In the hunt for victory: Men’s and Women’s UCHC Championship preview
DEI rollbacks create confusion and uncertainty for American schools
Brady Barnard, Editor-in-Chief
One of the Trump Administration’s most controversial executive orders to date has been abolishing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives from American schools and universities.
“We have ended the tyranny of so-called diversity, equity and inclusion policies all across the entire federal government and, indeed, the private sector and our military,” Trump said in his address to Congress on March 4. “And our country will be woke no longer.”
On Feb. 14, the U.S. Department of Education released a communication known as the “Dear Colleague Letter,” which interpreted the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College case. All U.S. educational institutions that receive federal funds received the letter.
Associate Professor of Political Science at Utica University Daniel Tagliarina said the letter misinterprets the Supreme Court case.
“The Dear Colleague Letter misreads and mis-represents what the one Supreme Court case it relies on is saying,” Tagliarina said. “It ignored
what the majority opinion says in that case, it said that though some practices are found to be discriminatory, there are still things you can absolutely continue to do. The letter says that’s actually wrong and you can’t do those things anymore.”
Tagliarina said the letter delivers a message saying any attempt to address past wrongs or existing inequalities will be deemed as a violation.
“As for the future of Utica, we don’t really know yet,” Tagliarina said.
A FAQ published by the Department of Education explained that the “Dear Colleague Letter” did not apply to curriculum. Taglairina said this means there should not be any course changes or changes regarding programs.
“It does raise concerns for any of our cultural organizations and any of the scholarships or programs we have that are meant to benefit historically marginalized groups, because under the reading that the government has given us, those programs are illegal,” Tagliarina said.
Tagliarina added that because the letter stated that more guidance will come, he thinks that the most viable option would be to stand firm on the school’s principles and wait for further information.
Since the release of the letter, Utica University made some changes on its website. When users try to access pages like DEI Collaborative, DEI Events or General Education, they are met with text that reads “access denied.”
“Because the situation is evolving quickly, we still must be poised to pivot as we watch several legal challenges to the ‘Dear Colleague Letter’ unfold,” Utica’s President Todd Pfannestiel said in an email to the Utica University community.
Evelyn Enriquez, a sophomore majoring in Political Science and a member of Fuerza Latina, said she has been keeping up on the topic and has been regularly talking about it to her peers.
“I read the ‘Dear Colleague Letter,’ and the way it presents people of color is heinous. DEI was made to give opportunities to those who were never given any opportunities to succeed,” Enriquez said. “I was never given opportunities to succeed until I went to a school with a DEI program.”
Enriquez also read Pfannestiel’s letter to the university community and was pleased with what he had to say.
“I am happy and proud to attend a university where the administration wants their students to feel included and have opportunities to succeed no matter the background they come from,” Enriquez said.
Staff Writer Megan Wright contributed to this story.
The Community Board in White Hall //Photo by Brady Barnard
New chapter at Career Center as the office looks for new director
Professor Profile: Klopfanstein rebounds with multiple endeavors after several setbacks
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FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025
Editor-in-Chief - Brady Barnard
Online/Social Media Editor - Syamimi Anuar
Sports Reporter - Jasaun Huff
Sports reporter - Nick Phillips
Staff Reporter - Megan Wright
Staff Photographer - Luke Reed
Ciculation Manager - Eddy Paez
Adviser - Mary Christopher
The opinions and columns expressed in The Tangerine are those of the individual writers and do not represent the views of The Tangerine or Utica University.
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Campus Safety Blotter
2/18/2025
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2/19/2025 1:55 AM Vehicle Traffic Violation Parking Lot
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New chapter at Career Center as the office looks for new director
Kyle Mitchell, Staff Writer
Utica University is in the process of filling the Director of the Center for Career Readiness position following Kailea Murray’s departure. As job candidates visit campus this week, Dr. Anthony Baird, who oversees the center, outlined plans to support students during this transition and strengthen the center’s services moving forward.
Staff changes have left the Center for Career Readiness in a state of transition. Despite these challenges, the university is seizing the opportunity to reimagine how it can better support students in their career development.
Dr. Anthony Baird, Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Utica University, has taken on the responsibility of overseeing the center during this period.
Baird, who joined the university in 2020, brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and career development. Prior to his current role, he served as Director of Corporate Programs Development at UMass Dartmouth, where he developed career readiness programs for both undergraduate and graduate students.
Baird holds a Doctorate in Education with a focus on Higher Education Leadership & Management from Johnson & Wales University and a Master of Education in Counseling from Bridgewater State University. His leadership in DEI initiatives has been instrumental in shaping a more inclusive campus climate, which he aims
to integrate into the career services offered at Utica.
“My immediate priority is ensuring that students continue to have access to essential career services while we work through this transition,” Baird said. “That means stabilizing operations, identifying key areas where we can provide immediate support, and accelerating the search process for new leadership and staff. I am committed to ensuring continuity of services and strengthening the center in a way that aligns with the evolving needs of our students.”
Despite the challenges, Baird views the transition as an opportunity to innovate. “We are assessing how to best leverage existing resources, including technology, partnerships, and collaborations with faculty and alumni, to continue offering career guidance, resume support, and networking opportunities,” he said. “Additionally, we are working diligently to fill key vacancies with individuals who will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the center.”
In the long term, Baird envisions enhancing career services to better meet student needs.
“The goal is not just to restore services but to enhance them in a way that is more responsive to student needs and the demands of the job market,” he said. “We are actively working on hiring exemplary leadership personnel, expanding employer partnerships, and exploring new models for delivering career services.”
Baird emphasized that the values of equity and access will be central to the center’s future
direction. “Equity and access are at the core of effective career readiness practice,” he said. “Moving forward, I want to ensure that all students—regardless of their background— have the tools, networks, and opportunities they need to be competitive in the job market.”
Short-term plans include maintaining core services such as resume resources, career fairs and access to the Handshake Employment Portal.
“We are also looking at expanding virtual career coaching options and leveraging alumni networks to provide mentorship and career insights,” Baird said. “While staffing transitions are ongoing, we remain committed to ensuring that students continue to receive valuable career development opportunities.”
Baird also stressed the importance of strengthening employer partnerships and internship opportunities. “We are actively working on strengthening existing employer relationships
and forging new ones, particularly in high-demand industries,” he said. “Additionally, we are looking at innovative ways to connect students with internships, including remote and hybrid work opportunities.”
As Baird oversees the department, he offered advice for the next director.
“My advice would be to stay student-centered, proactive, and adaptable,” he said. “Career services must evolve with the changing workforce, and the next director should focus on strengthening employer partnerships, leveraging technology, and ensuring equitable access to career resources. Most importantly, they should foster strong connections with students, faculty, and alumni to create a career ecosystem that supports student success beyond graduation.”
Dr. Anthony Baird //Photo from Utica.edu
Chi Beta Sigma braves the freezing elements in the fight against cancer
Nolan Hyman, Staff Writer
Over the past week, the sisters of Chi Beta Sigma hosted a Deep Freeze fundraiser against cancer.
Embracing the week’s motto, “Freezin’ for a Reason,” the sisters pitched their tents on the Strebel Back Lawn hoping to raise approximately $7,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Day and night, through the freezing temperatures, all 19 sisters worked the tables and collected donations.
“I definitely feel very proud,” said Toni Palmisano, president of Chi Beta Sigma. “I feel proud of my sisters, I feel proud to be a part of an organization that takes it to this extent to do something for a cause.”
In prior years, the fraternity Alpha Chi Rho handled the Deep Freeze fundraiser and eventually passed it down to Chi Beta Sigma. The sisters loved the idea of doing something “outrageous” for the cause, so they were “very
willing” to take it on for the first time last year, Palmisano said.
This year, Chi Beta Sigma aimed to not only attract more student engagement but also wanted to raise their goal higher than the $6,500 that they raised last year. Consequently, the sisters devised a plan to incorporate more events throughout the week.
They offered free events for students such as hot chocolate nights, snowman-building contests and snowball fights. On Friday, they hosted a candlelight vigil for those affected by cancer. The activities garnered more interaction from students, so the event got “busier and busier” every day, Palmisano said.
Planning the fundraiser, handled by one of the sorority’s committees, started months ago. From there, they began contacting businesses for donations and gathering the supplies they would need to keep safe and warm throughout the week.
When the sisters told people
about the fundraiser, they would get told they were crazy for sleeping outside in the cold for a week. However, Palmisano said it’s something her sisters looked forward to since they hosted it last year.
“I feel like this is our favorite week. Since last year, we’ve been talking about when it’s going to come around this year,” Palmisano said. “It’s definitely just a week where we get closer than we already were and spend any free second that we can
together, so it’s definitely a lot of fun.”
So far, they have raised more than $4,500, and the sorority will continue to fundraise until they reach their goal. Donations to support the cause can be made at: https://secure.acsevents.org/ site/SPageServer?pagename=relay_donate_now&FR_ ID=109857&PROXY_ TYPE=22&PROXY_ ID=2792671
Utica University prepares for Heart Run & Walk weekend
Syamimi Anuar,
Online/Social Media Editor
Utica University is preparing for one of its largest community events of the year as thousands are expected to gather on campus for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. The annual event will begin with the Heart Expo on Friday, March 7, in the Clark Athletic Center, followed by the main event on Saturday, March 8.
Shad Crowe, vice president of Emergency Management at Utica University, said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a safe and smooth experience for participants.
“We do so much here on campus to make sure everybody’s safe and secure,” Crowe said.
Crowe assured that safety is a top priority, with support from the Utica Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Department and New York State Police.
“They’re not here doing security, but they’re here, and that, in my opinion, raises the level of safety,” Crowe said.
The Heart Expo will be held at the Clark Athletic Center, where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and informational displays. On Saturday, the Heart Run & Walk will start on Cham-
plin Road, which will be temporarily closed to traffic. Additional road closures will be in place to ensure participant safety, with alternative routes provided for campus access.
As of now, Crowe said that around 650 participants have registered for the event, but that number is expected to rise in the days leading up to the walk.
“Right now, I think they’re probably... you’ll probably see between 1,000 [to] 1,200 participants actually participating in the walk,” Crowe said.
The event not only raises awareness for heart disease but also fundraises for heart research.
Last year, nearly $1 million was raised, and organizers are expecting to match or exceed that amount this year.
The Heart Run & Walk has long been a staple in the Utica community, bringing together families and friends to support loved ones affected by heart disease.
“I think, for me, the incredible way this community just shows how much it comes together. It just, I think, tells you everything you need to know about Utica,” Crowe said. “As much bad things that people say, there’s a lot of fantastic people that live here.”
Members of Chi Beta Sigma sit around the fire at their campsite //Photo by Nolan hyman
5 FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025
‘The Black Freedom Struggle for Political and Economic Justice’ presentation addresses significant Black history and culture
Megan Wright, Staff Writer
On Feb. 26, Professor Clemmie Harris of the History and African Studies program presented, in collaboration with the Center for Historical Research and the Office of DEI and Belonging, “The Black Freedom Struggle for Political and Economic Justice.”
The presentation highlighted influential events and people that impacted Black History and current culture today. It touched on the Great Migration, Civil Rights Movements, Black Power Movement and today’s struggle for diversity, equity and inclusion under the new presidential administration.
“If we decide to open up to diverse histories of people different from us, we will have a new attitude,” Harris said.
Harris started by discussing former President Woodrow Wilson’s impact on civil and human rights. Wilson not only presented a movie supporting the KKK in the White House, which normalized racist behavior, but also enacted racist policies to keep minorities lower in society to prevent discord.
Another point Harris emphasized during his presentation
was a discussion on lynching. He told the story and images of Emmett Till, who was a young boy in Mississippi who was lynched in 1955. Till’s death brought uproar and was a starting point for the Civil Rights Movement, after his mother showed the world the gruesome death that her son endured.
Later on, Harris discussed the Harlem Renaissance, which
“empowered changes in Black identity and expression.” He touched on the impacts of Rosa Parks, the Little Rock Nine, Ella Baker, Martin Luther King’s Letter from Birmingham Jail and the March on Washington.
With DEI rollbacks taking place under the new Trump administration, many considered the presentation especially relevant.
“Dr. Harris was talking about things that I knew about, but he went more in-depth and discussed history from a different perspective that I was previously unaware of,” sophomore Liv Leider said. “I found it interesting to learn about the war on drugs and the racial biases the government held against minorities.”
“While we cannot choose our color, we can choose our commitments,” Harris said.
Black History Month celebrated at Utica University
Conner Scharbach, Staff Writer
In celebration of Black History Month, Utica University hosted many February events on campus to educate and raise awareness among the university community.
The Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging strives to be collaborative in all that they do, according to DEI&B office director Kira Maddox.
“You’ll see both of our major programs are co-sponsored by other offices and groups,” Maddox said. “This not only helps increase engagement and awareness, but ensures every-
one has their eye on critical discussions and opportunities for learning. We’ve also greatly expanded our DEIB Collaborative group, growing to 105 members. The DEIB Collaborative is made up of students, faculty, and staff who meet once a month to discuss current events, upcoming DEIB-related programs, and brainstorm new ideas.”
One of the events held on campus included “Leading with Purpose: Diverse Voices in Business & Entrepreneurship” that was held on Feb. 21 and included an alumni panel discussion. This event was sponsored by the offices
of DEI&B, Advancement and organizations such as the Black Student Union and Black Alumni Association.
The Black Student Union hosted several events in honor of Black History Month, including a movie night, Black Jeopardy trivia, a scavenger hunt from Feb. 24 - 27, and a Blackout Dance Party on Feb. 28 in Strebel Lounge to close out celebrations.
Anyone interested in learning more about Black history or diversity should contact Kira Maddox at klmaddox@utica. edu.
Professor Clemmie Harris presenting //Photo by Megan Wright
PAGE 6
FEATURES
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025
Professor Profile: Klopfanstein rebounds with multiple endeavors after several setbacks
Nick Phillips, Sports Reporter
Thinking about how he can improve is a daily ritual for Ron Klopfanstein.
“I think that it’s important that I approach life each day thinking how can I personally get better and every class thinking how can these people teach me,” Klopfanstein said.
That describes Klopfanstein and his motto for his life.
While he currently indulges in a multitude of different professions such as teaching eighth grade English at John F. Kennedy Middle School, teaching Written Communication at Utica University and even recently starting a radio show and podcast called “Hot Seat: Media Monday” on 95.5
FM The Heat radio, Klopfanstein faced a number of challenges to get to this point in his career.
“I had been on TV for 10 years and I was getting my doctorate when one day it all ended,” Klopfanstein said.
“I went to the hospital and I was sick with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and I didn’t work for fourteen years and I lost absolutely everything.”
Shortly but surely, Klopfanstein started to recover.
“After 10 years, very gradually I started to get better. Now
when I say get better, I was at the point where I was so sick that I couldn’t even sit up without passing out because my body couldn’t get oxygen to my head and couldn’t pump blood,” Klopfanstein said. “My exercise was to be able to watch an entire scene that is usually only around a minute long while sitting upright. From that my next exercise was to walk for three minutes a day every other day around the house.”
Klopfanstein said he mentioned this because little by little he built himself up “from nothing” to all that he is now. That moment in his life taught him to live life with no regrets.
After 14 years of recovery, Klopfanstein got his first job since his illness at Utica University at age 48. Some of his students said Klopfanstein is a
special professor.
“He’s a warm welcome person. He’s always looking to help people,” Jairo Dejesus Jr. said. “He always takes time out of his day to help those who need it.”
Fellow student Athena Steele shared similar sentiments.
“He really cares about all of his students,” Steele said. “I think he makes the class a lot more fun and engaging.”
A year later at 49, Klopfanstein got his first job teaching high school and he became a columnist at 52. Now at 56, Klopfanstein has his own show and podcast.
His show focuses on local artists, entertainers, musicians, activists, digital creators and journalists talking about their process, motivation, inspira-
tion and passion for the art that they create and for art in the area of Utica.
When asked about advice for starting a podcast, Klopfanstein said that the most important thing is that it doesn’t matter how many people listen to your first podcast or your first 10. He said you have to do 50 to 100 episodes, do a show each week to maintain a good schedule and that it takes about a year to really see the growth.
“You pick up a few listeners as you go and it accumulates exponentially, but it takes a long time. You got to give it time,” Klopfanstein said. Klopfanstein said the biggest advice that he has to others is to live their life truthfully. For him, living his life truthfully came on “the hardest day of his life” in July of 1991 where he wrote a newspaper article coming out as gay.
“I wasn’t even out yet to most people that knew me. It was 1991 and people just didn’t really do that publicly,” he said. “I just remember that I wrote it and I knew it was the right thing to do, but that night waiting for the sunday paper to arrive was the scariest night of my life.”
Ron Klopfanstein //Photo by Nick Phillips.
7 FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025
Op-Ed: Ramadan far from home, but close to heart
Syamimi Anuar, Online/Social Media Editor
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a special and exciting time for Muslims. It is a month of fasting, prayer, charity and self-reflection. More than just refraining from food and drink from dawn to sunset, it is a time for spiritual growth, patience and kindness. Each day is an opportunity to strengthen one’s faith and make a positive impact. The month ends with Eid al-Fitr, a joyful celebration of togetherness, thankfulness and the strength to complete the fast.
Celebrating Ramadan in a different country, away from the traditions and celebrations I’m used to in Malaysia, has allowed me to see the true essence of this holy month. Back in Malaysia, Ramadan is a big deal. Everyone waits for the official announcement on TV to know when it starts, and once it does the whole country feels different. Streets are filled with food stalls at Bazar
Ramadan, where you can get all kinds of delicious food such as nasi kerabu, satay, murtabak and kuih-muih. Families and friends gather together for iftar, and mosques are packed for Taraweeh prayers. It is festive, lively and full of togetherness. Here in Utica, it feels different. There is no Bazar Ramadan, no big announcements and most people go about their day like normal. At first, it felt strange. I missed the excitement, the crowds and the feeling that the whole country was celebrating with me but I have found my own way to enjoy Ramadan here.
I live with my brother and his family, so at least I don’t have to eat iftar alone! We go to the mosque for Taraweeh prayers, which is always nice because I get to meet new people and feel a sense of belonging. On weekends, we also go for iftar, and the variety of food at the mosque is great. I love the excitement of trying meals from different cultures. What’s even better is that I have friends who
respect my faith and are genuinely excited for me during Ramadan, which makes it feel even more special.
Ramadan in Utica is different, but that’s okay. It has taught me that the holiday isn’t just about the food and atmosphere. It is about faith, patience and finding joy wherever you are. And hey, at least I don’t have to battle the crowds at Bazar Ramadan just to get my favorite food!
Also, here is a fun fact: Fasting
during the spring or late winter here is way easier than in Malaysia. The weather is cooler, so I don’t feel as thirsty as I do back home in the heat. That’s a nice bonus.
Even though I miss the Ramadan vibes in Malaysia, I have learned to appreciate the little things like the quiet moments, the kindness around me and the feeling of accomplishment after a long day of fasting. Regardless of where I am, Ramadan will always hold a special place in my heart.
Movie Review: ‘The Animal Kingdom’ raises questions about what it means to be human
Jack Miller, Staff Writer
“The Animal Kingdom,” a 2023 film directed by Thomas Cailley, was shown on Feb. 27 as part of the FILMS on Thursday Series at Utica University, organized by Communication Professor Dr. Jeff Miller.
The movie was a unique blend of science fiction and heartfelt drama. Set in a near future where a mysterious mutation is causing some humans to transform into animal-like beings, the story follows a father,
François, and his teenage son, Émile, as they struggle to adapt to this new world all while searching for Émile’s mother, who has undergone the animal transformation.
As more cases emerge, society grows more fearful and divisive, treating hybrids as dangerous beings. The film explored deep themes of identity and acceptance which are very relatable themes in today’s society. The movie highlights the challenges of embracing change in a world that often rejects
the unknown. The storytelling throughout the movie was very grabbing and it raised questions about what it truly means to be human.
Visually, the film is really amazing, with impressive special effects and stunning cinematography that brings these human animal transformations to life.
“The effects were very compelling and lifelike,” said a student after the show.
The performances from actors
Romain Duris, as François, and Paul Kircher, as Émile, added emotional depth and were overall solid performances.
The film’s pacing balanced moments of tension but I felt like it was slow at times. Other than that the movie was really good. Unlike typical sci-fi thrillers that focus on just action, “The Animal Kingdom” takes an emotional approach creating a unique experience, and leaves viewers reflecting the complexities of human nature.
Ramadan decorations at the mosque//Photo by Syamimi Anuar
In the hunt for victory: Men’s and Women’s UCHC Championship preview
Kate Gaffney, Intern
For years, Utica University has been known nationally for their men’s and women’s hockey programs. The 2024-2025 season is no exception, as the 2nd ranked men and the 14th ranked women have dominated their competition all season long.
Both teams will play in their respective UCHC Championships on Saturday, March 8. The women’s game starts at 3 p.m. at Nazareth University, and the men’s game at 7 p.m. vs. SUNY Geneseo at the Adirondack Bank Center.
Utica Women’s Hockey knows this rivalry with the Golden Eagles all too well. Unfortunately for Utica fans, Utica has lost to the Naz in the UCHC Championship two years in a row, one being in double overtime.
Utica Assistant Captain Hailey “Mods” Modlin knows this best. She is a graduate student from Arizona who has been through it all with the Utica team.
“Ever since my freshman year, it’s always been the weekend where we don’t win,” Modlin said. “Naz is normally the team we can’t beat, until this year where we won a couple games against them which is very impressive for us. We’ve gone four years without getting close.”
However, Utica has another legitimate chance at winning the UCHC. If the fact that each series they have played this season has split isn’t compelling
enough, it should also be a goalie faceoff. Angela Hawthorne, Utica’s goalie, and McKinley Hoff, Nazareth’s goalie, have been having spectacular 20242025 campaigns, each with 10 shutouts. Hawthorne currently holds the record for saves in the program’s history and has been a catalyst for this Utica team.
Not only do both teams have studs between the pipes, but also have offensive powerhouses as well. Pioneers like Jordan Kowalski, the UCHC Co-Player of the Year, Riley Calhoun, Carly Stefanini and Kaci Ryder have had major influences on the outcome of their season so far. However, playing Naz in the past has had its challenges and mental blocks. Modlin knows it’s been difficult to get over the hump, but is optimistic for this weekend because of this season’s success.
“That rink gets in our heads, but knowing that we beat Naz is a big motivator for us this time around,” Modlin said.
Although the team would have preferred to have a home game with the enthusiastic Pioneer faithful, her and team hope that the same energy is brought to Rochester.
“We have a big Utica group of supporters heading out there so I feel like it will still feel like home. To beat them in the game that really matters would be really special,” Modlin added.
However, they’ve certainly met their match in players like Amy Laskowski, the other UCHC
Co-Player of the Year, Brooke Judkiewicz, Allie Zack, and Ivey Lyden on the other side of the ice. It will certainly be a thriller at Tim Horton’s Iceplex on Saturday.
The Geneseo Knights are coming into town on Saturday as well for a rivalry matchup. Coach Gary Heenan highlighted this new competitive nature that has entered the UCHC.
“They are traditionally a top 5 top (to) 10 team in terms of the NCAA, as we’ve become one as well, so this should be a tremendous hockey game,” Heenan said.
Although the Utica men’s team has won three straight UCHC championships and is in a different position compared to the women’s team in that regard, nobody should count Geneseo out too quickly. Heenan knows how this contention will probably fare with the passionate
Utica fans in the Aud.
“It’s definitely a rivalry already,” Heenan said. “They’re two of the best buildings in the country in terms of atmosphere and support.”
It’s true. The Aud is one of the hardest places to come in and win as an opponent, and Utica’s home record proves it. The Pioneers are not only 13-1-0 at home this season, but 76-7-6 over the past six seasons. This consistency shows that Utica Hockey is unlike most programs in the country.
“The Aud is everything. For us to have home ice against Geneseo is enormous,” Heenan said. “They too have an amazing atmosphere and they feed off of that at their place. As we go on in playoffs, the crowds seem to get better…it should be an absolutely electric atmosphere that we will most certainly feed off of.”
The Utica Men’s Hockey Team on the ice //Photo from Uticapioneers.com
