February/March 2025
Volume 63 Issue 1
Mock Trial Profile
what’s in THIS ISSUE
Alvernia Sports Coverage
Movie Review
Campus Life
Grace Wanner Managing Editor If you didn’t know Alvernia has a mock trial team, that’s about to change. The members of Alvernia’s mock trial team are dedicated, hardworking students from all different majors who come together and put up a fierce competition - and they’re just getting started. A common misconception about mock trial is that it is only for future lawyers. However, the team advisor, Dr. Nicholas Nicoletti, associate professor of political science, invites students from all majors to join. “Mock Trial sharpens students’ verbal eloquence, refines their written precision, and hones their critical thinking under pressure - empowering them with the confidence and skills to excel in any courtroom, classroom, or career,” Dr. Nicoletti said. For those who may not be familiar with it, Dr. Nicoletti gave a concise explanation of what a mock trial is all about. “Mock Trial allows students to compete against
other universities by trying hypothetical cases,” he said. “Students take on the lawyer and witness roles. Our team travels to different universities to compete in invitational tournaments, eventually competing in the American Mock Trial Association Regional Playoff in the spring semester.” “For the competition, lawyers construct opening and closing statements, direct examinations, crossexaminations, learn the Federal Rules of Evidence, and make objections. Witnesses learn witness
Jamie Pierce Contributing Writer The Alvernia Art Studio was moved from the greenhouse to the first floor of Francis Hall over winter break. The new location consists of three classrooms in comparison to the one large open space in the greenhouse, which should be more comfortable for students, especially in the colder or warmer months. The move was decided in the summer of 2024 because administration felt it was beneficial to have the Fine and Performing Arts all in one building. It is currently unknown what will be
replacing the Art Studio in the greenhouse. The greenhouse consists of one large room, two smaller rooms, an office, a basement and a bathroom. While some students were aware of the move prior to leaving for winter break, many were surprised to find the greenhouse empty upon arrival back to campus. “It was kind of weird walking by and not seeing all the artwork hanging up,” senior healthcare major Kayleigh Kehler said. Kehler has taken multiple art classes in the greenhouse through her four years at Alvernia and enjoyed the ambiance and location. Art Professor Peter
A group photo of the mock trial team. Pictured from left to right is Brian Pascal, Alex Avram, Lizmarie Vega, Leila Adames, Blake Rutcosky, Dalton LeDroux, Cynthia Sandoval, and Michel Garcia. Photo by Dr. Nicholas Nicoletti.
affidavits, learn the facts of the case, and take on an original character.” Alvernia’s mock trial team has been competing since 2022 and is in the process of becoming a registered student organization. Recently, the team traveled to Dickinson College in Carlisle and competed at the American Mock Trial Association Regional Playoff. At the competition, two of the team members brought home awards. Anthony Ulses, a third-year history major, won an all-region attorney award with 19 out of 20 ranks. Additionally, Alex
Art on the Move
Senior Information
One of the new Art Studios – Room 143 in Francis Hall. Picture taken by Jamie Pierce
Rampson was asked what he will miss the most about holding art classes in the greenhouse, “The fact that the arts were visible to all who traveled down Adams Street, including prospective students and parents who were touring campus.” Rampson said. “We had a presence where all could look in and see what was happening, except for when the nude figure drawing class was in session.” The former greenhouse location provided students a break from their everyday classrooms and allowed them to explore their creativity and socialize with each other in an unusual setting. “Being a healthcare major, a bunch of my classes are in your typical classrooms,” Kehler said. “The greenhouse was a great way to take a break from that and get a chance to let your creativity out.” However, Rampson does not feel that student’s creativity will be negatively affected. “While many artists
Ulses, a third-year psychology major, won an all-region witness award with 17 out of 20 ranks. The team competed exceptionally well against some of the top mock trial teams in the region. The team president, Brian Pascal, a third-year double major in Political Science and Philosophy, is spearheading the expansion of the team in tandem with Blake Rutcosky, a senior double major in Political Science and Literature. “We want to expand and make sure everyone knows that we exist so everyone who would be interested in joining has the opportunity to do so,” Pascal said. For individuals who are interested in joining, feel free to reach out to Dr. Nicoletti or a team president. The mock trial team meets every Wednesday in Francis Hall, room 101, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Anyone who is interested is welcome to stop by and say hello. The team is extremely welcoming, and if you decide you’d like to join, there will surely be no objections! choose studio spaces that inspire their creativity. I believe students see these as classrooms, and I don’t think it will impact the student’s creative potential,” he said. Although the art studio in the greenhouse will be missed, students are eager to begin working in the new classrooms and personalize the space. The old studio was filled with artwork from both students and faculty over the years. Now, students and their peers can continue the tradition and decorate the classrooms with new and original pieces. The art studio is available to students who are a part of the Fine and Performing Arts programs at Alvernia. Students can minor in art, which can be a useful tool alongside their major. Studying fine art gives students a foundational skill set and understanding of the topic, as well as pushes them to use their creative abilities. Every semester, the Art department holds an art show displaying student work.