Tag: Catherine Brewer ’20
NAACP Puts on H.O.M.E.coming Event in Honor of the New Renovation
by The Cowl Editor on November 16, 2017
Campus
by Catherine Brewer ’20
News Staff
An aura of hope and new beginnings swirled in the air of the newly renovated Moore Hall the night of Saturday, Nov 11 for Providence College’s first H.O.M.E.coming. The student celebration of Moore Hall’s re-opening began with joyful voices of students which rivaled the music that pounded out of the cutting-edge speakers, creating a competition that was almost loud enough to make the crisply painted walls shake.
All in attendance seemed to carry with them a sense of respect—arespect for the tireless work of the student leaders who organized the gathering, and respect for the perseverance that fought for the foundation of the Center for Inclusive Excellence.
Marvin Taveras ’19, who is active in Providence College chapter of NAACP, OLAS, and the inaugural PC Step Team, explained that the event was pioneered by students who wanted to bring the community together in their own way. “The idea came about when there was word going around about Moore Hall getting a new name and Acklynn [Byamugisha ’20] came up with the name H.O.M.E. (House of Multicultural Education),” said Taveras. “That’s when the idea of H.O.M.E.coming was conceived, and I brought it up in an NAACP exec meeting and the rest was history.”
H.O.M.E.coming was advertised and officially sponsored by the PC NAACP and Office of Institutional Diversity; however, anticipation surrounding the event had been growing since the early stages of planning, and the collaboration of new ideas was widespread amongst various student organizations.
“I heard about the H.O.M.E.coming event through Congress and through a lot of my friends that were involved in the planning,” stated Sean Richardson ’20, president of the Class of 2020. “I was excited from the first stages of planning. I know Phionna [Claude ’18], our executive president of Student Congress, was very involved in the planning and made constant announcements within our meetings to get people excited, which she succeeded at.”
Beginning at 4 p.m., Moore Hall was filled with student-organized food, performances, music, and much more. In the front lobby, there was a station for students to have their own license plate printed, as well as the opportunity to watch artists work on the new mural. Admission was free and shirts celebrating the event were on sale for $10, which sold out quickly.
The crowd gathered in the Boulingy Lounge for the performances of the night. PC’s all-male A cappella group, Special Guest, kicked it off with several numbers, followed by impactful poetry readings from members of Believers of Words. The PC Step Team and Motherland Dance Group sent the audience wild and spread good vibrations through the building when they took the floor.
Steve Lawrence ’21 performed with the Footprints Gospel Choir and took the opportunity to perform as a solo vocalist while students waited for the food to be delivered. Lawrence exclaimed, “For my last performance, I felt that people needed to know about the Caribbean culture and to show our own folk songs and spirituals. I want others to know the other side of my culture. In addition, I want to emphasize that within my own race there is diversity.”
When the food arrived, students jumped out of their seats to fill a plate. The spread featured a wide variety of soul-warming, flavorful comfort food. Richardson exclaimed, “The food was amazing—but my favorite would have to be the fried plantains!” Lawrence raved about the macaroni and cheese, oxtail, and black rice.
Missed H.O.M.E.coming? The event was such a success that student leaders are already looking to make it an annual celebration. “As for the future of H.O.M.E.coming, everyone that had a hand in planning it hopes this becomes and yearly thing and new PC tradition,” said Taveras.
Additionally, while Moore Hall is still growing, students are encouraged to go and check it out. “One thing I love about Moore Hall is the excitement that came with it,” Richardson expressed. “Don’t get me wrong, I love the new facilities and classrooms, but I definitely get a sense that the student population is somewhat revitalized and with this new building new opportunities are coming and just provide major excitement for future activities.”
From a freshman perspective, Lawrence has dreams for Moore Hall, and the determination to achieve them. “I hope that Moore Hall becomes a place of inclusion and integration. I want this hall to be a place where it encourages the conversation about diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexuality, religion, and etc.,” he stated. “We may not agree to everything, but we can say that we are all humans deserving of love and respect. Moore Hall should be a place where all student voices should be heard and a place to learn about different cultures and ways of thinking.”
“As a student leader, I will most likely help with the events that are going on in Moore Hall,“ said Lawrence. ”I will continue to sing and dance about my culture. Hopefully, others will do the same.”
An Overview of the Recent Events That Transpired After Trumpkin
by The Cowl Editor on November 9, 2017
Campus
by Catherine Brewer ’20
News Staff
In the wake of the “Trumpkin” incident, Providence College student executives are looking forward to bringing a new sense of unity to campus. “I am always impressed when our student leaders can get together having differences of opinion and are able to discuss and reach a final truth,” remarked Dean Steven Sears, associate vice president of student affairs. Both executive boards of BMSA and PC Republicans met together last Friday to enhance communication between the two clubs following the incident.
The PC community was made aware of the Trumpkin incident at 4:33 p.m. on Nov. 2 in an email from Fr. Brian Shanley O.P. According to Fr. Shanley, a “Trumpkin” was put on display in the office of one of the PC student organizations. Prior to the email, word of the display had been circulating by means of social media, and an image tweeted by University of Massachusetts at Amherst student journalist Michael J. Hout at 9 a.m. on Nov. 2 gained attention from major news outlets, notably The Daily Wire, The Providence Journal, and The Washington Times. Hout’s tweet was critical for the wide public exposure of the details of the incident: the image revealed a pumpkin pierced with scissors seated beneath a chalkboard that read, “Stab, stab, stab. Trumpkin 2017: If you ever feel angry or stressed, feel free to stab Trumpkin!” Additionally, Hout noted in the caption that the display was located in the office of PC’s Board of Multicultural Student Affairs, and that he received the information via an anonymous source.
In the Providence Journal’s Nov. 2 coverage of the incident, PC’s Associate Vice President for Public Affairs Steven Maurano reported that “Trumpkin” was on display “for a brief period of time.” He elaborated, “‘I’m not sure exactly how long, but it was no longer than a day or so. … The college administration learned of the display late in the evening of Oct. 24. By the time we accessed the office at 9 am the following morning, it had been removed.’”
At 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 2, the PC Republicans held their weekly meeting. The members of their Sakai email list were notified, and it was indicated that the Trumpkin incident would be discussed. President Michael R. Bartels ’18 described how the organization responded to “Trumpkin,” stating, “We had first heard about it from a reporter who called me asking if I felt safe on a campus where that display existed, and rumors were circulating around, some exaggerated, some not.”
Following an incident in which some students felt that they needed to leave the meeting, the executive boards of BMSA and PC Republicans met privately to discuss ways to move forward and facilitate constructive dialogues.
Both executive boards believe it is time for the PC community to come together, to heal, and plan for the future. Bartels suggests that students ask themselves about what has brought them to campus. “This might seem naïve and simple, but my advice for students in both our clubs is that we should do something as simple as ask someone from across the aisle to grab lunch together, sit down and ask how their lives are going. Try to see their lives as people, and not just as political actors,” he stated. The executive board of BMSA declined to officially comment for this article, but expressed publically the goal to move forward from the event. The “Trumpkin” incident is still under investigation and will be processed through the Office of Community Standards.
“Do your part to break the rigid social segregation that creates echo chambers and generates the hatred that drives us to conflict and confrontation over conversation and comradery,” Bartels said. “We can talk endlessly about top-down programs and seminars but the impetus is on us. Change starts at the dinner table, or, in our case, the Ray table.”
“At times they may not agree with each other, but a thorough dialogue leads to better understanding,” said Dean Sears. “I believe the student leaders took this situation very seriously and have agreed to work together more closely moving forward.”
Revisiting Latin Roots in McPhail’s
by The Cowl Editor on October 26, 2017
Campus
By Catherine Brewer ’20
News Staff
It was 6:45 p.m. in McPhail’s Pub this Thursday night, and visiters were greeted by a series of blown-up candid photographs propped up on tripod stands. A closer look reveals that these faces are those of Providence College students and that each carries an important message. There were several students preparing for the event to the beat of the Latino music that burst through the speakers, and there was a woman leading their efforts: Kayla Luciano ’18.
Luciano is the president of the Organization of Latin American Students, commonly known as OLAS. The exhibition on display, titled “The Latinx Identity,” and the entire Latinx Expo were put on by the organization. “It’s in honor of culminating the end of Hispanic Heritage month,” Luciano explained.
For the exhibit, members of OLAS collaborated with the Photography Club to meld their personal experiences into pieces of art. Students were able to choose an image that represents an important aspect of their identity, and after a headshot was taken, the chosen image was pulled through the portrait using a double-exposure effect. They also picked a quote to accompany the piece.
The event is put on annually by OLAS; however, it has a different theme every year. Luciano explains that she has been a member of the organization since her freshman year, adding that this year’s artistic event was unique. A discussion of the pieces was to be followed with performances by Marleny Luna, an actress and Rhode Island College alumna, and two of her guests. Traditional Latin dishes would also be served.
On leaving her legacy behind, Luciano stated, “I hope that the members of OLAS continue to express their Latin identity, share it with others on campus, and are proud to be Latino. I want them to let that be known and show it through events like this.” She added that she was very excited about how the photos came out and looked foward to the poetry readings.
As the clock hit 7 p.m., the PC community came together as students began to fill every seat in the pub. The upbeat environment was prominent as all were smiling and laughing, yet it was evident that all were appreciative of the deeper meaning that the works conveyed. Maria Santos ’20, a staff member at McPhail’s and a guest at the event, emerged with a microphone and began singing along to the music. Santos came to PC from Puerto Rico. Looking back on the event, she raved, “The event was 10 out of 10! The pictures were great, the poetry was awesome, the food was amazing, and the Latino music took me back home for a moment! I really enjoyed being at the expo for a couple of hours!”
The room grew quiet as Luciano began to speak over the microphone, captivating the entire room. After introducing the OLAS executive board, Luciano described the works as a “glimpse of our visions, experiences, hopes and dreams.” Next, the featured students began to describe their own pieces to the audience. Luciano kicked it off by addressing her own. The photograph depicts Luciano gazing upward as butterflies float across her face. She explained that at first, she chose the butterflies because of their association with DACA. However, they have a deeper meaning to her now, as deportations are growing in number.
Marvin Taveras ’19, vice president of OLAS, also shared his work. He chose an image from a recent trip to Nicaragua through the global studies program at PC. Taveras explained that while on a walk through the community he was visiting, he came across one family’s hut that was built “just enough,” surrounded by overgrown grasses and a barbed wire fence. While many students can become caught up in the chaos of college, Taveras encourages everyone to stay true to their roots.
“I think that Latin Expo was a huge success from the art pieces, to the food, to the guest poets, and the number of people that came out to support. I believe everything came together beautifully,” Taveras explained. “I believe Latin Expo is important because it’s a way for students to embrace and celebrate their Latin heritage and share it with the PC community. However, I wish we could’ve had more participants in the art pieces, since it is open to everyone, whether or not they are a part of OLAS. Personally, this was the third Latin Expo that I’ve been on the Executive Board for, and seeing the different topics we have done, this was by far my favorite
Late Night Madness Ignites Friartown
by The Cowl Editor on October 17, 2017
Campus
by Catherine Brewer ’20
News Staff
Excitement swirled in the air as a sea of black and white filled the towering bleachers of Mullaney Gymnasium this past Saturday night. It was time for Late Night Madness: Providence College’s inauguration of the 2017-2018 season for the Men’s and Women’s Division I Basketball teams. Students waited with anticipation for the student performances, the sage words of emcee Doris Burke ‘87, as well as the concert featuring 23-year-old rapper Lil Uzi Vert that was to follow in Peterson Recreation Center.
The cheerleading team was the first to hit the floor, bursting with energy and boasting synchronized back handsprings. “The electricity level was ramped up and they found new ways to get the people going,” applauded Patrick Quilty ’20, who looked on from the stands.
The expected lull between performances was quickly filled with student voices, as Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” blasted out of the speakers and brought everyone to their feet in dance. The sudden display of student unity was refreshing and spoke to the main theme of the event, as later bellowed by Coach Cooley: “Us. We. Together. Family. Friars.”
A diverse variety of dance performances were next to sweep spectators off of their feet. The Step Team was the first to make waves with their dynamic stomp performance, followed by the Irish Dance Club, PC Dance Club, PC Dance Company, Motherland Dance Group, BMSA, and the renowned PC Dance Team. Katie Printer ‘18, captain of the team, expressed that they will be returning to Nationals after claiming the #7 spot in this past year’s competition. The team took the stage with a feisty, fresh edge, as they are now incorporating hip hop into their routines. “We wanted to do something fun and something to hype up the crowd!” Printer exclaims. “Basketball season is always our favorite part of the year, and we just wanted to get everyone on campus as excited as we are, so that was what we were hoping to do with our fun hip hop dance.”
Darkness fell over the gym for the announcement of the winner of Providence College Television’s “Make Some Madness” hype video competition, which had been taking submissions until Wednesday. Students were encouraged to grab a couple of fanatic friends to make a video demonstrating school spirit and lasting under two minutes. The videos were posted by PCTV on YouTube, and the voting was based on the number of likes each one accrued. “Rise up, Friartown,” proclaimed Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ed Cooley at the premiere of the 39 second video that took first place, “The Time is NOW!” The top students also received a $500 gift card, and the second and third place submissions were awarded $250 and $100 gift cards, respectively.
After opening remarks from Athletic Director Bob Driscoll, NBA sideline reporter and color analyst Doris Burke ’87 took the floor to introduce this season’s basketball teams. Burke began with her alma mater, the women’s team. The athletes and coaches danced onto the court one by one to their favorite songs, including Allegra Botteghi ‘18 and Brianna Frias ‘18, who are both entering their senior season. After a few words from Coach Jim Crowley, the team lined up and whipped and nae-naed to iAmDLOW’s “Do It Like Me,” sending the crowd wild.
Next up was the men’s team, featuring five seniors: Rodney Bullock ‘18, Emmitt Holt ‘18, Jalen Lindsey ‘18, Kyron Cartwright ‘18, and Tom Planek ‘18. The team was followed by Cooley, who applauded the Friar Family, exclaiming, “We have the greatest fans in America!” The team will host Carleton University at the Dunkin Donuts Center on Oct. 28 at 4 p.m.
Despite the wealth of school spirit at the event, the attendance seemed slightly less than last year. Ava Merz ’20, who attended the event as a spectator, said, “Compared to last year though, I was disappointed with the turnout and the hype wasn’t as present as the year before. There wasn’t even a wait to get in.”
The primary reason for this was the separation of the Lil Uzi Vert concert. Instead of having Uzi perform in Mullaney, the crowd moved over to Peterson. While men’s basketball season ticket holders received free, priority access, the remainder of the student body was able to purchase tickets for $30 each. However, the toll that this decision took on Madness was minimal, as the gym saw only a few more empty seats and experienced a far smoother transition than in previous years.
Despite slightly lower turn-out, many students enjoyed celebrating one of PC’s sports traditions. Merz commented, “Madness is always something I look forward to. Having everyone come together to support our basketball team and seeing all the performances reminds me what the Friar Family is all about.”
Featured Friar: William Oser ’19
by The Cowl Editor on September 28, 2017
Campus
From on Stage to on a Bike, Oser Discusses His Bop to the Top
By Catherine Brewer ’20
News Staff
Even when you think you’re ahead, William Oser ’19 is always one step—or spin—in front. Despite my efforts to beat him to lower Slavin’s Dunkin’ Donuts for our 8:30 a.m. interview—the only time that he can squeeze me into his whirlwind week—I spot his crisp white Friars Club sport coat from the stairs.
As Oser and I grab seats at a high top, he informs me that he was just in a meeting for the student representatives on the Board of Trustees, a position that he was recently invited to fill. Oser adds this new title to his laundry list of involvement at Providence College. Entering his junior year, he serves as an orientation leader, a spin instructor, a member of Friars Club, and a member of the comedy sketch group Six Gents…all on top of his dedication to theatre.
As a theatre and business management double major, Oser says that he feels he is most confident on the stage. “It’s always been the backbone of who I am,” he explains, adding that the “performance personality” he developed has made him a better public speaker for his other involvements.
“I’ve always wanted to play something outrageous,” Oser gushes on his role as Vice Principal Panch in this October’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. He explains that his character is “quirky, weird, and intriguing”—a “perfect” fit for his own personality.
Although PC can’t get enough of Oser these days, his success was hard fought. Oser admits that he was rejected from a number of clubs and organizations as a freshman, and it took a toll on his self-esteem. Rebuilding himself was time-consuming, but it was ultimately worthwhile. “Don’t get discouraged,” he says to those aspiring to get involved. “There is always the possibility of rejection, and you have to come to terms with that.”
Despite the struggles that he has overcome, Oser finds joy in sharing his experiences as an orientation leader. “I love being that welcoming face,” he states, adding that he loves the opportunity that the orientation program presents to kindle relationships with a variety of different people. With a group of incoming freshmen looking up to him, Oser feels that it is crucial for him to show that “life goes on after orientation.”
Fellow OL Jackson Reis ’20 finds that Oser’s philosophy is working. “Will was a really positive person to work alongside and such a great member of the orientation staff,” Reis states. “He helped everyone feel welcome and part of the Friar Family. As an upperclassman, he’s such a recognizable personality on campus and is involved in so many things. He’s a great role model.”
So, where does a savvy student like Oser head to hit the books? He exclaims, “The tables by the Slavin Mural Lounge!” Oser savors the social aspect of doing his homework in the heart of campus involvement, but it also keeps his competitive juices pumping. When he sees other students thriving in their own activities, it reminds him that there is always room to grow, motivating him to work harder.
Oser’s seemingly limitless ambition has also driven him to join the staff at the Concannon Fitness Center as a spin instructor. This month, he began teaching twice a week, and his classes have been filling up almost immediately. One of Oser’s regular students, Caprial Harris ’19, had nothing but praise for his class. “It’s a really great workout,” she confirms. “He is super encouraging throughout the class and it’s a lot of fun!”
“Honestly Will’s classes are not only a great workout, but they are fun and entertaining, simply because his personality brings so much laughter and positivity to exercising itself,” said Brittney Price ’18. “Will and I have been workout buddies since the end of my sophomore year, and I’m so happy he became a spin instructor! I teach Zumba in the fitness center too and we always joke about someday opening our own spin/dance/Zumba studio.”
There are two other aspects of Oser’s life that he is very particular about: bagels and style. “The best bagel in Providence is Bagel Gourmet,” he reveals, whipping out his iPhone to look up its 250 Brook Street address. “They’re a little smaller than your typical bagel on campus, but they hit the spot. I love my New York and New Jersey bagels,” says the Verona, New Jersey, native.
As for style, I asked Oser what’s hot and what’s not on Eaton Street. He’s currently loving joggers, adding that there are so many different styles to choose from. Oser recently snagged a fiery red pair with edgy zippers from Zara. Bomber jackets, jean jackets, and sleeveless sweatshirts are some of Oser’s other top trends. However, he hates when people dress too casual for a night out. “I wish more guys tried,” he states, adding that he is tired of seeing the same-old American Eagle jeans and oxford shirt. Oser encourages students to try new things because, after all, it is college.
As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn’t help but ask the PC king of Instagram about his feed. “I love it! It’s another platform where I can perform and show my personality off,” Oser raved. “I treat my Instagram like everything I do. I don’t like to just float. I like to push the envelope.”
Spelling Bee will be performed at the Smith Center for the Arts on the weekends of Oct. 20-22 and 27-29, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Oser teaches spin classes Mondays and Wednesdays at the Concannon Fitness Center.