being secured more.”
Hours prior, around 2:15 p.m., senior Jenna Parker, a member of The Villanova Voices, saw the tree on her way to class and did not notice any issues with it. Upon returning to do the choir’s voice check for the event around 3:45 p.m., the top half of the tree was missing, and the rest of the tree was lying on its side.
“I was going to sing, and we were meeting for our sound check,” Parker said. “I see the tree instead of being nice and standing, the whole top half is gone, it’s kind of leaning sideways and they’re taking off the bundles of green and all the ornaments.”
She then watched as crews packed up the pieces of the tree into
multiple trailers minutes before the start of the event. Parker said her choir director, Christine Nass, asked crews if the tree would go back up. A member of the crew told Nass there was not enough time to put it back up on Thursday night.
The event went on despite the absence of the tree, with the rest of the Christmas lights being lit, including the ‘Merry Christmas Villanova’ sign. The event also included a visit from Santa Claus, s’mores, and more performances from the Villanova Voices and Singers.
“It’ll be up in plenty of time for the Holiday Village, which is actually our biggest holiday and Christmas event of the year,” Tumolo said. “It’s far, far, far bigger than the actual tree lighting. So, I’m happy that it will be up and be able to be enjoyed for that.”
Villanova’s Christmas tree, as well as the remainder of the lights and decorations across campus, will be on display through the new year.
Crews packed up pieces of the tree and decorations as the rain fell. Dylan Johnson/Villanovan Photography
Despite not being lit Thursday night, the tree was eventually lit for the holiday season. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
This Week In Politics: Hegseth Briefs On September Boat Strikes
Zoe Garrett Political Columnist
Top military officials briefed several congressional members last Thursday on the multiple Sept. 2 strikes that targeted alleged “narco-terrorist” Venezuelan boats in the Caribbean Sea, showing classified footage of the hits to lawmakers on related committees, reported CBS News.
The strikes in early September prompted a slew of subsequent attacks in the waters, with a total of 22 strikes causing at least 87 deaths, stated The Guardian
President Donald Trump and his administration have repeatedly cited the grave, looming threat of drug trafficking into the U.S. as the rationale for the attacks.
“Every boat we knock out, we save 25,000 American lives,” the President told reporters last Wednesday.
However, Secretary Pete Hegseth, the head of the recently rebranded U.S. Department of War, has faced mounting scrutiny due to growing speculation that the second Sept. 2 strike was deliberately ordered under specific direction to eliminate all crew members.
Resulting from this incident and the following scrutiny, Navy Admiral Frank M. Bradley, the Special Operations commander who oversaw the operation, met
with lawmakers on Capital Hill to share more information and video of the strikes.
In the closed-door meeting, he stated that Hegseth had never issued an order to kill everyone on board the targeted vessels, reported CBS News.
Nonetheless, the footage of the boat strikes shared was met with various responses across the aisle.
While Democrats rallied at the video, Republicans downplayed its severity.
Representative Jim Himes (D-CT), Ranking Member on the House Intelligence Committee, voiced his utmost astonishment and disgust with the video.
“[The video was] one of the most troubling things I’ve seen in my time in public service,” he told reporters.
In addition to emphasizing the sheer shock factor of the footage, Himes also called the legality of the attacks into question.
“Under the [Department of Defense] manual for abiding by the laws of armed conflict, the specific example given of an impermissible action is attacking a shipwreck,” he said. “Any American who sees the video that I saw will see the United States military attacking shipwrecked sailors.”
GOP lawmakers did not express this same level of concern and instead insisted that the attacks, justified and lawful, were necessary to work towards the administration’s goal of reducing
drug trafficking.
Senator Tom Cotton (RAR), member of the chamber’s Armed Services Committee, described the footage he witnessxed: “[there were] two survivors trying to flip a boat loaded with drugs bound for the United States, back over so they could stay in the fight,” he told reporters. He claimed that he did not perceive “anything disturbing about” the “entirely lawful” strikes, reported CBS News.
President Trump claims that although he was not made aware of the order to strike the already-damaged boat a second time, he would be supportive of the footage being released to the public.
As the conflict and pattern of strikes by the U.S. in the Caribbean Sea continue to unfold, lawmakers have promised to keep a trained eye on the actions of the Department of Defense/War.
“This briefing confirmed my worst fears about the nature of the Trump administration’s military activities, and demonstrates exactly why the Senate Armed Services Committee has repeatedly requested– and been denied– fundamental information, documents and facts about this operation,” Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of this committee, said in a statement. “This must and will be the only beginning of our investigation into this incident.”
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth testified regarding September strikes against Venezuelan boats. Isabella Carlin/Villanovan Photography
Cabrini Campus: What Sophomores Need to Know
Mia Galego Staff Writer
In Fall 2026, Villanova will open Cabrini campus. The expansion is the next step in Villanova’s “Rooted, Restless” 10-year strategic plan.
This new addition to student life will house around half of the incoming sophomore class, offering apartment, suite and traditional style housing.
The campus will include a modern recreation complex, new dining options and dedicated study spaces.
While change can be uncertain, it is important that you are prepared with everything there is to know about living on Cabrini.
Students have been vocal about their attitudes towards Cabrini, with many attending both town halls to ask questions and voice opnions.
The addition of the Cabrini campus comes with two new living learning communities being offered to sophomores.
The Sophomore Service-Learning Community (SSLC) will remain available for students, as well as Advancing Women Leaders in STEM and The Space Between: Personal and Professional Development for Students in
Caroline Etter Staff Writer
CLAS.
As for dining options, Bellesini Hall will offer made-toorder, station-style dining.
The campus will also include Table 1842, a reservation-based, restaurant-style dining experience. Students will be able to use their meal plans at Table 1842.
Cascia Hall will offer a Local Grounds x Holy Grounds, a full coffeehouse that will feature local roasters.
There will also be Rooted, offering acai, smoothie and grain bowls and the Menu Maker, where students vote on the pop-up stations and menu items they want to see throughout the semester.
Nourish Allergy Kitchen will offer an allergen-free dining program for students with food allergies and dietary restrictions.
Students will be able to pick up meals from Nourish Allergy Kitchen at different locations throughout the campus.
As for transportation, a new shuttle system will be put into place for students to get to the main campus and back every day.
During the weekdays, the shuttle will run from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., leaving every five to 10 minutes and running on two separate routes.
Students who live at Cabrini will also be offered parking
spaces.
However, they can not park their cars on the main campus.
The Division of Student Life is hosting information sessions in Driscoll Hall.
This is an opportunity for first-year students to learn more about living at Cabrini next year and the general registration process.
Freshmen Odessa Gianesin and Samantha Rowley attended the information session on Wednesday night.
“We were apprehensive at first, but they definitely made it sound better,” Gianesin said. “And
the whole experience and what there is to offer for sophomores in general, I like that they have us with our own class, that we can be together.”
There will be two more information sessions on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at 5 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m.
The Division of Student Life will also start offering tours of the campus next semester, before housing selection begins.
While students shared that they were still hesitant about the shift to Cabrini, most voiced that they feel better about the changes. after receiving more information.
SGA Hosts Second Town Hall
On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Student Government Associated held a Cabrini housing town hall in the Topper Theater in the Mullen Center.
This town hall follows the previous one hosted by SGA just before Thanksgiving.
At that town hall, SGA fielded questions from the audience directly to University President Rev. Peter M. Donahue, O.S.A, Ph. D.
Most of these questions concerned Cabrini.
It was facilitated by SGA’s Campus Climate Committee and featured Director of Housing Operations Skylor Morton and Vice President of Student Life Kathy Byrnes.
The event was held to “spread some excitement for Cabrini,” according to the featured speakers.
The speakers began by discussing how Cabrini is a great opportunity for Villanova to grow.
They described the addition as something new and exciting toward which students should be looking forward.
The Campus Climate Committee asked the speakers some frequently asked questions. Among the questions were the highly discussed topics of food options, who will be living on Cabrini, dorm styles, shuttle schedules, security and recreational opportunities.
“We want it to be a draw,” said Byrnes regarding food op -
tions.
According to the speakers, there will be two main dining areas on the Cabrini campus. There is even an extra kitchen on Cabrini’s campus specifically for allergen-free food preparation.
Students will be able to use their meal plans equally on both campuses.
In terms of housing, it was confirmed that sophomores honors students will be on the Cabrini campus.
“They will be housed in residences “similar to suites in the commons,” Morton said. “There will be a lot more options for housing on the Cabrini campus.”
There will be larger apartments and many of the residence halls on the new campus have community kitchens and spaces for social gatherings.
However, the most pressing topic around Cabrini is how students will get there.
“I would say I’m mostly just worried about getting to and from Main [Campus] for classes everyday if I end up on Cabrini,” freshman Lucy Best said.
The speakers eased some of the anxiety students may be feeling by noting that along with shuttles coming every five to 10 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., an on-demand van service will be available.
“We want to accommodate people,” Byrnes said.
The two speakers noted how additional shuttles can easily be set up.
The shuttles will be important for students in the certain communication classes, graduate
nursing and ethics classes that are being moved to the new location.
With security being another important factor to students, the town hall covered the plan for the new campus.
“Campus security will be fully integrated,” Morton said. “It will be seamless.”
This transition will include the installation of a blue light system on the campus.
The speakers then went on to discuss the vast recreational opportunities on the 110-acre new campus.
They told students of the pool, basketball, pickleball and tennis courts, as well as a new recreational center.
At the end of the questionnaire from the Campus Climate Committee, students in the audience were given the opportunity to ask questions.
Many of the questions
revolved around sophomore housing.
The responses to housing questions clarified that Sheehan and Sullivan Halls will be sophomore only, there are no plans to have sophomores living in The Commons next year.
Sophomores can receive priority housing through raffles and accommodations as of now.
There will be a roughly 50/50 split between sophomores living on the Villanova and Cabrini campuses.
Additionally, living-learning communities for women in STEM, sophomore service, and students exploring arts and sciences majors will be introduced to the new campus.
Students can find more about what to expect from the Cabrini campus through housing selection info sessions in the spring.
Students gathered in Topper Theater to ask questions concerning Cabrini. Ryan Sarbello/Villanovan Photography
The University announced major changes to Sophomore housing. Ryan Sarbello/Villanovan Photography
On Dec. 2, Women in Business and Villanova Business in Entertainment Society held a guest speaker event in Bartley that highlighted female sports journalism.
The event featured Mackenzie Mitchell, a content creator, social media specialist and sports broadcaster who shared her experience as a woman working in the sports industry.
Mitchell grew up in the Philadelphia area and played Division II soccer at Shippensburg University.
Now, Mitchell is working full time at Victus Sports for Major League Baseball and is in her seventh year working with FOX Sports with the National Football League.
Mitchell discussed her journey of finding a job within the biggest leagues in the country.
“I kind of just got my foot in the door any way that I possibly could,” Mitchell said. “And I worked my way up.”
For an audience of undergraduate students who are starting to look for jobs, Mitchell said to not be afraid to take any job that may lead them to the next.
Mitchell reflected on her
own experience of working for the Philadelphia Eagles and being told that once one is in with the organization, members of the team will help them pivot into their next position.
Then, Mitchell was asked what advice she would have for the women in the room who are looking for a career in sports, or business in general.
“The bottom line is, we have to look out for each other,” Mitchell said.
She elaborated to say that to win collectively as a whole people must support each other. She emphasized that many people superficially support women in sports without doing anything to back the words up.
Some ways that Mitchell gives to support other women in sports is by sharing job opportunities, commenting on others’ social media posts, complimenting others and, most importantly, bringing up names of people who are not in the room.
Additionally, Mitchell said that transactional kindness will not get a person to the next level. Building a lasting impression is important for employers to remember when a job opportunity arises.
Not only will this support build networks, but this will solidify how people remember you as an individual.
“They remember you not for your resume or your portfolio,” Mitchell said. “But because of how hard [a] worker you were, and if you went the extra mile.”
Additionally, Mitchell talked about the power of the word “no,” especially as a woman in a male-dominated field.
She recalled when she received a job offer from Victus Sports and they told her to put her two weeks in at FOX Sports.
“I am not going to do that,” Mitchell said.
Since the seasons of football and baseball do not conflict, then she did not see an issue of working at both.
With this, Mitchell said it is important women stand up for
themselves in their professional lives because that will increase their presence in these fields, but it will also increase the respect others hold for them.
“I only have one woman on my team,” Mitchell said. “I literally work with 99% of men.”
Increasing women’s representation in sports, and other fields, begins with women supporting each other.
Not only in hopes of gaining something in return, but for the satisfaction of other women succeeding in fields where men have dominated the narrative.
Women representation is important to bring new perspectives and expand industries to be more accessible to everyone.
Communications Department Presents Capstones
Emma Cote Co-News Editor
On Friday, Dec. 5, Villanova Communication students presented their end-of-semester projects in Garey Hall to students, faculty and professionals.
The presentations were a culmination of students’ hard work throughout the semester.
Starting in August, students met with their professors to begin their work on their projects.
The presentations were a part of the Communication Senior Project Program and highlighted students’ interests in journalism, public relations and other concentrations.
Presenters took to the Garey Hall Black Box and Room 10A to share their ideas with a live audience following a brief luncheon outside the room.
For many students, professionals from various communications fields were in attendance. Lauren Armstrong is a current senior communication and public service and administration major, and presented on Friday.
Armstrong’s project demonstrated her communications research findings and recommendations for the Philadelphia and Harrisburg-based nonprofit organization, the Purple Feet Foundation.
The organization provides a variety of educational opportunities and programs for children in the Philadelphia area.
Along with group members Peter Gribbin and Marcellous Frye III, Armstrong presented a variety
of recommendations for the organization’s social media platforms and website.
In attendance were founders Lance and Martha Rougeux, who created the organization in honor of their late daughter, Grace.
Armstrong shared her semester-long experience and the value she was able to draw from it.
“My group created a social media and website audit and recommendations for a local non-profit called the Purple Feet Foundation,” Armstrong said.
“Throughout the semester, we were able to meet with the founders, Lance and Martha and help them tell their story in a more engaging context via social media.”
Both Lance and Martha Rougeux commended the group’s hard work and dedication to improving their media sites to the audience.
There, they also shared the history of their own organization with the audience.
Armstrong specifically shared how much their attendance meant to her group, and her admiration for all the work they do for The Purple Feet Foundation.
“We were grateful that Lance and Martha were able to come to campus and watch us present our research,” Armstrong said.
As Armstrong wraps up her time within the Communication Department this year, she reflected on the importance of the project as a culmination of the last three years of hard work within the major.
“The communication se -
nior project program is special because all semester you get to work with a team to create a project that falls under your interests and strengths,” Armstrong said. “Since the major is one of the larger ones on campus, and has many sub-concentrations, students are able to work with likeminded individuals to create something from nothing.”
Senior Communication major Ava Petrosky also participated and presented her semester-long project, which was the creation of a podcast.
Petrosky’s class was centered around threats to democracy within the United States, and looked specifically at what democracy is and democratic backsliding.
Petrosky echoed many of Armstrong’s sentiments of appreciation in her reflection of the presentations.
“I really enjoyed being one of the starting members of this
new Communication Senior Project section,” Petrosky said. “Our research was presented in the format of a multimedia project, and my group created a podcast.” Petrosky also emphasized the relevance of the program in relation to her post-grad aspirations in broadcast journalism.
“As someone pursuing a career in the media,” Petrosky said,“I found this to not only be informational in the academic sense, but I was able to enhance my technical skills in the podcast’s production, which was a valuable experience.”
Other presenters emphasized how meaningful the experience was given how much work was poured into each project.
As communication seniors prepare to leave Villanova and embark on their careers, these capstones gave valuable insight into the paths that lay ahead.
Lauren Armstrong, Peter Gribbin and Marcellous Frye III presented on Friday. Courtesy of Kate Szumanski
Journalist Mackenzie Mitchell discussed her trailblazing career. Courtesy of Women in Business and Entertainment Society
OPINION Cabrini Expansion Threatens Campus Unity
Schack Co-Opinion Editor
After almost two years of chatter surrounding Villanova’s acquisition of Cabrini University, Villanova administrators and members of the Student Government Association teamed up to host a community town hall on what this will mean for students. The Dec. 2 Q&A panel, in which Kathy Byrnes, VP of Student Life, and Skylor Morton, Director of Housing Operations, responded to pre-submitted questions from undergraduates, was designed particularly with the class of 2029 in mind.
According to recent numbers from the Office of Student Life, about half of the 1700-student class will live in one of Cabrini’s residential halls, with the other half remaining on the Villanova campus in the traditional sophomore dorms on Main Campus. Throughout the town hall, this was presented as an exciting opportunity for rising sophomores to access newly-renovated dorms on a new campus, complete with its own dining halls and other resources like the Dixon Fitness Center. However, the consensus among many freshmen who may end up living at Cabrini next year has not necessarily been as positive.
Freshman business student Joaquin Costa-Pacheco, who currently lives on South Campus, along with most freshmen, expressed disappointment about his grade’s housing arrangement becoming even more disjointed.
“We already see a split between the freshmen who live on
Massimo DiLeo Staff Writer
South and those who live on Main Campus,” he said. “Having us live on two different campuses next year will only make it harder to feel a sense of community with people from different dorms.”
After all, many undergraduates cite Villanova’s walkable campus, which takes fewer than 30 minutes to get from one side to the other, as a consideration for them when applying to colleges. Whereas many universities require shuttles or long walks to get around, Villanova’s academic and residential buildings are conveniently placed within a manageable distance from one another. The addition of Cabrini risks chipping away at this identity. However, with the addition of a new campus that houses such a large portion of the student body, Villanova may lose this unique appeal and in turn, its culture of unity and familiarity. As such, Cabrini may end up serving as a source of division if the proper measures are not taken
to fully integrate the campus and its residents into the welcoming culture that all students deserve to experience.
A major point of contention among students is the fact that Sophomore Living-Learning Communities, which typically are sought after to guarantee housing in Alumni Hall or The Commons, will be housed on the Cabrini Campus starting next year. The sophomore honors dorm, which typically provides students with suites in The Commons, will also be moved to a complex on Cabrini in the fall. These options were a once way to ensure a spot in a specific dorm before the traditional housing lottery, and to continue to foster a sense of community after leaving one’s freshman dorm. Now, though, many students who would have otherwise looked into these options believe their drawbacks outweigh their benefits.
Once again, Villanova takes a risk with this addition and makes the communities students seek for connec-
tion less accessible.
“As an honors student, I came to Villanova expecting to live in The Commons as a sophomore,” Costa-Pacheco said. “Now that the sophomore dorms are over on Cabrini, I may end up opting out of honors housing.”
Kathy Byrnes, VP of Student Life, shared, “The Cabrini Campus offers Villanova the opportunity to grow both in the number of students we can welcome to campus as well as increase our facilities and academic departments to meet the interests and needs of students in and out of the classroom. Cabrini gives us not only additional classroom and lab spaces, it also gives us additional residential settings, dining options, and amazing recreational spaces available to the entire Villanova community. The opening of the Cabrini Campus marks a moment in Villanova’s history that those of us here, now, are privileged to be a part of as we embrace this new and exciting endeavor that will enhance the Villanova experience.”
Due to an increase in applications, Byrnes explained that Villanova has had to turn down qualified applicants because of limits on housing. As such, despite the uncertainty, this addition will free up space in the long run, ensuring more spots for upperclassmen. This will especially aid in the senior housing process for students in the classes of ‘28, ‘29 and beyond will get to live on campus for four years: a legitimate benefit. However, Villanova’s administration must continue to take steps to make sure this doesn’t come at the cost of the community-oriented culture that has defined the University for so long.
Hot Take: Wawa Beats Belle Aire
When students returned to campus for the 2025-26 school year, they were greeted with a brand-new Connelly Center equipped with a flagship Wawa location for them to enjoy. Over the summer, students held the Wawa in high regard, anxious to return to Lancaster Avenue so they could finally try it. However, controversy struck soon after, once students realized they couldn’t use a “meal” to purchase items and watched as their points slowly disappeared. With the end of the semester, students are now more nostalgic than ever for the once-80s-themed Connelly Center filled with old Belle Aire favorites. However, this nostalgia does not overpower the benefits the new Wawa brings to campus.
Picture this: it is a Sunday night and you’ve spent hours in the library. You leave Falvey, check the time and realize that it is 8:15 p.m. Some reading this article may be thinking, ‘So what?’ but all Villanova students know that the three main dining halls close at exactly 8 p.m. every day. If it were a weekday, this timing would not be an issue, as Belle Aire would be
readily serving food until around 11 p.m., but it’s Sunday and you’re out of options. But now with Wawa on campus, this is not an issue for students anymore. Wawa’s late night hours give students access to more reliable options. When studying late at night, students do not have to DoorDash late night cravings anymore. They can instead walk
to Wawa and satisfy these cravings there.
Additionally, last year the Connelly Center’s convenience store was located separately from Belle Aire and operated on separate hours, as well. What distinguishes the new Wawa is how it incorporates both the Belle Aire and convenience experience into four walls. Now, students don’t have to
worry about late nights where they need to quickly grab something from the on-campus convenience stores, just to find they have already closed, because the convenience section of Wawa stays open just as long as the dining portion.
The addition of Wawa to campus also signals a trend of improvement within the Villanova community. Last year, students arrived for the Spring Semester to find a new sushi bar in Café Nova and impressive drink machines in Conn. Just a few months later, the entire Connelly Center was transformed.
Now, the Cabrini Campus is set to open in the Fall of 2026, and will offer a multitude of new dining and housing options for students. This should leave students thinking, ‘What’s next?’ So, the next time someone feels frustrated that the Wawa doesn’t take meals or nostalgic for what Conn once was, remember how much has changed in little time with the goal of improving the Villanova student experience.
After the first semester of Wawa on campus, I can confidently say that it has brought great improvements to the Villanova community and shows a marked improvement for Villanova dining.
Zoe
The addition of Cabrini will place hundreds of residents in housing off of the main campus. Courtesy of Villanova University
The new Wawa provides more extensive and long-running service throughout the week. Courtesy of Villanova University
EDITORIAL BOARD LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
BROOKE
LAUREN ARMSTRONG
KAILEY FAHY
ZOE SCHACK
Editor-in-Chief
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Editor-in-Chief
Opinion Editor
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
Christmas Can Be Pretty Depressing: Here’s Why
Betty Lundborn Staff Writer
The holiday season has always been something that is thought of as a joyful, happy occasion for people all across the world. And on a Catholic campus like Villanova, the importance of Christmas spirit and camaraderie is all the more talked about. But as we get farther into the season, it’s common for many college students to begin to feel melancholy. Why is this? Why is a time that should be filled with so much love and warmth often so difficult for us to navigate? And, how can we try and overcome this?
I feel like the most obvious answer that people often gravitate towards when trying to explain holiday blues is seasonal depression. And while yes, it’s common to struggle with this when it gets dark at 4 p.m. every day, there are also practices and feelings surrounding Christmas that can cause sadness.
For one thing, Christmas, and most other winter holidays for that matter, place heavy emphasis on the importance of community and family. College students return home for Winter Break, go to gatherings and spend time with their loved ones, but sometimes, things can start to feel different. The sad truth is that many college students are at the age where it’s common to start losing loved ones, especially grandparents. And when a holiday like Christmas is traditionally celebrated with those people, it feels like the season is incomplete with-
out their presence. For others, going home may serve as a reminder of the people in their lives that are getting older. I know that for myself, losing a grandparent close to the holidays was sobering, as it was almost like I’d been taken out of life here at school and was living in limbo. When one has spent 18 years of their life celebrating with the same people, and one is suddenly missing from the crowd,
something just doesn’t feel right. Sophomore CLAS student Gianna Lauria spoke of her thoughts on the matter.
“Now instead of being excited, I’m sort of viewing it more as, ‘Well, okay, maybe this is the last time this holiday is gonna be spent with this relative,” or focusing on making the most of it, or having to make it special, or how the holidays are going
to be different if this is the last Christmas with them,” Lauria said. “It brings about ideas of change, which a lot of people are uncomfortable with, especially me. So, it’s definitely hard.”
What Lauria had to say is sad, but true. Whether it’s a grandparent, parent or other loved one, with age comes loss. And yes, change is something that most people are uncomfortable with. No one wants to see the people and things they love have to suffer or deteriorate.
But how can I save this article from being nothing more than a depressing list of things to not look forward to over Winter Break? Well, there are things that we can do to change the way that we look at the holidays. So, we may be at the point in our lives where we’re starting to lose people. That’s a fact, and there’s nothing that we can do to change that. But think: what about losing those people makes us feel sad? The reason we grieve our loved ones is because they’ve given us the gifts of mentorship and love. And while it may be time for some of them to go, that means that it’s time for us to pass the gift on. Think back on the memories you have of your childhood Christmases, and ask yourself what made you the happiest. Then take that, and give it to the kids that you know. Tell your little cousins stories about the time that you “saw” Santa Claus. Make your grandmother’s favorite Christmas cookies. Put the star on top of the tree. Things may be different, but it doesn’t mean that the magic is gone.
Why Everyone Feels “Behind” (Even When They’re
Juliana Burke Staff Writer
If you speak to nearly any Villanova student about summer internships, their upcoming courseload or their extracurricular activities, you’re bound to hear a variation of the same phrase: “I feel like I’m behind.” This sense of being “behind” permeates all daily activities, in ways students can’t seem to clearly articulate. It is a quiet sort of panic coloring the college discourse, where the rules of being “on track” seem to be unwritten yet universally understood. Behind this reality is an underlying truth no one seems to admit. It is a panic that covers almost everyone, even when they are objectively succeeding. This begs the question: where does this sense of feeling “behind” come from?
Part of this sensation is structural and relevant to the realities of 2025. College used to be a time of exploration, where uncer-
tainty was normalized and even encouraged as a form of premature curiosity. Now, college is viewed as more of a launchpad. The pressure to secure the “future” arrives before you’ve even moved on from using the dining hall as the main source of sustenance. You’re asked to choose majors, internships, extracurriculars and career paths that supposedly shape the subsequent decades of your life, leading students to rush to fill their résumés, schedules and make decisions they’re typically not prepared to make. Naturally, they then feel behind because rushing rarely leads to mastery.
Then there is the invisible timeline problem: the idea that adulthood is a race organized around milestones. This invisible timeline dictates when you’re expected to have full confidence surrounding your career choices, when you’re supposed to meet the right people and when you’re supposed to look put-together and self-assured. But in reality, this invisible timeline
is exactly that: invisible. There is no syllabus for how to navigate one’s 20s. The idea of being “behind” is only possible if a universal timeline exists, and in actuality, it doesn’t.
The feeling is also emotional. Growing up means confronting the gap between who you thought you’d be by now and who you actually are. In childhood, you believe your 20-year-old self will be a fully formed version of all of your highest ideals. But when you’re blowing out your 20th birthday candles, and you’re still improvising, it can make that gap feel dauntingly narrow. You still have days where you feel 14. You still don’t have the answers. That discrepancy of the imagined self, versus the real one, creates a feeling of delay, as if your life hasn’t caught up to the version you internally promised yourself at a young age.
Underneath all of this is a greater sense of fear, albeit not necessarily the fear of failure, but rather of not becoming the person you hoped to be. College is full
Not)
of possibility, but possibility has a shadow. What if you choose wrong, waste time, miss something meant for you? What if there was a moment you should have taken and you didn’t? Are you truly behind, or are you overwhelmed by the abundance of paths in the horizon?
All in all, the primary reason everyone feels behind is because we’ve forgotten that becoming a person is a messy, nonlinear process, full of detours and rest stops and unexpected developments. Feeling behind might just mean you’re paying attention. It might mean you care about the shape your life takes. It might mean you’re human. That’s the real comfort, resting in the knowledge that you cannot be behind in a race no one is timing. What you can do is live your story at the pace it asks of you. Taking time to think these things over doesn’t translate to failure. Detours don’t mean disaster. Uncertainty doesn’t mean delay. It means you’re still becoming, which by definition, takes its time.
The holidays can be challenging for students, both on campus and at home. Zoe Schack/Villanovan Photography
Finals Ruin The Holiday Season
Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer
As the semester winds down, most Villanova students feel a familiar mix of burnout, anticipation and sheer exhaustion. For many, December becomes a blur of back-to-back deadlines, final projects and exams that extend right up until the last possible day. And while academic rigor is part of the college experience, there’s a growing sentiment on campus that professors need to consider the real impact of keeping students on campus until Dec. 19, especially when many of us are longing to get home for the holidays, to rest, recharge and reconnect with family after a long semester.
The issue isn’t the existence of finals. It’s the unevenness, the inflexibility and the lack of awareness about what these final weeks actually feel like for students. Many classes front-load material early on, only to assign massive cumulative exams or final papers due during finals week. The result? Students find themselves juggling multiple heavy deadlines in the same three-day window, mentally drained yet still expected to perform at their peak. Meanwhile, some students get to head home far earlier, not because they’re lucky, but because their professors structured their courses differently.
“My professors planned ahead so all our major assign -
ments were wrapped up by early December,” sophomore Michela Marchiano said. “I don’t have any finals this year, so I get to go home on the 11th. I feel relieved, but honestly, it feels unfair when so many of my friends are stuck here until the 19th.”
And she’s not wrong to feel conflicted. Walking through campus in mid-December can feel like walking through two different universities: one where some students have already left, stress-free and enjoying the holidays, and another where students are hunched over in Falvey until 2 a.m., counting down the days until they can finally breathe.
This scheduling imbalance also creates academic and emotional disparities. Students staying until the 19th often spend the last week on campus overwhelmed, trying to juggle cumulative exams, presentations and final papers. They’re working hard, but in an environment where the campus is half-empty, the dining halls are quiet and many friends and roommates have already left. The sense of community Villanova prides itself on quickly evaporates, leaving those remaining feeling isolated during a time of year that should feel warm, connected and celebratory. This isolation amplifies stress. When students are mental -
ly checked out, lacking support systems and trying to push through exhaustion, even the best intentions behind finals week don’t land as intended.
The solution isn’t eliminating finals altogether. It’s about rethinking the rhythm of the semester. Professors could distribute assessments more evenly, avoid teaching essential new content in the last two weeks, and make final projects due before finals week rather than during it. Even small shifts, like offering an optional early exam date or allowing students to submit final papers earlier, could dramatically improve student stress levels. Ultimately, better planning leads to better learning. Students aren’t asking to learn less; we’re asking to learn under conditions where we can actually succeed.
At the end of the day, the holiday season shouldn’t be spent stressed, isolated and overwhelmed. It should be a time of rest after months of hard work, an opportunity to reset before another challenging semester. Villanova prides itself on community and care, and if we genuinely embrace those values, then it’s time to open a conversation about what December should look like for students. The most meaningful gift professors could give isn’t extra review sessions or extended office hours, it’s the chance to go home a little earlier, with our minds fully clear and our spirits intact.
Retiring Nova Schedule Builder Is Frustrating
Lexie Scibilia Staff Writer
When Villanova students opened their inboxes on Nov. 19, many were met with a surprise: Nova Schedule Builder, the tool most students have relied on for years to map out their semester schedules, is being retired.
“Effective December 7, 2025, Nova Schedule Builder will be disabled in NOVASIS,” the Office of the Registrar wrote in an email to students.
Moving forward, the University explained, the Plan Ahead feature within NOVASIS will serve as the primary resource for planning and registering for classes.
For many Villanovans, the news came with frustration.
Schedule Builder has long been a favorite because of its clean layout, visual calendar and ability to shuffle different combinations of classes with just a click. It helped students see their semesters easily. During registration, it wasn’t just a tool, it was the tool.
“Villanova students depend on it to visualize their plans and easily test different schedules,” junior Johnny McLaughlin said. “The other options the school provides are outdated, inefficient and difficult to use.”
He’s not wrong. Anyone who has ever stared at a Plan Ahead pop-up window knows it’s more functional than friendly. It works, but only if you already
know exactly which courses you want, which CRNs you need and what the final product is supposed to look like. It doesn’t invite exploration the way Schedule Builder did. It doesn’t help students discover new classes or check which professor’s section fits best. It’s a tool built for certainty, not planning.
“I preferred having both,” junior Michelle Kim said. “Schedule Builder did help build the base of my schedule and really helped me look thoroughly at which classes were available with which professor so much easier.”
That ease is exactly what many students feel Plan Ahead lacks. While Plan Ahead integrates planning and registration, its interface is more rigid and harder to navigate. Students often describe it as something they use out of necessity, not preference.
However, the Registrar’s Office points to usage numbers that tell a different story. In the email, the office noted that “term over term for the past number of years, students are heading to Plan Ahead for course planning and scheduling, with a sharp decline in Nova Schedule Builder usage.” Because of this pattern, paired with what it describes as “enhanced functionality” in Plan Ahead, the University made what it calls a “data-informed decision” to retire the older system after the Spring 2026 advising cycle.
Still, students say the decision feels less like an update and more like a loss, especially because
registration tools are something Villanovans interact with repeatedly throughout their academic careers. An interface that makes the process easier isn’t a luxury. For many, it’s essential.
With the transition, the Registrar is encouraging students to begin using the Master Schedule, DegreeWorks and Plan Ahead as their main planning tools. Whether those options will fully replace what students gained from Schedule Builder remains to be seen.
Villanova prides itself on producing organized, disciplined and intentional students. But removing the tool that helped students embody those traits feels
counterintuitive.
Of course, administrators are trying to streamline systems. And Plan Ahead does work smoothly for the final step of registration. But a streamlined process isn’t necessarily a student-centered one. Not if it sacrifices the parts of planning that actually help students.
Change to University systems is rarely embraced overnight. But as students prepare for another round of advising and registration this spring, one thing is clear: Villanovans cared about this tool because it made a stressful process a little more manageable, and without it, it burdens students with a lot more responsibility.
Students gathered to celebrate the holiday season at Villanova. Kailey Fahy/Villanovan Photography
Many Villanovans rely on Schedule Builder to map out their classes. Avery Chalk/Villanovan Photography
To My Co-EIC, Brooke
Nicole Liddicoat Co-Editor-In-Chief
There are a lot of things I expected to get out of The Villanovan, but I never expected the person standing beside me to become the center of it. There is a moment, every week, when the world outside the Corr Hall basement fades away and it becomes just us again. Two people who somehow stumbled into the same job and then into the kind of partnership you cannot predict and cannot force. A partnership that becomes a friendship before you even have the chance to realize it.
I think about how far apart Brooke Ackerman’s and my lives were before this year. We lived in separate corners of campus. We circled different people. We chased different passions. For a long time, we existed in the same newsroom without really knowing each other. And then, we learned that we would share the title of Co-Editorin-Chief, and everything shifted. From the first week, something settled between us that I still can’t fully explain. It was like recognizing that the person next to me understood the paper the same way I did, and that made everything easier. Brooke became my partner in the truest sense. We started tossing around “BPE,” short for best partner ever, as a quick way to celebrate a good fix or a well-han-
dled issue. But somewhere along the way, it stopped being silly. Brooke really was the best partner ever. She understood what I needed before I even said anything. She read my stress before I recognized it myself.
We always joked that The Villanovan made us the same person, but it wasn’t really a joke. Spending so much time together made it impossible not to notice how much we started to overlap. We would show up in the same outfit without
planning it, or we would say the same thing at the same time and just laugh because it had happened again. There were nights when we were completing pages until early in the morning and could understand each other without saying a word, just a glance or a gesture over the center table. The little coincidences piled up until it didn’t feel like a coincidence at all.
Working with Brooke taught me more than I realized in the moment. She showed me what it looks
like to be confident and to stand by my ideas, even when it feels easier not to. She taught me how to speak up for myself, how to take pride in my work and how to care deeply about the things that matter. Brooke is one of the most dedicated people I have ever met. When she commits to something, she pours her whole self into it, and watching her do that has made me want to be better, too. What she brought to this paper is only part of it. Brooke is the kind of person I admire, the kind of person I genuinely hope to grow into and the kind of friend I know I’ll hold onto long after our bylines stop appearing together.
The thing that surprised me most is that our partnership stopped being about the paper a long time ago. Yes, Brooke was my Co-EIC, but she also became my friend in a way that has nothing to do with production nights or emails or constant meetings. The trust we built didn’t come from our titles. It came from the small moments in between: the walks back to West at 2 a.m., our life catch ups, the shared frustration, the shared wins, the way she made even the worst nights feel lighter just by sitting across from me.
All this to say, thank you to my BPE. This year was hard in the ways leadership always is, but it was good because Brooke was part of it. That partnership became the best part of the job, and it’s something I’ll miss far more than I can print on this page.
And To The Best Partner Ever, Nicole
Brooke Ackerman Co-Editor-In-Chief
Throughout our academic careers, we are constantly paired up, put in groups and assigned people to work with—whether we connect with them or not is never the point. We are simply expected to share the workload and produce a result.
So when I applied to be Co Editor-in-Chief of The Villanovan during the fall semester of my junior year, I was terrified knowing that the fate of my future partnership lay in the hands of, well, anyone but me.
The idea of being assigned yet another random partner scared me. I dreaded the possibility of working with someone who was there just to add another line to their resume.
I have never been so thankful to have been proven so wrong.
My Co-EIC, Nicole Liddicoat, thrives where I struggle and makes up for what I lack. Above all else, Nicole and I share one thing that can’t be taught in a partnership: passion.
When Nicole and I took over this publication in January of 2025 we came in with a simple vision—to leave The Villanovan better than we found it.
Since then, and with the help of all of our staff writers and incredible editorial board, we have produced three magazines, two-special editions, made national headline news on ESPN and
broke the record for the largest ever print edition and magazine editions in Villanovan history.
These are goals that we came in with, but making those goals a reality didn’t happen overnight. There were countless meetings and delegation. There were many late nights in the basement of Corr. There were more spreadsheets and google docs than one could possibly fathom. And then there were the total hours we put in.
I can’t put an exact number of hours on it, but I can tell you this: I’ve been with Nicole at 6am in the morning as we chug a cup of coffee before getting right back into planning. I’ve walked to the Office of Student Involvement with Nicole every Monday afternoon for a full calendar year. I’ve also been with Nicole at 3am in the Villanovan office as we delusionally send off pages to the printing company, waiting to see what was once a passing idea over text turn into a vision for the entire Villanova community to see.
I could ramble on for ages about the growth we have both experienced, the success we have found or the mistakes that still haunt us—but the triumphs, the defeats—none of it would mean nearly as much if I had embarked on this journey with anyone else.
I’m proud to call Nicole my Co Editor-in-Chief, but more importantly, I’m proud to call her my friend.
Nicole—from the bottom of my heart—thank you for your
dedication in ensuring that we are in fact leaving The Villanovan better than how we found it. Thank you for your innate ability to better every single thing you touch. But most importantly, thank you for
showing me that partnerships not only have the potential to be effective, they have the power to fuel passion. I am better, and this publication is better, because of you.
One of Brooke and Nicole’s late-nights working on the paper. Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography
Brooke and Nicole reflect on all the fun memories they have had in the office. Lauren Armstrong/Villanovan Photography
Signing Off: With Love, Your Co-EICs
Brooke Ackerman Co-Editor-in-Chief
Nicole Liddicoat Co-Editor-in-Chief
Continued from p.1
just about the kindest soul we have ever known. She was one of the first editors we hired after assuming our position, and we could not imagine this experience without her on our team. Always the first person to pick up an extra article, to diligently make edits to the front page, or simply just a friend to turn to when you’re having a bad day, we feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to watch her blossom.
Finn Courtney has grown tremendously over his years with the paper, and this year he truly came into his own. He is relentless in pursuing a good story, a true newshound if you will. He stepped into a leadership role on the news team this year very naturally, guiding the news editors with patience and grit. His loyalty to the paper makes him someone everyone can count on.
Emma Cote has come into her own in more ways than one. We have had the honor of watching Emma grow as a writer, editor and leader during our time working with her. She has become not just an integral part in ensuring that breaking news and hard hitting stories are constantly being covered, but she has played an even bigger part in forming a welcoming, uplifting and at times, goofy, culture for our staff. What makes The Villanovan so special is that people from different walks of life come together for the sake of the paper, and Emma is the glue that holds all those people together.
Our Opinion and Culture teams were unique as a result of some editors studying abroad, and because of that, we had the privilege to work with three editors in each section—an experience we didn’t realize would challenge us and allow this paper to grow in ways we could have never predicted.
Our Opinion section was run by juniors Avery Chalk and Kailey Fahy during the Spring 2025 semester.
Avery Chalk, one of our beloved Opinion editors, has a strong voice that cannot be ignored and a presence that fills the newsroom. Avery has always been an incredible writer, and it is easy to get drawn in by how well she expresses herself on a page. But spending time with her as we took on our current roles revealed so much more about who she is beyond journalism. She is thoughtful, sharp and full of personality, and The Villanovan office has not been the same without her this semester.
Zoe Schack, despite being one of the youngest editors on staff, has really held her own. Zoe joined the staff as an Opinion editor just this last semester and quickly became someone you could not imagine the paper without. She brings curiosity and a willingness to jump into anything, even when it feels intimidating. We are so proud of Zoe for taking on such a difficult role, and we are so excited to see what she does next.
As for Kailey, who has been an Opinion editor for the past two years, she will now step into a new role as Co Editor-in-Chief for the 2026 calendar year. Kailey Fahy has been an anchor of the opinion section for the past two years, and in that time, she has become someone that we trust completely. She is what it means to be part of The Villano-
van. Kailey brings so much heart into her work, that the Corr basement feels different when she walks in. We will genuinely miss the little things with her, like watching Dancing with the Stars during a long production night or showing up in a wig to look like another editor on Halloween. At the same time, we could not be more excited for her as she steps into a role that she is completely ready for. Her passion for this paper is going to make her an incredible Co-EIC and we cannot wait to watch her shine.
Our Culture section was in the very capable hands of Maggie Fitzgerald and Sophie Latessa in the Spring, before Maggie went abroad and passed the torch to Cali Carss who took over as Sophie’s new Co-Culture Editor.
Maggie Fitzgerald, the ultimate it girl, brought an effortless sense of style and creativity that helped define the culture section. She has a natural ability to find stories that feel relevant and fun, and she elevates them with her eye for tone and detail. She helped immensely to transform the culture columns and build a strong group of writers. Even being abroad, the foundation she created remained visible in the pieces that followed.
Cali Carss stepped into her new role with confidence and precision and quickly became essential to the section. She is incredibly detail-oriented and approaches every edit with a level of care that makes the final product noticeably stronger. Her pages were constantly some of the cleanest in the paper, and that comes from a dedication that never wavered. Cali stepped into a big role during a transition period and handled it with calm confidence. It was a pleasure getting to see Cali step out of her shell this past semester.
Sophie Latessa has, and always will be, The Villanovan’s ray of sunshine. A stranger to none and friend to all, Sophie didn’t just bring her creativity and smile to production each week — she brought intelligence, passion, organization and adaptability. While Sophie will be taking a break from Lancaster Ave and heading abroad during the Spring of 2026, we knew that this editorial board would be incomplete without her name on the masthead. Because of this, Sophie will step into a new role as the Managing Editor, a position we know she is not only ready for, but will thrive in.
The final writing section of The Villanovan is our sports team: senior Katie Lewis and junior Dylan Johnson.
Katie Lewis is our real life “women in male fields” specialist. She has been a steady presence in the Sports section, always ready to lend a hand or cover an exciting story. Her presence in the office and confidence in the press room make her someone everyone looks to when things get hectic. She is a natural leader—organized and dependable—but she pairs that with an incredible kindness that shows in the way she mentors her team.
Dylan Johnson is just about the most authentic guy we know. He also happened to be the editor responsible for having The Villanovan make headline news on ESPN last semester. Pretty cool if you ask us. But it’s not just the fact that Dylan is unapologetically himself, or the fact that he chases every story with the utmost passion—Dylan brings a sense of light and energy into the office every single time he enters. He cares so deeply about the work he does and the people around him, which is why we could not be more excited to see him step into his new role as Co-EIC in 2026. The two together are a dynamic duo that our Halloween production foreshadowed, and we could not be more excited to watch it become a reality.
We also have our Photography Editor, Erick Quezada, who truly is the backbone of The Villanovan. Sure, a newspaper is about writing and editing, but where would we be without the photos that bring those stories to life? Erick is effortlessly kind, compassionate and someone we know we can always depend on to get the job done. Plus, he’s a sneaky shoe in for funniest texter in the group chat.
Next is our Crossword Editor, senior Peter Reilly. You know the expression, “don’t blink too fast or you’ll miss it?” That’s Peter in a nutshell. His quick humor and wit aren’t just qualities that make his crosswords iconic, they also are a testament to his kindness. Peter’s passion for connecting people was able to shine through with his crosswords and we are beyond grateful in his desire and ability to elevate The Villanovan the way he has.
Then there is our incredible digital team, composed of senior Natalie Zickel and junior Ciara Dursee.
There are certain people who can fill a room with light and laughter upon entering. Natalie Zickel is one of those people. Not to mention the fact that she is insanely creative and talented. Those parts are just a sheer bonus. After being on staff for three full years, we can confidently say that Natalie is the most patient and adaptable editor we’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.
Our other Digital Editor, Ciara Dursee is especially cool and effortlessly kind. She is the only editor we worked with who assumed her position from campus one semester and Europe the next. While we miss her wit and charm in the basement of Corr, Ciara has managed to ensure that every graphic she designs and each post she curates is exactly what The Villanovan needs. Being across the Atlantic Ocean was never a challenge because her passion was more apparent than any time difference could ever be.
Our Copy Desk Chief, Madeline Okenquist is just about our favorite person ever. Madeline has been on staff since her freshman year and it has been an absolute privilege to watch her grow as an editor, but also a person. Her position
isn’t always the most glamorous, but the work she does is the reason The Villanovan looks glamorous each week. This publication wouldn’t be what it is without her. But we would be remiss to not share the kind of person she is, too. You know that friend who is exceptionally loyal, kind and would always put your needs above their own? Yeah, we know that friend. Her name is Madeline.
And then there is the Associate Editor-in-Chief of The Villanovan, Lauren Armstrong. Lauren is our ultimate “yes” girl. There has never been a time where we needed Lauren’s help that she has said she was too busy or incapable. She always somehow found a way to get it done. But more importantly than her contributions to the public safety blotter or selling advertisements, Lauren has become our friend. In fact, she has become one of our best friends. From staff writer to News editor to being on the EIC team, Lauren hasn’t just enhanced the paper throughout her years on staff, she has enhanced the people around her. That’s something we will never take for granted.
Last, but certainly not least, are two people who may not be in editorial board group chat, but The Villanovan would cease to exist without them. That is, of course, our faculty advisors, Cat Coyle and Michael Bradley.
Cat Coyle is perfect. There, we said it. We could go on for ages telling you about how Cat answers our questions at all hours of the night, how no task is too big for her to handle, or how much passion she has for the paper, but it all accumulates to one thing: she’s perfect. The perfect advisor, friend, and perfect at her job. Cat, we could not have done any of this without you, and we are eternally grateful that you came into our lives. Mr. Bradley takes “home away from home” to a whole new level (and yes, we did purposely include a cliche in here, Mr. Bradley). As the faculty advisor for The Villanovan, for over a decade, Mr. Bradley has seen this paper transform from a group of students who wrote a few articles and drank beer together, into a thriving publication that the Villanova community has come to rely upon. But it’s not his role on the paper we cherish most. Mr. Bradley has become our friend—someone to banter with about our days, someone to turn to, someone to look out for us during our college years. Being Co-EICs would have been impossible without him, but this goodbye feels a little less emotional because we know that he will always be on our team.
Walking away from a publication that taught us more about love, loss and ourselves than we could have ever fathomed feels nearly impossible. Yet it’s comforting to know that we are walking away hand in hand with some of the most passionate and capable people we have ever met.
The Villanovan is a unique club. It’s not just a group of student journalists; it’s a group of people who understand the power of using their words to connect with others.
It has been the privilege of a lifetime to give those students a platform to continue to tell their stories and to continue connecting. So thank you to Villanova, and thank you to The Villanovan, for also providing us a platform to tell this story: one filled with the utmost love and gratitude for a paper that has changed our lives for the better.
All our love, Brooke Ackerman & Nicole Liddicoat The 2025 Co-Editors-in-Chief
The Fall 2025 Villanovan Editorial Board. Brooke Ackerman/Villanovan Photography
CULTURE
How To Survive Finals: Student & Professor Advice
Scarlet Shafie Staff Writer
As frost accumulates on the Wildcat Path and Christmas decorations go up, it has become undeniable that finals season is upon us. While the weeks between Thanksgiving and Winter Break are widely regarded to be some of the year’s most stressful, we can always improve (and save our sanity) by turning to the wisdom of others.
“Find a good place to study but make sure to switch it up for a change of scenery,” junior political science student Marina McKeating said. “Also, make sure to take breaks and hang out with friends to get your mind off of everything and reset.”
By avoiding the monotony of studying in the same space over and over, students can strengthen their understanding and spark creativity.
“Finals season can be scary and overwhelming, but planning ahead to break studying into smaller, manageable goals definitely helps you stay on top of everything,” Hannah Yang, a junior accounting major, said. “More importantly, taking breaks and focusing on your well-being is essential, especially when you are studying for long hours.”
The mountain of work many students face during finals can be debilitating, so, like Yang said, breaking your to-do list into smaller goals is the key to success. For example, breaking preparation for exams into smaller increments to review units and lectures. This tactic reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed and builds momentum, especially for students who need to balance exams with other activities during this busy time.
“Balancing responsibilities doesn’t have to feel impossible, I promise,” graduate student Daiana Espindola said. “Having commitments actually gives you the
strength to stay organized and manage your time. It’s just as important to set boundaries and take a selfcare minute to recharge. That tiny break can save you from burning yourself out, especially when people need you. Take time to breathe, recharge and reward yourself once in a while.”
As Espindola highlights, structure can be an invaluable facet of success. However, it can also be easy to get swept up in saying “yes.” Setting boundaries in your academic life and beyond empowers you to build a balance that sustains your long-term success and well-being.
The ultimate experts on managing a heavy workload are Villanova professors. Having been students themselves, their perspective offers unique insight into the experience of finals on both sides of the process: the lectern and the desk.
“My advice for preparing for exams would be to focus on the larger concepts,” psychology professor Dr. Constance Mesiarik said. “Try explaining the concepts in your own words to someone else. I find that when you really engage with the material through reading and discussion, rather than trying to memorize everything, you are more likely to retain it.”
While there’s certainly a time and place for Quizlet, memorization merely offers a base-level understanding of concepts that often require more critical thinking. By paraphrasing the material or even re-teaching it to someone, students create a much stronger memory link and discover gaps in understanding.
“Getting started with studying or writing a paper can be one of the most challenging parts of finals season,” philosophy professor Timour Kamran said. “Don’t ignore this resistance or dismiss it as laziness. Many Villanova students are habitual high achievers and the fear of failure can become a major block to getting started, let alone doing well. High-achieving people
often procrastinate for exactly this reason.”
At Villanova, it is not unusual for students to push themselves too hard. Especially during finals, when everything feels so definitive, it’s easy to get swept up in the storm of stress and unreasonable expectations. This pressure can feel like a kind of paralysis, keeping us doomscrolling and avoiding our snowballing work. However, as Kamran says, this is just mismanaged stress.
“It’s important to detach your self-worth from your produc-
tivity,” Kamran said. “How you do on your chemistry final, etc., will not affect your worth. Accepting this fact can ease performance anxiety and indirectly lead to better results,” All in all, finals season will quickly pass, and three weeks from now, once students have reset their sleep debt, they will likely find themselves missing campus. Cherish this time. Stop to admire the decorations on campus, make some time for friends and take a deep breath. You’ve got this.
Annual Christmas Tree(s) Lighting Recap
Cali Carss Co-Culture Editor
Continued from p.1
was on the ground this afternoon,” junior Claudia Herold said.
Similar sentiments swept through the crowd throughout the celebration. The quick thinking of the event organizers turned this celebration into a lighting of the trees, plural, referring to the several trees strung with lights that line the walkways through the Green. This decision allowed the event to go forward and keep some of its festive flair, but many still walked away feeling a bit disappointed.
There was an exclamation as the trees were lit, and while they are undoubtedly beautiful, some attendees couldn’t help but feel underwhelmed.
“I feel like they just didn’t do as much this year, especially in
terms of decorations around campus,” junior Alena Chung said. “It felt rushed.”
Once the lights had been lit, the choirs sang another carol as people began to disperse. Some lingered, unsure if the event was truly over, some hurried back to their finals prep and some ran to be first in line to greet Santa on the steps of Corr Hall.
“I was disappointed,” Herold said. “But Santa is here so I’m going to go take a picture.”
The main Christmas tree returned to campus on Monday and was lit up in the evening for all to see.
While the tree lighting wasn’t exactly what the community was expecting this year, it was still a faithful homage to an important tradition here on campus and an official start to the holiday season at Villanova.
The Villanova Voices and Singers performed festive music to keep spirits high at the tree lighting. Cali Carss/Villanovan Photography
Grab a cup of coffee and read up on these finals study tips from students and professors. Scarlet Shafie/Villanovan Photography
Heart Of The Matter: The Villanovan
Sophie Latessa Co-Culture Editor
In this installment of Heart of the Matter, those who were interviewed will be named. We hope you enjoy getting to know The Villanovan team, who have graciously shared their hearts with us this week.
Friendships can emerge in the most unlikely places, like a tucked-away basement office, for example. From the outside, it may simply seem the worst possible entrance to Corr Hall: steep stairs, and a door you need to pull at just the right angle to heave open. But if you get closer, you’ll see a light on and a hand-drawn sign above the door: The Villanovan
Though it may go unnoticed by most, this basement office is a hub of activity throughout any given week, including interviews, weekly meetings for writers and Tuesday night productions, at which the editorial staff puts together the layout of the newspaper before sending it to the printing company to be delivered the next day.
“We work in this basement. No one even knows it’s here,” current Co-Opinion Editor and incoming Co-Editor-in-Chief Kailey Fahy said. “It’s like our own little corner of the world where time freezes during production.”
This sentiment is common among The Villanovan ’s 18 editors, who spend every Tuesday night making edits, working on page design and, of course, watching Dancing with the Stars
“When you’re spending time with people who you truly just love and admire and work so well with, time flies,” Associate Editor-in-Chief Lauren Armstrong said.
Each week, creating a newspaper is the product of an incredible team effort. Writers energetically research, interview and compose to create the contents of every edition.
“Ultimately the staff writers are the backbone of our paper,” Fahy said. “It’s their work each week that we’re putting out, and they’re the ones who are telling the
stories that we share with the Villanova community and even beyond that. So just fostering a culture that makes us feel like one team is really important.”
Zoe Garrett, senior and political columnist, got involved with The Villanovan during her freshman year and has been writing in the news section ever since. In her four-year career, she has grown as a writer and developed a collaborative relationship with editors.
“As a writer more generally, having the flexibility to choose what you want to write about and the editors being, like ‘Yeah, totally go for it’ and supportive of that, that’s what I’ve really enjoyed,” Garrett said.
The teamwork it takes to create a weekly newspaper extends beyond writers and editors, though. Michael Bradley, the faculty advisor for The Villanovan , reads every article and encourages the
staff to strive to raise the bar each semester.
“I hope to have them have the best experience they can have while still providing great coverage of Villanova,” Bradley said. “The one thing I always say to them is that they’re the ultimate influencers on this campus. There’s a chance to really make an impact on campus, and I want to encourage them to try to do that as much as they can.”
When reflecting on her time at The Villanovan , Co-Editorin-Chief Nicole Liddicoat is proud to have been a part of this impact.
“I got to learn how to be a leader and shape the experience of a lot of other people on campus,” Liddicoat said. “I got to make sure that a lot of people’s stories were being told all over campus.”
While working to produce a meaningful product, the staff of The Villanovan is also unknowingly learning skills and lessons that will apply far beyond their graduation from Villanova.
“Something that writing for The Villanovan has helped me come to appreciate is taking big national news that might not seem to directly impact daily lives of people and shaping it and framing it in a way to connect it to the Villanova community,” Garrett said. “I think that’s something that I will continue to use in my life going forward. Even professionally and also just personally being able to try to convince someone why something that’s happening is important or why they should care even if they don’t directly feel the impacts of that on their day-to-day.”
Armstrong echoed this statement, saying her time with The Villanovan has taught her to value others’ opinions.
“It’s been really amazing learning how to kind of step back
and listen to other people’s perspectives and really take that into consideration when looking at why there are issues and problems going on within society,” Armstrong said. “Just knowing that even though you might believe one thing, it doesn’t mean it’s the correct thing or the right thing to believe in.”
With so much time spent learning life lessons in the Corr basement office, The Villanovan is the product of many unlikely friendships and a spirit of camaraderie among its staff.
“Our staff is comprised of people from all different walks of life,” Liddicoat said. “We’re all involved in lots of different things on campus, and The Villanovan is what brings us all together. There’s a lot of people on staff I might not have known outside of The Villanovan , and I’ve gotten to become so close to these people and I’m so lucky to call so many of the staff my best friends.”
“Honestly, of all the things I’ve been involved in, it’s where I’ve made some of the closest relationships because we’re all so passionate and care about the same things,” Fahy said. “So I would encourage everyone to try and find a place on campus that fosters that same level of passion because here at The Villanovan , that’s where I’ve found it.”
This column is all about shedding light on the stories that shape the Villanova community and the many ways love is shared within it. Unbeknownst to you, this very paper is one of those expressions of love. I hope you feel the passion and teamwork and laughter that go into this newspaper every week. We loved making it almost as much as you are no doubt enjoying reading it. Now, go on. Turn to the next page.
The Villanovan 2025 editorial staff. Cat Coyle/Villanovan Photography
The Villanova Belles: Changing The Musical Landscape
Korin Kohen Staff Writer
A new harmony is emerging in Villanova’s performing arts scene with the introduction of the Villanova Belles, a new all-women treble a cappella group founded by sophomores Katie Koslow and Maya Harner.
Officially recognized this November, the Belles aim to create not just another ensemble, but also a creative space rooted in sisterhood, collaboration and musical opportunity at a time when interest in a cappella is skyrocketing across campus. Auditions and callbacks were held this past weekend in the Mullen Center, where the founders were met with an overwhelming number of students who showed up to be part of the group’s debut season.
For Koslow, who has been involved in music for as long as she can remember, witnessing such enthusiasm affirmed the purpose behind forming the Belles. She grew up singing in choir, performing in theatre and dance, so continuing this creative chapter at Villanova felt essential.
“A huge reason I came here was because of how extensive the arts program is,” Koslow said. “I love the fun that a cappella groups have, as well, you are both the instruments and the voices.”
Harner shared a similar experience. With a background in band and choir, she knew she wanted to remain deeply involved during college. In fact, Koslow and Harner met
Kate Koslow Staff Writer
“I know what it’s like to feel… different.”
“But I’m not different. Am I?”
“We all are. Him especially. But there’s something kind of fantastic about that, isn’t there.”
It’s clever, eye-catching, hilarious and surprisingly emotional: Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox. Adapted from Roald Dahl’s novel and released in 2009, it is one of a kind. This movie, perhaps one of Anderson’s best, follows a remarkable family of foxes with the striking lead, Mr. Fox, in the center of it all. Though animated, this movie isn’t simply for kids. In fact, it may invoke a special feeling in its older viewers: the strange and beautiful nostalgia of growing up.
The movie’s most obvious appeal is its cinematography, by Tristan Oliver. Undeniably a product of Wes Anderson’s style, this film’s animation is marked by its unique color palette, playful camera movement and, of course, the classic Anderson symmetry. The yellow, orange and brown hues form a cozy, autumnal world, using contrasting colors like cool blues to mark tension or mischief. This, coupled with the symmetry and camera motion, guides the viewers’ eyes in the most satisfying way, forming a story that is infinitely pleasurable to watch. Finally, the stop-motion animation is evidence of the passion and craftsmanship behind the movie.
The iconic aesthetic of Fantastic Mr. Fox is something that viewers will wish to take with them for the rest
through their involvement in Villanova Student Musical Theatre and the Villanova Voices, where they quickly discovered their aligned goals for the future of the campus’ performing arts community.
As the two began discussing the logistics of starting a group, they realized how limited much of Villanova’s a cappella landscape was. Many existing ensembles only contain around 15 members, and with there previously only being eight groups, hundreds of auditioners were competing for a very small number of openings each year. Acceptance rates were extremely low, leaving accomplished singers without a place to perform despite their dedication.
“With the student body increasing by around 1,000, we knew
there had to be more room for people who want to pursue music,” Harner said. “We officially sought out our choral advisor, Christine Nass, who helped us figure out the entire process.”
This was a turning point, and it transformed their concept from a hopeful conversation into a concrete plan.
“It was a scary thing at first to see if the Performing Arts Board would approve it, but they agreed and thought it would be a beneficial addition,” Koslow said.
Soon after, they started designing posters, creating an Instagram and spreading the word with mutual friends who they thought would be interested in auditioning. They had far more engagement than they had
Reel Talk: Fantastic Mr. Fox
of their lives. The music creates the perfect soundtrack for fall, ranging from joyful classics with the Beach Boys, such as “Heroes and Villains,” to quirky and whimsical instrumentals by Alexandre Desplat, such as “Mr. Fox in the Fields.” Whether listeners are studying by a fire or taking a stroll down the street, the soundtrack is bound to make them feel like they are about to go on an adventure.
The characters in this film are what really leave an everlasting effect on its viewers. The roles range from foxes to badgers to mice and even include an evil rat. Mr. Fox is voiced by George Clooney, his wife, Mrs. Fox, by Meryl Streep and their child, Ash, by Jason Schwartzman. Other memorable voices include those of Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe, Owen Wilson and Michael Gambon.
Mr. Fox, though fantastic, is undeniably flawed. Going through a midlife crisis, he chases his past life of danger to relive the glory days, ignoring his responsibility to his family and ultimately leading his whole community of woodland creatures into a dangerous predicament. Nonetheless, his character is clever, a shining leader to those around him and a fox that trots with an earned confidence, not to be mistaken for arrogance. Mrs. Fox, who matches his charisma, attempts to reel in her husband’s mischief. Every line she says could be sewn on a pillow, as she acts as a voice of reason for her family. She is fierce, creative, kind and spirited, the perfect balance to her partner. Ash, their son, is the classic pubescent teenager: angsty, awkward, insecure and grumpy. Living in the shadow
anticipated.
They explained that though the Belles do not have a defined niche yet, they are excited to explore a blend of pop and alternative-rock influences while allowing the group’s original sound to evolve naturally.
“We want this to be a space where our members can express themselves freely and all contribute to what we represent as a whole,” Harner said, summing up the group’s mission statement.
Naturally, a project of this significance comes with challenges. They had no pre-existing arrangements, no performance history and no blend group to work from.
“Since we didn’t have a sound yet, we had to trust our instincts and imagine how voices would fit together,” Koslow said.
They also now face the task of choosing and arranging repertoire for Villanova’s famous annual A Cappella Palooza in the spring. Most ensembles have had several songs selected by this point in the year, but the Belles must build from scratch. It is intimidating but only continues to motivate Koslow and Harner.
Despite these hurdles, the hard work has deepened their commitment to the group and solidified their vision.
They hope that the Belles will offer a welcoming environment where students can grow musically and personally. With passion and a full roster of new voices, the Villanova Belles are stitching together a sound that didn’t exist until now.
of his father, he feels like an outsider, uncomfortable in his own fur. These traits are only emphasized when Kristofferson, his perfect cousin, moves in with the family. Kristofferson is quietly dignified, athletically gifted in WhackBat and a fan of meditation, something that humorously seems to push Ash over the edge.
Ironically, the antagonists in the film are the humans, specifically chicken farmer Boggis, duck and goose farmer Bunce and turkey and apple farmer Bean. The three are depicted as greedy, conniving and absolutely obsessed with the impossible task of outsmarting Mr. Fox. Their foolishness and mean nature, compared to the amiability of the animals, has all viewers rooting against their own kind and rightfully so.
The plot is filled with ad-
venture, loss, redemption and epic action scenes. It is marked by everything from memorable one-liners to touching monologues. Although the story may be a bit outrageous, it feels applicable to every stage of life. This movie can be watched time and time again, and as New York Times writer A.O. Scott wonderfully remarked, “There are some children – some people – who will embrace it with a special, strange intensity, as if it had been made for them alone.”
If viewers take away one thing, it’s this: live with style, embrace wild flaws and trust the people who will follow you through every tunnel. Fantastic Mr. Fox is more than a story, it is a reminder that wonder doesn’t disappear with age, but it just changes shape. Take the ride, and savor every peculiar and lovely moment.
The inaugural class of the Belles celebrated following their audition process. Courtesy of @villanovabelles on Instagram
Watch Fantastic Mr. Fox on a cold night for a cozy, nostalgic experience. Kate Koslow/Villanovan Photography
Lauren Armstrong Associate EIC
Dear The Villanovan,
My entire life there have always been two constants that have helped keep me grounded and shape who I am today: writing and listening to music. There are endless songs I associate with the different chapters of my life, from the highs to the lows. Songs like “You’re Gonna Go Far” by Noah Kahan remind me of studying abroad between sophomore and junior year, and “Beautiful Day” by U2 reminds me of driving in the car with my parents as a kid. Yet, there is one distinct song that comes to mind today as I write this article: “For Good” from the Broadway musical Wicked
There are many reasons this song resonates with me. Of course, “Wicked: For Good” is the movie everyone is talking about right now, but more importantly, this song shares the story of finding friendships in the most unexpected corners of your life.
“I’ve heard it said / that people come into our lives / for a reason / bringing something we must learn.”
These lyrics, sung in the very beginning of the song, encapsulate how I have felt serving on the editorial board of The Villanovan for the past two years. As I entered the office for the first time as a freshman for the news and sports section meetings, I had no clue these walls would become the place on campus where I could be fully myself.
Letters From Lauren: For Good
There is a saying that it is the people who make the place. That is what happens at The Villanovan. These editors and staff writers are the people who make Villanova a home. Their smartness and quick wit, mixed with incredible writing skills and passion drive me to be a better version of myself.
“Because I knew you / I have been changed for good.”
These individuals have grown to be more than just my co-editors. They have grown into my best friends. After all, special bonds are built with people when you spend endless hours every Tuesday night with them, working on one common goal. It would be remiss if I did not give two incredibly
special thank yous in this edition to my Editors-in-Chief, Brooke Ackerman and Nicole Liddicoat.
Brooke has been a part of this paper since she literally stepped foot onto this campus. When I first started writing in the sports section my freshman year, she was the editor in the center of the room who assigned me the men’s tennis beat. However, over this past year of working with Brooke and getting to know her more on a personal level, I can say I am leaving this editorial staff with one of the most genuine and thoughtful friends I have ever had the opportunity to know. There are few people who you can trust to always be truthful with you and that will help grow you into
a better version of yourself. Brooke is that kind of friend, the type of friend everyone deserves, and I am lucky to have her, herself, as mine.
Nicole and I stepped into editorial roles at the same time, serving as two of the Co-News editors in 2024. Having never really known each other prior to this experience, Nicole showed every week why she was the perfect fit for this role. Not only is she incredibly smart and detail-oriented, she is passionate about her work and her relationships with everyone in the room. Nicole is the type of person who makes it worth it to wake up at 6 a.m. to go for a walk off campus, the type of friend who always knows the right thing to say and creates a friendship you know is special. I mean, I could not have asked for a better News One to my News Two.
I think I speak for more than just myself when I say how lucky this staff has been to work under you two and to witness the love and dedication you put both into this paper and into cultivating a special bond with every editor that walks through the door.
Two years ago I walked into The Villanovan’s office in the basement of Corr Hall as a section editor for the first time. Hands slightly shaky, I did not know what to expect. As I prepare to walk out these doors for the last time as an editor I can say that I have been changed, for good, by the editors I have shared these walls with for the past four semesters.
With love always, Lauren
The Room Where It Happens: Peace Talks; Power Moves
Hudson Zivic Staff Writer
The phrase “history repeats itself” is widely known and often used for various reasons.
It highlights recurring patterns in human behavior, societal trends and historical or political events.
That’s where Hamilton: An American Musical comes in. The comparison for this analysis: is history really repeating itself?
By examining a quote from the musical alongside a contemporary political story, we can explore whether the ideals, conflicts and ambitions that shaped the early republic are echoing in current events, or if what appears familiar is simply history’s rhyming, not its repetition.
As we watch global events unfold, especially around the war in Ukraine and a new foreign policy shift from President Donald Trump’s administration, the lyrics “Did your friends attempt to negotiate a peace?” followed up by “He refused to apologize / We had to let the peace talks cease,” captures the tension between diplomacy and pride, and the role of negotiations in continued conflict.
It also leads to the question: are world leaders seeking peace or leveraging peace talks to reshape power?
This past week, the Trump administration released a new 2025 United States National Security Strategy (NSS). With it came a
declaration that ending the war in Ukraine is now officially a “core” U.S. interest.
Under this new doctrine, the United States appears to be shifting away from decades-old assumptions of global leadership. The NSS reprioritizes U.S. foreign policy under the ideal of pragmatic self-interest, power, prosperity and national security.
Defining democracy promotion and traditional alliances as no longer primary, and instead placing the focus on strategic advantage, stability with Russia and reshaping Europe’s geopolitical role.
This pivot has echoed across Europe, where many view the new stance as a betrayal of shared values. For allies who invested heavily in supporting Ukraine, both militarily and ethically, the strategy raises concerns about a weakening of collective resolve.
Yet, with this shift came renewed efforts at peace as U.S. envoys have reopened talks with Ukrainian officials to chart a framework for ending the war. In Hamilton terms, the demands were made and now the question is, will parties “attempt to negotiate a peace,” or will pride and realpolitik end discussion.
According to Ukrainian and U.S. officials, diplomatic efforts are now underway and any lasting peace deal hinges on Russia’s willingness to commit to de-escalation and long-term security guarantees. Simultaneously,
the battlefield still remains active. In the eastern city Pokrovsk, Russian forces recently claimed full control, a claim that Ukraine rejected, asserting its troops still hold parts of the city.
This tension, between negotiations on one side and continued fighting on the other, spotlights the stakes of communication. Peace talks might be underway, but when guns keep firing and territory remains contested, it’s hard to believe the talks are more than a pause, not a promise.
Critics of the U.S. strategy warn that the proposed peace framework is flawed as the document is fragmented, with “loose ends” and a potential bias in favor
of Russia. Many see it less as a genuine settlement and more as a starting point, or worse, a concession disguised as diplomacy.
In Hamilton , when peace talks failed, duels followed. In ours, when diplomacy lacks sincerity or leverage, conflict has been seen to continue.
Whether the current talks become the foundation of real peace, or simply the next verse in history’s rhyming, comes down to how leaders respond to the challenge that Hamilton ’s lyrics represent.
“Did your friends attempt to negotiate a peace?” is more than a line, it’s a test of whether action can match the promises.
The outgoing EIC team has made unparalleled contributions to The Villanovan Graydon Paul/Villanovan Photography
The true intentions of the peace talks happening out of D.C. have to be seen to be believed. Emma Cote/Villanovan Photography
VillaVogue: A Brisk November In Europe
Ciara Dursee Co-Digital Editor
Fall in Europe was iconic from a fashion standpoint. Blue jeans, light sweaters and buttoned jackets. Then, November hit. I went from tolerating the breeze on a morning stroll to purchasing a necessary scarf at the Christmas Market around the corner from my apartment. I’m sure the weather in Bryn Mawr took a similar piercing turn, making walks to Falvey feel endless.
Don’t let the seasonal depression sink in, ease through it with me. The winter months allow for trendsetting creativity, curating a graceful, comfortable style. There is truly nothing better than layers, leather, knitwear and heavy sweaters.
My experience this November might have looked different than most students, but it gave me a new perspective on varying trends, unique looks and fascinating style choices.
Throughout the month of November and into early December, I jumped to a handful of lovely countries and witnessed the fashion choices they had to offer during the change of the seasons.
Let’s discuss.
London, England
My first time in the UK, and let’s just say, it did not disappoint. Fashion is ever-changing, with new trends flowing in and onto the next. The people of London hold chime into creative and sophisticated charm
simultaneously. The street style is put-together, yet daring, suitable for walking more than 10K steps a day in the large working city. The modern vibe revealed a similar style to New York City locals: cutting edge and well-composed.
Of all the innovative wardrobes I witnessed from Notting Hill to Soho, a reoccurring favorite had to be the skirt and tights combination. Paired with any light sweater and perhaps a scarf, this outfit is a consistent, endearing choice that continued to pop up.
Dublin, Ireland I ventured to East Ireland towards the middle of the month,
when the weather lives up to the chilly, dreary and rainy stereotype. To keep it simple, prioritize staying warm and dry, over looking couture. Even still, the classic mom-jean and chunky sweater look dominated the weekend.
I wouldn’t say Dublin is the city to go for fashion expertise when compared with Paris or Milan, however, there is something effortlessly appealing about a cozy and cute style and the classic look became my friends’ and I’s attire the entire weekend.
Prague, Czech Republic
The shock to the human body when stepping into Prague in late November is unforgettable. The cold
air was sharp and bitter, 20 degrees lower than my usual expectations in my homebase, Florence. I was unprepared for this type of chill, leaving me to inspect the locals who came ready to face the cold. Picture thermal layers, long wool coats, thick scarfs and mittens to match. I was never one to wear mittens and a scarf on a daily basis, but that has changed for the better. This pairing doubles as cute winter accessories and tools for warmth.
Paris, France
Okay, yes, I did go back to Paris in late November. Parisian style simply does not waver.
Rather than a prevailing curated ensemble, I’d say the color palette is what makes it prominent. The neutral shades of trousers to turtlenecks keep Parisians classy and chic. The air may be cooler, but the effortless ambiance lives on.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Absolute Swiss bliss to finish off my travel experience. It was a dream to be surrounded by the snowy mountains we peeked at through a small window on our flights to Italy. The crisp air and frosty wind truly lived up to our expectations.
While fashion in this location seemed dictated by weather conditions, the locals fail to lose their alpine charm. Picture knit accessories, fur coats, leather gloves and bushy scarves. Zermatt style blended rustic elegance with supreme comfort. Absolutely delightful.
The winter styles of European cities inspire cozy, chic outfits everywhere. Ciara Dursee/Villanovan Photography
The Free Store’s New Bike-Sharing Program
Dennis Le Staff Writer
Following the Wildcat Thrift’s success last month, Villanova’s Free Store, another major initiative of the Student Sustainability Committee (SSC) and the Sustainability Office, launched a free bike-sharing program, through which students, staff and faculty members can rent a bike, free of cost, for the duration of a semester.
Students walking down the pathway between Falvey and Mendel might observe 20-something numbered bicycles parked right outside the Idea Lab without anyone ever touching them. One might assume them to be broken and abandoned, but in fact these bikes are actually recycled bikes that have been left behind by generations of graduated Villanova students and are fully functional and safe to be used again.
Nova Bike Share is designed for students, as well as staff and faculty members, with regular biking needs with the hope of making getting around campus and daily commuting easy for those living on and off campus.
Students interested in renting a bike can rent for the semester. The bikes come with their own locks and keys, as well as regular maintenance by the Free Store staff. Proof of a helmet is a requirement to participate in the program.
The idea for a bike share program is actually not new. Villanova has had a similar sort of initiative
on campus before, but the program dwindled and has just recently been brought back to life.
“We had a bike program, a number of years ago, where people could borrow a bike for a semester or a whole academic year, and they would just return it [at the end]” said graduate student Aldo Pierini, who helps to run the Free Store. “But then the person running [the program] left the University, the program went away and we have connected all the dots and have been working towards bringing it back.”
The earliest form of the Free Store, as we know it today, originated as a grad students’ clothes-sharing closet in a humble Vasey Hall office.
Over time, as more donations of diverse items came in and the need to expand arose, the Office of Sustainability worked with Facilities to move the space to Falvey basement in the Summer of 2024, giving birth to the much-loved Free Store. Since then, the Free Store has hosted events and initiatives to attract students and community members to donate and reuse clothes, shoes, office supplies or even Christmas decorations. The bike share program is its most recent project. Throughout the years, graduating Villanova students left behind their bicycles after they left the University, with many of these bikes’ fate being uncertain as they congregated
in the storage barn on West Campus. The Free Store and its staff members have put in the work to make sure these bikes have the chance to be revitalized in the hands of current Villanova members.
The launch of the bike share program was intended to be somewhat of a soft launch as the Store is gearing up for its full launch in the Spring Semester, with more aggressive marketing and promotional strategies to increase campus exposure and students’ awareness.
Besides fixing the bikes, the Free Store staff is busy organizing donation items and creating spaces where diverse groups of students can engage and participate in building a community-led thrift store.
The store also packs clothes and other items which are then donated to shelters, churches and other non-profit organizations.
“For Day of Service, we had Best Buddies come in to help move through all the apparel that we have. … things like towels, bedsheets, underwear and socks,” senior and Free Store employee Vicky Hoy said. “Homeless shelters are in big need of these things, and we had just been giving it to pet shelters. This would be arguably a better use for [the items].”
Ultimately, the people involved in the Free Store and Villanova Office of Sustainability aim to create a campus-wide “Library of Things,” where students, staff and faculty can borrow and return shared items, promoting a culture of sustainable living and mindful consumption.
The Free Store and the new Bike Share program are located in the basement of Falvey. Ryan Sarbello/Villanovan Photography
SPORTS
Men’s Basketball Picked Apart By No. 2 Michgan, 89-61
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
On Tuesday, Dec. 9, Villanova men’s basketball suffered an eye-opening 89-61 defeat to No. 2 University of Michigan at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, MI.
Villanova (7-2) was unable to find any solutions for the No. 1-ranked defense in the country, finishing with a season-low 61 points. Michigan (9-0) held Villanova to 23 points in the first half. The Wildcats finished the game, shooting 33.9% and 27% from beyond the arc. The Wolverines scored 46 points in the paint and shot 47.8% (33-69) from the field.
“Everyone talks about their offense,” Villanova coach Kevin Willard said. “But everything is predicated off their defense. They use the length well. They switch great. They pretty much have two rim protectors at all times.”
The Wildcats were outrebounded for the first time this season, 53-33, a season high for Michigan. Villanova senior forward Duke Brennan was held to a season-low six rebounds (three offensive).
Villanova totaled a season-high 21 fouls, compared to Michigan’s 12 Michigan also won the assist battle, 17-6.
In the first five minutes, Michigan jumped out to a double-digit lead while Villanova
could not find any offensive rhythm. Michigan junior Elliot Cadeau poured in 15 first-half
points, aiding a 14-2 Wolverine run. Despite the inefficient first
half, Villanova graduate guard Devin Askew led the team offensively, shooting 4-for-10 from beyond the arc. Coming off a 17-point performance in the team’s Big 5 Championship win, Askew finished the first half with 15 of Villanova’s 23 first-half points. He went on to finish the night with 18 points, shooting 5-for-13 on three-pointers.
Askew is now averaging 9.9 points per game off the bench.
Only three other Wildcats scored in the first half, while Michigan had nine different scorers. Michigan entered halftime with a dominant 53-23 lead over Villanova.
In the second half, Michigan opted to play its bench for most of it. The Wolverines had 10 different scorers in the back half of the game. No scorer had double digits.
After trailing by 30 points at the half, Villanova’s chances of a comeback were slim to none. Freshman guard Chris Jeffrey scored a career-high 12 points in the second half, shooting 5-for-6 from the field.
Michigan sophomore forward Morez Johnson Jr. led Michigan with 10 rebounds.
Villanova now will return home to host the University of Pittsburgh (5-5) on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Finneran Pavilion (4:30 p.m., truTV/TNT). Pitt has won the last six meetings and narrowly leads the all-time series, 32-33.
Women’s Basketball Wins Big 5 Championship
Casey Healey Staff Writer
On Sunday, Dec. 7, Villanova women’s basketball (8-2) claimed its first Big 5 Classic championship as it defeated Saint Joseph’s University (63), 63-70, at the Finneran Pavilion.
In the inaugural women’s Big 5 Classic, also hosted on Villanova’s home court, the Wildcats fell to Temple in the championship game last season.
Villanova has won its last four matchups against St. Joe’s. The Wildcats faced the Hawks twice last year, ending their season with a 62-60 win during the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) second round on March 23, 2025.
The victory over the local rival marked the sixth win in a row for Villanova.
“Three games in seven days, with everyone having great momentum and great results behind them,” head coach Denise Dillon said. “I’m just super proud of this young group.”
Redshirt sophomore forward Brynn McCurry led the charge for Villanova, tying her career high with 21 points. She shot 6-of-11 from the field, 3-of-3 from the three point line and 6-of-6 from the foul line. McCurry was also named Most Valuable Player of the championship game.
“I wouldn’t be able to do that without my team,” McCurry said. “I think everyone else talking with me
and being able to create for others is what makes us so successful.”
Sophomore guard Jasmine Bascoe netted 13 points, five rebounds and five assists. Junior guard Kelsey Joens scored 13 points, with nine of them being three pointers. Graduate forward Denae Carter led the team with eight rebounds and was the fourth Wildcat to score in double figures, with 10.
Freshman forward Brooke Bender added nine points off the bench as she shot a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc.
Joens opened up the game for the Wildcats, sinking a three-pointer and two foul shots. St. Joe’s took an 8-7 lead midway through the first quarter. The Hawks held onto the early momentum, and ended the first quarter holding a slight, 19-16, advantage.
Villanova regained the lead in the beginning of the second period
with Carter’s first bucket of the night. The Wildcats then went on an 8-0 scoring run. Villanova reached an 11-point lead, its largest of the game, with a three-pointer from senior guard Ryanne Allen with just under two minutes left until halftime.
Trailing for most of the second quarter, St. Joe’s began to fight back. The Hawks sank back-to-back three pointers with a minute remaining in the half to cut Villanova’s lead to just three points. The Wildcats were up just 35-32 heading into the locker room.
St. Joe’s remained close behind throughout the third quarter. Midway through, Villanova took a six-point lead in a quick scoring spurt.
In the final 30 seconds of the quarter, St. Joe’s cut the lead back to 55-52 before McCurry drained two foul shots to put Villanova up by five. The ‘Cats ended the third period with a 57-52 advantage.
Villanova maintained a close lead in the fourth. Midway through the period, St. Joe’s junior guard Gabby Casey sank a three to put the Hawks within two.
But Bender contributed a well-timed three-pointer, along with a jumper from Bascoe, to give Villanova a 70-63 lead with two minutes and 27 seconds left. They went 3-for-4 from the foul line to secure the victory.
“These [Big 5] games are always gritty, they’re tough,” Dillon said. “The coaches know each other so well, so they understand what the system and style is.”
Villanova shot 25-of-60 from the field (41.7%), 13-of-24 from threepoint range (54.2%) and 13-of-16 from the foul line (81.3%) across the game.
St. Joe’s was led in scoring by sophomore guard Rhian Stokes, who scored a game-high 23 points. Casey followed behind with 19 points on the night.
Villanova had a clean sweep in the 2025 Big 5 Classic, after the men’s basketball team emerged victorious over the University of Pennsylvania, 90-63, on Saturday night.
“It was a great weekend for Villanova,” Dillon said. “[The men’s team] looked really good. I’m excited for what they’re doing.”
Villanova began conference play earlier this week, defeating Georgetown, 76-69. The Wildcats will return to action on Dec. 19, hosting Seton Hall (7 p.m., ESPN+).
Professors in the College of Liberal Arts collaborate over DEI course ideas. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Brynn McCurry led Villanova with 21 points and earned the Big 5 MVP. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Track & Field Kicks Off Indoor Season
Sammie McKee Staff Writer
Continued from p.1
performance gives him the fifth-fastest time ever recorded for the men’s collegiate indoor 5,000 meters, and marks his fourth 5,000 meters time below 13:15.
The school record was previously held and set last year by 2025 Villanova graduate Liam Murphy and stood for 45 years prior.
“When you run 13:05, have a personal best, and set a school record, that reveals a lot,” O’Sullivan said. “The fact that you’re not seventh or eighth down the field after taking off some time reveals to me that there’s a lot more to come.”
Langon was one of a group of Wildcats on the men’s and women’s teams to start the season in Boston. Another group competed at the Penn Opener in Philadelphia, PA.
Additionally, two Wildcats, along with Murphy, headed to the west coast to compete at the USATF Cross Country Championship in Portland, OR.
Also running the indoor 5K, junior CJ Sullivan, set a PR, finishing in 13:49.15. Other Wildcats at the event for the men’s team included junior Nick Sullivan, as well as sophomores Charlie Moore and Jack Fenlon, who both
Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist
In early October, redshirt sophomore Brynn McCurry tore her UCL in her elbow just three weeks before the season started.
Flash forward to Dec. 8, and the 6’1” forward was named the Big East Player of the Week after tying her career high of 21 points in the Big Five Classic Championship.
On Saturday at the Finneran Pavillion, McCurry was also named the Mel Greenberg MVP of the Big Five Women’s Classic, where Villanova achieved a 76-70 victory over Saint Joseph’s University.
“I’m just grateful that I’m able to play right now, just get through the season,” McCurry said postgame.
After undergoing Tommy John surgery on her right elbow, McCurry had to enter an extensive recovery process. She was sidelined for her sophomore season due to an ACL tear and did not want to sit out an entire season again. After careful deliberations with her physical therapist and her sports medicine and coaching staff, it was decided that the best alternative for McCurry to play was with a large brace, limiting the motion of her arm and subsequently her shot release. McCurry called her new look on the court “bionic,” as the black braces on her left arm and left knee make her stand out amongst her team -
ran their first indoor events as Wildcats.
On the women’s side, junior Tilly O’Connor recorded a personal record in the indoor 5K. Her time of 15:56.27 made her the 11th Wildcat to break 16 minutes in the event for Villanova’s women’s track.
Graduate student Margaret Caroll and senior Amelia Arietta also recorded personal records in the event, finishing in times of 16:01.51 and 16:37.67, respectively.
Graduate student Nikki Vanasse and Rosie Shay competed in the 3K of the meet. Vanassee finished eighth of 100 runners and recorded a lifetime PR of 9:13.28. Shay finished the event with a time of 9:26.61.
On the other side of the country, in Portland, OR, Villanova freshmen Ryan Schmitt and Maeve Smith competed in men’s and women’s U20 races.
Schmitt finished the U20 Men’s 8K with a time of 26:32.9, placing 16th in the event. Smith finished the U20 Women’s 6K in 22:52.8, placing seventh.
Schmidt and Smith were joined in Portland by Murphy.
Running for Swoosh TC, Murphy finished the Open Men’s 10K with a time of 29:59.4, finishing seventh in the event.
Back in the northeast, the men’s and women’s teams traveled to Philadelphia for the Penn Opener.
On the men’s side, sophomore thrower Joe D’Adamo finished in fifth place, throwing a personal record of 14.47 meters. Additionally, senior Liam Anderson set a personal record in the shot put with a distance of 14.23 meters.
On the women’s side, graduate student Lizzie Martell recorded a personal record in the 1000 meters. She placed second in the race with a time of 2:46.70.
“Considering that it’s the tail end of the cross country season, we look at this team knowing that they’re in great shape,” O’Sullivan said. “They’ve done all the work this fall season, so now we give them a week off, and when they come back, then we’ll rebuild for the indoor season.”
Both the men’s and women’s teams are set to compete in the new year at the Penn Select on Saturday, Jan. 10 at Penn.
Wildcat Watch: Bionic Brynn
mates.
“I just can’t straighten [my arm] all the way, but, I mean, I kind of adjusted that with my shot,” McCurry said. “It took some time at first, but just like my knee brace, when you first learn to run with the brace, you feel like a baby giraffe.”
Through difficult practices and therapy sessions, McCurry was able to re-learn her shot technique despite the added obstacle. McCurry stayed determined to keep pushing, until the arm brace has not limited her abilities on the court.
Since the beginning of the season, McCurry has averaged 12.9 points per game. However, in the past six games, her average has leveled up to 18.5 points per game.
On Nov. 16, at James Mad -
WEEKLY SCOREBOARD
Dec. 3 - Dec. 9
Thursday, December 4
Women’s Basketball @ Georgetown 76-69 W
Saturday, December 6
Football @ No. 5 Lehigh 14-7 W
Men’s Basketball vs. Penn 90-63 W
Men’s XC @ USATF
No Team Scoring
Women’s XC @ USATF
No Team Scoring
Women’s Track & Field @ Penn Opener
No Team Scoring
Men’s Track & Field @ Penn Opener
No Team Scoring
Women’s Track & Field @ Sharon Colyear-Danville
No Team Scoring
Men’s Track & Field @ Sharon Colyear-Danville
No Team Scoring
Sunday, December 7
Women’s Basketball vs. St. Joe’s 76-70 W
Tuesday, December 9
Men’s Basketball @ No. 2 Michigan 89-61 L
ison University, McCurry’s game gained momentum with a career-high of 18 points. Now scoring 21 points in the upset win over No. 25 West Virginia and against Saint Joseph’s, “bionic Brynn” is only gaining power.
“She’s a consistent worker, and she understands the game so well,” head coach Denise Dillon said. “She knows what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and [I’m] just super proud of her. Just her resilience is amazing, and she’s getting results that are working in favor of this team’s success.”
Prior to her arrival at Villanova, McCurry attended Sparta High School in her hometown in Sussex County, NJ. At Sparta, McCurry was a triple-threat athlete, competing in volleyball, basketball and track and field as a javelin thrower. During her junior year
of high school, McCurry not only won the New Jersey State Championship for basketball, but also volleyball in the fall and track and field in the spring.
Throughout her basketball journey, McCurry has continued to battle through severe injuries. But she said that her positive outlook and rich support system have helped her persevere.
Misfortune first struck during her senior year of high school, when McCurry suffered an ACL tear and could not play any sports for six months.
McCurry’s dedication to basketball started at four years old at Upward Sports, a Christian youth sports league. She moved her talents to an AAU league with the New Jersey Magic. From there, McCurry joined United in middle school, gaining recognition in large tournaments like Nike and Run for the Roses.
“I wouldn’t be able to do that without my team,” McCurry said. “I think a lot of our ball movement is very in the flow, and I think everyone else talking and being able to create for others is what makes us so successful.”
At the Big 5 Classic championship on Sunday night, McCurry shot a perfect 3-for-3 from behind the arc.
“It’s great to have Brynn on the floor,” Dillon said. “She has so many ways of impacting the game, and sadly, you know, got that knee injury early and missed all of last year, but she picked up right where she had left off.”
Brynn McCurry poured in 21 points to lift Villanova to the Big 5 title. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Marco Langon dove at the line in a photo finish. Courtesy of Villanova Athletics
Opinion: Philadelphia Big 5 Needs To Stay
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
On Saturday, Dec. 6, fans slowly trickled into the half-empty bottom bowl of Xfinity Mobile Arena to watch Villanova men’s basketball take on the University of Pennsylvania in the Big 5 Classic championship game.
Villanova students stretched from behind the basket all the way to the main concourse on its side. It was certainly the biggest crowd of the six teams — Villanova, Temple, St. Joe’s, Penn, La Salle and Drexel — that make up the tournament.
The occasional rollouts that have become an iconic part of the Big 5 lacked any substance, creativity or originality.
“It clearly isn’t 2016 anymore,” one Penn rollout read.
What happened in 2018…?
The Big 5 no longer looks or feels anything like it once did.
While Villanova did its part to keep the Big 5 alive this past weekend, it still has plenty of room to do more to sustain the Philadelphia college basketball rivalry. Villanova head coach Kevin Willard briefly expressed his thoughts on the state of the Big 5 in September, and while he said it was not going to go away, he did not necessarily praise it either. The biggest issue for Willard was financial.
“When you spend $6 million
on a roster, revenue is really important,” Willard said on “The Sideline” with Andy Katz when asked about the Big 5.
Willard’s worries are legitimate. The Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) era has changed the college landscape for better or worse. However, Villanova needs to work on reviving the Big 5 to a place where fans still reminisce, rather than moving away from it.
Willard’s thoughts on the Big 5 do not differ too much from former Villanova coach Rollie Massimino. At the start of the 1986-87 season, Massimino notably turned the Big 5 City Series on its head by moving the team’s games from the Palestra to campus on the Main Line.
It was just months after Villanova captured its first NCAA national title, and that was not a coincidence. It made the Big 5 a shell of its former self.
Before Villanova raised the trophy in 1985, the Big 5 was a vital part of the program’s schedule. For the 30 years leading up to the title, the Wildcats benefited greatly from the four non-conference games against their Big 5 opponents.
Once the round-robin City Series came to an end in 1991, Villanova played just two Big 5 opponents from 1991 through 1999.
While Villanova has received criticism for being the program that
wants to kill the Big 5 for good, it is currently the only program keeping it alive. Since the new Big 5 Classic triple-header round-robin tournament was introduced in 2023, attendance has declined each year. In 2023, 15,215 fans filled the then-named Wells Fargo Center. The following year dropped to 14,108, and this year plummeted to 10,361.
It goes to show the current format is not succeeding as expected. Not that many students want to travel to South Philly to watch sub-par basketball, especially since most of them are not die-hard fans in the first place. Most students just want to have a good time and watch their team win by as much as possible.
For years, the Palestra on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus in University City was consistently filled with 8,700 fans from across the five basketball programs.
The Big 5 has been a staple of Philadelphia’s basketball culture since its creation in 1955. Every season, five teams would face off against each Big 5 opponent to decide who claimed the Big 5 title. Then in 2023, the format changed to a six-team round robin tournament with the addition of Drexel University, and the location shifted to the Wells Fargo Center (now known as the Xfinity Mobile Arena).
This season, the Big 5 reshuffled its pods, separating Villanova and St. Joe’s. It was to set up the possibility
of the “Holy War” being played in the championship game, but instead, it ended a 30-year streak of the two programs playing each other.
That is why the Big 5 needs a solution to its current format. The six teams would be better off playing their games back in an arena like the Palestra, where they could easily pack in two student sections and fans. Alternatively, each team could host in their home arenas, which they currently do leading up to the triple-header. That would also help with increasing ticket prices. Bottom-bowl seats at the Xfinity Mobile Arena for this year’s Big 5 Classic ran upwards of $100 in some locations. It has made the tournament unattractive to many fans.
Addressing financial concerns would be the only way for the Big 5 to continue. Villanova sometimes spends upwards of six figures to host non-conference opponents, preparing the team for difficult Big East conference matchups. Instead, that money could be saved by hosting a Big 5 opponent in the Finneran Pavilion. Philadelphia is the only city to have five college basketball teams to represent it in a tournament. It is one of its kind. While Villanova might have done the most “harm” to the Big 5 in the past five decades, it currently has the most power to shape it into a rejuvenated tournament and rivalry across the city.
Catching Up With The ‘Cats: Farris Fakhoury (‘08)
Dylan Johnson Co-Sports Editor
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, a young girl who recently graduated from Georgetown had a stroke. Physical therapist Farris Fakhoury (‘08) took her in as his patient.
While rehabilitating from her stroke, she loved the work that Fakhoury did to help her recover. She told him he should write a book.
“I was like, I cannot write a book,” Fakhoury said. “She was the catalyst for me in taking the journey a couple of years ago and doing it. She introduced me to her professor from Georgetown, who sort of ran this program to help people pretty much write a book.”
After working through the program during the pandemic, Fakhoury published his book, The Happiness Perspective: Learning to Reframe Our Physical Trauma into Hope, Happiness and Connection, in December 2020.
Fakhoury graduated from Villanova with a degree in psychology and walked on to the men’s soccer team, where he was a captain his senior year.
He currently runs the amputee program at the Kessler Institute, a rehab hospital up in North Jersey. He works with individuals who have had life-changing injuries like stroke, brain and spinal cord injuries.
After Villanova, he graduated from Rutgers University’s three-year physical therapy school.
“Before that, the [book] was never really something on my radar that I thought I could do or wanted
to,” Fakhoury said. “But a lot of what I see on a day-to-day really was getting to me early on in my career, like the life-changing injuries. And then one thing that helped me sort of navigate that and cope with some of the stuff I was seeing was just journaling and writing things down.”
The book explores the importance of happiness in relation to traumatic life incidents, especially injuries.
“A lot of the patients I deal with, the happiest ones are not the ones who make the best recovery,” he said. “They’re really the ones with the best mindset. The whole book is all about happiness and how to find that
happiness, despite some of the challenges and obstacles that life throws at us.”
Falkhoury currently works in the outpatient setting of the Kessler Institute. He works with eight to sometimes more than1 6 patients per day.
The goal is to get patients back to normal life while adjusting to or overcoming their impairments or functional limitations.
“Sometimes I’m working on their gait training, teaching them how to walk,” Falkhoury said. “Unfortunately, the reality of a lot of the patients I work with [is that] they’re
going to have some sort of impairments a lot of times after a stroke or a brain injury. They’re not getting back to 100%. So we’re working on a variety of different things based on sort of what their needs are and what their goals are.”
Even though Falkhoury graduated from Villanova 17 years ago, he is still involved as an alumnus. Over the years, he has collaborated with Irene Kan, the chair of Villanova’s psychology department. Originally from North Jersey, Falkhoury moved to the Philadelphia area around three and a half years ago and currently resides there.
Farris Fakhoury (‘08), physical therapist and former men’s soccer captain, published his original book in 2020.
Courtesy of Farris Fakhoury
Preview: Villanova Faces Tarleton State in FCS Playoffs
Katie Lewis Co-Sports Editor
“Survive and advance” is head coach Mark Ferrante’s motto as he takes 12-seeded Villanova football into the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) quarterfinals this Saturday, Dec. 13, at No. 4 Tarleton State.
The Wildcats (11-2, 7-1 Coastal Athletic Association) did just that last Saturday, escaping No. 5 seed Lehigh with a 14-7 win on the road.
Villanova pulled together the victory in the final three minutes of play after trudging through a scoreless first half. Freshman wide receiver Braden Reed hauled in the game-winning 28-yard touchdown. During Lehigh’s final possession, graduate defensive lineman Obinna Nwobodo and senior linebacker Shane Hartzell forced and recovered a fumble in the red zone to keep Villanova’s season alive.
The transfer of energy between offense and defense has been one of Villanova’s keys to success in recent contests as it rides a 10-game winning streak. In the first round of the playoffs, Villanova trounced Harvard, 52-7, at home on Nov. 29.
The Wildcats face their most challenging test of the season yet as they travel to Stephenville, TX, to face Tarleton State (12-1, 7-1 United Athletic Conference) for the first time in program history.
Graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide leads the Villanova of-
fense, completing 61.54% of passes this season and averaging 211.08 yards per game.
McQuaide has been exceptional at protecting the football while throwing two interceptions this season. Villanova has conceded just five turnovers this season, including two lost fumbles, the least number of turnovers in the FCS.
Villanova prides itself on its run game, averaging 177.8 rushing yards per game this season. But Lehigh found ways to hold off Villanova’s running back squad, limiting it to just 27 total yards on the ground.
Since the former leading rusher, sophomore David Avit, has been sidelined with a knee injury during the playoffs, sophomore Ja’briel Mace has led the backfield. Mace averages
56.62 rushing yards per game and has scored 10 touchdowns this season.
The experienced Hartzell is the backbone of a generally young Villanova defense, as the team’s leading tackler with eight sacks this season. He had six tackles against Lehigh, while redshirt freshman linebacker Omari Bursey led the team with eight tackles.
After receiving a bye in the first round of the playoffs, Tarleton State advanced with a 31-13 victory over North Dakota last Saturday.
The Texans will bring a serious challenge to Villanova’s defense, boasting the most productive scoring offense in the FCS with 44.1 points per game. They are led by a pair of senior quarterbacks, Victor Gabalis and Daniel Greek. Gabalis took over
the North Dakota win, completing 15-of-25 passes for 292 yards and three touchdowns. He has averaged 244.27 passing yards this season, while Greek has averaged 65.92 per game.
Some of Tarleton State’s greatest strengths lie in special teams. Senior kicker Brad Larson has made 13-of-15 field goals this season. He cleared all three field goals against North Dakota for a season high. Saturday’s matchup will be Tarleton State’s first-ever FCS quarterfinal appearance.
Villanova, a regular playoff contender, reached the quarterfinals in 2023, in which it lost to top-seeded South Dakota State.
Kickoff is set for noon ET/11 a.m. CT.
Preview: Villanova Hosts University of Pittsburgh
Sammie McKee Staff Writer
On Saturday, Dec. 13, Villanova will host the University of Pittsburgh at the Finneran Pavilion for the first time since 2013 with tipoff set for 4:30 p.m. (TNT/truTV).
Pitt has won the last six consecutive meetings between the two and narrowly leads the all-time series, 33-22.
Villanova fell 89-61 to No. 2 The University of Michigan on Tuesay, Dec. 9. The Wildcats had their first test of the early season, facing their first Quad 1 team. Villanova scored just 23 points in the first half and had no answer to Michigan’s defense.
Following a 89-61 loss against No. 2 Michigan, Villanova looks to bounce back with a home win against Pitt.
Pitt heads into the matchup after losing two consecutive games in the ACC/SEC Challenge. In its most recent games against Texas A&M and Hofstra, Pitt put up 73 points in each matchup, losing both by point differentials of just under 10. The Panthers will look to add a win to their currently balanced record.
The Panthers are led by 6’10” senior forward Cameron Corhen. Coming off a 2024-25 season, in which he was named to the Academic All-ACC team, Corhen is in his second season at Pitt. He currently averages 14.0 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game.
Other dominant players
include sophomore guard Brandin Cummings and South Alabama senior forward/guard transfer Barry Dunning Jr. Like Corhen, Cummings also comes off a 2024-25 season named to the Academic AllACC team. He currently averages 13.7 points and 1.1 assists per game. In his previous season at South Alabama, Dunning Jr. was named to the First Team All-Sun Belt, played a team-high of 1,050 season minutes, and led in scoring, defensive rebounds, offensive rebounds and field goals. At Pitt, he now averages 11.4 points and 5.3 assists per game.
Head coach Jeff Capel is in his eighth season with Pitt men’s basketball, where he owns a 276-217 record. During the 2024-25 season, Capel helped the Panthers post their third consecutive winning season (1715). Prior to a winning drought in
the final two months of the 2024-25 season, Capel even led Pitt to an AP Poll ranking of No.18. Although Pitt holds the alltime series advantage, Villanova’s offensive efficiency outweighs that of the Panthers. The Wildcats average 74.0 points, 46% from the field and 39% on three-pointers per game. Pitt averages 71.8 points, 43.0% on field goals and 34.3% from beyond the arc.
The Panthers narrowly outperform Villanova in assists, with the teams averaging 12.6 and 12.4 assists per game, respectively.
Villanova head coach Kevin Willard is in his first season on the Main Line, leading the Wildcats to a (record) season. Willard will face his alma mater on Saturday, playing three seasons of basketball for Pitt under his father, former head coach
Villanova’s sole loss this season comes from the first game of the 2025-26 season against Brigham Young University.
Villanova also carries its 30th Big 5 Classic Title into the matchup after defeating the University of Pennsylvania, 90-63, on Dec. 6.
The Wildcats are currently led in scoring by redshirt sophomore guard Bryce Lindsay, who averages 18.1 points per game. Freshman point guard Acaden Lewis has been central to the offense, averaging 12.8 points per game with a team-high 46 assists this season.
Senior Duke Brennan has recorded the most rebounds per game in the nation, averaging12.9 per game. He earned Big 5 Most Valuable Player against Penn, scoring 15 points and grabbing 10 boards.
No. 12 seed Villanova will face No. 4 seed Tarleton State in the FCS quarterfinals this Saturday. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Ralph Willard.
Head coach Kevin Willard will lead the Wildcats against his alma mater, the University of Pittsburgh, on Saturday, Dec. 13. Erick Quezada/Villanovan Photography
Villanova women’s basketball celebrated winning the Big 5 Classic championship on Dec. 7.
Graduate quarterback Pat McQuaide threw for 208 yards and one touchdown at Lehigh.
Junior forward Brynn McCurry was the Big 5 MVP, scoring 21 points against Saint Joseph’s.
Villanova men’s basketball claimed the Big 5 Classic championship on Dec. 6.
Senior linebacker Shane Hartzell recorded six tackles against Lehigh on Dec. 6.
Sophomore guard Jasmine Bascoe scored 13 points against Saint Joseph’s. Senior forward Duke Brennan, the nation’s rebounding leader, grabbed 10 against Penn.
As finals come closer, I feel like I am the only person in my groups working on group projects. How can I approach my professors with this without being too overwhelming?
My biggest piece of advice would be to ask your classmates to help out more first. Finals can get overwhelming, and it can be hard to balance everything.
However, it is important to note that this is not an excuse for poor work. If your classmates do not want to step it up after this initial conversation, then I would loop in your professor.
I am a strong believer that in-person conversations are best. Reach out to your professor to meet in office hours after class and express your concerns. The best trait of Villanova professors is how they want to see their student’s succeed.
I am going abroad next semester, and I am worried that I will not be as connected with my friends when I return. What should I do?
One of the beauties of going abroad is being able to leave the drama and issues happening on campus behind, and (a)broadering your horizons.
There are plenty of ways to stay in touch from afar. Sending weekly photo dumps, sending letters and postcards or making sure you find time throughout the semester for calls and Facetimes, it will feel like you are still all together.
A lot of my friends are graduating early and I am scared that I am going to be lost next semester without them. What should I do?
I totally understand. It can be scary seeing all your friends leave and to be the only one left. Yet, it opens new doors that may have been previously closed.
This allows for the oppoutunity to not only meet new people but to try
new things.
Join a new club, find a new hobby or take some classes outside your comfort zone. This will allow for new people to come into your life, naturally.
I am feeling a bit isolated as a first semester freshman. What can I do next semester to reach out and get to know more people?
There are many ways to meet new people. The most important (of course) would be rushing The Villanovan.
On a serious note, many people will be in the same boat as you, whether they let it be known or not.
Freshman year can be hard, but it can open doors to join new clubs, explore new parts of campus and to find the communities and homes Villanova is famous for.
Go to the winter club fair, add in an extra class to your schedule and explore new corners of campus every-
day. You will find your place.
As a senior, I am starting to experience a lot of first lasts. How should I deal with these and continue to enjoy senior year without the sadness getting in the way?
I am not going to sugar-coat this, it is hard. There have been constant times where I have looked around campus and realized that there are only a few more months left.
Remember that while there are a lot of lasts, there are still a lot of firsts to experience. Your first job offer, your first grad school acceptance and your first time entering the world post college.
It is not always going to be easy but neither is life. Take it one day at the time and be present with your friends on campus. Take photos, live in the moment, spend time wth the people who make Villanova a home and make sure to stay involved throughout the last semester on campus. (Also, there are plenty more mug nights).
This is such a valid concern. One of the scary parts of going abroad is the fear of missing out with what is going on campus.
