by Erich Rumson ’28 on September 25, 2025

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National and Global News

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On Wednesday, Sept. 17, the Federal Reserve voted to cut its interest rate by a quarter-point in response to slower labor market gains. The move comes after President Trump had been demanding for months that the Fed make major rate cuts to help spur economic growth.  

The quarter-point rate cut is the first made in over nine months, and according to the Wall Street Journal, some officials have signaled further cuts are due later this year. One of the chief reasons given for lowering the rates is a recent slowdown in hiring nationwide. The latest cut will lower the current rate to a range of 4-4.25 percent, its lowest point in three years. 

One might ask: How does a lower interest rate affect the economy exactly? Should PC students care about this recent rate cut? The Cowl reached out to Dr. Limnios from the Economics Department for his insight on these questions. In his response, Dr. Limnios compared the interest rate to a gas pedal: when it is lowered, it speeds up the economy, and when it is raised, it slows things down. In his words, “If the Fed lowers the cost of borrowing enough, more investments are funded and the economy’s productive capacity grows; if interest rates are raised, then less investments are funded and the productive capacity of the economy shrinks.” When asked about the impact decisions like lowering the interest rate have on PC students, Dr. Limnios emphasized how borrowing money and managing debt is an important part of any business, and that business students should be aware of the Fed’s monetary policy and its effect on their financial decisions. He also mentioned the impact that interest rates have on PC students who want to own a home, as the rate set by the Fed affects the amount paid on mortgages. 

For the past few years, the Federal Reserve kept its interest rates high in an effort to  combat rising inflation. From August 2023 to August 2024, the policy rate was at 5.33 percent—its highest point in nearly two decades. As inflation has gradually lowered recently, the need for higher interest rates has declined, making the recent cuts possible. There is also now a need to stimulate the economy, as the number of jobs added to the labor market in recent months has been lower than expected. While the economy remains solid overall, the Fed sees a rate cut as a way to help boost the lagging labor market.  

The most recent cut was not without controversy, however, as it comes after a months-long effort on the part of President Trump to bring down interest rates he argued were too high. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell had until recently resisted Trump’s calls, which led to harsh criticism from the President. Last week, two days before the rate cut, Trump senior adviser Stephen Miran was sworn in before the Senate as a new Fed governor. Miran has shared the President’s desire to lower interest rates and has called for a half-point rate cut, twice the size of last week’s modest quarter-point cut.  

The full impact of the recent Fed decision remains to be seen, as it may take time for it to affect the overall economy. The stock market made modest gains in the aftermath of the decision, which may hopefully be a sign of future growth. 

by Jack Pawlowski ’27 on September 25, 2025

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Featured Slider

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After 47 years, Jerry Greenfield—the “Jerry” of Ben & Jerry’s—is leaving the company following disputes with Unilever, its parent corporation, over disagreements regarding the brand’s commitment to social justice.

Ben & Jerry’s is widely known for its creative and delicious ice cream flavors, but less known is its steadfast commitment to social and economic justice, environmental protection, and advocacy for human rights and dignity. These core values have been upheld by co-founders Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield since the company’s inception in 1978. They have never shied away from speaking out against social injustices.

In 2000, the company was acquired by Unilever, a global consumer goods conglomerate. The acquisition came with both big promises and big concerns. Chief among them were fears that corporate ownership might dilute Ben & Jerry’s social mission. However, the deal included a unique provision: an independent board retained the authority to make decisions related to the brand’s social mission. This allowed Ben & Jerry’s to continue its activism, including campaigns addressing climate change and social justice throughout the 2000s.

Over time, however, as Unilever’s management changed and the original architects of the deal departed, those promises began to unravel. Cohen discovered that Unilever’s commitment to the company’s social agenda was not legally binding. This culminated in Unilever removing David Stever as CEO of Ben & Jerry’s, without the independent board’s approval, due to his alignment with the brand’s social activism. Unilever was reportedly angered by the company’s outspoken stance on Donald Trump and Israel regarding the conflict in Gaza.

Unilever’s increasing control over Ben & Jerry’s led Greenfield to feel that the company could no longer freely advocate for peace and justice. In a statement shared by Cohen on X (formerly Twitter), Greenfield said, “It was always about more than just ice cream; it was a way to spread love and invite others to fight for equity, justice, and a better world. Coming to the conclusion that this is no longer possible at Ben & Jerry’s means I can no longer remain part of Ben & Jerry’s.”

He added that if he cannot carry forward the company’s core values from within, he will continue to champion them from the outside.

Greenfield’s departure comes at a time when the current U.S. administration has taken polarizing stances on many social issues, and corporations driven by profit are increasingly aligning with those positions. In an interview, Cohen remarked: “The reality is that businesses are incredibly political. The average business is using its money to influence elections, and they’re using their money and their lobbyists to influence legislation.”

Greenfield’s exit raises a critical question: Will corporations continue to bow to political pressure, or will his departure inspire others to reaffirm their commitment to social justice?

by Amanda Ayres ’26 and Ava La Bruno ’27 on September 25, 2025

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Campus

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On Tuesday, Sept. 16, Student Congress was pleased to welcome Dr. Kyle McInnis, the Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, to our general assembly meeting. We learned that he was specifically recruited by Father Sicard O.P. ’78, ’82G due to his previous experience creating a nursing school at Merrimack College. According to Father Sicard, the introduction of the nursing and health sciences programs was able to“naturally flow from and support the Catholic and Dominican mission of Providence College.”

Dr. McInnis shared the creation of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences was a three and a half year project from conception to completion, with the Ben Mondor School of Nursing and Health Sciences being constructed at a record pace of 18months. This building now holds the title of the largest construction project in the school’s history, dethroning the recently completed Shanley Hall. The massive building is a symbol of the growth mindset that Providence College is known for. “Every student needs a 15 foot mahogany door,” said Dr. McInnis, and behind these doors is a world of scientific inquiry and educational innovation.

This new building features various state-of-the-art technologies, such as 33 simulation manikins, a human performance lab, and an environmental chamber able to simulate temperature, air pressure, humidity, and other conditions of any environment on Earth. Dr. McInnis also presented one of the most advanced pieces of technology: an AI-powered manikin, “Hal”, who can simulate different medical conditions, respond to AED paddles, and even offer information about his alternate personalities, one of which is a surfer!

He then began detailing the three different Bachelor of Science degrees offered: nursing, health sciences, and health policy and management. This program has proven to be highly competitive, despite only being created three years ago. Students in the nursing program also complete over 800 hours of clinical work at various sites throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, such as Brown University, Hasbro Children’s Hospital, and UMass Memorial Hospital.

Executive President, Jack Brodin ’26, then opened the room to any questions and Caroline Stanton ’26 asked Dr. McInnis about the plans to expand the breadth of programs offered. He said that within the next few years they hope to introduce graduate programs to the school. This would hopefully include a generic direct entry nursing program in partnership with Massachusetts General Hospital, as well as nurse practitioner, physician assistant, and physical therapy programs. Student Congress was grateful to Dr. McInnis for presenting what the Mondor School of Nursing and Health Sciences currently is, and being open and honest about where it plans to grow. For the rest of the meeting, SCB 7601 regarding the Elections Calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year was passed, and no new legislation was introduced.

by Isabelle Camoin ’26 on September 18, 2025

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Local

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A Way Forward Amidst ‘Food Deserts’

On Wednesday, Sept. 10, Wanskuck Library debuted the People’s Garden of Wanskuck to the public by holding an opening ceremony. The garden’s development was spearheaded by Denise Brophy, a library manager who has been with Community Libraries of Providence for over a decade. Community Libraries of Providence is the largest library system in the state, formed by community non-profit members in order to save libraries across Rhode Island that were going to be lost due to budget cuts. After the Providence Public School District, the Community Libraries of Providence is the second largest free educational institution in the city. 

The People’s Garden currently houses many raised beds of vegetation and herbary throughout the property, along with a wonderful fairy garden, encouraging genuine flourishing throughout the library grounds. There is an array of berries, vegetables, and herbs to enjoy including a structured bed for mushrooming, peach and plum trees, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs like mint, sage, and lemon balm. 

The People’s Garden took a village to construct over the past year. Volunteers included friends, neighbors, local veterans, students at Providence College, members of the library, and a partnership with University of Rhode Island (URI)-Master Garden Project. URI-Master Garden Project picked up The People’s Garden as a project in February 2025.

The People’s Garden serves a mission that is multipurposed: educating the community on caring for and better understanding the environment, providing fresh produce to the community, allowing for access to whole foods, bringing together the neighborhood through a benevolent common cause, and supporting backyard gardens. The initiative is a part of an ongoing restorative project of public library grounds in the North End of Providence. A part of the mission involves programming and workshops to educate members of all ages in the community on how to garden and about native species local to Rhode Island in an attempt to sustain and grow our local ecosystem. 

The ultimate goal is to grow a healthier community in nutrition and connection. Amidst a world focused on mass production, outsourcing local agriculture, the opportunity to learn important lessons on local ecology and how to tend to a sustainable garden has been limited.

The People’s Garden demonstrates a hopeful and accessible solution to bridge the community through ecological education. This solution utilizes generosity, education service, care, and hard work. Wanskuck Library has embraced these qualities to provide for the community through its volunteers and staff, including Brophy. 

Although she is deemed the title of librarian, it may be more fitting to refer to her as a gold star example of what it means to be a good neighbor. Brophy is a light of hope in the community of Providence, modeling hard work in service for the community and its humanity. She will tell you all about the People’s Garden and the work that has been done to create it with a contagious smile on her face. Brophy cares about providing for the community in a sustainable way and believes in the People’s Garden as a bridge for the community.

The People’s Garden at Wanskuck Library is within a 15-minute walk from campus and is still filled with many service opportunities, whether it be simply acting with members of the community to tend to the garden or volunteering to construct more raised beds. Educational programming is offered to the public, and all students at PC who are interested in the initiative or gardening skills are welcome to attend. If you are simply looking for inspiration on a sustainable way to contribute to the community and engage in the outdoors, the People’s Garden is worth a visit and Brophy is a wonderful woman to connect with. 

“Together, we will care for plants and grow food. We will enjoy fruit from our trees and berries from our bushes. We will share fresh vegetables and herbs from our raised beds, and recognize the importance of pollination gardens in attracting bees and butterflies that support all efforts. We will learn about plants native to Rhode Island and New England, which support our ecosystem,” said a representative for the People’s Garden of Wanskuck Library.

by Janet Newman ’27 on September 18, 2025

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Local

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Fall in New England is one of the beautiful times of the year and the best season in the region according to many. It provides the perfect weather to enjoy time outside and take in the atmospheric scenery. Providence has many fall festivals that offer seasonal fun and hosts events from Oktoberfest to the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo. More notably, Providence is holding its 4th Annual Fall Festival this Saturday, Sept. 20 in the Jewelry District.

The Fall Festival takes place on Richmond Street from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. with free admission. During this event, there will be live music from Rory and the Blue Hounds and Lisa Bello, along with over 30 local vendors, where one can find treasures and support small businesses.

Amidst the live bands bringing the energy and tunes all day long, there will also be delicious food and various kids’ activities. Some of these activities will include face painting, balloons, and costumed characters for magical meet-and-greets.

Throughout the Fall Festival, there will be surprises, community fun, and a whole lot more! So grab your friends and take in the spirit of fall. The Jewelry District is the place to be this September!

While many still refer to this area as the Jewelry District, it is also widely known as the Innovation District. Located on the southeast side of downtown, adjacent to I-95 and the Providence River, it has long since evolved into a modern center for innovation as a result of the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and parts of the Johnson and Wales University campus. Its walkability and accessible public transportation only add to the district’s modernization.

The 4th Annual Fall Festival, hosted by The District, The Tiny Bar, Xaco Taco, Somo, Seven Stars, Nick-A-Nees, and Jarit, is without a doubt the perfect New England fall activity. I hope that many will take advantage of the seasonal fun!

by Clara Johnson ’26 on September 18, 2025

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Campus

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On Sept. 2, the 2025–2026 academic year officially kicked off. The beginning of every school year is marked by novelty, excitement, and new beginnings. This year is certainly no exception. From new faculty, programs, and majors to the addition of Huxley Pockets to Alumni Dining and the new ice cream shop to Eaton Street Cafe, this September has brought lots of new opportunities to Friartown.

The most exciting part of the beginning of the year is welcoming the fresh faces eagerly embarking on their Providence College journeys.

On Aug. 28, first-year students from the class of 2029 began moving into their dorms in preparation for the 2025–2026 academic year. Orientation coordinator Gabe Staples ’26 told The Cowl, “I couldn’t be more excited to have welcomed [the first-year students] to campus, and I can’t wait to witness their growth and success within our Friar family.” He went on to say, “The incoming class brought a roller coaster of emotions, experiences, backgrounds, and interests to our PC community.”

The class of 2029 is comprised of 1,188 first-year students. These students come from 34 states, Washington, D.C., and 14 countries outside of the U.S. Among that group, 106 are studying in the Honors Program, 100 are student athletes, and 126 are first-generation college students. The most popular majors for the class of 2029 are finance, marketing, management, nursing, health sciences, biology, psychology, and political science.

Though the majority of students arrived on campus Aug. 28, several first-year students participated in pre-orientation programs, arriving early to forge community, explore interests, and serve locally. In addition to the tried-and-true programs, Faithworks, Urban Action, and Transitions, first-year students were also able to participate in two new programs. Fostering Reflection Arts Meaningful Expression gave students the opportunity to learn about the city of Providence, social issues, and meaningful expression through the medium of art. Additionally, the Department of Rec Sports hosted Rec Connect, allowing incoming students to become familiar with campus life, develop skills, and build community through a variety of games, adventures, and social events.

The class of 2029 was not the only group embarking on its PC journey. 85 transfer students—the largest number in recent history—were welcomed to campus this fall. Additionally, 22 full-time professors from a diverse range of disciplines joined the faculty for the upcoming school year.

In addition to the new perspectives and exciting conversations brought by new faculty and students, the campus community will also be enriched by Providence College’s new communication and data sciences majors.

The Director of the Communication program, Andrea McDonnell, Ph.D., told The Cowl, “PC’s Communication program is excited to welcome majors for the very first time this academic year.” Students can apply for the new major for this semester by visiting the Providence College Communications website and completing the application before Sept. 30. As McDonnell explained, “The program offers a wide range of theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of visual, oral, written, and mediated communication.”

Welcome new students and welcome back to everyone else! The 2025–2026 year at Providence College is off to a running start, and we here at The Cowl are eagerly awaiting the amazing things coming up this semester!

by Shannon Kelly ’26 on September 18, 2025

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National and Global News

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 On Monday, Sept. 8, the Supreme Court overturned a federal judge’s ruling that had found immigration enforcement agents were engaging in discrimination based on race, language, location, and occupation in a 6–3 decision. In July, Judge Frimpong of Los Angeles ruled that federal agents were likely infringing upon the Fourth Amendment when making stops. With this ruling overturned, federal agents under the guise of ICE and DHS are permitted to stop people based on parts of their identity. This includes race, ethnicity, language, possible accents, and their presence at specific sites of work. 

This case has shifted national attention to the Fourth Amendment, which protects the right of the people to not be unreasonably searched and seized by the government. This ruling has brought an intense amount of fear across the United States, specifically in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. This ruling from the Supreme Court also comes at a time of heightened anxiety regarding the Trump Administration’s recent attempt at a federal takeover of our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. 

Since June, armed and masked federal agents have utilized roving patrols to carry out sweeps of immigrants who may lack proper documentation. This overturning by the Supreme Court was concurred by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who stated that immigration officers must be able to use their experience to stop suspected undocumented immigrants. Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote that, “Because this is unconscionably irreconcilable with our nation’s constitutional guarantees, I dissent.” 

This case reflects the current political leanings of the 6–3 conservative majority of the Supreme Court. All six of the conservative Supreme Court Justices upheld that the Constitution likely allows for federal immigration agents to use blunter tactics when selecting suspected undocumented immigrants to interrogate. All three liberal Justices voted in dissent of the bill, ultimately pointing out the polarization in the Supreme Court based on the political party of which they are a part.

This case symbolizes the division, the collective inability to engage in uncomfortable conversation, and the constant dehumanization of those who have been othered that currently define the state of our nation. Many feel unsafe at their place of work and now risk being targeted for the parts of themselves that they should take pride in, rather than feel the need to hide. With immigration being one of the most controversial topics at this moment in time, we must be able to engage in meaningful dialogue that recognizes the humanity, dignity, and care that all people, regardless of immigration status, are worthy of.

by Molly Oldread ’26 on September 18, 2025

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Campus

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To kick off another year of Big East basketball, Providence College is hosting its annual Late Night Madness event at the Amica Mutual Pavilion. This year’s main event is set to be a performance from American singer-songwriter Carrie Underwood. This event will include introductions to both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as several performances from student clubs. Student groups like PC A Cappella, Dance Club, and others will gather to showcase the diverse talents of the school’s student body. 

Just a couple of weeks ago, the school announced that country singer Underwood will be the evening’s main event. Underwood, most famously known for her songs “Before He Cheats” and “Blown Away,” is set to perform on Oct. 4. As one of the single best-selling touring music artists in history, she has sold 85 million records worldwide and has been named one of the highest-grossing female touring artists. Underwood rose to fame after winning season four of American Idol. Later, she outsold all previous American Idol winners and went on to be a judge of the 23rd season of the show. Her first album, Some Hearts, quickly became the fastest-selling debut country album in history. Underwood, now 42 years old, has 8 Grammy wins and 16 nominations. She was only the second country artist in history to win Best New Artist at the Grammys. 

Tickets are still available for purchase for the Oct. 4 concert for students through the Friar Athletic Ticket Office. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

by Erich Rumson ’28 on September 18, 2025

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National and Global News

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The State of Discourse in the Modern Age

On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the nation was shocked when right-wing activist and influencer Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while holding an event at Utah Valley University. Around 20 minutes into the event, shortly after beginning a debate with a student in the crowd, Kirk was hit by a single shot fired from a nearby rooftop. He was rushed to a hospital by private security, but died shortly after. The suspected assassin, later identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was taken into custody two days later, and is expected to be charged with Kirk’’s murder. The shooting has been seen as another alarming example of a recent wave of political violence taking place in a deeply divided nation.

Kirk, 31, had long been considered as one of the leading conservative voices in America and was a key ally of President Donald Trump in each of his election campaigns. Entering the political scene at age 18, Kirk co-founded the conservative organization Turning Point USA, a prominent activist group with a presence on many college campuses. Kirk became more widely known for his Prove Me Wrong speaking events in which he would debate college students who held opposing views. These debates generated many viral clips that contributed to his large following, especially among young conservatives. He was also the host of the popular podcast The Charlie Kirk Show and gave speeches at prominent political conventions, including Conservative Political Action Conference and the Republican National Convention. He leaves behind his wife, Erika Kirk, and two young children.

Kirk’s murder was met with shock and grief by people across the nation. Trump ordered all flags to be flown at half staff until Sunday in Kirk’s honor. In an address to the nation Wednesday night, Trump referred to Kirk as “a patriot, who devoted his life to the cause of open debate, and to the country that he loved so much.” Prominent figures from across the political aisle, including Barack Obama, Bernie Sanders, and Hakeem Jeffries, condemned the act of political violence and offered their condolences to Kirk’s family.

Following the shooting, the FBI and local law enforcement quickly launched a full scale investigation into finding the perpetrator. Images of the shooter captured by surveillance cameras were released to the public the day after the murder, along with the posting of a $100,000 reward for information. That evening, Robinson, a resident of the small town of Washington in Southwest Utah, was turned in to authorities by family members who recognized him in the security footage and heard that he confessed being the shooter to a friend. Robinson, who according to the Wall Street Journal was known as a gifted student, reportedly had “grown more political in recent years” and had developed a strong online presence. According to family members, at a recent dinner Robinson had talked about Kirk’s then-upcoming event at the Utah Valley campus, and expressed hatred towards him and his views. Robinson is currently being held at the Utah County Jail.

Kirk’s murder is the latest incident in an alarming wave of political violence that has been escalating in recent years. During the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump was the target of two assassination attempts, one of which resulted in the death of a rally attendee, Corey Comperatore. Last December, United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was murdered on a sidewalk in Manhattan while walking to a conference. The suspect, Luigi Mangione, had expressed opposition towards the American healthcare system and allegedly engraved messages on the shell casings used in the attack. Other notable examples include the murder of two Israeli embassy staffers in May, and the attacks on two Democratic Minnesota lawmakers last June. These shocking incidents have demonstrated the growing divide in American politics, which may perhaps be at its worst point in decades.

In order to get a better idea of the broader context behind these shocking attacks and to find out what the proper response should be, The Cowl reached out to an on-campus expert Dr. Adam Meyers of the Political Science Department at PC. Meyers noted a trend of tribalism in American politics: “it’s not just that we disagree with each other more, but we increasingly view our political groups as our identity groups and our political opponents as threatening our identity.” 

Kirk’s assassination have revived calls for an end to the politically motivated violence that has recently plagued the nation. Kirk had long been known for bringing about open debate on college campuses, which, while often heated, always remained peaceful. Meyers agrees with more dialogue and conversation, but concludes that the purpose of such dialogue should be open-minded: “when debating politics with someone, you should be open to the possibility of changing your mind based on things they say. Talking politics just to express righteous anger or convince yourself that you’re right will only make the situation worse.” With the uncertainty brought about by Kirk’s  tragic death, one can only hope that the nation will return to the peaceful discourse that is essential to remaining a free country.

by Kaitlyn Hladik '25 on February 10, 2023
News Staff

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News

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McPhail’s had a “pawty” on Tuesday night co-sponsored by the Board of Programmers and Campus Ministry: “Huxley Hangout,” an event that included stuff-a-Hux, doggy bags, Scooby snacks, and “pupcakes.” 

The event was a major hit and many people were able to adopt stuffed Huxley plushies or take part in some painting activities. McPhail’s remained crowded for a couple of hours with people from all around campus. Campus Ministry was represented by several Peer Ministry groups at the event that were advertising the kickoff of the second semester of Peer Ministry on the week of Feb. 6. 

Stuff-A-Hux was a major draw to the event. Everyone who was able to receive a Huxley was excited to leave with their new pup. The fact that they ran out so quickly is a testament to how successful the event was. 

Attendees also enjoyed sweet treats from DeLuise Bakery, located on Chalkstone Ave. in Providence. 

Chris Azar ’24, a member of BOP and Campus Ministry, spearheaded the event. 

“While I worked really hard on this event and I’ve been planning this event for several months, I never expected such a great turnout,” Azar said. “I am so honored by the love and support I received from the PC community for my event, and I am looking forward to planning more events in the future that celebrate friendship and fun!” 

Student-made doggy bags proved to be popular amongst attendees. On the table were Huxley keychains, curly straws with pawprints, and snacks. One student expressed that she was especially excited about the Scooby Doo doggy treats, as they brought a sense of nostalgia to the event. 

A member of the Class of 2023 who attended the event said, “I think this event was very meaningful to help better understand the traditions here at PC, as well as a great time to hang out with my friends.” 

The tradition of Huxley dates back to the use of Dalmations in the Dominican tradition, stemming from a dream St. Dominic’s mother had of a dog with a torch in its mouth setting the world on fire prior to his birth. BOP and Campus Ministry were able to make an enjoyable event drawing on these historical traditions.