is past couple weeks, I have been walking a line between two worlds. Or, wearing two hats, as upper university administration likes to say. I have been juggling being Assistant Coordinator for FOCUS Orientation and being Editor-in-Chief for Hatter Network. To say it has been hard would be an understatement, but I would not want it any other way.
As the new Editor-in-Chief, I have had the opportunity to watch Hatter Network’s Executive Board come together and produce something special for the incoming class of students. At the same time, I have gotten to meet and befriend members of the class of 2026. ere are so many bright minds in our incoming class, and I cannot wait to see my two worlds collide. Being able to be a part of and learn besides these groups of people is more rewarding than I ever thought it would be.
is incoming class gives me hope for the future of our community. Humans are so resilient, and I know that long a er myself and the other editors have graduated, Hatter Network and Stetson University will be in great hands. I cannot wait to see what you all create. Roll Hats!
As we welcome the next incoming class at Stetson, we at Hatter Network also welcome a new team of executives to our roster. We have assembled a new troupe, full of passion and fresh ideas, in order to continue e Reporters longstanding legacy of delivering quality content to our community. is special edition is the rst fruits of our labor, as well as our warmest welcome to our newest Hatters.
We’ve worked tirelessly to cra a comprehensive guide to make the transition to campus life as seamless as possible. From what to do if you have dietary restrictions, to our favorite traditions, to a calendar of events to help you keep track of what’s going on—we’ve got you covered.
is organization means more to me than words can express, and it is truly an honor and a privilege to be able to help move it forward. Despite the many challenges we have faced over the past two years, we have courageously persisted, just as you have, dear readers. As I look towards a life post-undergrad, I also nd myself ever focused on what I’ll leave behind. And this beloved paper of ours, is the culmination of all my greatest hopes of putting forth good into the world, and into our precious little community. During this, my last year on this team and as a Hatter, I am lled with both elation and sadness at the impending nality of it all. But in the meantime, I look forward to the many opportunities that lay ahead. Good luck, and welcome to Stetson!
e beginning of the 2022-2023 school year has approached at a blinding pace catching me, and I’m sure many of you, in a stranglehold of anxiety. With college starting back up again, the time of big choices, newfound personal independence, and grand opportunities has arrived as the hour of a new day approaches, and not a moment can be wasted. Having survived my freshman year and continuing through my college career in an unprecedented time of COVID and hysteria, I feel comfort able enough to lend my advice to incoming students alongside Hatter Network’s incredible sta .
e team we’ve formed consists of writers and editors of varying backgrounds who possess a similar passion for jour nalism. We strive for utmost honesty, entertainment, and timeliness for Stetson’s campus, and that is what we hope to have delivered this go-round. e articles included in this orientation issue cover a variety of topics such as international restaurants around DeLand, a guide to healthy eating on cam pus, a collection of Stetson traditions, and our regularly sched uled Ampersand and Unpacked. Be prepared for a whirlwind of journalistic versatility as our writer’s work to prepare each of you—and ourselves—for a new year.
My life at Stetson is approaching its end, and I’m caught between sadness and hope as I work to navigate a future in the real-world. But before the bell tolls, I want to be able to partic ipate in something that will last, and this is a testament of that. I’ve had an incredible time creating this beside Hatter Net work’s hilarious, hardworking, and compassionate team. While this orientation issue will be my last, we’ve only just begun. We hope that you will continue to follow us through this semester and the next with curiosity and excitement. I hope everyone’s year is full of happy memories. Good luck to all of you, and freshmen, I’m excited to see what future you will create for yourselves. Go Hatters!
Cover Model: Chloe DeYoung
Cover Photos by Jillian Semmel
Managing Editor, Alexis Diamond
Xanthippe Pack-Brown Editor-in-Chief
Carmen Cruz Executive Editor
Nkosi Watts Webmaster
Alexis Diamond Managing Editor
Hayden Collins Creative Director
Chase Berger News Editor
Jillian Semmel Photo Editor
A cup of hot tea, a fuzzy blanket, and a good book
I like to get a chocolate chip cookie at every place I go.
Xanthippe Pack-Brown, Editor-in-Chief
Carmen Cruz, Executive Editor of The Reporter
Alexis Diamond, Managing Editor of The Reporter
Hayden Collins, Creative Director
Logan Warren, Social Media Director for Touchstone
Jillian Semmel, Photo Editor
Chase Berger, News Editor of The Reporter
Eleanor King, Sports Editor of The Reporter
Jackie Maze, Multimedia Editor
Lisa Jordan, Executive Editor of Touchstone
Julexis Gonzalez, Associate Editor of Touchstone
Dancing, other than writing, it’s my favoritye thing to do.
To take time with myself and recharge my social battery.
Lane Davis, Executive Station Manager of WHAT Radio
Nkosi Watts, Webmaster
When it comes to joining Hatter Network, we are never not excited about someone wanting to join our ranks. If you want to write, e Reporter is the place. If you like to appreciate art, music, and writing, Touchstone Literary Arts Journal is where it’s at. If you want to create your own podcast, or learn how to use the tech in our radio station, WHAT Radio is there. Hatter Network is an extracurricular media program run by students, for students, to provide them with the information we think they need to know, or an outlet for their creative endeavors. If you’re interested in getting involved, please email our Editor-in-Chief, Xanthippe Pack-Brown, at xpackbrown@stetson.edu, or apply on Engage.
e Reporter, as part of Hatter Network, is the oldest collegiate magazine in the state of Florida.
We publish four times per year, twice per semester. Florida Sun Printing prints 300 copies per issue on 8.5 x 11inch, 80# Gloss Text. Most body text is set at 11 point Adobe Garamond Pro with 13 point leading set with a combination of regular, italic, and bold. All pages were designed using Adobe Creative Suite CC so ware InDesign with photos and illustrations handled in Photoshop and Illustrator. For additional information please visit hatternetwork.com. Questions or concerns can be mailed to 421 N Woodland Blvd. Deland, FL 32723 or emailed to hatternetwork@gmail.com.
My hope, my wish, my promise to you.
My Hope: I hope you take this time to nd your way, but also reach out when you nd yourself needing some support. We as a Stetson community are just that - here to support each other and cheer each other on along the way. I hope you embrace this time here at Stetson and are truly in the moment; feel it, live it, and conquer it.
My Wish: I wish that you will see your potential and never get in your own way. I wish I could show you what your future holds, but you are still in the process of creating it, and that is the best part. You are not alone. You are now part of a bigger community with goals and values that were speci cally made with YOU in mind.
My Promise: I promise that we are in this together, but you have to understand that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Learning, growing, and achieving your dreams requires initiative and e ort from within yourself. Sometimes you may be asked to step outside of your comfort zone, but all of your unique experiences, both here and before you were here, make you, YOU. And I promise, you are enough and you are going to not only survive this journey, but thrive through it!
I am beyond excited to see you all walk across that stage at commencement and I’ll cheer extra loudly for YOU. You will get there in due time and that incredibly exciting journey starts now!!
“Two things you are in control of in life are your attitude and your effort.”Photo curteousy of Stetson University
College is the transitional period from childhood to adulthood, from being a dependent of your parents to being an individual member of society. It is a long, yet enigmatically brief, few years of your life. My parents–as I am sure yours have too–continuously tell me to make the best of this chapter because it will be over before I know it. With such an emphasis on the cruciality of obtaining an education and growing as a person, it is hard to think of ways in which one might simultaneously enjoy their college careers and further their growth, both in a career eld and as a person. One way to do so is by getting involved on campus through student organizations.
Finding a student organization to join can feel overwhelming, especially with the wide variety that Stetson has to o er. However, it does not have to be as daunting as it feels. Being part of an organization should not be anxi ety-inducing. In fact, it should be one of the best parts of your college experience. But, for it to be so, you need to nd the right t. Allow me to give you a few starting points.
To nd a full list of all possible extracurriculars, look at the Student Organization page on the Stetson Uni versity website. is page o ers links to a list of student organizations, club sports, the media and publica tion board, the Student Government Association, and Greek life. Take time to simply browse these pages, and click on whatever piques your interest. You can also use these links to nd out more information about the organizations and obtain contact information.
It is also helpful to use the o cial Stetson University Instagram, @stetsonu, as a starting point. e college follows a majority of the organizations that have an Instagram page, so by browsing Stetson University’s following list and nding an organization’s page, you can view their posted content and see visuals of what they are about. Additionally, a lot of organizations follow their own members and tag them in posts. You can reach out to past and current members via direct message and ask them questions.
If you nd yourself wanting to join several organizations, do not hesitate to do so. Your rst year is a perfect time to experiment with di erent opportunities and nd your niche. However, you should know that as your workload increases and your free time dwindles, you may nd yourself forced to commit to a select few organizations. Take the time to nd the balance between excitement and growth.
Once you have found an organization that you wish to join, attend the Involvement Fair held at the begin ning of each semester or simply reach out by nding their contact information on Engage. Most organiza tions accept new members all year round.
If you cannot nd anything that interests you, there is always the option to form your own organization, too. e O ce of Student Development and Campus Vibrancy handles all requests. According to them, all you need is a few members and a faculty sponsor. e Student Organizations page on the Stetson University website has more information.
Engage will be your Mouskatool when it comes to getting involved around campus. It is worth investing time into learning the platform at the beginning of your rst year. Engage is Stetson’s central hub for any thing and everything related to student organizations and campus involvement. However, the application is rather confusing, so much so that even a er a dedicated Focus week tutorial, the instructions are still unclear. My parting gi to you is a simple list of instructions to access the platform.
is is truly the only advice I can give you. You could talk to every person in the world for guidance about college, but I guarantee you that you still would not be one hundred percent ready (trust me, I talked to dozens of people and was still thrown for a loop). Your experience is going to be di erent from every other person and that is one of the reasons it is so exciting. But I believe the most exciting part about university is nding yourself and a safe place where you can do that. Joining a student organization can help you achieve both of those things; that is certainly what joining Hatter Network has done for me. I can only hope that the same happens for you wherever your journey takes you.
Sign in to your myStetson Find and click on the Engage shortcut by either To view a list of campus organizations, click on the sidebar and select the Organizations tab
Hello! Welcome to Stetson University. As part of the Hatter Com munity, you will get to experience all our long-lasting traditions that make Stetson, well, Stetson!
Story & Graphics by Logan Warren Design by Hayden CollinsFor football fans, we have the March of the Hatters. Cheer on your team as they take a glorious march towards the field!
Enjoy a Late-Night Breakfast at the end of each semester! This event, brought to you by Hatter Productions, is the most deli cious way to kick off finals week. Yum!
We also have Values Day! Every fall semester, Hatters get to enjoy a day without classes where you can attend all sorts of different Cultural Credit events to learn about the Values that Hatters represent!
At graduation, students have the option of embracing Stetson’s roots and wearing a Stetson Hat in place of a cap at Graduation! (Hatters even receive a 20% discount on Stetson hats!)
Do you enjoy sitting by the fountain in Palm Court? Well, on your birthday you may end up sitting in it! Here at Stetson, we celebrate birthdays by tossing the Birthday Hatter into the fountain!
Here at Stetson, we hope you enjoy all our community traditions! And perhaps, you might even make some of your own. Roll hat! reporter
Feel passionate about recent events? Have comments on a recently published article? Or just have something important to share with the Stetson community?
Write a letter to the editors! Send your letterrs to hatternetwork@gmail.com, or dm them on Instagram @hatternetwork and you might just see it get published in our next edition!
Story by Carmen Cruz Photos by Jillian Semmel Designed by Hayden Collins
Let’s be honest, mindful eating can be di cult. Add on top of that the sudden in ux of external stressors, plus the reduction of dietary choices, and you’ve got yourself a whole new source of anxiety.
For those of us who experience food allergies, try to stick to alternative diets, or just want to main tain a healthy lifestyle, eating at college can be a struggle. But fear not; your upperclassmen have curated a guide to help you through it. Here are some top tips and tricks based on the personal experiences of vegans, vegetarians, and individu als with food allergies at Stetson.
If you feel like the options on campus for restrict ed diets are limited, that’s because they are. Unless you’re willing to go nuts at the salad bar in e Commons every day, you’re going to have to get creative.
Returners in-the-know will be happy to learn that the CUB’s noodle and stir-fry station, which had been shut down the past year or so, is back in full force. ey have great vege tarian options, as well as some decent variety, so de nitely don’t sleep on it. e grill station also has some options to consider: their veggie burgers are nothing to sneer at (just ask if they have eggs in them because sometimes the answer is yes) and their grilled chicken breasts o er a creative way to eat healthier. Eat it with veggies on the side, put it in a salad, or make it into a sand wich.
Stetson’s G-8 station, which is their answer to food allergens,
is entirely hit or miss. Every now and then, you’ll luck out and score something dynamic and a vorful (like the ever-popular BBQ ribs, for exam ple), but for the most part, that station’s o erings are devastatingly bland at best and suspiciously undercooked at worst. Even more concerningly, I’ve known people with food allergies who stuck to this station for their own safety, only to nd the meal to have been cross-contaminated. Long story short: always ask about your speci c food aller gy if you have one, even at this apparently “safe” station. And even then, odds are you’ll need more than this one station to solve all your problems.
Einstein’s has some good options on the whole. eir salads are very good, and they o er some vegan options like their Avocado Veg Out sand wich and avocado bagel. It’s a great for breakfast and lunch that’ll give you a break from
e Commons; just be mindful of their earlier hours (they close just a er lunch most days).
Hatter Streats–which replaced BYOB in the Hat Rack–boasts a rotating menu of diverse options. At present, they serve up an array of Asain-in spired treats, from stir-fry’s, to dumplings, to egg rolls. For those so inclined, tofu substitutions are available. Our sta
If your diet is especially constricting for whatev er reason, then you might be better o most of your own meals. Each dorm hall has a community kitchen, which, yes, can be a pain, but isn’t as bad to use as you’d think. I’ve seen many a vegan meal prep in community kitchens, and it seems to work for them. Plus, you’d be surprised what tools you can use in the comfort of your own dorm room. Microwaves and mini-fridges are an obvious staple, but surprise standouts include Instapots, electric mini grills/skillets, rice cook ers, and toaster ovens, all of which o variety of possibilities. Buzzfeed’s Tasty app o a ton of quick and easy recipes, as does Tiktok and Instagram. And for those so inclined, downtown DeLand hosts a weekly farmers market every Friday from 6-9 pm that features vendors with fresh produce, locally sourced honey, and artisanal ingredients.
Going out to eat? We’ve got you covered. Buddha Bowls o ers legendary acai bowls, just be ready to pay for it because she ain’t cheap. Boston Co Wrap it Up, and Manzano’s o and sandwiches at reasonable prices. Burger King’s Impossible Whopper (which is vegetarian) also comes highly recommended, as does the variety at Chipotle. Chinese places like Tops China o a surprising array of vegan and vegetarian options at a ordable prices. And my personal fav, Pho Noodle Company, hosts a myriad of healthy options for those seeking a more formal din ing experience.
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sud den need to think about what you’re going to
er really good salads er day, just know that it gets easier.
Photos by Jillian Semmel Layout by Hayden Collins & Jackie Maze
It is tradition for each issue of e Reporter to include a segment called Unpacked in which the contents of a student’s bag are revealed and explained. For this orientation issue, the Hatter Network E-Board decided to take a slightly di erent route. We had a mission to clean out our overly cluttered o ce–which has frustratingly been a blackhole of forgotten items–instead of a shared common workspace–and in true writer’s fashion, we decided to document this grand event. Here are a few items from the impressive conglomeration of clutter we conquered.
“ is is here because I took it for something and tried to put it back in the station, but my station access was revoked. But I had access to the Hatter Network o ce.” – Lane
“It’s okay. is place is a storage unit.” – Hayden
Initially, these were used as decorations for the end-of-the-year banquet. Why did we keep them? Just in case we had to throw another one, I guess. Or maybe, the plan was to decorate the o ce with a bunch of golden lanterns. All I can tell you is that they were set in a box for the entirety of the summer and were promptly thrown out during the Great Decluttering of 2022.
I cannot explain Hatter Network’s a nity for fake owers, but I can tell you that the organization could open a ower shop. We promptly got rid of most of these. Only three remain.
As the writers of the student magazine and student literary publication, it makes sense that our o ce is full of magazines. However, the sheer number of half- lled boxes is concerning. Does one o ce need that many magazines? No, the answer is no.
New snacks are bought every week for Uncouth. is gigantic value bag of name-brand candy seemed to have been overlooked and was le to su er the fate of wasting away in the o ce, unopened and uneaten.
We like to snack…
is strand of lights has been unmoved from its designated spot in the o ce for as long as I have had access to it. I cannot tell you the origins of the fancy light xture, but I can tell you that it remains unused to this day. Apparently, it is the holiday season all year long.
Story by Alexis Diamond Layout & Graphics by Hayden Collins
Story by Alexis Diamond Layout & Graphics by Hayden Collins
Want a taste of Asia, South America, or the Caribbean? Well, if you have been dying to sink your teeth into a wide array of international foods without leaving the comfort of DeLand, this list is for you. Here I have compiled a condensed collection of restaurants in DeLand o ering food from di erent regions throughout the world for you to sample, so if you want a little bit of diversity in your meals or a slice of home, we’ve got you covered.
Oudom’s Thai and Sushi:
Closest to Stetson is Oudom’s ai and Sushi, which Somchin Kemsatha and her three sons—Oudom, Somboun, and Siy—opened in 2006. It is located downtown right next to Firehouse Subs on North Woodland. e entrance is a bit small, but m‹ake sure to look for the signature blue and white sign with the name. All of the foods these brilliant chefs create are spawned from, according to the restaurant’s website, family recipes, and are made from scratch. eir signature dishes are curry, pad thai, pad phet, and shrimp tempura.
Appetizers range in price from $5-$13 with a Combination Starter being the most expensive. For the main course, prices climb just a tad with the costs staying between $14-$15. Soups and salads range from $5-$16, and curries all cost $15. More information about prices can be found on the company’s website.
Allergens: Peanuts are commonly used in ai cuisine, so be mindful of what you order. Always alert sta of your dietary restrictions.
I have compiled a Allergens: Southeast Asian Couis ine often uses tree nuts and other nut varieties in their sauces, oils, and dishes, so be mindful of what you order. Again, always notify staff of your dietary restrictions BEFORE you order.
Moving just east of ailand, we nd DeLand’s hub for Vietnamese dishes—Pho Company Noodle House. is restaurant is located between Anita’s Furniture & Home Decor, and Pretty Little ings on North Woodland in downtown DeLand. Dishes o ered range from curry, to spring rolls, and of course—the famous pho. Prices vary depending on what you’re in the mood for; appetizers never cost more than $10.95, the cost of pho varies depending on what options you select like noodle type and meat/no meat, and spring rolls typically cost around $6.95. Costs run a little
More than you think.
bit higher here, so keep that in mind when you come to eat. e food is tasty, authentic, and incredibly avorful, and the same applies to their drink options! ey have a plethora of choices for bubble tea avors to indulge yourself in.
One thing that stands out about this restaurant is its inclusive menu! ere are plenty of vegan options for those with dietary restrictions. ese choices range from crispy egg noodles, to vegan noodle soup, and fried tofu sandwiches. One thing that stands out about this restaurant is its inclusive menu! ere are plenty of vegan options for those with dietary restric tions. ese choices range from crispy egg noodles, to vegan noodle soup, and fried tofu sandwiches.
e Jamaican and Soul Restaurant tops this list as the Caribbean and southern American centerpiece in DeLand. is restaurant is located on East Voorhis Avenue in DeLand, which is about a 3-minute drive from Stetson. e menu here has some wonderful options of rice, seafood, and chicken variations—including the always tasty Jerk Chicken, which is a famous Jamaican dish. Other choices include Oxtail, Pepper Shrimp, Fried Chicken, Corn bread, and an array of sides such as plantains and Jamaican Patties; a good mix of both the south and the Carib bean for those who want the best of both worlds.
In terms of prices, the entrees are fairly uniform in price: $6.99 for a small and $9.99 for a large. e same applies for the side dishes, which are all $1.99; the only outliers being chicken ($3.99), oxtail ($4.99), and goat ($4.99).
A lot of these foods involve meat, which many individuals may not be able to have due to dietary restrictions, but have no fear, this fabulous restaurant also includes a vegan option for anyone to try. eir Facebook also states that vegetarian options are available.
Here’s a restaurant for you if you are looking for a Taste of Soul. Southern food is served here with love as the owners, according to their about page on their website, strived “to have a location that allowed for a diverse group of people to walk in the doors.” e restaurant thus strives for all patrons to feel a sense of belonging this way. Not only does this restaurant serve up some tender love and care, but they also are home to what they dub, “the best fried chicken” around.
Food options include their renowned fried chicken, beef stew, smothered chicken livers for an entree, and some good old mac & cheese. e entrees go from $11.95 up to $19.95, but keep in mind that their menu changes each day of the week, so I recommend checking their website for additional information on what will be served.
In terms of dietary restrictions, a lot of meat is served here, and there are not very many vegetarian options available, so bear that in mind when you visit.
DeLand o ers many Mexican restaurants, but one that has always stuck out for its savory and authentic is Los Dos Compadres located on East International Speedway Boulevard about 6 minutes from St incredible bar and grill has many tasty options for everyone who wants a taste of authentic M
Los Dos Compadres is family-owned, according to their website, with original recipes from the restaurant-o ers grandmother; all of which have not been changed since the place’s inception. and see no signs of stopping. Some of their food options include enchiladas, queso amongst many other delectable entrees.
Appetizers range from $6-$8. Salads cost between $10-$12, and all lunch options range between $8-$12. main dishes, however, become a bit more expensive with tacos and combos going between $2 and $12, fajitas being $17 and $28, and seafood being between $15 and $20. Vegetarian options cost around the same as tacos and combos at $10, $11, and $12.
Another fantastic restaurant is Chicas Cuban Cafe located on South Woodland Blvd, which is a 3-minute drive from campus. According to their website, their service claims to be “authentically Latin; warm, welcoming, and at times even a ectionate.” Who doesn’t love a warm hug accompanying their meal?
Menu options include the always tasty Cuban sandwiches ranging between $10 and $14 and an assortment of co ees such as cafe con leche at $4 a cup. eir website has a complete image of the menu for hopeful attendees to glance over if you’d like more information.
Greece’s cultural staple for centuries has been its mythological tales of valiance, bravery, heartbreak, and heroism, but a contemporary gem is its fantastic cuisine. Santorini is a Greek restaurant located in downto DeLand next door to Mr. Bills and across the street from Pinup Parlor. Keep an eye out for their long blac white sign above the entrance.
e restaurant is owned by Manny and Agata Politis—Manny being from Psara, Greece, and Agata from Slo kia. Manny also doubles as a chef, creating Hellenic staples such as gyros, spanakopita, moussaka, an e restaurant is vegan and vegetarian friendly with vegan options such as fried chickpea patties and fa sandwiches available, and gluten-free bread.
eak, wn k and Slovamoussaka, and saganaki. with falafel listed $5, I too
e prices are fairly high here, so bear that in mind. Gyros are listed alongside their vegan options and are all priced at $8.95 each. Sides range between $1 to $5, which includes items such as feta, greek fries, and anchovies. Desserts bounce between $4.95 and $6.95 with the delightful baklava being included.
DeLand has some great choices for anyone looking to venture out of their normal range of foods, or those wanting something that reminds them of home. I encourage all of those wishing to check out these places to look at allergen information before deciding—you can never be too careful. I hope you all have an incredible academic year and happy eating!
Welcome to Stetson! By now you’re probably exhausted after carrying boxes back and forth
time, what better way to get adjusted than to know a bit more about your dorm! We’ve compiled some fun superlatives based on which dorm you live in.
Most likely to have enough space for the ultimate sleepover.
With the many connections you can make at Stetson, Carson offers a multitude of space for any kinds of events you might want to have. From movie nights, to game days, and just spending time with your new friends! Afterall, anything can be used as a blanket.
Chadouin stands along with many other historic places on campus. After so long, Chadouin unfortunately will no longer share its ghostly quarters with students this year. Hopefully, this dorm will open its doors once again for new students to experience the beauty that remains in its halls.
Most likely to be ripped carrying groceries into your dorm.
Most likely to know almost everyone on
Gordis offers a great community to be around! Many past residents continue to advertise about the many lifelong connections they’ve made over the course of the year. As nerve wracking as it seems, don’t hesitate to open your door and accept all the new adventures that may come your way! With how thin some dorm walls are, there is a guarantee to know almost everyonevoluntarily or not.
Almost everywhere on campus has more stairs than your average mall, but Nemec offers a great opportunity to get a bit of a workout in. All you need is a few grocery bags and you’re on your way to become as strong as the urge to sleep in on an early monday. Probably best to set a reminder.
Conrad, being right in the middle of campus, offers quick and easy access to the Welcome Center, the CUB, and even the Bookexperience the fun activities and events that Stetson has to offer!
Check out the composite schedule on the GoHatters website, to find information for all upcoming sporting events throughout the year.
Looking to get in the Hatter Spirit? Grab your Stetson ID and take advantage of the free general admission for all students, at all home sporting events. The start of a new school year means the beginning of a new competition season for our Hatter athletes. Walk on over to the different stadiums and cheer them on as they play their way through the Fall 2022 season.
Game day for our soccer teams take place at the Athletic Training Center (ATC) across from first year dorms Smith and Gordis. Our women’s team took on their first home game against South Carolina State on Thursday, August 18th. The men kick off their season at home on Saturday, September 3rd, against Queen’s University.
Our speedy Hatters take off from the start line on Friday, September 2nd at UCF. Cheer them on from afar as they work their way up to the ASUN Conference meet on Saturday, October 29th. Set your alarm clocks for the chance to support our Hatters on campus as they run around bright and early each morning.
Dig a killer showdown? Watch our Indoor Volleyball team serve up some heat in the Edmunds Center, across from Rinker Field. Fans filled the stands in support of fellow Hatters for their first home match against USC Upstate, on Saturday, August 27th.
Follow our mascot, John B, down to Spec Martin Stadium and celebrate the start of football season against Concordia on Saturday, September 3rd. Located at 260 East Euclid, get ready for the mile hike to the stadium; and keep in mind that parking costs between $10-$20. From rotating weekly giveaways to Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, make the most of game day freebies and join your fellow Hatters on the famous hill to sit back and enjoy the game. Not a fan of grass? Extra seating can be found on the opposing team’s side free of charge. Mark your calendars to show your Stetson pride and welcome our Hatters home again on Saturday, October 29th.
On top of free admission, you can earn points for every sporting event you attend on campus and win prizes ranging from Amazon gift cards to Stetson gear. The Hatter Rewards App keeps track of how many games each user goes to; all you have to do is check-in once you arrive. The more points you rack-up, the more prizes you’ll be eligible for. At the end of each school year, the Hatter with the most points will be selected for the grand prize. Download the Hatter Rewards App, available on both Apple and Android devices, and start earning points as soon as the Fall 2022 season starts!
Across linguistic and cultural barriers, music serves to bridge the gap that words often cannot. Alexander Ortiz Vélez, a Stetson student studying musical composition, understands this phenomenon quite personally.
Alexander began taking music lessons at an early age in Puerto Rico, where he grew up with his family. He learned music theory, how to play the piano, and about how music can foster connection in each of his classes. This education followed him to Florida, where he has lived for the last several years. In his interview, he shared that his English at the time he moved to Florida “wasn’t great,” but he found that composition “was [his] true way of connecting with…myself.”
Thus, music became the great communicator for Alexander as he overcame the language barriers he faced moving to a predominantly English-speaking area. We discussed his experiences of music and how it serves as a form of communication, and Alexander stated that “feelings [are] a universal language,” and the immense feeling and emotion that can be found in music. He believes that because music is also a “universal language,” people can understand each other through it without necessarily needing the complex conventions of traditional language.
Alexander’s passion for the arts brought him to Stetson University, which he cites as a foundation for his study of music and composition. He is a pianist, keyboardist, and organist and spends much of his time composing unique pieces. Alexander says that he enjoys listening to all genres of music, from Baroque to modern jazz. “I just love what people have to show me,” he said in the interview, delighted to share his taste in music.
Alexander also has a deep passion for social justice and encouraging dialogue. As a
musical director at a local church, he has the unique opportunity to engage with the community via music. “I never saw myself as an actual organist at a church,” he laughed, noting that this gig was not even on his radar prior to coming to Stetson. However, Alexander maintains that he is thankful for the opportunity.
He believes that music is one of the most effective ways to promote action and advocacy in communities, often communicating what words simply cannot. He said that one of the greatest joys of his job is using his creativity and platform to speak to his congregation, and “empower them to do work in the community.” One of his goals during his time with the church is to be able to connect with local youth music organizations to help teach children to play the organ.
Alexander mused about how the music he composes and plays encourages listeners to explore their spirituality, no matter their religious or cultural identity.
Story by Lisa Jordan Photos by Jillian Semmel Layout by Lisa Jordan & Hayden Collins reporterWhile the encouragement of spiritual exploration presents a challenge for some who are not used to the idea, Alexander encourages this discomfort. “It’s rewarding to challenge the
tradition,” he says, telling me about how he uses his music to create a culture of acceptance and exploration in the church. He sees the value in thinking deeply about what you believe and why, and allowing your views to be challenged or reframed.
Alexander brings this belief to the very core of his music. On January the 6th, 2021, Alexander sat down at his piano and began to compose as he watched the tragedy at the Capitol unfold on television. His piece, titled “January the 6th,” was composed in real time with the events, inspired by the emotions Alexander felt as he watched the news coverage. He feels as though it is important for folks to hear this piece in order to understand his feelings during
“It’s…sacred music, but in a way that anyone can connect.”
the event, no matter their views on the incident.
It is crucial that artists and musicians use their talents to encourage dialogue between different beliefs and ideologies, as Alexander implies through his actions. While words may lead to fallout and strife, music and art can effectively communicate to an audience what would otherwise be torn down.
When asked what advice he would give to artists and musicians who are beginning their careers at Stetson, Alexander simply says, “Be open.” In Alexander’s case, he had no idea that he would one day become the musical director of a local church, using his position to inspire community engagement and social justice through his art.
While his journey at Stetson may not look like he had originally planned, it has nonetheless been a wonderful opportunity for growth and learning
creative minds, be open to changes in your path. Do not turn a blind eye to challenges or disruption in normalcy. Opportunities that you may have once thought impossible, or perhaps never even considered, may be the catalyst for success in your time here at Stetson.
Across the barriers of language and spirituality, Alexander has been able to use music to promote connection and growth. Where many may see stagnation, Alexander sees endless opportunities for progress through rhythm and melody.
Layout by Hayden Collins
Welcome to Stetson! You’re in for some serious adventures, to be sure. I’ve certainly had my fair share of them. As a senior, I’ve accrued some hard-won knowledge that I think might make your transition a little easier, so listen up!
It’s okay to not be okay for a while. Sometimes, a sudden change can be hard. Sometimes, you’ll get homesick, or you’ll go through something major, or you’ll feel awful for no particular reason at all.
at’s okay! We’ve all been there, and I’m here to tell you that with time, it gets so much better. Two things have helped me through these transition periods: the rst was the free services o ered by the counseling center on campus, and the second was sheer persistence. Keep going. Even if it hurts. Even if it feels impossible. Never ever forget your why. If you’re here, then there’s a reason for it. Remember your future, your ambition, your dreams, and press onward. Ask for help when you need it (and refuse to feel shame for doing so!), and keep going.
Maintain a healthy level of caution. Any woman, POC, or member of the LGBTQIA+ community will tell you that DeLand can get dicey, and the world tends to look the other way when we experience injustice, so despite the supreme unfairness of this statement, the reality is that your safety is now your responsibility. Look out for one another. Use common sense. If you have a funny feeling in your gut about something, please for the love of God, heed that warning. Now, should you live your life in fear? Absolutely not. But too many people have walked through these hallowed halls, fresh aface and charged with optimism, only to be bombarded with bitter realities. Part of reaching adulthood means accepting responsibility, and that comes in many forms. Fun is good, but safe is better.
Failure isn’t fatal. Getting a bad grade, failing a class, getting red from a job, etc. are not the end of the world. Everything can be an opportunity for growth with the right attitude. Be kind to yourself. Learn from your mistakes. Reach for your best, not for perfection. Try new things! ere’s no better time than the present to reach beyond your comfort zone and stumble upon your next favorite thing. Take a class in a department
that has nothing to do with your major, venture downtown and marvel at the whimsy within, go to Pride night on Tuesdays at DaVinci’s, order something spicy to see if you can handle it. Follow your curiosity and see where it takes you. In my experience, there’s no better way to learn than this. Travel if you can, it quite literally makes you a better person. You’ll learn stu that Stetson could never teach you and you’ll see things that’ll take your breath away. Look for scholarships! I paid for my rst study abroad trip exclusively on scholarship and GoFundMe. Nothing is impossible for those who persist!
Make the most of every opportunity. Stetson has a lot to o er, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. So get organized, utilize your resources, and go a er it. Join a club, get a job and/or an internship, apply for scholarships, enter in competitions, submit to Touchstone and get published, the list goes on. Beef up your resume as well as your academic transcript because, as it turns out, one without the other is getting imsier by the day.
And last but certainly not least, learn to advocate for yourself. You’ll hear people say that a lot, but they’ll use it as an excuse to run all over you. “ ere’s nothing we can do, they didn’t advocate for themselves,” blah blah blah. Don’t let it stand. You’re adults now, so you’ve gotta use your voice and make others hear you. Be civil. Be respectful. But absolutely do not let others take advantage of your inaction. Stand up for yourself, even if you shouldn’t have to. It may not be your fault, but it is your problem. If something’s not right or not fair, then do something about it.
AKA your friendly neighborhood cripple
DearNewbies, Love, Carmen
All Over - CRUISR
Run the World!!! - Dayglow
Get Into It (Yuh) - Doja Cat
MICHUUL. - Duckwrth
Rasperberry Tongue - Fig
Throw Shade - CRUISR
Space Cowboy - Flipturn
Stop Calling The Police On Me - Dreamer Isioma
Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear
King - Florence + The Machine
Yuck - Charli XCX
Do Your Worst - The Happy Fits
Chaise Longue - Wet Leg
Hotel - Claire Rosinkranz
It’s Called: Freefall - The Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Kyoto - Phoebe Bridgers
Mission to Mars - Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Waterguns - Caravan Palace
The Adults Are Talking - The Strokes
NO FUN - Joji
Perfume - Lovejoy
