March/April 2022
THIS ISSUE
Com Club
Russia in Ukraine
Campus News
Sports
Alvernia’s Newest Club: Wolf Media Pack Mackenzie Coombs Managing Editor At Alvernia, there are many clubs that exist for a variety of different interests. Ranging from video games to Bible studies, there’s a club for everyone! One of the newest clubs that is up and coming is the Communication club. This club has been in the works since the fall semester, and now, it’s about to take off right after spring break. Dr. Jodi Radosh is the co-chair of the communication department. She mainly teaches classes about public relations, advertising, event planning, and social media marketing. Since the communication field has changed so much over the years, it is now more closely tied with the business department. Obvious areas of crossover included social media, public relations, and digital media marketing. “For a long time, we were tied with the English department, and we had an English honors society, but we also got communications students involved as well,” Dr. Radosh said. “Since things are changing, we decided to make our own club, but English will still have theirs.” Communication has a lot of different pathways that one can go down. There’s are a wide range of exciting jobs that are open to students who pursuing this major. Some of the pathways include journalism, politics, marketing and advertising, and of course business. Communication is only a broad overview of the many things that can be involved with the profession. “I believe this is a wonderful opportunity [for the Communication department] because we have a lot of ideas, so that we can give our students the experience in networking with different communications partners in the area,” Dr. Radosh said. Students beyond the communication major are welcome to get involved. Dr. Radosh intends for the club to be attractive to all sorts of students. “We also want to get great guest speakers to
Credit: Dr. Radosh
what’s in
Volume 59 Issue 2
This is the laumch poster for the new communication club!
come in, and give students the opportunity to mingle with them to find different opportunities within the field.” Students will have a large hand in guiding the club’s activities. “In one of my event planning classes, I gave them a worksheet to brainstorm ideas about what the name should be and what kind of events we should hold,” Dr. Radosh said. “For events, it ranges from having guest speakers, going to the movies, or hosting a film night on campus. Also, we want to take them to conferences so they can present their research, as well. Other ideas that we had were taking our students on a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit some of our alumni in the communications field. We also brought up taking them to a TV studio.”
All these ideas are intended to give students the opportunity to put themselves out there. With the novel coronavirus, it’s been hard for the students to all be together and get the exposure that others have had in the past. Fortunately, this new club should help orient students in a positive direction for their careers. “Anyone can join the club, but we’re targeting communications and digital media marketing students,” Dr. Radosh said. “But we’re open to everyone—especially those who have a minor in the two departments.” Students, whether they’re in the communication department or not, are encouraged to join. Not only will it benefit students for their future endeavors, but it will also help them decide what path they want to take
after college! This club will offer guidance to those who aren’t sure of where they want to do their internships, finding future jobs, and creating connections with many businesses and people in all fields. “Our goal is to bring students all back together since the pandemic has kept us from doing things not only as a school, but as a department.” The launch meeting for Wolf Media Pack will be on Wednesday, April 6th at 4p.m. at CollegeTowne (Room 39)! Come on downtown to talk about what they’re all about-even get yourself some pizza and snacks!
2 March/April 2022
t h e alver n ian
world news Vol. 59 Issue 2
Russian Invasion on Ukraine Leaves the World Questioning War on the Horizon
Layout Mackenzie Coombs Sarah Mies Section Editors Mackenzie Coombs Macy Smith Dion Thorpe Contributing Writers Marisa Bishop Jamal Flemming Mackenzie Maurer Sarah Mies Sherrin Smith Faculty Advisor Dr. Ryan Lange
The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University. To contact newspaper staff, the office telephone number is 610-796-8358.
Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu. The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length. The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.
© 2022 The Alvernian
For months, Russian President Vladimir Putin insisted to the world that he would not harm or invade Ukraine—one of Russia’s neighbors—considering the peace treaties in place and greater good in mind. However, those statements couldn’t have been further from the truth after the recent invasion of Ukraine led by Russian President Vladimir Putin. On February 24, 2022, Russian Troops deployed into Ukraine and caused chaos with a series of bombings and explosions. Ukrainian civilians were devastated by the attack, as many have since tried to flee the country as they face bleak and catastrophic events that are taking place. As the situation escalates in Ukraine, the rest of the world worries about the possibility of an even larger military and economic conflict. Why did Russia escalate? Understanding this requires a discussion of the context of the conflict. Ukraine officially declared itself an independent country in 1991 as the Soviet Union collapsed and the Cold War ended. Since then, the country has been forming closer ties with the European Union and with NATO. Russia, however, sees these ties as an economic and strategic threat to its own security. The fighting began when Russia invaded the Crimean Peninsula and began backing pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine that wanted to split from the current Ukrainian regime. Russia has claimed that they cannot remain “safe, develop and exist” because of a constant threat from modern Ukraine. Putin claimed his goal was to protect people subjected to bullying and genocide and aim for the “demilitarization and de-Nazification” of Ukraine. These allegations are far from true, as Ukraine is run by a democratic system led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is Jewish. The two countries have been in an increasingly violent conflict for close to eight years, but this most recent attack on Ukraine is far more dramatic than earlier clashes.
A Ukrainian citizen walks through the devastation left in the wake of the Russian Invasion.
The battle in Ukraine could potentially jeopardize the post-WW2 order that had reigned in Europe. United States President Joseph Biden has voiced his strong disapproval of the situation and backed the Ukrainian government with his words. “The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces,” Biden said. “President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will bring, and the United States and its allies and partners will respond in a united and decisive way. The world will hold Russia accountable.” The United States has since placed additional sanctions on Russia including measures that impede Russia’s ability to do business in major currencies along with sanctions against banks and state-owned enterprises. The sanctions are aimed at limiting Russia’s ability to do business in dollars, euros, pounds and yen. Among the targets were five major banks, including state-backed Sberbank and VTB, as well as members of the Russian elite and their families. Sberbank, Russia’s largest lender, will no longer be able to transfer money with the assistance of U.S. banks. It is not clear what will come of these sanctions and the involvement of the U.S. government in the situation, but Biden has made it clear
that he is against Russia and what they stand for. “Putin is the aggressor; Putin chose this war, and now he and his country will bear the consequences.” Biden said. As the world continues to watch in horror, countries around the world continue to show their love and support. Many athletes and celebrities have already made statements regarding the matter, with public demonstrations showing either their support to Ukraine or their emphasis on avoiding war. The world will continue to give Ukraine it’s thoughts and prayers in hopes that the situation can de-escalate and peace can be preserved for the greater good of everyone.
Pray for peace in the Ukraine!
Credit: npr.org
Managing Editor Mackenzie Coombs
Credit: BBC News
Matt Mitchell Contributing Writer
Picture of some of the protests that have bbeen happening during the war on Ukraine.
3 March/April 2022
alvernia news
Vol. 59 Issue 2
Marisa Bishop Contributing Writer The Alvernia Trading Lab, now open in Collegetowne, is one of the downtown Reading campus’ show pieces. One of the main features of this lab is the large ticker in the middle of the room currently showing stocks picked by Alvernia University students in the real Alvernia portfolio. There are also 12 Bloomberg terminals in the lab. Alvernia students, faculty, and staff can use these terminals to become Bloomberg certified. Being Bloomberg certified is a significant advantage for students when graduating. It is a great resume piece that will put Alvernia students ahead in future job hunts. Other software going into the lab is InPlan, an economic modeling software package. InPlan helps new businesses in the area because it shows the user different features. For example, it shows the
Credit: Mackenzie Coombs
Alvernia’s Newest Feature: The Trading Lab
The Trading Lab at Alveria’s CollegeTowne location
financial impact if a company were to enter a certain area, it would show the number of jobs resulting from the opening of the company. Another type of software going to be installed into the lab is ActView GIS Business Analysis. This software visually allows the user to make business decisions because it shows different
features such as traffic count, competitors in the area and income in a certain area. The lab benefits the students, the staff, and the O’Pake Institute. It also benefits anyone who wants to open a business locally. The lab is one of the many positive effects that Collegetowne is having on the downtown Reading area. This
advancement for the students, staff and the local community. Collegetowne, which contains residence halls, classrooms, and the largest Starbucks in the county, is also home to BCTV, a local television station, and La Mega, a Spanish-language radio station. The new facility also houses the O’Pake Institute, a student powered business incubator that helps businesses in the surrounding area.
Stop by
CollegeTowne
lab is promoting economic development by providing information to local business owners to help them improve and understand their business. This lab has been in the making for many years. Collegetowne provides the space and recourses needed for the lab. It is one of a kind and a groundbreaking
and take a look around the trading lab!
Aladdin’s Response to Student Complaints Sarah Mies Contributing Writer
The Alvernian
Credit: Aladdincampusdining.com
Recently, Alvernia University students have spoken up about the cafeteria food and how they are dissatisfied with the quality and variety of the food. Steven Mauz, the Food Service Director for Aladdin at Alvernia, responded to these comments and concerns. Mauz stated that he does not get upset by negative comments and that he, and Aladdin in general, thrive off feedback, both positive and negative. He understands that all students have different needs, and he encourages students to reach out with concerns. Mauz decided to put up the comment wall to receive constructive criticism in order to be reviewed and to help Aladdin mold the menu to fit all the needs of the Alvernia Community. When he receives negative feedback, it helps him improve and better care for the issues that are important for the students. “General comments like ‘the food is bad’ or ‘needs improvement’ are difficult”, said Mauz, “more specific comments are more helpful.” When students provide
This is the logo for Aladdin Campus Dining that has been serving Alvernia’s community for years
specific comments that address their direct concerns, it is easier to make changes. Although not issues can be solved. “Students don’t see the behind the scenes of the food service” said Mauz, “for instance there are supply chain issues.” Some comments that deal with the variety food and are advocating for more choices cannot be met due to current economic issues. For those with concerns about allergies and intolerances, Mauz claims
that he believes there are enough vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Mauz said, “Again, the more specific comments are better. Feedback from people with allergies or intolerance is important and taken seriously.” Some comments have mentioned the fact that some food stations in the student center are not open during specific times and on the weekends. Mauz states that this is due to current labor issues. Aladdin, like many
other organizations at this time, are dealing with staffing issues. If students want to take action behind the scenes, Aladdin is always hiring student workers. Certain students have had concerns about the quality of the food. Mauz ensures the quality of the food complies with all the Board of Health procedures. “We always take the temperature of the food during the time of service and all the food is sampled before being served,” said Mauz.
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Aladdin is taking the call from the students seriously. It is important for the student community to be specific about our requests and to speak up when there is an issue so the staff can take action and address the concerns.
4 March/April 2022
news Vol. 59 Issue 2
2022 Super Bowl Halftime Show! Some people tune into the Super Bowl for football, and some people tune in for the commercials, but no matter what you’re tuning in for, most people enjoy getting to watch the halftime performance. The Super Bowl Halftime show for artists is often the largest stage they can perform on. Include audience stats here. Whether the performance is liked or not, it generates buzz that can last for years. Some of the more memorable performances over the years have been done by Lady Gaga, for jumping off the stadium, Katy Perry, for her dancing “left shark,” Beyonce for the power outage, and Janet Jackson for the “wardrobe malfunction.” There are many more artists who have taken the stage over the decades of the Super Bowl.
Credit: NFL Twitter
Mackenzie Maurer Contributing Writer
All the Artists together on stage at the Superbowl 2022.
This year the Super Bowl featured Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar at the halftime show. These artists were huge back in the 1990s and early 2000s, so the Super Bowl pleased many geriatric millennials. It also brought excitement to the parents of the millennials who would play the music growing up and to their younger siblings and children who were listening to it and still are.
People of all ages were feeling excited to see this halftime show, which is what the show is intended to do, to make people feel like they cannot wait to see the show, and that is exactly what this year’s Super Bowl halftime performance did for people. The artists sang a collection of their songs that were all huge hits for them in the 1990s and early 2000s. They also had a special guest performance from 50 Cent,
another huge hip hop artist from that era. When 50 Cent came out he was entering just like he did in his famous music video scene, something that people who were old enough to understand and to have seen the video were excited about and though was extremely creative but that the younger crowd was confused about and was not understanding why he’d hang upside down and tried to make memes about it, to
which people corrected by making side by sides of the Super Bowl and his music videos. Of course, a big show can generate many memes. Mary J Blige became the meme format of the Super Bowl by laying down right after she finished singing to what we assume is soak it all in. The picture taken of her laying down has since been used for a variety of social media posts. When asking if people like the Super Bowl halftime show most people are quick to respond with a yes, but they thought that it was too short compared to other years. “I really liked it,” John Maurer said. “Eminem was my favorite, but I thought it would be longer and that each artist would sing more than just one song!” This response is what most people online and when talking in real time have felt about the show.
A Month to Remember by BSU During 2020, four students came together to form the Black Student Union. Two years later, BSU’s positive impact on campus is visible for all to see. Last month was Black History Month, and the students in the organization held extraordinary events on campus. Throwing a BSU Spirit Week was the perfect idea for the team. There were events from Black History Month trivia to tie-dye. The events were welcomed to everyone, and many came out and supported them all week long. The Black Student Union organization welcomed a special guest speaker during one of their most noteworthy events of the month. Monti Washington is a motivational speaker who is exceedingly popular on the internet. Washington’s talk was positive and inspirational, and served as a safe space for students to explore personal biases. Mr. Washington influenced students’ confidence at the event. “It was a great reality check for me, having someone like Mr. Washington telling you that you are terrific and
to always to be yourself,” Teyon Thorpe, a member of the Black Student Union, said. The staff has a lot of future events that they will be holding all semester long. In March, they will be hosting women sports mental health, trivia on sport mental health, and menstrual product drive in honor of Women’s History Month. They are excited for what they have in store. This is a good site for the
university to see all students exploring and educating each other on diversity and uncomfortable topics. Many students from all diverse backgrounds attend BSU meetings, discussing the fight to redress injustices within the Black community. The task is transparent and obtainable with help from board members and staff from the Black Student Union. They know that and
work towards that goal every day. The exposure for this program will only get bigger and advance their explicit goal. When you have such a positive push on campus by your fellow peers and staff, you tend to blossom into your true self. Seeking the future battle of equality and coming together as diverse cultures is something you will regularly see at the Black Student Union meetings. BSU seeks
Credit: Google.com
Jamel Fleming Contributing Writer
One of the many logos that are used to represent Black History Month.
to create a welcoming, safe environment to be yourself no matter your ethnicity. They have established comfortable ways to reach hidden feelings because you will not grow into what you want if you are stagnant in your thinking. The BSU board features a variety of students across multiple majors. The president of the organization, Micah Yarbray, is seeking not one but two degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology. While the Vice president, Jayah Roman, will be graduating in 2024 with an Athletic Training degree. Ceydi Rosario is the Secretary for BSU, will be graduating in 2024 with a nursing degree. Finally, the Treasurer of this organization is Jenna Philippe, is pursuing a degree in Biology and Pre-Med. This is a very well-rounded group filled with leadership, credibility , and filled with determination to all gain their degree. This program is growing and in outstanding hands with team leaders like these ladies. You can Follow their Instagram page @au.bsu where they update you on what events are next for them.
5 March/April 2022
education Vol. 59 Issue 2
What Does SOTA Do? Alvernia University’s occupational therapy program has a student run occupational therapy association called the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA). SOTA provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn about their careers and how they can apply their field to the community to help improve the lives of others. Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants help people across the world participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic usage of daily activities. General occupational therapy treatments include assisting kids with disabilities to act fully in education and cultural situations, helping people recovering from trauma to acquire skills, and offering supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes. At Alvernia, SOTA focuses on community service. SOTA advisor, Selena Ehlert has accomplished many things
through this program. Some of the opportunities that her students have been involved in are playing Bingo with the residents of Berks Heim Assisted Living, partnering with Audible Autism to create unique experiences for children on the spectrum, and panel discussions on LGBTQ+ healthcare. “SOTA has guest speakers come and share about different fields within occupational therapy and what they do,” Hannah Ververs, senior occupational therapy student, said. “These are some of the many opportunities that students have to learn about their career they are interested in.” There are many different fields within occupational therapy, including occupational therapists who are trained to work with people with disabilities and other physical or mental illnesses or occupational therapists who are trained to treat patients who have suffered a life changing injury such as a stroke. Not only does SOTA create opportunities to learn about their field, but they also have
service opportunities and collections where they are able to help those in need in the local community. Occupational therapists are expected to serve the community, so SOTA helps ease new OTs into that expectation.
lounge at least once a week to relax after softball practice before going to tutoring. The lounge is typically used throughout the day, with most students coming in between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Before they can relax in between classes or start assignments, students must sign in. Then they can help themselves to some tasty treats and snacks, make some coffee or hot chocolate, and continue being the honors students they are. Alexa Herbein, an honor student, thinks the space is important for the honors program. “I like how welcoming it is, and I like how I feel like I’m part of a community,” she said. Herbein uses the spot when her classes are canceled or if she has last minute assignments to complete. Whether a student is in the program or not, taking an honors course can be difficult and stressful. Time management is crucial to one’s schedule and turning in honors level work is key to their grade. Having a place to finally take a break and focus on one’s mental health helps
honors students, especially when it is exclusive to them. Beyond the honors lounge, there are other places to relax on main campus. The Campus Living room is comfortable, but not particularly academically comfortable. The library is nice, but maybe not for a small break in between assignments. Lastly, dorm rooms are great for comfort, but not for studying. The Honors Lounge is the perfect combination of comfort and academics. The students who were a part of the honors camp this past summer plan on reuniting for an honors night there. They also plan on decorating the room to make it more welcoming for honors members in the future. If you are an honors student and haven’t checked out the Honors Spot yet, you are highly recommended to do so. Otherwise, you may have to enjoy the view from the outside.
Credit: Alvernia.edu
Macy Smith Contributing Editor
Here is the logo for Alvernia’s Student Occupatioal Therapy Association
Sherrin Smith Contributing Writer The Honors Program has been given a comfortable place to rest their brains, or to get some work done. Located on the fourth floor of Francis Hall, the Honors Spot is a open space with couches, snacks, worktable, white board, and cute stuffed animals. Numerous honors students have already relaxed and completed work in the new lounge that has been available for nearly a month now. Over the summer, Dr. Janae Sholtz and Dr. Victoria Williams mentioned the idea of an honors lounge to their first group of honors camp students. The lounge was originally an empty room located on the fourth floor and there were not high expectations as to what it would look like in the future. “I was not expecting it to be this comforting,” Brooke Weister, a first-year student, said. “I thought it was just going to be a few chairs and a whiteboard…but really, it’s just a really warm space to do stuff in.” Weister comes to the
Credit: Sherrin Smith
Honors Program Can Finally Lounge Around!
This is the door that leads to the honors location for students to lounge in.
6 March/April 2022
web features
Mission Moment:
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attiitude.” - Maya Angelou
Vol. 59 Issue 2