Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg starts her historic role as UTampa's first female president, focusing on student success and global recognition.
Together We Rise: Supporting Student Journalism at The Minaret
Incoming faculty advisor Sohana Nasrin shares her vision for empowering student journalists and upholding the legacy of The Minaret.
Broadway at Your Doorstep: Student Discounts and Opportunities at the Straz Center
Explore how UTampa students can access Broadway shows and other performances at the Straz Center with exclusive discounts and opportunities.
Introducing the Grand Center: A New Hub for Campus Life
Discover how the Grand Center is transforming campus life with its cutting-edge design, exclusive amenities, and the introduction of UT's first-ever Sky Park.
Table of Contents
Pete Fairbanks' Season in Jeopardy
Opinion Sports Campus Life Features
Rays pitcher Pete Fairbanks faces a potential season-ending lat strain, forcing the team to rethink their bullpen strategy.
Tampa General Hospital
Addresses Housing Crisis: Affordable Apartments for Staff
Learn how Tampa General Hospital's $60 million apartment complex is set to tackle the city's housing crisis and offer affordable options for its employees.
Why Is “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Billie Eilish’s Best Album?
Discover why Billie Eilish's latest album is capturing hearts and showcasing Eilish's evolution as an artist and her deep, personal storytelling.
Photo Courtesy of Mariam Bernardini-Herrera
Photo Courtesy of Tampa Bay Times
Photo Courtesy of William Drumm
Photo Courtesy of Straz Center
President Dahlberg Dawns New Era at UTampa
By Aimee Kanaskie and Franchesca Murrugarra
This summer marked a period of significant progress for The University of Tampa (UT). As workers completed the Grand Center, the university’s 11th on-campus residence hall, Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg began her tenure as the 11th president, laying a solid foundation for the future.
On June 1, 2024, President Dahlberg became The University of Tampa’s first female president, succeeding former President Ronald Vaughn.
The former provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at Texas Christian University has over 20 years of experience in higher education and has been described in a press release by UT as “an advocate of student success, innovative academic programs and inclusivity initiatives.”
Throughout her years of working in higher education, two elements have remained constant: Dahlberg’s listening ear and her passion for enhancing the student experience.
“It’s all about listening and engaging and getting to know people,” Dahlberg said with a smile.
Dahlberg came to UT because she feels that “The University of Tampa is on the precipice of becoming a globally recognized university. The foundation has been laid by the prior president ... and I want to help lead us forward to that.”
Since arriving on campus this summer,
Dahlberg has hosted multiple small group lunches with students. As she puts it, she wants to “have extended conversations and get to understand what [the students] are all about.”
"The University of Tampa is on the precipice of becoming a globally recognized university."
This clearly demonstrates her commitment to building intimate connections with the UT community.
When asked about the most pressing issues facing university presidents today, Dahlberg responded, “it is declining enrollments and budget deficits, and those are connected. And the reason there is a lot of presidential churn is because it is impossible to solve those problems in many universities.” She paused before adding, “But we don’t have those problems at this university, going back to why I’m here.”
The University of Tampa has con sistently reported record-breaking en rollment numbers, according to its official website. In October 2023, the university enrolled 11,047 students, surpassing the pri or year’s record of 10,566, a growth rate of over 4.5%.
President Dahlberg also com mented on the university, saying: “The best part is there is nothing broken that I have to fix. It’s all about enhancing what we al ready have.”
But ultimately, if Dahlberg could make one radical change to the higher education system as a whole, she would hope to create “a quality educational experience that is attainable for anyone.”
Photo Courtesy of Miriam Bernardini
Photo Courtesy of Mariam Bernardini-Herrera Aimee Kanaskie and Franchesca Murrugarra interviewing President Dahlberg
Building upon a strong foundation forged through prior institutional roles, Dahlberg leads with seasoned expertise. Interestingly, she started her education as a music therapy major, but her love of math led her to engineering. The problem-solving and goalsetting skills she honed during her studies have proven invaluable in her presidential role.
“Engineering is all about breaking down complex challenges into manageable steps, collaborating with diverse teams, and using data to measure progress,” she said. Dahlberg also noted that these are all skills that she utilizes daily as president.
Her passion for the university’s community and the student experience has also led her to initiate a plan to create a “spirit committee.” This committee, which would include students, would be dedicated to enhancing the collective pride in the university, though the concept is still under development.
“I’m very excited for us to generate more school spirit,” Dahlberg said. Dressed in a black dress and a red blazer with matching red nails, her pride and school spirit is exuberant.
Despite her busy schedule, the president makes time for activities that bring her joy. “I like to keep moving when I’m outside of work, and I like to laugh,” Dahlberg said. “On the ‘keep moving’ side, I love to run, walk, hike, swim, anything that is about moving. ... And I love to laugh, so whether it’s just with friends, or my favorite form of entertainment, which is stand-up comedy.”
With her energetic and positive approach, President Dahlberg is a standout leader as The University of Tampa begins a new chapter. Her passion lies within the student experience and cultivating connections with her peers and student body alike.
This is truly only the beginning for President Dahlberg. She believes her ultimate measure of success will be seen in the recognition of the university. Her goal is that “the value of a University of Tampa degree is even more valuable as I’m leaving, as it was the day I walked in the door.”
Abi-Nader Dahlberg President of The University of Tampa
MEET THE DUOS OF THE MINARET TEAM
Photos Courtesy of Mariam Bernardini-Herrera
Ana Ortiz and Aimee Kanaskie work closely to oversee marketing and business initiatives for the Minaret
Kiley Petracek and Shane Petagna lead the production of the Minaret as the Editor-In-Chief and Managing Editor, respectfully.
Audrey Rey and Cassandra Carithers are the Minarets newest Graphic Designer's, who oversee print and web design.
Together We Rise:
Supporting Student Journalism at The Minaret
By Sohana Nasrin
AsI step into the role of faculty advisor for The Minaret, the University of Tampa's student newspaper, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. The opportunity to guide and mentor a group of passionate, budding journalists is both a privilege and a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly. The Minaret has a storied history of excellence, having been recognized by prestigious organizations such as the Florida College Press Association and the Society of Professional Journalists for its outstanding contributions to student journalism. It is my vision to build upon this legacy by fostering an environment where students can hone their skills, report on important community issues, and make a meaningful difference through their work.
In an era where news deserts are becoming increasingly prevalent, the role of student media is more critical than ever. Student newspapers like The Minaret provide a unique opportunity to fill the gaps left by diminishing local news outlets, offering coverage of issues that directly impact our campus and surrounding community.
This summer, the editor-in-chief Kiley Petracek, managing editor Shane Petagna, and business information director Aimee Kanaskie
worked tirelessly to build a team of enthusiastic writers and designers. Their solid vision for the newspaper is inspiring and sets a strong foundation for the upcoming year. I am committed to supporting our students as they navigate the complexities of journalism, encouraging them to pursue stories that not only inform but also inspire change.
One of the core tenets of my advisory role will be to uphold the independence of The Minaret. It is essential that the newspaper remains a student-run organization, where students have the freedom to explore diverse topics and express their opinions.
a moment to express my gratitude to Dr. David Wheeler, my predecessor in this role, whose leadership and guidance have been instrumental in shaping The Minaret as a vibrant student publication. Dr. Wheeler's commitment to excellence and his support for student journalists have left an indelible mark on the newspaper, and I am grateful for his continued presence and mentorship as I transition into this role.
" Offering coverage of issues that directly impact our campus"
My role will be to provide guidance and support, ensuring that the students have the resources and knowledge they need to produce high-quality journalism. This includes offering advice on writing, editing, and ethical reporting, while also allowing students to take ownership of their work and learn from their experiences.
I am incredibly fortunate to be joining a team that has already demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication. I would also like to take
As I embark on this journey with The Minaret, I am filled with optimism for what lies ahead. Together with the talented team of student journalists, I am confident that we will continue to uphold the newspaper's tradition of excellence while also exploring new avenues for storytelling and community engagement. My commitment is to empower our students to become thoughtful, responsible journalists who can make a positive impact through their work. I look forward to working alongside them as we strive to make The Minaret a beacon of journalistic integrity and a vital part of the University of Tampa community.
Photo Courtesy of Miriam Bernardini
Broadway at Your Doorstep: Student Discounts and Opportunities at the Straz Center
By Alyssa Cortes
TheUniversity of Tampa is in the center of one of the best places to live in the United States—Tampa City. UT students have the unique ability to enrich their college experience by living in the Tampa area and exploring the various opportunities it offers. One of Tampa’s unique attractions is the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.
The Straz Center is a cornerstone of Tampa’s cultural scene. It hosts various events, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances, making it a vibrant center for artistic activities in its area.
“[I’m] grateful for the fact that Broadway allows for these national tours so that theater is more accessible for people like me who can’t afford to travel to New York often,” said Mariela Zeno, a sophomore at UT.
UT students can access and enjoy top-tier Broadway shows at the Straz Center not only due to its close distance but also thanks to student discounts, special promotions, and even free tickets. The Straz Center offers 50% off tickets the day of the show.
Bring your student ID and arrive at the box office before the show starts time to purchase your ticket. Certain shows have limitations on the student discount like the number of tickets you can buy, make sure to check the website before
showing up at the box office.
“Every time there is a show, I will make sure to see it if I can,” said Elijah Conley, a sophomore musical theater major. “Seeing people doing the things me and my peers are dreaming to do is wonderful.”
"The Straz Center offers 50% off tickets the day of the show"
UT, through Student Productions, offers off-campus events to the Straz Center at discounted rates. The 2023-2024 school year saw Moulin Rouge and Funny Girl for $37 a ticket. Additionally, if you are a theatre, musical theatre, or dance major or minor, you’re in luck as tickets each year are donated to the department to allow students pursuing those degrees to attend a Broadway show for free. The 2023-2024 school year saw many shows, with Beetlejuice and Moulin Rouge being two offered.
“Seeing shows at the Straz has enriched my college experience in several ways, being able to see shows with my friends has created such fun and memorable experiences,” said Zeno. “As a theater artist myself and someone who is studying musical theater in college, it’s amazing to get
to see good theater so often for inspiration and appreciation.”
Additionally, there are various opportunities for UT students to get involved in the performing arts, whether through internships, jobs, or volunteering in workshops and programs offered by the Straz Center.
“My friends who are theater majors or music majors have told me how inspiring and uplifting it is to go to witness a professional show,” said Sophia Beaudoin, a junior.
"Being able to see shows with my friends has created such fun and memorable experiences"
Access to the arts is vital for students, as it supports both their academic and psychological well-being. According to a 2023 article in the Journal of Graduate Medical Education, medical students who took part in an eight-week multimedia art course found that the experience enhanced their ability to empathize with others—an essential skill for patient interaction. Additionally, the course improved their capacity to make rapid, independent decisions, a crucial skill in the medical field.
UT and the Straz Center recognize the importance of the arts and strive to make attending shows more accessible and convenient for students, further integrating artistic experiences into their educational journey.
Photo Courtesy of The Straz Center
Introducing the Grand Center:
A New Hub for Campus Life
By Steve Ifantis
Asthe new academic year begins, students and faculty alike are buzzing with excitement over the opening of the Grand Center, the latest addition to our campus. Standing tall at ten stories, this architectural marvel is set to become a central hub for learning, living, and leisure. The Grand Center is designed with the diverse needs of our campus community in mind. The first floor is a blend of function and comfort, housing modern offices, stateof-the-art classrooms, and a highly anticipated Starbucks. Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee between classes or meeting up with friends for a study session, this space is sure to become a favorite spot for students and faculty alike.
One of the most significant and long-awaited features of the Grand Center is the parking garage, located on floors two through five. This new facility, reserved exclusively for staff at this time, addresses a long-standing need for more convenient parking options on campus. But the heart of the Grand Center lies in its upper floors, where the residence hall spans floors six through ten. This new residential space will house approximately 700 students, including 15 dedicated Resident Assistants (RAs), creating a vibrant living community in the heart of campus. The residence hall is designed to foster a sense of community while offering the privacy and amenities students need to thrive academically and socially.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of the Grand Center is the Sky Park, a brand-new concept for our campus. Located within the building, this courtyard offers two lush lawns where students can unwind, play lawn games, or simply enjoy the fresh air. The Sky Park is set to become a go-to spot for relaxation and recreation, providing a green oasis amid the hustle and bustle of campus life.
The Grand Center is more than just a building—it's a symbol of our campus's growth and commitment to enhancing the student experience. As we settle into this new space, it's clear that the Grand Center will play a significant role in shaping the future of our campus community. Whether you're living in the residence hall, grabbing a coffee at Starbucks, or enjoying a game of cornhole in the Sky Park, the Grand Center is sure to become a beloved part of your campus experience.
Rendering Courtesy of The University of Tampa
Peter Fairbanks Injury
What this means for the Rays 2024 season
By Emily McLaughlin
Pete
Fairbanks, the Tampa Bay Rays pitcher was placed on the 15-day injury list due to a lat strain during Sundays game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, potentially ending his 2024 season. After allowing a game-tying, threerun homer, Fairbanks signaled to the Tampa Bay dugout that he needed to be checked. After manager Kevin Cash and an athletic trainer checked with him, Fairbanks left the game. Before Fairbanks called for a check-in, the Rays were 6-3 in the top of the ninth. Giving up a single to Jake McCarthy, Fairbanks gave a walk to Joc Pederson that put two players on base. Adrian Del Castillo hit a 406-foot, threerun home to tie the score to 6-6.
" Potentially ending his 2024 season."
Before calling Cash and the athletic trainer, Fairbanks gave up a single to Geraldo Perdomo. Garrett Cleavinger took over for Fairbanks immediately after leaving the game in the 9th inning. Kevin Kelly pitched in the 11th inning followed by Edwin Uceta in the 12th. Closing the game against the Diamondbacks, Dylan Carlson hit a walk-off single in the bottom of the 12th inning for The Rays. In the unfortunate turn of events for Fairbanks, The Rays captured the win against the Diamondbacks with an 8-7 lead.
For Fairbanks, there are more tests to be done, but MLB Trade Rumors said, “It is a possibility Fairbanks might’ve thrown his last pitch of the 2024 campaign.” After leaving the game, Fairbanks was tested for an MRI exam on Monday in St. Petersburg. Fairbanks was diagnosed with a right lat strain.
For Fairbanks, he has experienced multiple injuries since being drafted in 2015. Fairbanks missed roughly half of the 2022 season in March with The Rays due to straining his right lat in Spring Training and did not rejoin until mid-July. Fairbank's also dealt with being on the injured list after a nerve-related issue in April.
When Fairbanks was injured before, The Rays stimulated a bullpen-by-committee approach. The bullpen-by-committee approach allows teams to have multiple pitchers instead of a singular closer for the ninth inning.
The Rays are suspected of picking Manuel Rodríguez, Edwin Uceta, Garrettt Cleavinger, and Colin Poche. Uceta has the highest SV+HLD ranking and will be the highest choice as the closer from now on while Fairbanks is on the injury list. However, The Rays will have a better timeline once they return from their three-city road trip at the end of August.
Cash said on mlb.com, "It's a big absence, there's no doubt. Fairbanks is probably not a guy that we're going to be able to replace with one guy. We're going to need a pretty collective group effort."
Fairbanks' time with The Rays has benefitted him with converting a 23-of-27 saving opportunities. Fairbanks' strikeout rate is slightly above average with a 23.5% and an 8.9% walk rate.
"
Fairbanks' also dealt with being on the injured list after a nerve-related issue in April."
With Fairbanks' performance on Sunday’s game, he will have an earned run average (ERA) of 3.57 over 45 1⁄3 frames. Cash said on YaSports regarding Fairbanks, “We’ll be cautious with everything, and then see if we can build him back up. We’ve got to let it heal for a little bit. Not much you can do other than rest it.”
Photo courtesy of Tampa Bay Rays
The Housing Crisis Pushes Tampa Genereal Hospital to Build Apartments for Workers
By Leah Burdick
Tampa General Hospital is concerned that its workers can not afford housing in the area, resulting in a plan to create a $60 million apartment complex.
The complex will have one to threebedroom options, possible childcare services and other amenities. According to an article by Florida Politics, the new complex plans to house 300 individuals. The apartment rent will be below market rate for the downtown area, by being located in Brandon, Florida. The complex will be located at Delaney Creek Blv., which is around a 13-minute commute to the hospital with tolls. This makes it accessible for employers who don’t want to stray too far from the city. Apartments. com states a one-bedroom apartment in Brandon is around $1,400 a month.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, the apartment building is classified as workforce housing. It will be offered to hospital employees and USF Health workers who make between 80% and 120% of the area's median income. Senator Jay Collins has been in support of the hospital's plans and requested the state budget of $25 million back in 2023.
In an article by WUSF, Collins said "state funding is necessary to offset costs “to construct and operate a similar product with market rate debt and equity requirements” to meet the area’s medium income rental range.” The hospital has already obtained $10 million from the state budget toward the complex. They bought 5.2 acres of property for $2.5 million in 2021, according to documents handed to the Tampa Bay Times by the Hillsborough County commissioners.
With the housing crisis still in effect, the hospital officials told the Tampa Bay Times that this will attract and keep workers. The area has been struggling with keeping residents who work for not only hospitals but also schools because pay can’t accommodate rent prices. Anthony Cimino, an investment associate for Carter Funds, said the average one-bedroom apartment in the downtown Channelside area is around $2,200 a month. He said you must make around $105,000 annually after taxes.
Cimino also said that the cost of construction parts has increased and the lack of availability could be a reason they are building in Brandon. “There is only so much land in South
Photo Courtesy of Tampa General Hospital
Tampa and downtown, newer building costs have increased and rent has increased. The Tampa General area is not what it was 10 years ago to now, it's more desirable,” said Cimino. He said that the population growth trends in the area have been going on for the past 15 years.
COVID-19 has played a big part in the acceleration of population growth. “People are moving to Tampa for better quality of life and job/ business opportunities the area has to offer,” said Cimino. He also said that if they were to find land
" There is more demand for housing than supply."
and build an apartment complex by the hospital, it would be much more than what they plan to pay in Brandon.
According to Tampa.Gov, the annual household income needs to be more than $35,000 to afford the market rate of an average onebedroom apartment. This is more than twice the income earned from minimum wage. The minimum wage as of August 2024 is $12 and it will increase to $13 on Sept. 30th. According to WorkStream, this is not considered a livable wage for the area.
The Tampa.Gov graph shows that a cardiac technician makes around $42,700. This is just below the income for a two-bedroom
apartment of $43,840. A nursing aid makes around $28,500. This graph does not specify if these incomes are for specific areas located in Tampa. The graph shows the average between Tampa, St. Pete and the Clearwater rental market. Speros Margetis, professor of finance, said rent has made living costs expensive, especially in downtown Tampa. This is due to Tampa being a fast-growing city. Meaning there is more demand for housing than supply. This drives prices and interest rates up. With Tampa General's downtown location, Margetis said working people can’t afford that.
“The fact they are providing housing is a sign that one real estate is expensive and then also Tampa General is the premier hospital in Tampa, they are trying to attract the best employees,” said Margetis. As a top hospital in the area, this will be an added service for the workers. The construction will begin in October and finish in the fall of 2026.
The City of Tampa has been developing new plans and budgets to help assist with the housing crisis and provide more affordable housing. The minimum wage is expected to increase each year until it has hit $15. This will be the year the construction of the new complex is complete.
FormoreinformationonassistancevisitTampa.gov
Why is "Hit Me Hard and Soft" Billie Eilish's Best Album?
By Nayria Figueroa
Colon
Music has the ability to make you feel and see things you have never experienced. It doesn’t matter what genre or what artist you are listening to; you can always travel to different worlds and meet sonic exploration.
On May 17, 2024, Billie Eilish released her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft. The album has introduced a new sense in music. It brings the ideal rhythm and lyrics, that are easily bonded sonically, which take listeners to another universe. The 12-track record has gentle melodies and a vulnerable softness that contrasts with intense soundscapes, that meets with the hardness of resilience.
Each track contrasts from the other, but all blend beautifully. Through the sounds of Eilish’s “soft” but “haunting” vocals, she can grasp onto any listener. There are moments where there are very intimate moments as Eilish delivers poignant lyrics, and on the other hand, she has the ability to deliver infectious, high energy beats that sets her apart from other artists.
"Takes listeners to another universe"
Pitchfork’s review on the album let listeners dive in deeper into a very complex but also very understanding topic: “Thematically, HMHAS focuses mostly on falling out of love with a narcissist; and falling in love with a woman for the first time.” The album demonstrates Eilish in a mature light that can only be understood by listening to each song in order, as they all tell a story and take you through Eilish’s life.
The opening track, “Skinny,” gives a glimpse into the difficulties of fame and image. On the album, she can talk about it on her own terms, as if the media never looked at it from a different point of view. Body image and beauty are the center of this song.
"Lunch” gives a glimpse into Eilish’s fantasies. The song is the first where Eilish expresses her attraction to women. Taken aback by the addictive beat and club-pop feel, the song
was an instant hit. As stated by Billboard, she shares the song “freely and joyously.”
“Chihiro,” named after Spirited Away’s character, displays a video-game sound as we are taken by a song full of bass, as well as feeling of an otherworldly image. The song is groovy and makes you move every second. “Birds of a Feather” has the grooviest beat of the album. The song deals with the topic of friendship and being there for each other at all times. Sonically, the song meshes every aspect of pop and lyricism.
“Wildflower” is the best song on the album! The song describes thinking about your partner’s ex the whole time you’re in a relationship with them. The song takes every listener on a roller coaster of emotions, that if you can imagine, has twists and turns. Through every lyric, we understand a story that not only is personal to Eilish but is also private information that has become public but on Eilish’s own terms.
“The Greatest” is the downside of a relationship that she hoped would be 50/50, but that was not the case for Eilish. She describes how she always gives and how her partner always takes, and how she always gave it her all and her partner never did. The downsides of relationships show through this song.
“L’amour de ma vie” explains that her partner thought that he was the one love of her life, but they weren’t Eilish’s love for life. The song
brings melodic heartbreak and also hope for a sense of strength.
The deep vocals by Eilish represent her maturity as well as the production’s sense of being.
“The Diner” brings a unique twist on production and lyricism to Eilish’s album. The song’s meaning is also very deep as it brings the perspective of a stalker. Being a celebrity has its downsides, as Eilish describes in this song. Eilish has had many stalkers, so she brings to light all of her experiences in one masterpiece.
“Bittersuite” is a distant reminder of missing something. As said by Genius, “The song finds Eilish feeling as if she’s distant from her own desires and emotions while idealizing a relationship in her dreams.”
" You seem so paralyzed It's so romanticized If this is how I die That's alright"
- Bittersuite, Hit Me Hard and Soft by Billie Eilish
“Blue” is the last track of the album. It is a mashup of released tracks written by Eilish and her brother Finneas. The first half takes lyrics from the album and puts them all together in one; the second half covers “somebody who grew up in a cold-shouldered family and their personality now that they’ve grown up.”
Through Eilish’s journey of melodies and sonically inspiring lyrics and production, she has brought out a new, unimaginable world to the music industry. Eilish has proved that she is an artist who will go to the highest limits to make music like no other. Not one artist can be as unique as Eilish and her brother Finneas are. Both bring a new distinctive image on music and being artists.
