The mound of Boshamer Stadium awaited the arrival of UNC graduate pitcher Jake Knapp. Only throwing 25 pitches was a bigger deal for him than onlookers thought. With a high work ethic and encouraging personality, he was the type of player every coach wanted. With throwing up to 90 miles an hour, Page High School knew they produced a star. Knapp received no scholarship opportunities by the time he was a senior, and became a walk-on at UNC-Wilmington. He was cut from the team, stepping down from Division I to JUCO at Walters State Community College. This is one of the top JUCOs in the country though, and produced multiple Division I players and MLB prospects. UNCs pitching coach reached out to Knapp after seeing these changes and his love for the game. While in Tennessee, Knapp invited the UNC Chapel Hill pitching coach to his game which was followed by an offer from their head coach. After a long time coming, he was named captain but needed Tommy John Surgery after an arm injury. This game was Knapp’s first game back in over a year and left his entire team in tears after coming back from his season-ending injury.
Y2K fashion has been reappearing in the spotlight offer the past few months. With baggy pants and jorts, individuals feel inspired to showcase their personalities through clothing. A bag charm trend dates back not only to the 2000s, but to ancient history. They were used as a symbol of protection by the ancient Egyptians during the Roman Empire. The evil eye is a navy blue amulet with a lighter blue eye in the center. This charm is one of the oldest and most well-known which is said to protect someone from ill-will towards them. Charms like these can be reminders of personal or cultural significance, showcasing ones memories and beliefs. An East Tennessee State University student was vising the UNC campus and put their bag charm collection on display. Their backpack holds a charm for Rameses, UNC’s mascot. This trend has been seen across the UNC campus and is influencing other students to join in. This current trend may not last for eternity, but is a reminder of long-lasting symbols of experiences humans have gone through. They connect individuals across time and distance which signifies the power of fashion.
ALC Showdown Scheduled for Night Before Hockey National Championship Avoiding Last Year’s Scheduling Conflict https://www.bcheights.com/2025/02/09/alc-showdown-avoids-last-years-scheduling-conflict/
Last year, Boston College endured a scheduling conflict between the ALC Showdown and the BC men’s hockey national championship game. This caused students to have to pick which event was more important to them. This conflict happened when the team advanced to the national championship causing the ALC to be caught off guard. After this happened last year the ALC made sure to schedule their event between the National Semifinals on April 10 and the National Championship on April 12. This particular article stood out to me because it aligned with our in-class conversations. If someone didn’t write it, did it happen? As someone who doesn’t closely follow BC news, I wouldn’t have known this issue occurred. Being able to look back on past events and conflicts allows them to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Students won’t have to choose one event over the other if the hockey team continues to do well, and can attend both events. Being able to reflect on this mishap from last year helped improve both events for those parts of the events and the student body.
One Last Dose of Teenage Angst https://www.bcheights.com/2025/02/11/one-last-dose-of-teenage-angst/
This article explains the shift from your teenage years to your early twenties. Specifically, a young college girl who is conflicted about the expectations the world has for her now that she is in her twenties. I related to this article because I’m in the same situation. I just turned twenty in December and can no longer say that I’m just a teenage girl trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. Although I am old enough to drive or vote, I’m still in this awkward age of not being able to experience nightlife or fully be an “adult.” Towards the middle of the article she posed the question “Do I have to delete Snapchat?” Little things that have been an everyday thing are now being questioned because of our age. I also enjoyed the way she wrote this article. It was relatable and engaging. I’m often drawn to these pieces because they resonate in some ways. It’s nice knowing that everyone is in the same boat at this age and we’re all just trying to figure things out.
Class of 2028 enrollment data shows decrease in Black, Latino student enrollment
In 2023, the Supreme Court put a ban on race conscious admissions. The class of 2028 has shown a decrease in Black and Latino students. The amount of admitted Black students decreased by 49.4% and Latino students decreased by 14.4%. However, the percentages of White and Asian students increased. Students fear that this decrease in minorities will reduce the amount of diverse voices on campus. There are worries that movements will get weaker without the number of voices in the mix. Students believe that Stanford accepted the ruling without any questions. They did not account for the issues that the ban will include. Some students suggest that Stanford should partner with high schools in minority communities to help recruit more diverse students. The dean of undergraduate admissions, Richard Shaw, says that Stanford will pay more attention to those communities. Overall, students criticize that Stanford says they prioritize diversity, but that their actions say otherwise.
Report finds high levels of plastic chemicals in dining hall food
The Plastic List included the dining hall at Stanford on a list of places with food containing levels of plastics. Stanford was ranked higher than other universities in the same area. Foods such as chicken, rice, beans, and more were found to have high levels of plastic. This causes some concern because ingesting microplastics means that toxins are also being ingested. It could also lead to issues with lung function and injuries. These plastics can potentially damage cells. Once microplastics enter your system, they are hard to get out. This list discovered a bigger problem with the overall food being served in dining halls. One student at Stanford described how they found bugs in their food. Students feel they deserve to eat food that is safe and healthy. The dining hall is the primary source of food for college students, and they should not have to worry about the quality of the food they are eating.
This article was about how Duke host a women and girl sports day at the campus and for their local community. This was a very light hearted and feel good article. Just showcasing the different aspects of what people can do for their community. As stated in the article it is a way for students can become exposed to lesser known sports like rowing. Also, encouraging kids to be active and find their thing, their sport. This is showing the little girls that can powerful and strong, enjoying the activities around them. I love this, as sports management major, it is what I hope to see. Women and girls in sports in any facet.
This was a interesting article to read, it took a look at a staff member that drives a bus between campuses. Known as the party bus, Luis Alonso Juárez, describing his experience getting the job he has today. Through his experience of coming to the US and figuring out what he wants for long term. Talking how he started with construction but as stated, “‘Construction tires you out.’” This lead him to find a a job a Duke University at housekeeping, then looking for a more fulfilling job. While talking with colleagues, who were drivers for the university, told him about an open position. This pushed him to get his license for bus driving, though it was not easy. Not speaking english was a barrier, so he took classes at a community college to get better. He wanted a more “comfortable” job, with that came challenges but with each investment he was getting towards his goal. Now he working towards his GED at Duke Gente Aprendiendo Para Nuevas Oportunidades program.
Talking about how his bus got it’s name, the party bus, he says he plays the music to connect with the students. Playing a variety music because “He said his favorite genres are “all of them,” calling out bachata and merengue in particular but emphasizing his affinity for “a little bit of everything.'” He wants to introduce students to new things but also gives them what they know. Getting out of the mundane midday drag. He wants to connect with those he sees but also just enjoy his day as well.
As Ai continues to become more prevalent in the world, it has snuck its way into Oscar nominated films. “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Pérez” are among two of the films under scrutiny. The creators used AI cloning technology to make their actors singing voices sound better and improve how their accents sounded. ASU film students reflect on this issue and how they need to adapt to the new era of film with AI. They believe that while they are in school their main focus should be to learn as much as they can about the changing industry. As it seems like Ai could become a new norm in the film industry. One students compared the issue to how directors did not want to use digital cameras, and now its all that is used. The students also believe that they cant let AI take away from the creativity and integrity of their work. Stating it should only be used as a tool not the main form of creation. “It shouldn’t be used as something to carry the burden of being creative. That’s something that should be placed on the shoulders of humans exclusively.”
On Friday January 1st 2025, The ASU womens flag football team played their ever womens flag football game. Although they came up short from the win, it was about more then football. The womens team was estatic to get the chance to play, and they see a bright future for themselves; “we know what we need to work on…we are going to practice really hard”. The team keeps a very positive mindset throughout negativity and encourages each other to “keep our heads up”. The team even drew a large crowd of students body to attend the game making it into a schoolwide event. Even with all the pressure, they put on a great show for the fans. Player Sierra Smith talked about the emotions and difficulty of training every day, but she stuck with it in order to be a trailblazer for younger women looking up to her. “Were going to make a difference, this is making a difference”.
Dr. Joseph Valente, Penn State’s first tenured professor who is deaf, is suing Penn State alleging university discrimination in the form of retaliation after he pushed back against his essential accommodations being revoked. The lawsuit claims the school took away his accommodation of two full-time American Sign Language interpreters in 2021, replacing them with an inadequate alternative that hindered his teaching, research, and participation in faculty meetings. When Valente advocated for his accommodations to be reinstated, the university retaliated by canceling his graduate courses and blocking research funding. In January 2025, the Department of Justice issued a right-to-sue letter and Penn State placed Valente on administrative leave. Valente’s attorneys argue that the university’s actions have harmed his career, isolated him from the academic community and created unnecessary financial strain.
Luke Reynolds, a freshman tight end and former 4 star recruit, is gearing up to take on a more significant role for Penn State’s football team. Much like his predecessor Tyler Warren, originally a Virginia Tech quarterback, Reynolds was a high school quarterback. Warren entered the NFL draft following a historic campaign in 2024 where he did much more than a traditional tight end would. He ran the ball, threw the ball, snapped the ball, and even recorded a punt. In the wake of his departure, Reynolds is eager to showcase his versatility to the coaching staff. Now heading into his second year, Reynolds aims to take on a larger role, while also embracing the challenges left by Warren.
Penn Shuts Down DEI Website in Response to Executive Order
As the most recent in several actions to eliminate mentions of equity initiatives, policies, and practices on University websites, Penn has wiped the main Diversity and Inclusion website.
The website, now called “Belonging at Penn,” shut down all of its content on February 14th, including demographic information, student affinity groups, and details about academic inclusion initiatives. A brief three-sentence statement regarding Penn’s “commitment to equal opportunity” can be found on the updated website.
“We have initiated a review of our programs in this area to ensure that they are both consistent with the new federal government guidance and Executive Orders, federal, state, and local law, and our values,” the website reads. “We remain committed to providing a respectful and welcoming environment to our faculty, staff, and students.”
A University spokesperson had been asked for comment.
Brighid Dwyer, who currently serves as the vice dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has been renamed the vice dean for Academic Excellence and Engagement.
The removal of the central DEI page marks the University’s most notable response to the executive order issued by President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, which mandates the elimination of initiatives that could potentially violate civil rights laws at federally funded institutions like Penn.
In a number of DEI website takedowns throughout the University, the School of Arts and Sciences was the last undergraduate school to remove its diversity, equity, and inclusion webpage. Additionally, Penn removed DEI websites for programs and schools, such as Penn Athletics, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Wharton School, and the School of Nursing.
The same was true for graduate programs and schools, such as the Wharton Doctoral Program’s pages on Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship and Diverse Community and the Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology. As a way to emphasize their “commitment to equal opportunity,” the Penn School of Dental Medicine renamed their webpage and said that they had “initiated a review” of their efforts.
Additionally, Penn Diversity deleted the list of DEI-related administrative and co-curricular programs. Some programs, like Penn Libraries, have completely shut down their DEI webpages, while others, like the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty and Engineering School’s diversity pages, have either changed their names or redirected to new websites.
**
Penn Shuts Down DEI Website in Response to Executive Order
As the most recent in several actions to eliminate mentions of equity initiatives, policies, and practices on University websites, Penn has wiped the main Diversity and Inclusion website.
The website, now called “Belonging at Penn,” shut down all of its content on February 14th, including demographic information, student affinity groups, and details about academic inclusion initiatives. A brief three-sentence statement regarding Penn’s “commitment to equal opportunity” can be found on the updated website.
“We have initiated a review of our programs in this area to ensure that they are both consistent with the new federal government guidance and Executive Orders, federal, state, and local law, and our values,” the website reads. “We remain committed to providing a respectful and welcoming environment to our faculty, staff, and students.”
A University spokesperson had been asked for comment.
Brighid Dwyer, who currently serves as the vice dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has been renamed the vice dean for Academic Excellence and Engagement.
The removal of the central DEI page marks the University’s most notable response to the executive order issued by President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, which mandates the elimination of initiatives that could potentially violate civil rights laws at federally funded institutions like Penn.
In a number of DEI website takedowns throughout the University, the School of Arts and Sciences was the last undergraduate school to remove its diversity, equity, and inclusion webpage. Additionally, Penn removed DEI websites for programs and schools, such as Penn Athletics, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Wharton School, and the School of Nursing.
The same was true for graduate programs and schools, such as the Wharton Doctoral Program’s pages on Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship and Diverse Community and the Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology. As a way to emphasize their “commitment to equal opportunity,” the Penn School of Dental Medicine renamed their webpage and said that they had “initiated a review” of their efforts.
Additionally, Penn Diversity deleted the list of DEI-related administrative and co-curricular programs. Some programs, like Penn Libraries, have completely shut down their DEI webpages, while others, like the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty and Engineering School’s diversity pages, have either changed their names or redirected to new websites.
Trump’s “Long live the king!” Post in Philadelphia is Condemned by Jamie Gauthier in a City Council Resolution
On Thursday, Philadelphia City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier presented a resolution to the City Council condemning President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, for calling himself a king.
At the City Council meeting on February 20, Gauthier, who represents University City in Philadelphia’s third district, introduced the resolution. Trump took action in response to a Truth Social post on February 19 in which he exclaimed, “Long live the king!” in honor of the Department of Transportation’s decision to revoke its approval of New York’s congestion pricing system.
In addition, Trump’s statement and a parody of a TIME magazine cover featuring the president with a golden crown were posted on official White House social media accounts.
In a press release announcing the resolution, Gauthier stated, “A president’s words matter, but President Trump’s actions prove that he truly sees himself more like a monarch than a president.” During her speech at the City Council meeting on Thursday, Gauthier called Trump’s post “outright dangerous,” “abnormal,” and “inappropriate.”
The resolution condemned Trump for comparing himself to “a monarch” and condemned the policies of his second administration, including the Declaration of Independence’s wording and Philadelphia’s involvement in the American Revolution.
Gauthier’s office issued a statement on the resolution, saying, “As the birthplace of American democracy and the city where this nation rejected the tyranny of a king, it is paramount that Philadelphia calls out this assault on the constitution and reaffirm how abnormal, inappropriate, and dangerous it is for a President of the United States to liken himself to, and act like, a king.”
Gauthier’s speech also criticized several of the president’s actions during his first month in office, including Trump’s executive orders that pushed back federal funding and his plan to remove birthright citizenship.
“Just a month into his term, President Trump overreached his executive power on several occasions: he tried to overturn the constitutional right to birthright citizenship, shuttered federal agencies and programs enshrined into law by Congress, and declared himself above the law,” Gauthier stated in her press release.
Since taking office in January, Trump has signed several executive orders, many of which have been challenged in federal court and go beyond constitutional grounds.
During the meeting, members of the Council criticized other executive branch actions, including those of the Department of Governmental Efficiency, which is currently headed by Elon Musk, a 1997 College and Wharton graduate.
Council members criticized the agency for carrying out cuts and layoffs that will harm departments and programs across Philadelphia, especially in the preparations for the semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
“Federal cuts by DOGE will cost thousands of jobs and $200 million in funding for our city. This will impact small business, service sector jobs, and tourism, especially as we head towards our celebration of the 250 years of independence,” City Councilmember Kendra Brooks stated
“This right here is unprecedented, is unconstitutional, and unacceptable,” Brooks added.
**
Penn Men’s Basketball Streak Hits Five Losses with Defeat at Brown
The Quakers hoped to finish the road trip weekend in a better mood after their match against Brown, following a heartbreaking close game against Yale the previous evening. However, the Penn men’s basketball team lost to Brown 82-72 without ever taking the lead.
“I thought we were just very inconsistent on the defensive end and, at times, on the offensive end,” coach Steve Donahue said. “[We were] just not playing up [to] how well you have to play to win on the road.”
The Quakers (6-16, 2-7 Ivy) battled to keep up with Brown in an intense first half, but they could not overtake the Bears (12-10, 4-5), and they ended the half four points behind.
While teammate forward Landon Lewis held Penn at bay with a strong block on Penn junior guard/forward Ethan Roberts, Brown guard Alexander Lesburt Jr. scored the first four points. Roberts, however, was unfazed by that and scored Penn’s first points with a driving layup.
With his first three-pointer of the game, star Brown guard Kino Lilly Jr. reached a significant milestone, topping 1800 points in his career. With 23 points overall, he ultimately appeared as his team’s top scorer.
Lewis also had an impressive game with 20 points, five blocks, and seven rebounds. In this game, Lewis and Lilly Jr. were an unbeatable duo.
“I thought [Lilly] got loose in the second half,” Donahue said. “We did not do a good job, and he got some open looks. … I give [Lewis] credit. He made some difficult shots at times, but if you’re going to win on the road, you try to hold the best players down better than we did.”
Nick Spinoso, a senior forward/center, made a layup seven minutes into the first half to tie the score between the Quakers and the Bears, a tie that never happened again. Spinoso made a three-pointer on Penn’s following possession to cut the deficit to one point, and four minutes later, he replicated his signature hook to make the score 26-28.
Aggression on both sides of the brown-and-red court increased during the second half of the match. The Quakers were able to stay close to the Bears because of their significant advantage in free throws.
The Quakers went on a seven-point run, developing plenty of momentum to stay in the game after Lilly Jr. tripled to extend Brown’s lead to nine points, the Bears’ largest lead to date. Roberts went 3-for-3 at the line after hitting the floor during a three-pointer attempt. When Brown got the ball back, senior guard George Smith made a steal, resulting in an important fast break and tip into the hoop for two more points. Roberts’ massive overhead pass to sophomore guard Sam Brown, who completed the play with an impressive reverse layup and pump fake, was the play’s peak.
Late in the second half, Penn benefited from a seven-point play that was started by Brown forward N’famara Dabo’s flagrant foul. Dabo roughly hit Spinoso with a hard forearm after sophomore guard/forward Niklas Polonowski made a three-pointer, which was ruled a flagrant foul penalty. Roberts completed the seven-point play with a three-point swisher, and Penn took advantage of their possession of the ball after Spinoso drained one of his two attempts at the charity stripe.
Penn lost to the Bears 82-72 at the end of the game, unable to overcome them despite these strong plays.
Brown, his teammate, and Roberts both had outstanding scoring performances. Roberts finished with 26 points and three rebounds, while the latter finished with 19 points, two defensive rebounds, and six of six free throws.
On February 21, Penn men’s basketball will play Dartmouth at the Palestra.
8 thoughts on “BLOG-PROJ-WEEK 3”
https://www.dailytarheel.com/article/2025/02/sports-baseball-preview-jake-knapp-feature
The mound of Boshamer Stadium awaited the arrival of UNC graduate pitcher Jake Knapp. Only throwing 25 pitches was a bigger deal for him than onlookers thought. With a high work ethic and encouraging personality, he was the type of player every coach wanted. With throwing up to 90 miles an hour, Page High School knew they produced a star. Knapp received no scholarship opportunities by the time he was a senior, and became a walk-on at UNC-Wilmington. He was cut from the team, stepping down from Division I to JUCO at Walters State Community College. This is one of the top JUCOs in the country though, and produced multiple Division I players and MLB prospects. UNCs pitching coach reached out to Knapp after seeing these changes and his love for the game. While in Tennessee, Knapp invited the UNC Chapel Hill pitching coach to his game which was followed by an offer from their head coach. After a long time coming, he was named captain but needed Tommy John Surgery after an arm injury. This game was Knapp’s first game back in over a year and left his entire team in tears after coming back from his season-ending injury.
https://www.dailytarheel.com/article/2025/02/lifestyle-bag-charms-trend
Y2K fashion has been reappearing in the spotlight offer the past few months. With baggy pants and jorts, individuals feel inspired to showcase their personalities through clothing. A bag charm trend dates back not only to the 2000s, but to ancient history. They were used as a symbol of protection by the ancient Egyptians during the Roman Empire. The evil eye is a navy blue amulet with a lighter blue eye in the center. This charm is one of the oldest and most well-known which is said to protect someone from ill-will towards them. Charms like these can be reminders of personal or cultural significance, showcasing ones memories and beliefs. An East Tennessee State University student was vising the UNC campus and put their bag charm collection on display. Their backpack holds a charm for Rameses, UNC’s mascot. This trend has been seen across the UNC campus and is influencing other students to join in. This current trend may not last for eternity, but is a reminder of long-lasting symbols of experiences humans have gone through. They connect individuals across time and distance which signifies the power of fashion.
A link to my page! https://ehuggins.uneportfolio.org/blog-proj-3/
ALC Showdown Scheduled for Night Before Hockey National Championship Avoiding Last Year’s Scheduling Conflict
https://www.bcheights.com/2025/02/09/alc-showdown-avoids-last-years-scheduling-conflict/
Last year, Boston College endured a scheduling conflict between the ALC Showdown and the BC men’s hockey national championship game. This caused students to have to pick which event was more important to them. This conflict happened when the team advanced to the national championship causing the ALC to be caught off guard. After this happened last year the ALC made sure to schedule their event between the National Semifinals on April 10 and the National Championship on April 12. This particular article stood out to me because it aligned with our in-class conversations. If someone didn’t write it, did it happen? As someone who doesn’t closely follow BC news, I wouldn’t have known this issue occurred. Being able to look back on past events and conflicts allows them to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Students won’t have to choose one event over the other if the hockey team continues to do well, and can attend both events. Being able to reflect on this mishap from last year helped improve both events for those parts of the events and the student body.
One Last Dose of Teenage Angst
https://www.bcheights.com/2025/02/11/one-last-dose-of-teenage-angst/
This article explains the shift from your teenage years to your early twenties. Specifically, a young college girl who is conflicted about the expectations the world has for her now that she is in her twenties. I related to this article because I’m in the same situation. I just turned twenty in December and can no longer say that I’m just a teenage girl trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. Although I am old enough to drive or vote, I’m still in this awkward age of not being able to experience nightlife or fully be an “adult.” Towards the middle of the article she posed the question “Do I have to delete Snapchat?” Little things that have been an everyday thing are now being questioned because of our age. I also enjoyed the way she wrote this article. It was relatable and engaging. I’m often drawn to these pieces because they resonate in some ways. It’s nice knowing that everyone is in the same boat at this age and we’re all just trying to figure things out.
https://stanforddaily.com/2025/02/13/class-of-2028-enrollment-data-shows-decrease-in-black-latino-student-enrollment/
Class of 2028 enrollment data shows decrease in Black, Latino student enrollment
In 2023, the Supreme Court put a ban on race conscious admissions. The class of 2028 has shown a decrease in Black and Latino students. The amount of admitted Black students decreased by 49.4% and Latino students decreased by 14.4%. However, the percentages of White and Asian students increased. Students fear that this decrease in minorities will reduce the amount of diverse voices on campus. There are worries that movements will get weaker without the number of voices in the mix. Students believe that Stanford accepted the ruling without any questions. They did not account for the issues that the ban will include. Some students suggest that Stanford should partner with high schools in minority communities to help recruit more diverse students. The dean of undergraduate admissions, Richard Shaw, says that Stanford will pay more attention to those communities. Overall, students criticize that Stanford says they prioritize diversity, but that their actions say otherwise.
https://stanforddaily.com/2025/02/11/report-finds-high-levels-of-plastic-chemicals-in-dining-hall-food/
Report finds high levels of plastic chemicals in dining hall food
The Plastic List included the dining hall at Stanford on a list of places with food containing levels of plastics. Stanford was ranked higher than other universities in the same area. Foods such as chicken, rice, beans, and more were found to have high levels of plastic. This causes some concern because ingesting microplastics means that toxins are also being ingested. It could also lead to issues with lung function and injuries. These plastics can potentially damage cells. Once microplastics enter your system, they are hard to get out. This list discovered a bigger problem with the overall food being served in dining halls. One student at Stanford described how they found bugs in their food. Students feel they deserve to eat food that is safe and healthy. The dining hall is the primary source of food for college students, and they should not have to worry about the quality of the food they are eating.
Week 3 – Feb 10 -15
Article 1 – ‘Here for the community’: A look inside Duke’s annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day Youth Clinic – https://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2025/02/duke-athletics-women-and-girls-in-sports-day-clinic-womens-soccer-mis-minestrella-rowing-kate-senger-abby-dehaas-cameron-indoor-stadium-durham
This article was about how Duke host a women and girl sports day at the campus and for their local community. This was a very light hearted and feel good article. Just showcasing the different aspects of what people can do for their community. As stated in the article it is a way for students can become exposed to lesser known sports like rowing. Also, encouraging kids to be active and find their thing, their sport. This is showing the little girls that can powerful and strong, enjoying the activities around them. I love this, as sports management major, it is what I hope to see. Women and girls in sports in any facet.
Article 2 – Meet Luis Alonso Juárez: The C1 ‘party bus’ DJ – https://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2025/02/duke-university-luis-alonso-juarez-c1-party-bus-driver-music-honduras-connecting-with-students-campus-drive-commute-east-west-campus
This was a interesting article to read, it took a look at a staff member that drives a bus between campuses. Known as the party bus, Luis Alonso Juárez, describing his experience getting the job he has today. Through his experience of coming to the US and figuring out what he wants for long term. Talking how he started with construction but as stated, “‘Construction tires you out.’” This lead him to find a a job a Duke University at housekeeping, then looking for a more fulfilling job. While talking with colleagues, who were drivers for the university, told him about an open position. This pushed him to get his license for bus driving, though it was not easy. Not speaking english was a barrier, so he took classes at a community college to get better. He wanted a more “comfortable” job, with that came challenges but with each investment he was getting towards his goal. Now he working towards his GED at Duke Gente Aprendiendo Para Nuevas Oportunidades program.
Talking about how his bus got it’s name, the party bus, he says he plays the music to connect with the students. Playing a variety music because “He said his favorite genres are “all of them,” calling out bachata and merengue in particular but emphasizing his affinity for “a little bit of everything.'” He wants to introduce students to new things but also gives them what they know. Getting out of the mundane midday drag. He wants to connect with those he sees but also just enjoy his day as well.
https://www.statepress.com/article/2025/02/ai-in-film
Tool or takeover: Film students discuss AI’s impact on the industry and their education
As Ai continues to become more prevalent in the world, it has snuck its way into Oscar nominated films. “The Brutalist” and “Emilia Pérez” are among two of the films under scrutiny. The creators used AI cloning technology to make their actors singing voices sound better and improve how their accents sounded. ASU film students reflect on this issue and how they need to adapt to the new era of film with AI. They believe that while they are in school their main focus should be to learn as much as they can about the changing industry. As it seems like Ai could become a new norm in the film industry. One students compared the issue to how directors did not want to use digital cameras, and now its all that is used. The students also believe that they cant let AI take away from the creativity and integrity of their work. Stating it should only be used as a tool not the main form of creation. “It shouldn’t be used as something to carry the burden of being creative. That’s something that should be placed on the shoulders of humans exclusively.”
https://www.statepress.com/article/2025/02/video-womens-flag-football
Women’s flag football home opener ends up being bigger than the game itself
On Friday January 1st 2025, The ASU womens flag football team played their ever womens flag football game. Although they came up short from the win, it was about more then football. The womens team was estatic to get the chance to play, and they see a bright future for themselves; “we know what we need to work on…we are going to practice really hard”. The team keeps a very positive mindset throughout negativity and encourages each other to “keep our heads up”. The team even drew a large crowd of students body to attend the game making it into a schoolwide event. Even with all the pressure, they put on a great show for the fans. Player Sierra Smith talked about the emotions and difficulty of training every day, but she stuck with it in order to be a trailblazer for younger women looking up to her. “Were going to make a difference, this is making a difference”.
https://www.psucollegian.com/news/penn-state-sued-for-disability-discrimination-by-tenured-professor/article_83081b26-eca5-11ef-8d39-67d51283a862.html
Dr. Joseph Valente, Penn State’s first tenured professor who is deaf, is suing Penn State alleging university discrimination in the form of retaliation after he pushed back against his essential accommodations being revoked. The lawsuit claims the school took away his accommodation of two full-time American Sign Language interpreters in 2021, replacing them with an inadequate alternative that hindered his teaching, research, and participation in faculty meetings. When Valente advocated for his accommodations to be reinstated, the university retaliated by canceling his graduate courses and blocking research funding. In January 2025, the Department of Justice issued a right-to-sue letter and Penn State placed Valente on administrative leave. Valente’s attorneys argue that the university’s actions have harmed his career, isolated him from the academic community and created unnecessary financial strain.
https://www.psucollegian.com/football/penn-state-te-luke-reynolds-prepared-to-fill-tyler-warren-s-role/article_0242adcc-ebb4-11ef-a5c8-2fb1a59e5cf4.html
Luke Reynolds, a freshman tight end and former 4 star recruit, is gearing up to take on a more significant role for Penn State’s football team. Much like his predecessor Tyler Warren, originally a Virginia Tech quarterback, Reynolds was a high school quarterback. Warren entered the NFL draft following a historic campaign in 2024 where he did much more than a traditional tight end would. He ran the ball, threw the ball, snapped the ball, and even recorded a punt. In the wake of his departure, Reynolds is eager to showcase his versatility to the coaching staff. Now heading into his second year, Reynolds aims to take on a larger role, while also embracing the challenges left by Warren.
Penn Shuts Down DEI Website in Response to Executive Order
As the most recent in several actions to eliminate mentions of equity initiatives, policies, and practices on University websites, Penn has wiped the main Diversity and Inclusion website.
The website, now called “Belonging at Penn,” shut down all of its content on February 14th, including demographic information, student affinity groups, and details about academic inclusion initiatives. A brief three-sentence statement regarding Penn’s “commitment to equal opportunity” can be found on the updated website.
“We have initiated a review of our programs in this area to ensure that they are both consistent with the new federal government guidance and Executive Orders, federal, state, and local law, and our values,” the website reads. “We remain committed to providing a respectful and welcoming environment to our faculty, staff, and students.”
A University spokesperson had been asked for comment.
Brighid Dwyer, who currently serves as the vice dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has been renamed the vice dean for Academic Excellence and Engagement.
The removal of the central DEI page marks the University’s most notable response to the executive order issued by President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, which mandates the elimination of initiatives that could potentially violate civil rights laws at federally funded institutions like Penn.
In a number of DEI website takedowns throughout the University, the School of Arts and Sciences was the last undergraduate school to remove its diversity, equity, and inclusion webpage. Additionally, Penn removed DEI websites for programs and schools, such as Penn Athletics, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Wharton School, and the School of Nursing.
The same was true for graduate programs and schools, such as the Wharton Doctoral Program’s pages on Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship and Diverse Community and the Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology. As a way to emphasize their “commitment to equal opportunity,” the Penn School of Dental Medicine renamed their webpage and said that they had “initiated a review” of their efforts.
Additionally, Penn Diversity deleted the list of DEI-related administrative and co-curricular programs. Some programs, like Penn Libraries, have completely shut down their DEI webpages, while others, like the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty and Engineering School’s diversity pages, have either changed their names or redirected to new websites.
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Penn Shuts Down DEI Website in Response to Executive Order
As the most recent in several actions to eliminate mentions of equity initiatives, policies, and practices on University websites, Penn has wiped the main Diversity and Inclusion website.
The website, now called “Belonging at Penn,” shut down all of its content on February 14th, including demographic information, student affinity groups, and details about academic inclusion initiatives. A brief three-sentence statement regarding Penn’s “commitment to equal opportunity” can be found on the updated website.
“We have initiated a review of our programs in this area to ensure that they are both consistent with the new federal government guidance and Executive Orders, federal, state, and local law, and our values,” the website reads. “We remain committed to providing a respectful and welcoming environment to our faculty, staff, and students.”
A University spokesperson had been asked for comment.
Brighid Dwyer, who currently serves as the vice dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has been renamed the vice dean for Academic Excellence and Engagement.
The removal of the central DEI page marks the University’s most notable response to the executive order issued by President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, which mandates the elimination of initiatives that could potentially violate civil rights laws at federally funded institutions like Penn.
In a number of DEI website takedowns throughout the University, the School of Arts and Sciences was the last undergraduate school to remove its diversity, equity, and inclusion webpage. Additionally, Penn removed DEI websites for programs and schools, such as Penn Athletics, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Wharton School, and the School of Nursing.
The same was true for graduate programs and schools, such as the Wharton Doctoral Program’s pages on Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship and Diverse Community and the Graduate Group in Genomics and Computational Biology. As a way to emphasize their “commitment to equal opportunity,” the Penn School of Dental Medicine renamed their webpage and said that they had “initiated a review” of their efforts.
Additionally, Penn Diversity deleted the list of DEI-related administrative and co-curricular programs. Some programs, like Penn Libraries, have completely shut down their DEI webpages, while others, like the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty and Engineering School’s diversity pages, have either changed their names or redirected to new websites.
Trump’s “Long live the king!” Post in Philadelphia is Condemned by Jamie Gauthier in a City Council Resolution
On Thursday, Philadelphia City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier presented a resolution to the City Council condemning President Donald Trump, a 1968 Wharton graduate, for calling himself a king.
At the City Council meeting on February 20, Gauthier, who represents University City in Philadelphia’s third district, introduced the resolution. Trump took action in response to a Truth Social post on February 19 in which he exclaimed, “Long live the king!” in honor of the Department of Transportation’s decision to revoke its approval of New York’s congestion pricing system.
In addition, Trump’s statement and a parody of a TIME magazine cover featuring the president with a golden crown were posted on official White House social media accounts.
In a press release announcing the resolution, Gauthier stated, “A president’s words matter, but President Trump’s actions prove that he truly sees himself more like a monarch than a president.” During her speech at the City Council meeting on Thursday, Gauthier called Trump’s post “outright dangerous,” “abnormal,” and “inappropriate.”
The resolution condemned Trump for comparing himself to “a monarch” and condemned the policies of his second administration, including the Declaration of Independence’s wording and Philadelphia’s involvement in the American Revolution.
Gauthier’s office issued a statement on the resolution, saying, “As the birthplace of American democracy and the city where this nation rejected the tyranny of a king, it is paramount that Philadelphia calls out this assault on the constitution and reaffirm how abnormal, inappropriate, and dangerous it is for a President of the United States to liken himself to, and act like, a king.”
Gauthier’s speech also criticized several of the president’s actions during his first month in office, including Trump’s executive orders that pushed back federal funding and his plan to remove birthright citizenship.
“Just a month into his term, President Trump overreached his executive power on several occasions: he tried to overturn the constitutional right to birthright citizenship, shuttered federal agencies and programs enshrined into law by Congress, and declared himself above the law,” Gauthier stated in her press release.
Since taking office in January, Trump has signed several executive orders, many of which have been challenged in federal court and go beyond constitutional grounds.
During the meeting, members of the Council criticized other executive branch actions, including those of the Department of Governmental Efficiency, which is currently headed by Elon Musk, a 1997 College and Wharton graduate.
Council members criticized the agency for carrying out cuts and layoffs that will harm departments and programs across Philadelphia, especially in the preparations for the semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
“Federal cuts by DOGE will cost thousands of jobs and $200 million in funding for our city. This will impact small business, service sector jobs, and tourism, especially as we head towards our celebration of the 250 years of independence,” City Councilmember Kendra Brooks stated
“This right here is unprecedented, is unconstitutional, and unacceptable,” Brooks added.
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Penn Men’s Basketball Streak Hits Five Losses with Defeat at Brown
The Quakers hoped to finish the road trip weekend in a better mood after their match against Brown, following a heartbreaking close game against Yale the previous evening. However, the Penn men’s basketball team lost to Brown 82-72 without ever taking the lead.
“I thought we were just very inconsistent on the defensive end and, at times, on the offensive end,” coach Steve Donahue said. “[We were] just not playing up [to] how well you have to play to win on the road.”
The Quakers (6-16, 2-7 Ivy) battled to keep up with Brown in an intense first half, but they could not overtake the Bears (12-10, 4-5), and they ended the half four points behind.
While teammate forward Landon Lewis held Penn at bay with a strong block on Penn junior guard/forward Ethan Roberts, Brown guard Alexander Lesburt Jr. scored the first four points. Roberts, however, was unfazed by that and scored Penn’s first points with a driving layup.
With his first three-pointer of the game, star Brown guard Kino Lilly Jr. reached a significant milestone, topping 1800 points in his career. With 23 points overall, he ultimately appeared as his team’s top scorer.
Lewis also had an impressive game with 20 points, five blocks, and seven rebounds. In this game, Lewis and Lilly Jr. were an unbeatable duo.
“I thought [Lilly] got loose in the second half,” Donahue said. “We did not do a good job, and he got some open looks. … I give [Lewis] credit. He made some difficult shots at times, but if you’re going to win on the road, you try to hold the best players down better than we did.”
Nick Spinoso, a senior forward/center, made a layup seven minutes into the first half to tie the score between the Quakers and the Bears, a tie that never happened again. Spinoso made a three-pointer on Penn’s following possession to cut the deficit to one point, and four minutes later, he replicated his signature hook to make the score 26-28.
Aggression on both sides of the brown-and-red court increased during the second half of the match. The Quakers were able to stay close to the Bears because of their significant advantage in free throws.
The Quakers went on a seven-point run, developing plenty of momentum to stay in the game after Lilly Jr. tripled to extend Brown’s lead to nine points, the Bears’ largest lead to date. Roberts went 3-for-3 at the line after hitting the floor during a three-pointer attempt. When Brown got the ball back, senior guard George Smith made a steal, resulting in an important fast break and tip into the hoop for two more points. Roberts’ massive overhead pass to sophomore guard Sam Brown, who completed the play with an impressive reverse layup and pump fake, was the play’s peak.
Late in the second half, Penn benefited from a seven-point play that was started by Brown forward N’famara Dabo’s flagrant foul. Dabo roughly hit Spinoso with a hard forearm after sophomore guard/forward Niklas Polonowski made a three-pointer, which was ruled a flagrant foul penalty. Roberts completed the seven-point play with a three-point swisher, and Penn took advantage of their possession of the ball after Spinoso drained one of his two attempts at the charity stripe.
Penn lost to the Bears 82-72 at the end of the game, unable to overcome them despite these strong plays.
Brown, his teammate, and Roberts both had outstanding scoring performances. Roberts finished with 26 points and three rebounds, while the latter finished with 19 points, two defensive rebounds, and six of six free throws.
On February 21, Penn men’s basketball will play Dartmouth at the Palestra.