The Merciad April 21 Issue

Merciad THE

MERCYHURST UNIVERSIT Y

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WEDNE SDAY, APRIL 21 , 2021

News ................2-5 Features...........6-9 A&E ............. 10-11 Opinion........ 12-13 Sports ......... 14-15 Laker Living.......16 |

VOL. 94 NO. 17

To reduce the spread of germs, please take this copy with you or recycle after reading.

Mercyhurst vaccinates hundreds PAGE 3

Online poll results

We asked: What is your

Photo Credits: Contributed photo

favorite type of muffin?

Chocolate Chip Banana Nut

2: Chauvin found guilty on all counts 6: Mercyhurst hosts successful boho fashion pop-up event 10: Lumen magazine to be released

Blueberry Apple Cinnamon

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This week’s

POLL

What is your favorite ice cream topping?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

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NEWS

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Chauvin found guilty on all counts

By Marina Boyle Editor in chief

In a landslide victory for the Black Lives Matter movement, a Minnesota court has found Derek Chauvin, the police officer charged with murdering George Floyd by kneeling on his neck during an arrest in May 2020, guilty on all counts. The three charges are second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

Jurors reached the verdict on their second day of deliberations.

Jurors in Hennepin County District Court first began hearing testimony in the case on March 29.

Chauvin has not yet been sentenced, but has been remanded in custody. Second-degree murder

carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. Third-degree murder has a maximum penalty of 25 years, while second-degree manslaughter has a maximum of 10 years. Those sentences would likely be served concurrently, not consecutively.

“This case is a turning point in American history for accountability of law enforcement and sends a clear message we hope is heard clearly in every city and every state,” said Ben Crump, an attorney for Floyd’s family.

The courtroom was silent as the verdict was read, reporters inside noted. During the verdict, there was no noticeable emotional reaction from the jury.

Chauvin appeared to be in a daze while waiting for the jury to

arrive, and at one point, Chauvin turned to look at Philonise Floyd, George Floyd’s brother, who was praying. As the first guilty verdict was read, his hands began shaking while clasped. Chauvin’s conviction marks only the second time a police officer has been convicted of murder in the state of Minnesota, and the first time such a conviction has been won against a white officer who killed a Black man.

Floyd’s family released a statement through their attorney, and were reported to look relieved and overwhelmed when leaving the courtroom.

“I have to thank you on behalf of the people of the state of Minnesota for not just jury service but heavy-duty jury service,” Justice

Cahill told the 12 jurors. Jurors in this case had the eyes of the world on them, and watched graphic video footage of the 9:29 minute incident in May, as well as hearing emotional witness statements.

The center of Minneapolis, as well as the main police headquarters, have been fortified, and the Minnesota National Guard is activated. Minneapolis schools had canceled in-person classes in anticipation of the potentially volatile protests in the city. Community members reacted with tears, hugs and chants after decision. At the time of writing, the situation in Minneapolis remains peaceful.

President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris watched the Derek Chauvin verdict with staff in the private dining room of the

White House.

Following the guilty verdict, Biden spoke with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Philonise Floyd from the Oval Office. Biden told them “nothing is going to make it all better, but at least now there’s some justice.”

Former President Barack Obama also reacted to the guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin case. “Today, a jury did the right thing. But true justice requires much more,” Obama tweeted.

“While today’s verdict may have been a necessary step on the road to progress, it was far from sufficient one. We cannot rest.”

Currently, marchers across the city are holding signs which read “THE WORLD IS WATCHING.”

Renovations to Athletic Center

By Laren Reesman Staff writer

The Laker for Life campaign, which began more than two years ago, has raised $10 million to transform athletic areas. The campaign, which had an original goal of $9.5 million, will exceed that goal by $500,000. The Mercyhurst Athletic Department will renovate all competition facilities in just three years.

This year’s project is a remodel of the MAC, holding the basketball court, volleyball court and wrestling arena, to be named the Owen J. McCormick Court.

Saxon Stadium, Tullio Field and the hockey rink were refurbished last year, along with new locker rooms for Women’s soccer and softball.

The stage will disappear, and the court will turn 90 degrees facing north to south. The remodel will also feature a new lobby and Hall of Fame, updated scoreboards and better seating with chair backs.

Construction began Monday, April 12 and will end mid-August.

Bradley Davis, Director of Athletics, said with this project the MAC “will become one of the best competition venues in our region,” or essentially, a DI facility in a DII setting.

Main sponsors of the Laker for Life campaign include Betsy and Bill Vorsheck who donated the largest sum in Mercyhurst history. John and Patty Saxon and local businessman Owen McCormick also contributed significant amounts to make the project possible.

Both basketball coaches commented on how excited they are for the facility. Women’s basketball coach Brooklyn Kohlheim is happy to have a facility that “matches the rest of a gorgeous campus.” Men’s basketball coach Gary Manchel said he wants his team to play home games that are “worthy of the faith and vision of

this new facility.”

Along with the McCormick Court, all Sports Medicine classrooms will receive a complete makeover. Such actions will benefit the Sports Medicine academic program, and also be helpful for the Athletic Training master’s program that will begin at Mercyhurst in the fall.

Another project for the fall semester is a partnership with Mercyhurst Prep. High School, to construct a turf practice field/ softball field on the hill above the other Mercyhurst fields. Work on that project had been suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The softball team will be able to train and compete at home rather than at Hillsdale Park off-campus, and Mercyhurst Prep. High school students will be able to train on a field rather than the schoolyard.

Contributed photo Davis said coaches and student-athletes are thrilled with the The re-imaginings of the court area and courtside seating in the Mercyhurst Athletic Center. campaign and being the first to compete in brand new facilities.

After a year without athletics, Mercyhurst athletes are eager to play sports once again. The Athletic Department gives athletes a chance to literally start new with these renovations.

A tough year will end with needed changes that leave faculty, students and coaches excited for the future of athletics.

Mercyhurst boasts a large student-athlete ratio which attracts donors like those who contributed to the Laker for Life campaign.

These funds go into projects such as new facilities which in turn attract future athletes. Improved athletics contributes to making Mercyhurst a sought-after DII school.

Davis and director of Athletic Communications, Craig Butler, have worked diligently to create Contributed photo publicity for these projects, and we look forward to seeing the finThis is what the lobby of the new MAC is going to look like, including an updated Hall of Fame in the ished results. entranceway.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

NEWS

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“Justice through Mercy” prayer service celebrated with help of guest pastor

By Ashley Barletta

Staff writer

Every year, Mercyhurst students and staff members gather to celebrate the spring Mercy prayer service, which is meant to act as a follow-up to the Mass of the Holy Spirit that takes place every fall. It is a time to come together and celebrate faith. This year, the prayer service was held on April 14, at 3 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel. The service focused on the virtue of justice in particular, as it is always something that we should be thinking about when we interact with one another, especially this year.

Fr. Jim Piszker said “the Spring Mercy prayer service was established a few years ago to be a bookend event to the Mass of the Holy Spirit in the fall term.

It has taken the form of a Mass or prayer service, depending upon the year, and this year, we are celebrating “Justice through Mercy” as the university explores issues of equality and racial justice. Our speaker is Pastor Charles Mock of the Community Missionary Baptist Church.”

Pastor Charles Mock has been highly involved in the Church and its justice teachings for many years. He earned his Master of Divinity degree in 1978 and was given his Doctor of Ministry degree in 2016. One of the many things he has done to help others

was developing a Disaster Relief Management System for survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Once this system was implemented, many other churches nationwide updated their disaster relief systems as well. He was also head of the development of CLAIM, INC., a non-profit organization centered around faith.

He has performed many other services throughout his lifetime as he enjoys serving others very much. You can read more about Pastor Charles Mock, DMin at this link: https://community-mbc.org/bio/.

Greg Baker, vice president for Mission, D. Min, was inspired by the service.

“In a year that has seen the MU community ramp up its efforts for a more equitable and antiracist campus, it is fitting that we will gather to prayerfully consider what it means to bring about ‘Justice through Mercy.’ Our guest preacher, Pastor Charles Mock, D. Min, is a long-time community organizer and activist, and a gifted public speaker. He serves as pastor of Community Missionary Baptist Church in Erie. We hope that many students and employees joined and enjoyed either in person in Christ the King Chapel or via livestream.”

Justice is defined as “the respect for the human person and the rights which flow from human

dignity and guarantee it,” according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, but you do not have to be religious to be concerned with justice. Justice is more than equality; it is the provision of the needs of each person so that everyone is able to live with dignity.

Each person has dignity, so each person should be treated

with respect and given an education on their rights as human beings. All people are called to live and to act justly.

Despite all of the events that happen in Christ the King Chapel, there is time set aside every day for quiet reflection time. If there is ever a day when you want to talk to God, feel stressed, or just

need peace and quiet, you can go to the chapel from 3-4 p.m.

If you did not have the opportunity to attend the prayer service but would have liked to, you can find the livestream at this link: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BP23jDPPCrM.

Contributed photo

Pastor Charles Mock, Doctor of Ministry, gives his speech during the Justice through Mercy Prayer Service.

Mercyhurst vaccinates hundreds

By Rebecca Dunphy

News editor

After months of limited supply and appointments, the COVID-19 vaccines are more accessible than ever, especially with Mercyhurst hosting its second vaccination clinic of the semester.

Though a smaller clinic was held in late February, the supply was limited to those with health conditions or employment circumstances that put them at greater risk. Thanks to a partnership with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) fostered by former Mercyhurst employee and current LECOM vice president of External Affairs, Monsignor David Rubino, Ph.D., all students, faculty and staff were eligible to receive the vaccine.

“When he learned LECOM had received a grant that would enable them to start providing vaccinations, he contacted us and introduced us to Jim Caputo.

Mr. Caputo is the person who was in charge of administering the vaccines program through the grant,” said vice president for Student Life, Laura Zirkle,

Ph.D. “We worked closely with him and his team and have been able to offer two on-campus clinics as well as get many of our community members vaccinated off-campus at other clinics that they have been able to offer. It has been a great partnership and we are incredibly grateful for the vaccine opportunities that they have provided our community.”

Planning for the clinic began April 8 with the help of a committee of dedicated individuals including Zirkle; vice president for Enrollment, Joe Howard; associate Provost, Andrea Barnett; director of Marketing and Brand, Sean Cuneo; director of Athletic Training Services, Andy Simon-Wambach; assistant Athletic Director for Student Health/ Wellness, Sue Sweeney; Communication, Campaign and Web manager, Kyndra Zacherl and executive director of Campus Involvement, Sarah Allen.

While their planning certainly played a significant role in the success of the day, the impact of the volunteers who helped cannot be underscored.

“Our volunteers were essential to the success of this event. Our planning committee was only a

handful of people, and when we were expecting 700+ attendees to be vaccinated, the eight of us could not possibly have run it alone,” said Zacherl. “Our 60+ volunteers were checking people in, assisting them with completing their paperwork, answering questions, helping upload documentation, giving instructions and doing anything else they could do to help.”

One such volunteer, freshman Dance and Public Health double major, Sophie Satoh, describes her help with the clinic.

“I volunteered because I really want people to have the ability to get the vaccine and I wanted to be a part of helping people who want the vaccine, get it,” said Satoh. “I was tasked with spacing out people in line to get their shot.”

Many volunteered for hours at a time.

Zirkle further detailed the numerous departments that helped to make the day run smoothly.

“A clinic this big pulled together in this short of a time period would not have been possible without broad community support. So many folks from all across campus helped make this

possible,” said Zirkle. “Athletics took on the set up the night before and the tear down after it was over, in addition to working during the clinic. Faculty members worked different shifts, talked to students about signing up and in some cases even assisted those providing the shots. Student Life, Campus Ministry, Parkhurst and Aramark were out in force making sure the day ran smoothly, President NeCastro worked the vaccine line… and most importantly, the community showed to get vaccinated.”

In total, 741 students, faculty and staff received the provided Pfizer vaccine.

Though participants were encouraged to register for an appointment prior to the day’s event, an excess number of vaccines allowed for the clinic to take walk-ins.

“Around noon, we realized we would have extra doses and put the call out to the community for walk-ins. We had people coming from the dining hall, straight from athletics workouts or who were just walking by,” said Zacherl. “We did have to register these people and make space for them, but that was a good problem to

have.”

By holding the clinic at this point in the year, students can receive both doses of the vaccine before the end of the semester, which ensures the health and safety of the communities to which students are returning.

The second dose will be provided in early May. As an added bonus, seniors who participated will have received their second dose in time for their in-person graduation.

“Holding the event was important to keeping our students, faculty and staff safe and well. This clinic puts us closer to having a ‘normal’ campus once more,” said Allen. “We all want to get back to socializing and seeing one another safely.”

The clinic for the second dose will occur in a similar fashion on May 4.

Though there are not any plans currently in the works for another first dose clinic, resources are available within the Erie community for those who are interested in receiving the vaccine.

Congratulations to the Mercyhurst community on getting the vaccine and getting one step closer to normalcy!

NEWS

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Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Illumination seeks student Merciad IN A MINUTE Report your vaccination Have you received your COVID-19 vaccine?

Make sure to report it to the school by visiting tinyurl.com/MUvaccine.

This form still needs to be completed even if you participated in the campus clinic.

Remember to still abide

by CDC and campus guidelines about mask wearing, social distancing and limiting contact, even if you are fully vaccinated.

“Raw Edges” this weekend The Dance department is livestreaming their annual Raw Edges performance on April 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and April 25 at 2 p.m. The link can be found on the Mercyhurst Dance webpage.

Earth Day speaker Mercyhurst is celebrating Earth Day with the 51st annual Sister Maura Smith Earth Day Lecture on April 22 at 7 p.m.

This year’s guest speaker is Fr. Daniel P. Horan.

Registration opened on April 1 for this exciting event, so keep a lookout for a link to sign up.

Study Abroad resumes Study abroad trips are now being scheduled for summer and fall of 2021.

For more information about these exciting opportunities, go to the HUB and find the Study Abroad page under the Academics tab.

To set up an advising meeting, email studyabroad@mercyhurst. edu.

Have a tip for Merciad in a Minute? Want to tell others about your club’s events?

Email us at newsmerciad@ mercyhurst.edu

entries for Symposium

By Rebecca Dunphy News editor

The 2020-2021 academic year was undoubtedly one unlike any other, yet throughout it all students remained steadfast in their studies. To highlight notable scholarly work of Mercyhurst students, the Illumination Symposium will be held on April 22 and 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Ryan Hall’s Waterford Room.

Illumination is an annual event that showcases the wide variety of projects students take part in throughout the semester. From traditional research to service, internships and art, the symposium offers representation for a variety of subjects.

The event is typically organized by the Student Scholarship Committee, a committee of the Faculty

Senate, however this year’s event is in collaboration with the Faculty Scholarship Committee as part of a week-long celebration of scholars.

“I served as chair of the committee last year given my interest in highlighting the good work of Mercyhurst students,” said Student Scholarship Committee chair, Adam Saeler, Ph.D. “Unfortunately, due to COVID, our efforts were not seen to fruition last year. When the call for volunteers was offered late this academic year, I felt like I might actually get to see the work come to fruition.”

The committee’s efforts have certainly come to fruition with 30 works being submitted as of the April 15 deadline. With information sent out to all Mercyhurst students, the opportunity was open to any student with the de-

sire to showcase their work from the academic year.

The Illumination Symposium will include both in-person and virtual components for viewership.

“Traditionally, students have presented their work via a poster presentation. The posters provide any interested party with a visual overview of the work with the student being present to answer any questions from interested parties,” said Saeler. “The Waterford Room in Ryan Hall will be open for those interested to view the scholarship of students; an Illumination e-program will highlight the work and when students will be available to answer questions about their work. The plan is to also include any full papers submitted or links to recorded presentations in that e-program.”

Like the rest of the university, the event will abide by COVID-19 mitigation guidelines, including the requirement of masks, opening the entirety of the room to ensure social distancing and limiting the number of attendees at a time.

Students will also have the option to pre-record their presentation.

Despite any changes facing this year’s symposium, the purpose remains the same: to recognize outstanding scholarship.

“The hard work of Mercyhurst students should be celebrated simply based on the effort. For many students, the research submitted and presented at Illumination is the culmination of their years at Mercyhurst in that many are submitting their senior thesis,” said Saeler. All great effort deserves some form of accolade.

Erie Bayhawks announce ceasing of operations

By Bella Lee Staff writer

From James Conner to Connor McDavid, Erie has produced its fair share of great athletes. For years, Erie has been home to three minor league sports teams: the SeaWolves in baseball, the Otters in ice hockey and the BayHawks in basketball. However, the Erie community must sadly bid farewell to one of these teams, as the BayHawks have announced they are ceasing operations after 13 seasons.

A former affiliate of the New Orleans Pelicans, the team plans to relocate to Birmingham, Alabama, and begin playing in the 2021-22 season. However, it was the lack of a viable NBA affiliate that led to operations ceasing.

“I’ll remember the community and the business community of Erie stepping up their support,” said Owen McCormick, CEO of the BayHawks. “I remember when the NBA first came to town and were vetting Erie to see if they could put a G League franchise here. I wondered if we would get the business support. Business supported us way beyond my wildest expectations.”

In 13 seasons, the Erie BayHawks had an impressive career.

They played their first game in 2008, coached by John Treloar, where they lost 95-90 to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, the G League affiliate of the Indiana Pacers. Between 2008 and 2011, the BayHawks were affiliated with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia

76ers, and Toronto Raptors. Treloar left the organization after the 2009-10 season to become the director of player personnel for the Phoenix Suns, and has retained this position with the Atlanta Hawks since 2015. A familiar name who was a BayHawk alum is Danny Green, who won an NBA championship with the 2013-14 San Antonio Spurs and still plays for the 76ers.

During the 2011-2014 span, the BayHawks were affiliated with the New York Knicks. On Jan. 17, 2012, the Knicks assigned Jeremy Lin, the first player of Chinese or Taiwanese descent to play in the NBA, to the BayHawks’ roster, but he ultimately never played with them because his impressive triple-double in an away game had the Knicks recalling him to their roster, and thus “Linsanity” took its grip on the NBA world.

The 2014-2017 span saw the BayHawks being an affiliate of the Orlando Magic, as the Knicks moved their G League affiliate to Westchester County, New York, in 2014. This would end up being their least successful time with an NBA affiliate, with their 2014-15 record being 24-26, their 201516 record being 12-38 and their 2016-17 record being 14-36.

During this time, the most wellknown BayHawk was Seth Curry, the younger brother of Steph Curry and current point guard for the 76ers.

The 2017-2019 span was when the BayHawks were affiliated with the Atlanta Hawks, after the Magic moved their G League af-

Contributed photo

Clutch the Bayhawk was the mascot of the Erie Bayhawks.

filiate to Lakeland, Florida. This was a temporary affiliation, as the Hawks needed an arena to house their affiliate until their arena in the Atlanta suburb of College Park was completed. This marked their most successful period, with the 2017-18 season seeing them advance to the G League semifinals.

The last of the BayHawks’ affiliations saw them with the Pelicans in the 2019-20 season, before that was cut short due to

the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Washington Wizards for the 2020-21 season, which would be their final season. Their last game ever saw them defeated by the Lakeland Magic 139-110.

The Erie BayHawks accomplished a lot in their 13-season existence. Although they will be missed, the people of Erie can still rely on the SeaWolves and Otters to bring them plenty of sports coverage.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

NEWS

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Senior award winners announced for 2021 This weekend’s STUDENT GOVERNMENT

By Bella Lee Staff writer

It’s that time of year again, the time where senior awards are announced and we bid farewell to the people that have helped shape our lives for the past four years.

A familiar name in the Mercyhurst community, Marina Boyle, received the Carpe Diem Award, the highest award presented to any senior at graduation. This award also comes with the honor of being the student speaker at graduation, which this year will include three Commencement ceremonies.

In addition, Lauren Rogus received the Bishop’s Award for Academic Excellence, Braeden Barnett received the Frank Barry Leadership Award, Lucy Belleau received the Sister Carolyn Herrmann Service Award and Ethan Wagner received the Mother Borgia Egan Honors Award.

Two adult undergraduate students, Mike Shannon and Trey Catalano, received the Catherine McAuley Adult Student Award and the President’s Award for Adult Excellence, respectively.

The Carpe Diem Award can go to any graduating senior and is presented annually to the student who has made the most positive impact on the life of the Mercyhurst community and who best exemplifies the university motto, “Carpe Diem.”

Boyle, a senior Business and Competitive Intelligence and International Hospitality and Tourism double major, has done just that.

“I have been very involved during my time at Mercyhurst. I have served as an Ambassador, an RA, an MSG Senator and MAC/ SAC programmer and as chair of the Senior Class Gift Committee,” said Boyle, who also serves as the Merciad’s editor-in-chief.

“However, I think that there were so many of us in the Class of 2021 who were equally as dedicated and involved. For me, I believe it came down to more than just involvement, but also connection to the University and the spirit of Carpe Diem. I know that Mercyhurst has given me so much, and I’ve tried to give back as much as possible. In everything I’ve done at Mercyhurst I have tried to seize the opportunity as if it will never come again. I was also lucky enough to be supported by fantastic faculty, friends and mentors who supported me in my endeavors and allowed me to Carpe Diem. I truly love Mercyhurst and was honored to be named as the recipient of this award. My education is not something I take for granted, but an opportunity that I seize every day.”

Boyle is the second in her family to have been presented the Carpe Diem award. Her sister, Rhona Boyle, received the same honor in 2013. They are only the second set

of siblings in Mercyhurst history to have achieved this feat.

“My best memories of Mercyhurst will always be the sense of community I found here, and the opportunity I had to make lifelong friends and lasting bonds with faculty and staff,” said Boyle.

“This community is what I will miss the most, but I know that a part of my heart will always remain at Mercyhurst. Being a Laker has been the greatest privilege of my life, and I’m so honored to have shared that with the Class of 2021.”

After graduation, Boyle will be staying in Erie for the time being to work as a Financial Crimes Investigator for Key Bank.

The Bishop’s Award for Academic Excellence is presented to a graduating senior who is considered a top scholar among the graduating class.

Rogus, a senior Early Childhood and Special Education double major with double minors in English Language Development and Art Therapy, is a prime example of this.

“I have been really into my studies and have tried to help my peers by creating peer study groups before tests, as well as tutoring peers, and most people who know me know that I am a Quizlet queen,” said Rogus. “Unlike a bunch of my peers, I do not have to say goodbye to calling Hurst Home quite too soon. I will be studying for my master’s in Teaching Excellence in the fall. I really have enjoyed making Hurst day memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. I am going to really miss the loving and caring Mercyhurst community and family that our school gives to anyone that enters the gates. In fact, I am looking forward to seizing my today and all my tomorrows thanks to my wonderful education that I have had these past four years.”

The Frank Barry Leadership Award is given to a traditional graduating senior who has exemplified superior student leadership and campus involvement during his/her time at Mercyhurst University.

This award is named after Frank Barry, ’75, one of the first male student government presidents.

Barnett, a senior English major, who’s also known as the current MAC/SAC chair, greatly exemplifies this.

“I believe my experience in multiple leadership positions are the biggest contributor to this award,” Barnett said. “I have been involved in student government, Ambassadors, Laker Leaders and several clubs. In addition, I’ve spent the last two years serving as the Student Activities Council Chair as well as Ambassador President my senior year. I will miss being able to make an impact in a place I truly love with all my heart.”

Barnett will go on to graduate

school at Kent State University in Ohio.

The Sister Carolyn Herrmann Service Award is given to a traditional graduating senior who has given unselfishly of time, energy, loyalty and talent in the spirit of Sr. Carolyn Herrmann, who served as the University’s President from 1962-1970.

Belleau, a senior Spanish Education major, has worked hard to serve everyone within, and outside, of Mercyhurst’s gates.

“I believe that the main contributions to this award come from my participation in many organizations throughout a variety of areas on campus,” said Belleau, who has served as an Ambassador, an Honors Council representative, the chair of Laker Leaders, a Carpe Diem retreat leader for Campus Ministry, a student representative of the Presidential Search Committee and the MSG President.

“One of my favorite Mercyhurst memories will always be taking my campus tour as a prospective student and finally feeling like I found exactly where I should be.

I will dearly miss the Mercyhurst community, all of the unforgettable experiences that it brought me, and the lessons that it taught me, but I am confident that I will be able to embrace these values as I begin my life beyond our gates.”

The Mother Borgia Egan Honors Award recognizes the model honors student who fully embodies the spirit of a liberal arts education.

Wagner, a senior History major with minors in Political Science and Psychology, demonstrates this perfectly.

“My involvement in the Honors Program has primarily contributed toward my reception of this award, as it made me eligible,” said Wagner. “More specifically, I think I have demonstrated competence in the areas mentioned in the official description through my maintenance of a 4.0 GPA, my involvement as a member of and leader in several honor societies, and my willingness to present my work at a total of six conferences during my time here. My work is also currently pending publication in one journal, and I anticipate submitting to a second in the coming weeks.”

For all seniors, this is a bittersweet moment of reflecting on good times and saying goodbye.

“I think the biggest thing that I will miss about Mercyhurst are the professors. In many ways, they are one of the best parts of this university,” Wagner said.

If you see any of these individuals on campus, be sure to extend them a congratulations on receiving these prestigious awards.

Best of luck in your post-college years and remember, Hurst is, and will always be, Home.

campus events

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG April 13: Criminal Mischief in Parking Lots.

PAGE 6

FEATURES

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

hosts successful HURST CLASS Mercyhurst boho fashion pop-up event CATALOG

By Alexis Lovewell

Staff writer

By Bella Lee Staff writer

Are you passionate about movies? Are you interested in learning about how movies are made or do you even want to learn the first steps towards making movies yourself? If the answer to any of those questions was yes, then the Film Narrative and Theory course might be something to keep on your radar.

Taught by Dr. Gregory Brown, assistant professor of English, this course is available for all students to take and is offered randomly, so students will have to watch the course catalog closely if they want to take it. “The course covers basic film terminology such as shots, angles, and mise en scene, and aspects of narratology and theory such as film critique and ideology, the difference between plot and story, etc.,” said Brown. “We do this in a practical sense, using films we screen in class for the material.” As listed in the course’s syllabus, topics that are covered include how film works as text, elements of storytelling in film and discovering key literary devices and major themes in texts.

Film Narrative and Theory is “an intermediate course in film studies, grounding students in major approaches to film theory and criticism (e.g., psychoanalysis, gender studies, cultural studies) and emphasizing the structure of the film as narrative art,” as stated in the syllabus. “The class will reinforce the language of cinematography, editing, sound, performance and genre.”

Even Brown feels like he was an interesting selection to teach the course. “Though I have some training in the matter from graduate school, film is not my main area; therefore, I always feel a little trepidation about teaching the course,” said Brown. “I’m not a movie buff either—I often find movies overwhelming.

So, if you were to ask me why I enjoy teaching the course during a semester when it isn’t offered, I would probably have difficulty answering. But once the syllabus is printed and the class begins, I find that I like teaching students how to appreciate and understand film in an advanced way. There is so much to unpack in a well-made film. When students begin to process consciously and intellectually what before was only dimly perceived, they light up with understanding.

I love that moment. And above all I enjoy sharing some favorite films with students.”

The students involved in the course also greatly enjoy it. Garrett Freas, a senior History major, is taking this course for his Documentary Filmmaking concentration, but also finds the course extremely important. “I chose this class because I think that, as an art form, movies/films are often oversimplified, misunderstood, and do not receive the same level of recognition as the traditional arts (when, in my opinion, they should),” Freas said. “In this class, we often discuss how the narratives of movies are structured, and the ideas underlying certain styles of filmmaking. Having a better grasp of these concepts can help me better appreciate movies as an art form.”

This class is offered during random semesters, so if you want to learn more about the work that goes behind making movies, be sure to keep Film Narrative and Theory on your radar!

On April 15 and April 16, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Student Union, students Mia D’Amato and Kody Miles hosted a pop-up shop for their small businesses selling sustainable fashion. Both students run their businesses mainly through their Instagram accounts. Mia D’Amato is the founder of Boho Basement, while Kody Miles is the founder of Exit 44.

One of the main reasons both students began their business journeys is to emphasize the importance of buying and selling sustainable fashion. Sustainable fashion consists of clothes and other accessories that are designed, manufactured, distributed and used in a way that is environmentally friendly.

Mia D’Amato speaks on why she started Boho. “I’ve always loved thrifting and found it to be a great way to shop in the most sustainable way. I first created Boho Basement to share my passion for sustainability, and to give me something creative to work on while I was stuck in quarantine last March. I did not expect my page to grow into what it is today, or for my followers to love my style. I’m so fortunate to be able to work every day, doing something I love.”

Most of the clothing and accessories both students sell are found in their local thrift stores.

Thrifting is extremely environmentally friendly as it eliminates the amount of textile waste being put into landfills. These clothing pieces are being recycled and reused by other people.

Both D’Amato and Miles spend a lot of time sourcing these different items to create and design new pieces or to just sell to others in order for these pieces to not end up in landfills.

Although Exit 44 promotes a lot more male clothing and accessories, and Boho Basement promotes more female clothing, the two businesses are not gender-ex-

Alexis Lovewell photo

Senior Mia D’Amato, the founder and owner of Boho Basement.

clusive; both businesses sell clothing for all genders and sizes.

Kody Miles talks about Exit 44 and the different things that Exit 44 hosts rather than just selling clothing. “Exit 44 is a lifestyle brand that focuses on community, pop culture and sports. We started off doing sporting events on campus. However, due to the pandemic, we began offering vintage clothing as a way to adapt to the times. This has slowly become a staple of the foundation of our brand and people look to us for unique and sustainable clothing options. As we continue to grow we continue to host events such as kickball tournaments which will be at Saxon stadium April 24/25th signup in my @exit.44 Instagram bio”.

Another amazing part of this pop-up shop was that 20% of the proceeds went towards the Beat the Odds Senior Gift and Scholarship. This was an amazing opportunity to raise money

Alexis Lovewell photo

The layout of the fashion pop-up event held on April 15 and 16.

for a great cause and to get help doing so by engaging the Mercyhurst University students and staff. Miles and D’Amato also sold “Beat the Odds” keychains for $3 to help raise money for the scholarship if people were not able to make the pop-up.

D’Amato and Miles were both super proud and amazed by the overwhelming support the Mercyhurst community gave them as a part of the team’s first pop-up.

“Before Thursday, Kody and I weren’t really sure of what to expect. Even with the rain, everyone really showed up and enjoyed the event. It was so rewarding to receive the overwhelming response that we did. By the end of the first day, we nearly sold out! This was so unexpected, but we were extremely grateful,” Mia D’Amato stated.

Sophomore Sarah Vosburgh, someone who attended the popup, believes that this was a great pop-up and hopes to see something like this again on campus.

“This pop-up on campus really gave the students here something to look forward to, especially during this semester since everything has been so different due to the pandemic”. Mercyhurst students really enjoyed this event and it helped them support a great cause and great businesses.

If you are interested in learning more about either of the companies who were present at the popup, Exit 44 and Boho Basement can be found via their social media.

I would highly recommend following their Instagram accounts, @exit.44 and @boho_basement to keep up to date with other events the companies might do in the future.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

FEATURES

PAGE 7

MSG Hammermill survey is live

By Christa Knipes

Arts and Entertainment editor

In previous years, members of the Mercyhurst Student Government have been known to set up tables and offer surveys to students for small rewards – tee shirts, goodie bags, sunglasses, and so forth.

These tables could be found in front of the Grotto Commons, in the Student Union, and other high-traffic areas across campus.

The surveys themselves were about a range of topics important to students, from the variability of grading scales across and within departments at the University to the dining options offered throughout campus.

MSG presents the results of these surveys to the administrative body to inspire improvements in many facets of the school.

This year, however, setting up a table with enticing goodies was impossible. As a result, MSG had to venture off the beaten path and release the survey digitally.

Digital surveys can present many challenges.

First off, there is no incentive for students to sit down and answer the questions, so even if everyone receives the link to the survey in some manner – be it via email, on the Hub page, or through Teams – there is no guarantee that they will actually fill it out.

Secondly, it is more difficult to control whether or not students receive the survey.

Some people do not regularly check their email or Teams pages, for example, so even if they get the link numerous times over, they may not even see it or open it in the first place.

Even so, Mercyhurst’s Student Government has risen to the challenge and hopes that the results will speak for themselves.

This semester, the survey question focused on the Hammermill Library.

“I had the idea for conducting a survey about the Hammermill Library and its services because we have not surveyed the student body on that topic for at

least the time that I have been a part of MSG,” said MSG Vice President Sarah Klein.

“Last year we were going to conduct a survey on that topic, but then COVID threw a wrench in our plans.”

This time the library survey is able to run strong. Some of the questions that students answered if they chose to take the survey were “If accommodations were made for allergies, would you be interested in seeing the library adopt a cat for stress relief?”, “What types of books would you want to see more of?” and “do you use the Inter Library Loan system?”.

Hopefully, the survey will have a strong yield and the library staff will have a sense of the changes they should opt to make for next semester.

“The MSG surveys are always very important, because they are often one of the few ways that the University can receive feedback from a wide range of students,” said Klein.

“This particular survey will likely help library administra-

Mercyhurst Student Government photo

The official campus advertisement for the Spring 2021 campus survey that is distributed by members of the MSG Senate.

tors see what changes should be made to make the library as useful to the student body as possible.”

The only way to inspire change to is allow voices to be heard, and this is exactly what MSG’s

surveys achieve.

The Hammermill Library survey is open from April 12 – April 30, so if you haven’t already, be sure to take the survey on the Hub!

STUDY ABROAD IS COMING BACK!! Save the date….

The announcement of the Spring 2022 programs will arrive in your Mercyhurst email this summer, so WATCH FOR IT! SPRING 2022 Faculty Student Academic Travel (FSAT) Programs Take a spring mini course and travel in May Just a hint…think about ziplining in Costa Rica, sampling tapas in Madrid, or strolling the Plaka in Athens!

Spring 2022 – MERCYHURST IN DUNGARVAN, IRELAND

Full term study abroad - 8 Weeks in Ireland Count the sheep on the hillsides, sip a pint in a pub, sing a shanty song in Galway, and follow the great Irish poets through the streets of Dublin!

STUDENT HUB – ACADEMICS – STUDY ABROAD Questions? Email studyabroad@mercyhurst.edu -- Office of Global Programs – Preston 101/105

FEATURES

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Wednesday, April 21, 2021

TNCD and MYRACLE hosts picnic

By Ashley Barletta

Staff writer

The Campus Ministry groups Tuesday Night Catholic Devotions (TNCD) and Mercyhurst Youth Retreats and Catholic Leadership Education (MYRACLE) are collaborating to host a Spring picnic on Saturday, April 17. Due to COVID, Campus Ministry was not able to hold as many of the events that they typically would have in a normal year.

Campus minister Michelle Scully was partly responsible for organizing this event.

“The MYRACLE team usually travels throughout the diocese to put on retreats for high school and middle school groups. This year has obviously been a bit limited, and while they’ve still been

involved at St. Luke’s parish next door, they haven’t been able to have a full year as usual. MYRACLE is partnering with the Tuesday Night Catholic Devotions leadership team this Saturday to host a picnic of all members of both the MYRACLE and TNCD teams so that all those involved (or wanting to get involved) can spend time with one another,” Scully said.

The picnic is an event that has never been done before, so it will be easy for new people who want to get involved in Campus Ministry to do just that.

All of the clubs within Campus Ministry are inclusive and try to make everyone feel comfortable, but this will be the first time that two clubs have gotten together for an event this year.

“A big part of these groups is the work that we do and services that we offer, but an even bigger part is the community aspect the groups create. This year, it has not been as natural for these community bonds to form, and so we wanted to provide a relaxed space where we can pull together all the people involved so they can spend more time with one another,” Scully said.

Tuesday Night Catholic Devotions is a group within Campus Ministry that is more geared toward Catholicism.

Hannah Szalay, a sophomore Early Childhood and Special Education major, as well as a TNCD Leader, described the group’s mission.

“Once a month we do Adoration which includes the exposi-

tion and worship of the Eucharist.

We also do other Catholic devotions such as Lectio Devina where we read and reflect on scripture, and we also often will pray rosary, which is a form of repetitive prayer. About once or twice a semester will we bring in a guest speaker such as Fr. Jim or Sister Natalie Rossi. We also have more social events such as paint night, game night, holiday-themed celebrations or gatherings such as this picnic. This group is just really great if you want to explore and deepen your faith, meet like-minded people, and have some fun along the way,” Szalay said.

Another TNCD leader, Morgan Dinsmore, a junior English major, will also be helping to organize the event.

“The spring picnic was an idea we put together in order to get our groups more connected. With the pandemic, there has been a major lack of socialization and connecting in general. Getting the members of MYRACLE and TNCD together helped us to get to know each other more and have a ‘normal’ fun day that we haven’t had in over a year,” Dinsmore said.

Campus Ministry does its best to make sure there is something for everyone, but there is no commitment if you attend the Spring Picnic. It should be a stress-free time to relax and meet new people.

Be sure to be on the lookout for any upcoming events from Campus Ministry, as the groups are always hosting unique events.

Senior Class Committee reaches fundraising goal with $15,000 scholarship

By Samantha Weber Staff writer

The Senior Class Gift Committee has announced that they have reached their goal of $15,000.

Currently, the committee has raised $15,676.

“We have knocked it out of the park with fundraising this year, and in the spirit of baseball player Kenny Robinson, I really feel that we have hit a home run on this goal,” said Marina Boyle, chair of the Senior Class Gift Committee.

The committee has had to adapt their fundraisers this year due to COVID. “We’ve had to be creative and do a lot of different fundraisers

virtually to keep people involved,” said Claire Orr, PR chair for the Committee. “We have done everything from a growler sale, goodie bag sale and the Senior Date Auction, to cookie sales.

We’ve also relied heavily on generous donations from many people and organizations on campus, including SAAC.” In addition to the financial goal that was set, the committee also had another goal in mind. The committee wanted to have at least 25 percent of their class members contribute to the Class of 2021 gift. This goal has also been met.

Although, the year is not over yet, so there are still options for people to donate.

There was a pop-up vintage clothing store on April 15 and 16 in which 20 percent of revenue from the event were donated to the gift. The last large event is the Campus Crawl on May 7 at 6:30 p.m. While the crawl will not look like it has in previous years, the committee has adapted it to make it COVID friendly.

Everyone who registers for the event will receive a free shirt and four drinks throughout the night.

They can walk around campus with friends and try the different drinks located at stands around campus.

Even though the original financial goal has been met, they are still accepting donations until

the presentation of the check at 2 p.m. on May 14, the first day of graduation weekend.

The Class of 2021 Senior Class Gift Committee is presenting the check-in Christ the King Chapel to Interim President Joe NeCastro.

This year the presentation of the check will look a little different, as there will be two ceremonies and two different checks presented.

Due to COVID-19 sending the Class of 2020 home early, they were unable to properly present their check last spring. But, this year, the Class of 2020 Committee is invited back to present their check on May 14 at 1 p.m.

There is still time left for anyone

who wants to donate to do so.

“The more money we raise, the more Lakers we can support with this gift in future years. There is also time for anyone from the Class of 2021 to become a top donor and receive a philanthropy cord for graduation. Anyone can make a gift online if they would still like to get involved. We also look forward to seeing everyone at the Campus Crawl on May 7, which will be our final big event,” said Boyle.

The Mercyhurst community is proud of the Senior Class Gift Committee and all their accomplishments this year. Thank you to those who donated!

LAKER MOMENT

Marina Boyle photo

Greenery on Briggs Avenue has bloomed, sending little petals all over campus.

It’s finally springtime on campus! We are seeing the trees bloom and hoping to have flowers back on campus soon!

Marina Boyle photo

Erie sunsets are back, like this one taken from between the trees of Lewis Avenue, facing Ryan Hall.

FEATURES

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

PAGE 9

Mercyhurst announces new master’s program for summer

By Samantha Weber Staff writer

Mercyhurst University has just announced that it is introducing a new master’s program for students. Making its debut in the summer of 2021, the new Masters of Science in Athletic Training allows for students to make an easy transition into a master’s program.

This specific master’s program is a Professional Entry Level Masters program. This change comes after an announcement from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education, which requires any athletic training program to allow access to at least an entry-level master’s program.

The Director of Athletic Training Education, Josh Long, notes “Athletic Training education is a part of the fabric of Mercyhurst University and will look to continue to thrive while offering graduated Athletic Training education.” Long talks about the importance of an Athletic Training career, “As athletic training continues to expand and thrive within the healthcare setting, the value of considering the breadth of contributing factors regarding a patient’s health cannot be understated. An emphasis will be placed on preventative healthcare, including healthcare nutrition and

Contributed photo

The Director of Athletic Training Education, Joshua “Josh” Long. therapeutic interventions. Coupling all of this with Mercyhurst’s expansive and engaging alumni network, our students will have advocates across the country and even the globe!”

Mercyhurst has one of the oldest athletic training programs in the nation, as it has been around since 1985, so the switch to adding a master’s program will not be too difficult to implement.

The new graduate program can be completed in two years and is 62-credits long. In their time with the master’s program, students will have a clinical placement in a variety of different areas. These placement possibilities include trauma hospitals, family medicine practices, orthopedics, emergency medical services, prosthetics and orthotics, outpatient physical therapy/rehabilitation, and work

alongside Mercyhurst’s 25 varsity athletic teams.

In addition to diverse options for hands-on experiences, this graduate program will allow students to network with the large alumni network internationally and throughout the United States.

Also, the medicine-specific classrooms, including two labs and one classroom, are newly renovated, which provide students with

the newest technology in the field.

“Mercyhurst has built a robust tradition through emphasizing the application of knowledge instead of merely classroom learning,” said Long, when asked about what makes Mercyhurst’s program different from other schools.

“Coupling the hands-on experience with treating each patient as an individual instead of strictly a ‘walking pathology’ allows students to hit their stride as healthcare providers.”

Students are required to start this program in the summer and take several courses over both summers they are enrolled in the program. Long talked about the program starting in summer.

“Unlike other universities, however, Mercyhurst has built in an academic break during the ‘first summer mini,’ emphasizing the value of maintaining a fertile and vigorous mental health.”

Applications for the summer of 2021 semester are being accepted now on the admissions portal.

Unlike some of the other graduate programs that Mercyhurst has to offer, the Athletic Training program must be completed on campus due to the labs the program requires to graduate from the program.

FROM THE ARCHIVES April 1960 The year was 1960 and a ‘balmy’ spring had hit Mercyhurst. The hot temperatures had given Mercyhurst students “spring fever” and sent them running from 120-degree rooms to the tennis courts.

The Merciad noted that “with the first glimmer of sunlight that finds its way to Mercyhurst, the sun-bathers rush to the deck porches, sweep away the snow, and begin the annual, desperate race to win the coveted title of “First-in-My-Gang-witha-Tan.”

PAGE 10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

African dance workshop helps dancers broaden horizons

By Madeleine Plourde Staff writer

Last week, Mercyhurst Dance Department students participated in a dance workshop and lesson on the African American dance, Ring Shout, with University of North Carolina at Charlotte professor Tamara Williams.

Growing up with Ring Shout as a family tradition and exploring the topic further in her career, Williams had both the history and the dedication to be able to share the Ring Shout with the dancers here on campus.

Students benefited greatly from her expertise and passion.

As freshman dance major Olivia Turner-Leftwitch explained, “it was an opportunity for our class to encounter a form of dance very different from ballet and gain a greater appreciation for the history of a dance form that came from a need to grieve and is now ingrained in American dance.”

Ring Shout is a community dance originating in the 1800s, and first found in Georgia and North Carolina among the enslaved people. It is an African Diaspora Dance originating apart

Contributed photo

Performers engaging in Ring Shout.

from the continent of Africa, yet created by the descendants of the African people. With movements derived from everyday actions, Ring Shout emphasizes polyrhythms and syncopation, and it brought communities together to honor their past, survive in their

present conditions and look toward a brighter future.

While the African people were enslaved, Ring Shout specifically served as a way to communicate with one another and was even used as a form of resistance.

Mara Isaacson, a Dance major

who attended the workshop, was impressed by the dance form and workshop.

“I learned that Ring Shout was frowned upon by enslaved people’s owners because it preserved their culture, therefore Ring Shout was a form of resistance for the enslaved people,” said Isaacson.

“This helped me see that dance, and art in general, help us better understand the world around us as well as assist us through difficult times, especially when we apply this dance form to today.”

Solveig Santillano, Dance professor and organizer of the Ring Shout workshop, also emphasized the complex purpose of dance and art in the world.

“Traditional dances evolved and changed and took on their own meaning, and therefore created [a means] for survival as well as social expression,” Santillano said.

Of course, as the world changed, so did Ring Shout. Yet, it has always held a strong place in the African American community.

For the students here, it was a unique and enlightening experience to be able to not only learn about, but also dance, Ring Shout.

Freshman dance major Kather-

ine Kilbourne pointed this out, saying how great it was to be able to actually engage with the dance.

“I think when reading about these sorts of ideas in our textbooks, the emotionality behind it all can get lost in translation, so I am really glad we were able to further our understanding in this way.”

Echoing this, Turner-Leftwitch explained how dances like Ring Shout still influence us today.

“As the ideas from Ring Shout have been absorbed into American Jazz dance, I was able to recognize themes of groundedness and improvisation from our Jazz class.”

Seen in the Ring Shout tradition, dance has the power to build and change communities over time, yet there is still work to do.

“In what way can we honor one another’s histories and the complexity that we all bring, or the uniqueness that we all bring, and also still live together?” Santillano said.

Perhaps the dance and the arts may be part of the answer.

Lumen magazine to be released

By Annie Markel Staff writer

Every year, Mercyhurst unveils their student-run literary arts magazine, Lumen, and this hectic year is no exception. Each article in the magazine is written by the students and chosen by co-editors-in-chief, Megan Siegfried and Genevieve Burgess, along with their team of supporting editors.

No one gets to see the final product until it is revealed by the university. This year, the public will be able to dive in on April 28.

Lumen started out as a literary arts magazine. However, over the years, it has progressed into an interdisciplinary, multimedia art journal. So many categories of material are provided by talented students in the magazine. Photography, art, dance videography and music compositions are only a few of the exciting pieces between the covers of Lumen.

Co-editor-in-chief Megan Siegfried explains how proud she is of the magazine this year.

“Lumen stands out because it is completely student-made. From the creation of the written and artistic works to the design and production of the journal itself, students are at the helm. Lumen acts as an opportunity to showcase

student talent from beginning to end, and I think all of those involved are incredibly proud of their hard work when they hold the final product in their hands at our annual unveiling ceremony.”

Numerous gifted students are involved in the process and the production of Lumen.

Students from all corners of campus with different majors and backgrounds are able to submit work. Many artists present material, but only a few are chosen.

The editing team is responsible for reading and selecting submissions.

They also help with the editing process and design team.

When asked how she became an editor of the magazine, Megan Siegfried spoke about her long commitment to Lumen.

“To become an editor-in-chief, I first had to show a dedication to Lumen. I have been an editor since my sophomore year and always actively participated, so at the end of last year, when the editor-in-chief position opened up, I leapt at the opportunity to fill it.”

To have work published in Lumen is a big deal for the few writers that are chosen. Some people submit multiple compositions for publication.

One student writer, Skyler Speciale, is especially proud to have

Contributed photo

The cover of the 2020 edition of

Lumen.

three poems and one essay published. Skyler is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and she is a forensic science major.

Skyler explains how she was inspired to write and push her work into the world. “My work was inspired by my on-going creative mindset of characters, feelings and stories. My professor, Dr. Roessner, was actually the person who

drove me to submit my work after I read these pieces for the class, and I am very thankful for his encouragement.”

Not only is Lumen student-run, but many members of the Mercyhurst faculty help with the production process as well.

Gregory Brown, Ph.D., professor of English, is a major player in the selection process of students who get to go behind the scenes of this magazine. Brown is responsible for the selection of editors, getting works ready for voting and much more.

“Most years I teach Editing and Style, a course that, among other things, copy edits the accepted works and prepares them for the design side of Lumen,” said Brown. “This year we had no Editing and Style, so this work fell to me and to the editors. I did the work of collecting the submissions and preparing them for the editors to select from.”

Claire Orr is another incredible member of the Mercyhurst staff that aids in the design of Lumen.

Orr executes the designs that are chosen by the editors every year.

She oversees the layout, which determines what the entire magazine will look like. This year, the team went for a more classic design to contrast with years past.

“The 2021 issue is different due to the different school year we’ve had. Gillian Mazur and I had to focus on creating a digital version just as much as creating a printed magazine so it’s accessible to everyone,” said Orr. “But, we got to see all the great work that has come out of such a difficult year.

It was great to see all the effort put in by every writer and artist.”

All editorials change and evolve with the passing times; Lumen is no different. However, it remains consistently surprising. No one knows what will be between the covers each year, but it is guaranteed to be a world of wonder and flair. Over the years, Lumen continues to hear the unspoken creativity of students all across campus.

“I think what’s remarkable about the 2021 Lumen is what hasn’t changed. This year’s product will be just as good as any other year’s,” said Brown. “It will, as always, have both a print and a digital version. This year’s Lumen is a testament to our Laker persistence and resilience precisely because it is the same high-quality product as any other year. I have seen a proof of the print version, and I think this is one of the best-looking editions ever.”

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 11

Contributed photo

Student Braden Rosciszewski as Alice in “Alice’s Fabulous Trip Through the Looking Glass.”

MU reimagines classic play over Zoom

By Christa Knipes A&E Editor From April 9-11 the Mercyhurst Theater Program showcased “Through the Looking Glass,” an hour long Zoom-adapted version of “Alice In Wonderland.”

There were a number of things that were unique about this show, besides the fact that it was on Zoom. First of all, the color was able to be edited to black and white, so it had an old-timey look to the parts of the production that utilized this effect. Secondly, the all-too-familiar Zoom squares were reformatted so that every-

one looked close together, even though they were not. This gave a sense of relationship to each of the characters.

Most impressively, there were detailed and intricate animated backgrounds that changed with the scenes in order to set the “stage” for the show. These were well-embedded into the production, so they were not choppy and scattered like the typical Zoom background used normally. Rather, they resembled the backdrops of a traditionally-staged performance – with some enhancement.

At certain points, the backgrounds were animated to lend

the illusion of movement even though the actors were limited to their squares. This gave the experience a much less restricted feeling.

Another way in which “Through the Looking Glass” broke tradition was that Alice was played by Braden Rosciszewski. Rosciszewski donned a puffed up drag wig, make up and a sequined outfit to absolutely own the role of Alice.

Rosciszewski played Alice as simultaneously ditzy and intelligent. The intelligence peeked through in her ability to solve all of the riddles given by the other characters, who were all driven mad with boredom. This contrast

worked well in the chaos of Wonderland.

Similarly, the Red Queen was played by Jon Reddinger. The two bantered back and forth when Alice would regularly be sent to the Queen on her journey to return home and avoid the infamous Jabberwocky.

During Alice’s journey through the looking glass, she regularly encountered strange creatures such as singing flower, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, a hare, a unicorn, a lion and more. Each of these encounters were uniquely rendered with the Zoom programming.

The small details, such as the

extra sound effects, music, motifs in the editing and the accents and gestures used by the cast made this show stand out. It cannot be easy to be entertaining and engaging when there is no visible audience, but these skilled performers were able to succeed at such a feat.

Although one would expect a Zoom show to be perhaps unengaging – especially considering the sheer amount of time we have all spent on Zoom in the last year – “Through the Looking Glass” was expertly rendered and truly worth the short hour it took to enjoy it.

Magnificent Masks exhibits student talent for opera

By Samantha Weber

Staff writer

On April 14, The D’Angelo Opera Theatre at Mercyhurst University performed “Magnificent Masks,” a performance consisting of 10 excerpts from songs from some of the most beloved operas and Broadway productions.

The show highlighted seven student performers, while numerous people worked diligently behind the scenes to make this production possible.

The director, Louisa Jonason, Music faculty and costume designer for the show, also coordinated Construction and Concept.

The Accompanist was Elizabeth Etter, Ph.D. Andrew Ferguson and Michael Gleason were the technical directors, and Sound & Lighting and Livestream production was done by Paul Caram, Adelynne McCoy, Emily McGarvey and Kirk Morrison.

The first song performed was “Tonight” by Leonard Bernstein from West Side Story. In this song, Vanessa Nolan played Maria, Megan Schoen played Anita, Tristan Kindle played Tony, Royce Strider played Bernardo and Benjamin Vacca played Riff.

The second song performed was “Sull’Aria from Le nozze di Figaro” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This song was a duet between the Countess, played by Abigail Wise, and Susannah, played by Bethany Hancock.

The third song in the program was “The Doll” from The Tales of Hoffman by Jacques Offenbach.

The fourth song was “Journey to the Past” by Stephen Flaherty from Anastasia. This song was another solo performed by the character Anastasia, who was portrayed by Maggie Madonia.

The fifth song was “Musetta’s Waltz & Scene” from La Boheme

by Giacomo Puccini. This performance was the second largest in terms of the ensemble as four students took the stage. Wise played Musetta, Nolan played Mimi, Kindle played Rodolpho, and Strider played Marcello. I really liked this song because I found it easy to understand what was happening in the scene.

The sixth song was “Voi Che Sapete” from Le nozze di Figaro by Mozart. This song is the second one of the night from Le nozze di Figaro, but, unlike the last one which was a duet, this song was a solo by Sophia Ives.

The seventh song was “Amor Ti Vieta” from Fedora by Umberto Giordano. This song was a solo performed by Kindle, and he portrayed the character Loris.

Up next was another solo performed by Wise, portraying the character “Butterfly.” The eighth song performed was “Un Bel Di” from Madama Butterfly.

The ninth song in the program was “3 Little Maids From School” from The Mikado by W.S. Gilbert Contributed photo and Arthur Sullivan. This song was the final one that had opera The poster for the event, held on April 14. singing involved. I liked this one because the girls used parasols as props and the dynamic was so different from some of the other previous performances because it involved some dancing.

The tenth and final song was unlike any before as it was performed solely by the pianist, Elizabeth Etter. The song was entitled “Die Fledermaus Medley” from Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II. This is the song in which everyone came back on stage and bowed.

Magnificent Masks was a beauContributed photo tiful display of incredible music.

The performers did a spectacular Sull’Aria from “Le nozze di Figaro,” performed by Abigail Wise and job, and the performance was one Bethany Hancock. to remember.

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD We are close to summer!

BAD This is the second to last edition of the Merciad for the year.

HAPPY Finals are online!

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Thoughts on the events in Minneapolis now His trial, which began on March 8, saw testimonies from witnesses such as the young Staff writer woman who filmed Chauvin with his knee on Floyd’s neck and the EMT who arrived at The Black Lives Matter the scene and attempted to save movement has been a major force Floyd. Closing statements in the in the United States in recent trial were read yesterday, and years. From Trayvon Martin to today we learned that Chauvin Freddie Gray, from Breonna was found guilty on all counts.

Taylor to Ahmaud Arbery, the black community has suffered from a lot of hate within the past It isn’t enough, and several years. it won’t be enough.

Minneapolis is just one of Daunte Wright was many cities that is suffering from a world of pain, with two black only 20 years old.” individuals, George Floyd and Bella Lee Daunte Wright, falling victim to police brutality within a year.

While the trial for Officer However, the deaths of Floyd Derek Chauvin continues, and Ahmaud Arbery, who was protests demanding justice killed just a few months prior, surrounding Daunte Wright’s helped spark the BLM movement death have emerged, calling for in a world of COVID-19. the trial of Officer Kim Potter.

Other US cities, and even cities As many people recall, Floyd internationally, staged protests, was killed by Officer Chauvin demanding justice for these lives on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin taken with no remorse. Then, placed his knee on Floyd’s neck to pour salt on the wound, for over 9 minutes during an the death of Daunte Wright arrest for an alleged counterfeit occurred. $20 bill. While gasping for air, On April 11, Daunte Wright Floyd exclaimed that he couldn’t was pulled over during a traffic breathe and called out to his stop regarding an air freshener deceased mother in his final hanging on his mirror. During moments, yet Chauvin was a brief struggle, Wright was shot unrelenting. and killed by Officer Potter, who

By Bella Lee

“

claimed she was trying to reach for her taser but instead grabbed her gun.

This incident caused protests to erupt nationwide, with angry protesters stating that Potter, as a 25-year veteran of the police force, should’ve been able to tell the difference between a taser and a gun solely by its weight.

She has since resigned and has been charged with second-degree manslaughter, but the people say it’s not enough.

It isn’t enough, and it won’t be enough. Daunte Wright was only 20 years old. In a heartbreaking moment, many learned that George Floyd’s girlfriend was a teacher of Wright’s when he was in high school. Wright was the father of a toddler. His life was stolen. His son, his girlfriend, his mother, his father, his family and friends will never get him back.

This injustice can’t continue. As a minority, I fear for my life every time I hear news like this.

I’m half Asian and half Hispanic, two races that have been attacked for far too long.

I refuse to sit idly and let these crimes continue. Minneapolis is hurting, and we need to show our support to this city that has lost two innocent lives.

The injustice needs to stop. The hate needs to stop. The killing needs to stop.

MU housing process The Merciad STUDENT EDITORS Marina Boyle............................ Editor in Chief Gillian Mazur........................ Managing Editor Rebecca Dunphy .........................News Editor Victoria McGinty .................... Features Editor Michael Boylan .......................... Sports Editor Christa Knipes .............................. A&E Editor Zach Dumais ........................... Opinion Editor Sarah Klein ...................................Copy Editor Steph Przepiora ...................................Advisor Contact editors at merciad@mercyhurst.edu

The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year. Our office is in Hirt, Room 110.

The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor.

All letters must be signed and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit.

Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters via email at merciad@ mercyhurst.edu.

I thought I would be able to have more of a say my sophomore year, but I have just Staff writer been very confused through the entire process of selecting housing for next year.

I am only a freshman right The first step they had us do now, so I do not have much was sign the housing contract experience with housing and fill out who we thought selection at Mercyhurst, but we might room with next year.

I can already tell that I am The instructions along with not a huge fan of the process. this step were not clear at all For all freshman housing, it is as my roommate and I seemed determined by a first come first to fill out the wrong form. We serve basis, so the sooner you had to ask someone else in our commit to MU, the sooner you group for help and she was able can pick which dorm you want to help us, but it was still very to live in. confusing.

Most people want to pick I think the part that annoys Warde Hall because it is really me the most is that there is not nice and a lot newer than the videos or photos of the majority other options. Personally, I of our housing options for next committed really late in April, so year. The only place that has a I did not really have the option video is Ryan Hall and it is the to choose where I wanted to newer dorm, so of course it is live and I got stuck in Baldwin going to be the nicest one and Hall. I was okay with it because probably the one that people I knew housing was done on a would feel comfortable staying first come first serve basis and I in without a video. committed very late.

But both of the apartments

By Samantha Weber

that a lot of people want to stay in do not have any videos, photos or even a floorplan.

I just find it annoying how the only way to access these is to email Res Life and wait for them to respond. I am sure they receive a lot of emails about photos or floorplans for the apartments so I feel that it would be easier to just post them on the website from the start.

I also had no idea that upperclassman housing was done based on a point system. It makes total sense, but I was very surprised that I had never heard about the point system.

I think there is not a lot of information about postfreshman level housing and that can make the whole experience about deciding where you want to live next year a little stressful.

I am also confused about all the dates and what has to be done by each one. I wish they would have sent an email with more straightforward information for everyone.

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are welcome and can be emailed to merciad@mercyhurst.edu

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

OPINION

PAGE 13

My stance on Georgia’s HURST STUDENTS controversial voting law president Donald Trump. This

The law could potentially

By Patrick Corso law means voters have fewer days cause Georgia-based companies Staff writer

The changes in the voting laws in Georgia have caused considerable outrage among residents and businesses in the state. Last Saturday, according to multiple sources, the director of the currently-in-production film Black Panther II said he will not be moving production of the film from its home city of Atlanta, where many installments of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been filmed.

The change had impacted many major corporations based in the Atlanta metropolitan area, including the Coca-Cola Company, the Home Depot, Delta Airlines and a number of other companies listed on the Fortune 500 and New York Stock Exchange.

Georgia is a predominantly Republican state, like many other southern U.S. states. 2020 marked the first time since 1992 that the state voted Democratic as opposed to Republican.

This change in voting law that I am discussing actually came from the COVID-19 pandemic, which gave voters limited opportunities to vote as normal, and resulted in voters voting by mail.

This was politicized through the heated rhetoric of former

to request mail-in ballots during local, state and presidential elections. The law will also tackle mail-in voting and voter identification requirements.

After Donald Trump was defeated by Joe Biden in the 2020 election, Trump had repeatedly contested the election results on several of his social media platforms through false claims of victory, including one video where he argued that he won in a landslide, a claim that is considered false.

This resulted in Twitter flagging several of his tweets with disputed election fraud claims.

This then led to Republican lawmakers making it look like they were tackling voter fraud problems, even if they did not exist. As a result, House Republicans in Georgia ended up passing changes to the voting laws in the state.

This has led to critics saying it is a form of voter suppression.

In fact, Republican congressman Jim Clyburn stated this could be a new version of the even more controversial Jim Crow laws, which largely segregated Blacks and Whites in the southern United States. The Jim Crow laws were outlawed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ensure Blacks have the same First Amendment rights as their white counterparts, including the ability to vote.

to leave the state and move their operations.

72 black CEOs of companies based in the state are speaking out against the bill. Over a week ago, more than 100 CEOs met in an online meeting to debate how to resolve the situation.

Pro-sports organizations have also weighed in on the law. In fact, Fred Ridley, the National Chairman of Augusta, he states the right to vote is “fundamental in our Democratic society.” To protest the bill, Major League Baseball is planning to move their All-Star game from Georgia to Colorado to protest the bill.

For the majority of Americans, the Republican party tends to focus on the right-hand side of politics, while the Democratic party focuses on the left-hand side.

This was especially true when election maps were in reverse with Republicans being blue and Democrats being red. This was because the Democratic party was mostly associated with the leftist groups that were based in the United States at the time, even before the media settled on the colors we know today.

For many corporate CEOs living in Georgia, it is disorienting, and this law is a problem for their business, city and state.

SPEAK UP We asked: Are you happy that the

semester is almost over?

Kiran Richards, sophomore Interior Architecture major: “I am pretty happy that there’s less than a month until finals because I get to go back home to Australia, and I’m looking forward to going home after 10 months away.”

Brenden Jackett, senior Intelligence Studies major: “I am happy that the semester is almost over, but it’s bittersweet since I’m a senior.”

Sam O’Connell, senior Early Childhood and Special Education major: “I am happy to be close to being done with work and constant stress, but as a senior I am sad to be nearing the end of my college career and time with my best friends.”

Maddie Boorse, junior Intelligence Studies and International Relations double major: “Yes, I am happy this semester has flown by and I am excited to enjoy nice summer weather.”

Compiled by Sarah Klein

Hopes for the next Mercyhurst President In my opinion, it’s high time that it was a woman.

Editor in chief Since Sr. Carolyn Herrmann led Mercyhurst in the 1960s, we have only had male presidents.

This is a strange juxtaposition given that the Sisters of Mercy 1969 was a year that saw fundamental change for America, always held positions of power until that point, and indeed, were and indeed, Mercyhurst always women.

University. Once Mercyhurst I want to be clear that the men became co-educational, men who have led Mercyhurst have started to play a larger and larger been great leaders, and without role on this campus and in the them we would certainly not be administration of Mercyhurst. where we are as an institution Since then, some extraordinary today. men have served Mercyhurst, However, I am hoping for including our interim president, a woman who can bring a Joe NeCastro. true connection between the In the past few weeks, it has leadership and the student body been an absolute pleasure getting to Mercyhurst.

Sr. Carolyn to know Mr. NeCastro, who is Herrmann was a great president so personable and intentional because she was not afraid to about his goals for Mercyhurst. push the envelope and share the I am glad that Mercyhurst has views of students of her time. She him during this time of change, and a part of me wishes we could was a truly progressive leader who keep him in the president’s office dug in with students and invested in social movements of the time, forever. like race relations and civil rights However, our search does in America. continue for our next leader.

By Marina Boyle

Her most famous quote, “each new decade brings with it a need for a specific type of progress involving radical change” speaks to me each time I hear it.

Being a student in the midst of a pandemic, the Black Lives Matter Movement, increased Asian-targeted hate crime, global warming and the overall social change in our world makes me think of Sr. Carolyn and the Sisters before her.

These women were radical in all they did. As more and more of the Sisters age and pass on, we need a president who will emulate them.

Regardless of gender, I hope we can find someone who connects with the mission of Mercyhurst and understands its vision. I hope the new president can make connections with students and the issues of the day that matter to young people. As Mercyhurst commits to a renewed and ongoing focus on equity, inclusion and antiracism, this is more important than ever.

I hope our new president can reflect our Catholic values and emphasis on Catholic social teaching. As the Sisters age, the president has a vital role to play in helping their legacy to live on. I’d love to see a Catholic in the role, but the president need not be Catholic if they can just respect and value our Catholic views.

I hope they can reflect the diversity and richness of Mercyhurst’s faculty, staff and student body. Mercyhurst is all about the people, and the new president will be the face of them.

I hope that the new president brings the energy and zeal of those who came before them, and is ready to reinvigorate Mercyhurst with ideas, plans and change that students, staff and alumni can all get behind.

They might even be an alum themselves.

I hope they keep our connections with Ireland strong and continue to foster the beautiful relationship that

the cultures of Mercyhurst and Ireland share.

I hope they can love and be accepted by the Mercyhurst community the way I have been. We are ready to be compassionately hospitable to the person who takes this role.

Most of all, I hope the new president is ready for a challenge.

I think Mercyhurst is stronger than ever, but like the rest of the world, adjusting to the new normal in our post-pandemic societies, the next few years for Mercyhurst are critical.

Mercyhurst is such a loved place, with so many alumni, staff and students who care so deeply about it. We are lucky to be getting a new president to lead us, but whoever it will be is lucky to be here, too.

Whoever understands how special Mercyhurst is, and who wants to foster and nurture that, will be an exemplary next president.

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

Men’s soccer stays undefeated

By Gillian Mazur Managing editor

On April 13, Mercyhurst Men’s soccer hosted Penn State Behrend at the Mercyhurst Soccer Field.

Seeing a lot of success this year, the Mercyhurst Lakers are currently undefeated in their season. With the team’s hard work and talent paying off, the Lakers defeated the Penn State Behrend Lions 4-0.

Coming out strong, junior midfielder and forward Tom Barry led the game’s first half with two goals.

“I’m glad we were able to get another win and continue our winning streak, I think we can play a lot better and we all know that. I’m happy to get the two goals and we’re looking forward to our last game to get another win,” Barry said.

A little over 10 minutes into the game, freshman forward, Thomas Binkowski, drew a penalty inside the eighteen box which would allow Barry to take the penalty kick.

Unfortunately, the Lion’s keeper blocked the ball, but it would not stop the Lakers. Mercyhurst gained another opportunity to score but narrowly missed the goal on a well-placed corner kick.

The Lions retaliated but their

shot hit the side of the goalpost.

Returning with a vengeance, the Laker’s own Barry found the back of the net in the 29th minute, taking the 1-0 lead for Mercyhurst with help from teammate junior defense and midfielder, Julio Betar.

Shortly thereafter, Binkowski rocketed the ball into the back of the net after a split pass from graduate student and midfielder Fabio Schortmann. Not only did Binkowski score the second goal of the game for a 2-0 lead, but this was also his second collegiate goal as a Laker.

With less than two minutes left in the half, Barry scored his second goal after redirecting a shot from freshman Erik Cederberg.

Cederberg was able to get in his shot attempt after reacting to a loose ball from a Mercyhurst corner kick. Barry’s goal acted as the team’s leading fifth goal of the season.

Starting the second half, Penn State Behrend returned from their break aggressively. The Lions had two early chances of scoring within this half.

During the fiftieth-minute mark, a freekick from the Lions almost found its way past Mercyhurst’s freshman goalkeeper Mat-

HurstAthletics photo

Salvador Rang No. 21 and Tom Barry No. 9 celebrate with their teammates after a good play on the field.

tias Odelius but it bounced off the wall of Mercyhurst defenders. Two minutes later, Penn State Behrend fired a shot but hit the bottom of the crossbar and bounced the other way.

In the 58th minute, Binkowski stole a pass from the Lions and took a shot 40 yards out. While Behrend’s keeper was out of position, the ball narrowly missed the

Softball splits doubleheader with win and loss

By Zach Dumais

Opinion editor

The Mercyhurst Women’s softball team traveled to Johnstown, PA on Sunday April 18, in order to take on the Pitt-Johnstown Mountain Cats in a nonconference double header. The first game started at 12 noon with the Mountain Cats jumping out to a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning.

The Lakers started out hot in their first game, however, by tying the game with an RBI single in the top of the second from junior Chloe McQuestion. It was still a very competitive game going into the third inning, when Cheyenne Hindman hit a two-run home run to give Mercyhurst their first lead of the day.

The Mountain Cats then took a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the inning after putting three runs on the board. McQuestion came up clutch again in the fourth inning by tying the game on a fielder’s choice.

Madison Fry gave the Lakers the lead again in the fourth when she hit a two-run triple to make it 6-4.

Mercyhurst extended their lead in the seventh inning with Hindman hitting a solo home run and Sarah Koscho hitting a three-run homer.

HurstAthletics photo

Cheyenne Hindman No.21 batting while playing during the doubleheader.

The Lakers would go on to win the first game easily with a score of 10-4.

Redshirt junior, Kaitlin Hoffner, moved to 4-2 on the season while picking up three strikeouts. Morgan Hilty and Mikaela Schramski also pitched well aiding in the winning effort. Hilty was given the save to make it her second on the season. Hindman led the way on offense going 3-4 with three RBIs while also picking up two runs.

It was a team effort as Madison Fry also hit well, going 2-4 with two RBIs while Marisa Cartellone and Natalie Graff both went 2-4.

The second game was slated to start out at 2 p.m. and it looked good early for the Lakers. Mercyhurst picked up two runs in the first inning which led to an early 2-0 lead. The runs came from an Allison Dejidas RBI groundout and a Marisa Cartellone single.

Unfortunately, this is all the offense that Mercyhurst would be able to generate in the second game.

The Mountain Cats cut the score from 2-0 to 2-1 in the fourth inning. It would then set the final score of 4-2 in the fifth inning by adding three runs. Hindman unfortunately picked up the loss for the Lakers and moves to 2-4 on the season. Fry went 1-3 in the second game while scoring a run while Dejidas went 1-3 and had one RBI for the Lakers. Brianne Egelston went 1-4 while scoring a run and Hindman also went 1-3.

Koscho was able to pick a stolen base in the effort as well.

This win and loss would move the Mercyhurst softball team to 12-12 on the season. Mercyhurst will take on an away doubleheader at Seton Hill University on Friday, April 23.

goal.

The final point for the evening was scored by sophomore midfielder Salvador Rang in the 62nd minute. Rang was able to curl his 25-yard free-kick into the top left corner of the net, utterly freezing the Lion’s goalie in place.

The Lakers played a strong defensive game granting Odelius a quieter game in the net.

Although not many shots were fired, in the second half Odelius found a way to provide himself some entertainment and got a breakaway from a through ball.

“It was great to come off a well fought win against Daemen and back it up on our home field against PSB with a clean sheet and 4-0 victory. Initially we weren’t playing the brand of football we’d like as it was a scrappy game, however we started to find our rhythm as it progressed. I’m glad to have tallied an assist for the first goal,” Betar said.

“I thought it was the best game that I have played so far and it feels like every game we are able to get better and better. I think the first few games were a bit difficult but now we are able to find our way and we are playing better as a team, as well with each game that goes on. We hope to finish the season strong with a sixth win on Sunday,” Binkowski said.

The Mercyhurst men’s soccer team is set to play the final match of their season on Sunday, April 18 at 2 p.m. at Saxon Stadium in Erie, PA. The Lakers will face the Seton Hill Griffins for the first time this year.

HURST RESULTS April 16: Men’s baseball vs. IUP; 12-2, 9-3, Lakers April 16: Women’s soccer vs.

Slippery Rock; 0-0, T April 17: Men’s tennis vs.

Edinboro; 4-3, Lakers April 17: Men’s lacrosse vs.

Alderson Broaddus University; 255, Lakers April 17: Softball @ Shippensburg; 2-5, Shippensburg

SPORTS

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

PAGE 15

Women’s tennis scores victory

By Gillian Mazur Managing editor

On April 16, the Mercyhurst Women’s tennis team faced Edinboro University for the fifth Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) game of the season. The match started at 3 p.m. at the Westwood Racquet Club in Erie, PA at one of their indoor courts.

Originally set to be played at McDowell High School, the game was moved due to the weather.

Picking up another victory for their PSAC season, the Mercyhurst Lakers took home a 5-2 win over the Edinboro University Fighting Scots.

The Lakers got a quick start to the first set with a sweep of the doubles play. Freshman Valentine Budin and sophomore Janiece Theodora scored the first victory with a 6-1 win over Edinboro’s sophomore Lauren Chiacchia and freshman Emily Cevera at number three.

“Janice and I stayed very focused on our goal while having fun and playing the tennis we love,” said Budin.

Mercyhurst junior Naomi Jahr and sophomore Alana Lewis both

earned doubles point with a 6-4 decision over the Fighting Scots’ Marina Zottele and Ana Nadai.

Senior Athina Tsagkaraki and senior Ivana Plecevic completed the sweep with a 6-3 win over Edinboro’s own Kaede Tada Torye Calleja.

Tsagkaraki turned it 2-0 Lakers with a 6-2, 6-0 win at number two singles over Calleja. In addition, Budin picked up her eight straight singles victory with a 6-1, 6-1 score at number three against Zottele.

Budin spoke to her excitement towards the match and how it went, stating there were some good serves and volleys throughout the match.

“I had to keep the ball in with a good intensity and tried do not be distracted by my opponent’s game,” said Budin.

Lewis scored a 6-1, 6-1 win at number four over Nadai, pushing her personal win streak to nine matches. Theodora picked up her final victory for the night for Lakers 6-0, 6-1 at number five over Cevera.

The Mercyhurst women’s tennis team currently holds the third and final post-season ranking in the

HurstAthletics photo

Freshman Valentine Budin competing in a match. Budin has now won eight consecutive singles matches following her victory in the Edinboro matchup.

PSAC West division. The Laker’s current overall score is 6-6 with a 3-2 conference score. The team also has a three-game winning streak.

The Lakers competed in their match was held at the Campbell final PSAC match for the season Courts at 4 p.m. yesterday when they traveled to Clarion, PA to face the Clarion University Golden Eagles. The

Men’s lax defeats Alderson Broaddus

By Mike Boylan Sports editor The Mercyhurst Men’s lacrosse team won their ninth game of the year this past Saturday against Alderson Broaddus with a score of 25-5. The game was played at 2pm at Saxon Stadium.

The Lakers came out with a quick start by scoring 11 goals in the first quarter alone.

Senior Nathan Grenon put up the first goal just 15 seconds into the game off an assist by senior Caleb Kueber. The score became 3-0 within a minute as both Kueber and Grenon contributed additional goals.

Within the next two minutes Mercyhurst put another three on the board. Junior Jacob Emerson, senior Devin Pipher and sophomore Patrick Carrozzi each had a goal. Pipher also assisted on both the Carrozzi and Emerson scorings.

The score became 7-0 as freshman Luke Ingianni found the net a little over five minutes into the first period. Sophomore Jared Butler was next to score with a little

LET’S GO, LAKERS!

go 13-1. Pipher racked up assists on both of the Johnson and Kueber goals, totaling four assists. Kueber scored again off yet another Pipher assist for goal 14 just six minutes into the second. Two goals were added by the Lakers to end the second, coming from sophomore Quinn Simonson and Scott.

The third quarter saw goal contributions from Ingianni, Willard, Schmatz, Kueber, Butler and Scott. Freshman Scott Newell had his first assist of the game off the Scott goal.

The fourth quarter saw goals from Schmatz and freshman Nate Latshaw to round out the game.

The victory for the Lakers gives the team a 9-1 record and has secured the men the HurstAthletics photo No. 1 seed for the upcoming Great Midwest Athletic Conference tournament. The Devin Pipher with possession. Pipher contributed eight assists during the game with Alderson Broaddus. team looks to compete again this Saturday night as they travel to Lake Erie College for The Battlers scored their first goal of the a 7pm game. under 2 minutes left in the period. Freshgame in the second quarter.

Mercyhurst reman Colin Schmatz scored one and Casey Scott scored two to round out the first turned with a Bryce Johnson goal to make it 12-1 followed by a goal from Kueber to quarter with an 11-0 score.

Thursday, April 22: Women’s Soccer vs. Gannon 5pm & 7pm (Reserve)

Saturday, April 24: Baseball @ Seton Hill University 1pm & 3pm

Friday, April 23: Baseball vs. Seton Hill University 1pm & 3pm

Softball vs. Seton Hill University 1pm & 3pm

Softball @ Seton Hill University 2:30pm & 4:30pm

Womens Lacrosse @ Lock Haven University 2pm

Sunday, April 25: Men’s Lightweight Rowing @ Bucknell University TBD Men’s Heavyweight Rowing @ Bucknell University TBD Women’s Rowing @ Jefferson TBD

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Impatience is still somewhat of a problem.

But a sign of progress should soothe the anxious Aries heart. Meanwhile, invest some of that waiting time in preparing for the change ahead.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Bovines tend to excel at solving problems, not creating them. But you risk doing just that if you’re slow to respond to a timely situation. If necessary, seek advice from someone you trust.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) The Gemini Twin might need to do more than a routine check of both a joblinked and home-based situation. Dig deeper for more data on both fronts to avoid unwanted surprises later.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Moon Children facing an important workplace decision are encouraged to use their perceptiveness to see through any attempt to win them over with a supercharge of fawning and flattery.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Good news catapults Leos and Leonas into reconsidering a deferred decision. But time has moved on, and it’s a good idea to recheck your plans and make adjustments where necessary.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) The week favors relationships, both personal and professional. Take the time to look for and immediately repair any vulnerable areas caused by unresolved misunderstandings.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A friend’s problems bring out your protective instincts. Be careful to keep a balance between meeting the obligations of friendship without being overwhelmed by them.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) The temptation to take an extreme position on an issue is strong, but moderation is favored both in personal and professional dealings. Move toward finding areas of agreement.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Getting another boss or teacher? Try to see the person behind the image. It will help you adjust more easily to the changes that new authority figures inevitably bring.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Much as you might dislike the idea, keep an open mind about using the assistance of a third party to help resolve problems that threaten to unravel an important agreement.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Career choices that seem too confusing to deal with at this point probably are. More information would help uncomplicate them. On the personal side, a friend might need your advice.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A challenge that seems easy enough at first could take an unexpected turn that might test your resolve. Decide if you feel you should stay with it, or if it’s better to move in another direction.

BORN THIS WEEK: You can be strong when standing up for justice, both for yourself and for others. © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by the Martian