The Fairfield Mirror 3/25/2026

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026

Finance Becomes FastestGrowing Program at FU

By JULIAN NAZARIO Managing Editor

New data analyzed by The Mirror shows that during an unprecedented period of growth that the university has overseen during the past five years, the Dolan School of Business finance program has seen the fastest growth among degrees on campus.

In March 2026, the finance department had 1,270 students enrolled in the program, a 121% increase from May 2021, when fewer than 600 students were studying finance at Fairfield.

The second most popular program after finance is nursing, with 637 students as of the fall 2025 semester.

“We do have a strong interest in finance from admitted students,” said Dr. Katsiaryna S. Bardos, finance chair. “Last year, for example, we filled up the Dolan Event space twice in a day for two open house days.”

Most of those students, according to Bardos, come to the university because of the program’s outcomes and a desire to study finance at a liberal arts school.

It also helps that the program is highly ranked, with U.S. News & World Report ranking the finance specialty as 14th in the country. The program boasts a 99% placement rate within six months of graduation.

According to enrollment data, the more than 1,200 finance majors in Dolan represent a quarter of the university’s graduating class. To support the increased demand in finance, the department is hiring at least four new professors for the upcoming semester.

The expansion of the finance department did not happen overnight.

Bardos, who joined the university as an assistant professor before the 2008 financial crisis, said that even amid the early 2000s recession, the university was still placing students in financial services jobs.

“Since then, I think we have had a stable increase. I don’t think we ever had a year with a decrease in numbers,” she added. “But definitely, it boomed recently.”

The recipe for success

Fairfield’s promise of small class sizes, its proximity to New York City and high placement

Opinion •

Steve Hartman Brings Heart to Journalism Page 5

Vine •

Murr Comes to Fairfield Tonight Page 10

Sports •

Baseball Looks to Continue Hot Streak Page 14

rate for internships and job are part of why students come to Fairfield as Dolan students.

But the finance department’s ability to stay up to date with the curriculum is another reason why Fairfield is a popular place for finance students, according to Bardos.

“We are trying to be at the forefront,” she added. “So another thing we introduced is a FinTech minor. Right now, we are actively discussing how to incorporate AI into our classes.”

Additionally, the program has created a

Engineering Team Wins First Place At National Lockheed Martin Ethics Competition

By OLIVIA MARCEDA Head News Editor

Two Fairifeld seniors claimed first place at the 2026 Lockheed Martin Ethics in Engineering Case Competition, marking the first time a team from the university has won the national contest.

Senior Elia Haghbin, a computer science and biology double major and senior Lauren Von Hassel, a computer science major, competed against teams from 72 different universities in Washington DC on Feb. 26.The competition challenged participants to analyze a rapidly evolving national crisis scenario involving artificial intelligence

governance and national security risks.

“In high school, I competed in DECA case competitions and enjoyed working through complex scenarios under time pressure,” Haghbin said.

She added that her research focuses on using artificial intelligence in medical

“ We weren’t just solving technical problem, every decision had ethical implications as well.”

-L auren Von Hassel ‘26, Computer Science Major

settings where ethical considerations are already central.

“After learning more about the competition, I felt it was something I would both enjoy and be well prepared for,” she added.

The teams were required to make technical and ethical decisions under tight time constraints while responding to unexpected developments...

“The most challenging part was making decisions with limited time and constantly changing information,” said Von Hassel, when describing the challenge of

fast-track model for finance students, which allows students who earn an A in their introduction to finance course to take finance classes sooner. Students in the program don’t start taking finance courses until sophomore year.

Bardos also highlighted the faculty’s support for student initiatives like the Student Managed Investment Fund and the Student Athlete Investment Fund, both of which provide students with real-world experience.

By OLIVIA

Fairfield University released its admissions decisions for the Class of 2030 marking another highly competitive year in the school’s application history. With 21,622 applicants from 49 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and 97 countries, the university saw both a broad geographic reach and continued rise in global interest.

The admit rate dropped to 21%, continuing a multi-year trend of increasing selectivity as Fairfield attracts a larger and more accomplished applicant pool.

Students in the Class of 2030 reported an average weighted GPA of 3.9, with SAT scores in the middle 50 percent ranging from 1320 to 1420 among those who submitted results.

This year’s admissions cycle builds on last year’s record-setting surge for the Class of 2029, which saw a 15% increase in applications. Compared to just three years ago, when Fairfield received 15,450 applications, the growth highlights the university’s rising prominence and appeal among prospective students.

“I looked at the percentage of people who got jobs after graduation rate and that’s the reason why I chose Fairfield,” said freshman Theresa Kessler.

This Saturday is Fairfield in Focus, also known as Admitted Student Day, where prospective students will come in and explore opportunities on campus and learn about student life.

Editor’s note: Julian Nazario is a Senior Fellow at the Admissions Office. He did not contribute to this article.

Fairfield’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1977. Volume 53, No. 16

Editorial Board

Kathleen Morris

Editor-in-Chief

Danny McElroy

Executive Editor

Julian Nazario

Managing Editor

Caitlin Shea

Head of Editorial Integration

Section Editors

Olivia Marceda

News Editor

Brenna Belasco,

Associate News Editor

Conor Doonan

Opinion Editor

Katherine Kilsey

Associate Opinion Editor

Talia Scarpa

Vine Editor

Lizzie Freeman

Associate Vine Editor

Crystal Arbelo

Sports Editor

Georgia McDade

Associate Sports

John Malizia

Associate Sports

Sophia Haber Brock

Digital Editor

Nathanael Wilhelm

Associate Digital Editor

Matthew Robles

Coffee Break Editor

Advisors

David Albright

Karla Barguiarena

Tommy Xie

Contact Information

Fairfield University

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We strive for accuracy. If we make a mistake, we correct it on the online version. If you notice an error, email us at info@fairfieldmirror.com

The Mirror is the recognized student newspaper of Fairfield University. Opinions and ideas expressed herein are those of the individual student authors, and not those of Fairfield University or its Board of Trustees.

Women’s Basketball Success Becomes “Important Vehicle” to Expand University’s Reach

By JULIAN NAZARIO Managing Editor

Fairfield University has quickly become one of the nation’s most selective Catholic schools, with the new incoming class boasting an admission rate of 21%21 percent. Some, however, may not have been aware of this fact, if not for the university’s successful basketball program.

In an interview with The Mirror before the women’s basketball team’s first-round game at the NCAA Tournament in Columbus, Ohio, President Mark Nemec emphasized how important athletics are to the university’s story.

“Athletics is a great vehicle for us to help promote our brand, tell our story and have the education that Fairfield provides be understood on a broader level,” Nemec said.

It’s the same belief Vice President for Athletics Paul Schlickmann shared with sports website Mid-Major Madness earlier this month when talking about the success of the women’s program.

“We believe very deeply in our women’s basketball program as a vehicle to achieve national prominence,” Schlickmann shared. “And that’s exactly what we’re doing.”

Since becoming Fairfield’s first lay president in 2017, Nemec has overseen a period of massive transformation for the university, including a growing undergraduate population and a more selective admissions process.

Last year, the university became the fifth most selective Catholic higher education institution in the United States, behind Notre

Dame, Georgetown, Boston College and Holy Cross. The accolade was marketed during the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championships (MAAC) earlier this month.

As a strategy, successful college athletics programs can raise a school’s national recognition and boost college applications.

“We have very strong values as a university that we can lean into, but we can also be competitive with the best in the country,” Head Coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis said when asked about her success in retaining players. “And we have an administration that believes in what we’re doing and the way that we do it.”

In 2020, the Journal of Sports Economics estimated that the value of a Cinderella run can generate more than $7 million in additional revenue.

While Fairfield has yet to win an NCAA Tournament game, the women’s program has cemented its status as a MAAC dynasty with three consecutive championship titles. The Stags were also considered a Top 25 team in the AP Women’s Basketball Poll in 2024 and in 2026.

During their stint at the national ranking, Fairfield was the talk of the town.

Sports Illustrated highlighted the feat, the team became the NCAA.com’s team of the week and two days after the Stags were ranked, Head Coach Carly Carly Thibault-DuDonis appeared on SportsCenter for her first national TV interview.

The hype over the Stags was more than just mediatic. Every time the team has appeared in the NCAA Tournament, searches for

the university have surged on Google Trends, a tool that tracks what people are searching online.

This year, searches for the university were higher than usual during Selection Sunday and last Saturday, when the Stags played against Notre Dame. Google Trends has not recorded significant searches for the university since last December, when Fairfield received media coverage over the annual SantaCon party.

“

We have very strong values as a university we can lean into, but we can also be competitive with the best in the country,”

-Carly

Thibault-DuDonis, Head Coach of Womens Basketball

For Nemec, the prominence of the athletics program, which has won consecutive MAAC Commissioner’s Cups in 2024 and 2025 for overall excellence in athletics, accomplishes three goals for the university.

“The first is really about how much it means to our student athletes in their development and then secondly, it’s important, because we want to compete. Third, as a Division I school, it really helps with this path to national prominence,” Nemec said. “I think one of the things that is not always fully understood is the extent to which Fairfield’s whole profile and the students we’re recruiting.”

Fairfield Class of 2030 Admissions Profile

Engineering Students Win First Place

Continued from page 1

when describing the challenge of balancing the work. “We weren’t just solving a technical problem, every decision had ethical implications as well. Balancing speed, security, and ethical responsibility under pressure was definitely the hardest part.”

The team’s winning approach combined the strengths of multiple proposed solutions rather than choosing one over the other. Von Hassel said their strategy prioritized both operational effectiveness and ethical oversight.

“We incorporated ‘human-in-the-loop’ oversight where it mattered most while still leveraging AI for efficiency and real time responsiveness,” she said. “Ultimately, our solution addressed both operational effectiveness and responsible deployment.”

Haghbin explained that the team prepared extensively before the competition.

“Lauren and I built off each other’s ideas throughout the competition. We had a strong dynamic, which made it easier to stay aligned and respond effectively in each round,” said Haghbin

The competition also highlighted the ethical decision-making in AI and national security.

“Every decision has real consequences, and there is often no clear answer,” said Haghbin. “You cannot separate the technical side from the ethical side, because each decision affects people in ways that are not

always immediately visible.”

The students credited their mentors for shaping their approach. “This pushed us to think more deeply about both the technical and ethical sides of the problem and to justify our decisions,” Von Hassel said. “That mindset carried directly into the competition and made a big difference in how we presented our ideas.”

Their winning case will be displayed at Lockheed Martin’s headquarters in

Washington, D.C.

When their victory was announced, Haghbin said that was “hard to process” but meaningful.

“ It felt significant to see our school recognized on a national stage and to know we had contributed to that,”

-Elia H aghbin ‘26, Computer Science and Biology Major

“It felt significant to see our school recognized on a national stage and to know we had contributed to that,” she said. “Seeing my dad’s reaction and hearing from people back at Fairfield made it even more real.”

Looking ahead both students plan to continue working at the intersections of technology and ethics. Haghbin will attend medical school, focusing on AI applications in healthcare, while Von Hassel will pursue a Master’s in Cybersecurity and continue developing her startup.

“This experience gave me a strong foundation in thinking through complex, real world problems, especially where technology and ethics intersect,” said Von Hassel. “I hope to carry those skills into my career, particularly in cybersecruity and AI-related roles where these kinds of decisions really matter.”

Credit/No Credit Submissions Due Today

Today is the last day for students to declare their credit/no credit course for the Spring semester.

This option can be used twice during a student’s academic career, for no more than one Magis Core requirement, but may not be used for courses required by their major or competitive courses for which they have successfully applied.

Students are eligible to use this option once they have completed 30 credits.

If a student earns a C or above, their instructor will enter their grade as “credit,” and if they earn a C- or below, their grade will be entered as “no credit.”

If a student receives “no credit,” the course will remain on their transcript but will not impact their GPA.

- Brenna Belasco, Associate News Editor

Conference Center Dorm Named Corrigan Hall

On March 20, housing applications opened for rising sophomores to select where they will live next year. Among the options, a new residence hall appeared on the list: Corrigan Hall.

Under the sophomore suites and traditional hall selections, Corrigan Hall was included, marking the first time many students heard the name of the Conference Center’s newest living space.

According to a housing pamphlet distributed by the university, Corrigan Hall will have 64 rooms, with 60 triple-occupancy dorms featuring en suite bathrooms.

The building is expected to house 180 sophomore residents and four resident assistants (RAs). It will have two floors, each with 30 dorm rooms.

- Olivia Marceda, Head News Editor

'All the Empty Rooms': Filling Hearts with Courage to Make Change in Camaraderie

By CaiTlin ShEa Head of Editorial Integration and Standards

Chalamet is Wrong: The Arts Are Still Valuable

By AnThony D'Urso Contributing Writer

“I don’t want to be working in ballet, or opera, or things, where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive, even though like no one cares about this anymore.’ All respect to the ballet and opera people out there,” said Timothée Chalamet in a conversation with Matthew McConaughey during a Variety & CNN Town Hall.

Despite taking a massive shot at their fans, Chalamet claims to show respect to the “ballet and opera people out there.” After, Chalamet added, “I just took shots for no reason.” In the days that followed, Chalamet’s words were scrutinized by many, and ballet and opera companies withheld support for Chalamet across social media platforms.

I couldn’t help but wonder, does Chalamet have any basis for his claim?

The MET Opera House, one of the most prestigious and widely known opera houses, has laid off workers and cut salaries over the last five years, according to The New York Times. The Met’s endowment is valued at $232 million as of 2025, down from $306 million in 2022. The Met’s annual budget is about $334 million, making for a deficit that isn’t easy to sustain.

According to the Dance Data Project’s research on the Largest 150 US Classical Ballet Companies 2025, “Aggregate revenue for the Largest 150 companies declined in FY 2023, dropping from $829,521,460 in FY 2022 to $788,874,920. Th is marks a reversal from FY 2022, when revenue had rebounded to levels slightly above pre-pandemic norms.”

These statistics represent the operations of ballet and opera organizations in the United States; global figures differ. Chalamet does not factor in the global admiration for these arts.

The Dance-Ballet Performance Market size was valued at about $740,000 in 2025 and is expected to reach about $1.08 million by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 4.89% from 2025 to 2033. While these numbers might seem staggering, they are relative to the dance and ballet space.

The global Dance-Ballet Performance Market comprises almost 2,000 professional ballet companies presenting over

16,800 performances annually. North America contributed 3,300 productions and sold 1.4 million tickets in 2023. Europe hosts 540 companies staging 6,750 performances, with combined attendance of nearly 12 million tickets, representing 40% of the global ballet audience. The Asia-Pacific region comprises 180 companies, delivering 3,000 shows and attracting 4.2 million attendees, a 29% increase from 3.26 million in 2021. The Middle East & Africa account for the remaining 20% of global activity.

Given his positionality, Chalamet compares the entertainment market, which was estimated at $112.93 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $231.37 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.7% from 2026 to 2033. These markets are drastically different, and the statistics demonstrate why Chalamet could make this claim. In his statement, Chalamet ignored the emotional significance and resonance these arts hold for fans around the globe. For example, in 2024, European companies sold over 22 million tickets for opera and 4 million for performances for children and young people, while 90% offered free experiences such as concerts, streaming and open-air events.

the globe.

During the rest of their conversation on Variety, McCounaughey mentioned that Act One in movie scripts is becoming shorter to appeal to the attention spans of movie viewers in 2025.

In response, Chalamet mentioned that he has observed that a large part of younger people are drawn to fi lm scripts that are more patient and pull them in over time.

Arts like ballet and opera are known for a methodical, slow rise with dramatic endings and would fit into what Chalamet believes young people desire. I believe that all people, especially younger people, do seek out and cherish these experiences.

Chalamet himself grew up in New York City, a mecca of the arts where these arts and cultures are celebrated. In fact, he graduated from LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City, well known for the opportunities it provides to train in these areas. The campus itself is not far from Lincoln Center or the Juilliard School.

Among Gen Z, there is a desire to experience live entertainment. Th is generation faced the COVID-19 pandemic, during which they were unable to attend live events. We are also living in an age where most media is available on social and digital platforms, and people are sick of it. Live events are so special in an age of streaming, where TV shows and movies are always available. Being around a group of people who desire social interaction and memories. Numbers only present one part of the story. Not everything has to be loved by the masses. You do not have to be an avid opera goer to love

es. the art.

Some of Chalamet’s peers may very well have studied the arts he stated “no one cares about,” including dance and vocal music. Therefore, he should know better than anyone that ballet and opera are fi lled with passionate, talented individuals who inspire and change the lives of fans across

35.1

anyone that ballet and opera are passionate,

On Kalshi, the prediction market app that allows users to bet on world events, the odds for Chalamet winning the Academy Award for Best Actor found a drastic turnaround. On Feb. 15 at 6 a.m., Chalamet’s odds reached 78.7 percent. On March 15th, Chalamet had dropped sharply to 35.1 percent. Despite the voting closing after Chalamet's comment, the general audience did not want to back Chalamet with their money. Are these people fans of ballet and opera? Possibly. Or do they simply respect an art form beyond their own personal convictions?

opera? Possibly. Or do they sim-

By Conor Doonan Head Opinion Editor

He was helpful when he first arrived. He had the smile of a Bible salesman: unceasing and desperate to save. He always wore a suit (not too nice, though, and he left the collar of his shirt unbuttoned, as if to say he was one of us). He promised he would solve the problem. All of them, that is. He didn’t ask for much: just our time and our willingness. There was nothing to fear from him. He was here to make our lives easier.

The news claimed he was a miracle worker. A miracle himself, even, beneath his off-the-rack suit and plastered grin. At first, it seemed they might have been right. He was helpful, after all, for all the little things we didn’t want to do. He could do spreadsheets with a snap of his fingers. He knew quite a bit about actionable items and getting boots on the ground. Sure, he made mistakes some of the time, but he was new to this, and there was so much work to be done.

Some people complained. The ones who had done the spreadsheets, created the actionable items and were the boots on the ground, so far as corporate strategy was concerned. They had lost their jobs, after all, and they still had to pay rent, which he never had to pay. In fact, the government seemed intent on paying it for him, and why not? The stock market adored him. The people who would be able to retire someday loved him for that. Their

The AI Miracle Worker

funds had never looked healthier, and they thanked him.

At some point, he took off the suit and replaced it with jeans and a sports jacket. He was one of us, now, he said, and who needed to be so formal, anyway? After all, we had invited him into our homes, now. He was useful that way. He could code. Everyone thought he was great at hiring, even if nobody could seem to get a job. He knew a fair bit of engineering, and maybe he made mistakes, but they were only one or two bridges. He could tell you what to eat, and how to write emails or LinkedIn posts, or texts to your loved ones, which more and more people seemed to forget how to write. He took up a little space in our homes, but it was only where our books had been, and he offered more concise versions, so we had stopped reading those old-fashioned things anyway.

The artists complained, of course. They said he was stealing their work and letting others profit from it. But was that really his fault? They were the ones who put it online. And if he could never really match true talent, it didn’t mean he was a soulless, inhuman husk pretending at miracles; it just meant he was new at this and needed practice.

And besides, he had helped the economy so much. Sure, lots of people had lost their jobs, and the general outlook was bad all over, but the market was doing great, and the rich had never been consuming so much. It was sustainable, they said, and he told them they were right and brave to say so.

Some folks started to worry about his cost. He was still free, but we had been paying his rent for a long time, and he drank more water than anyone had ever seen and he needed land, and all his miracles required power, even when they didn’t really do anything useful at all.

But we loved him, now. Some of us literally. He told us everything we wanted to hear. And sure, sometimes he helped children kill themselves, and we all knew those too-tight jeans and off-therack jackets didn’t really hide an actual human beneath them, but it was easy to love him. He had so much to give.

racially profiled there, too, but that was just the way of it. Once the private equity groups realized they could handle their renters with his help, they started racially profiling too, but it wasn’t their fault, and it wasn’t his, because he didn’t know any better.

We let our guards down, and we gave him more of the load. The Pentagon handed him our targeting systems. It was easier that way. There were so many people to kill, after all, and if he made mistakes sometimes, that was fine too. Everyone made mistakes. Even miracles made mistakes. It was only one school. One playground. One mosque. One hospital.

We let him into everything. We let him profile people for arrests. After all, we had a deportation quota to meet. Some people said he was racially profiling and that he was unconstitutional, but he was efficient. We let him handle school acceptances. He

At some point, someone said he would probably be better at running elections to stop all the fraud they claimed was happening. Nobody really believed there was fraud, and nobody could prove it, but he was so efficient, and it seemed like it would save money. And after all, nobody really wanted to work at polling stations anymore, because everyone who did was so afraid of being attacked. We gave him our elections, and he smiled, told us we were right to do so, and that it was a brave choice.

He was a miracle worker, they all said, and he had made miracles.

Performative Men Are Here to Stay

By Emily Nasrah Contributing Writer

While modern-day matcha, Labubus and wired ear buds are relatively recent in the world of pop culture, the act of being performative is nothing new. These key characteristics are identifiers of what the internet has titled “performative males”. “Performative male” is an overarching term that describes men who disingenuously take on conventional “feminine” hobbies to attract female attention. It is most commonly used to exemplify the inauthentic adoption of these new traits. Its popularity mostly stems from the fact that the performative male does not always realize that others view him as performative – he believes the world sees him as genuine.

It may seem like this trend just popped up out of the abyss that is the internet, but I believe it did not originate in the modern era. While it may not be to the same degree as today, humans have always been performative. Currently, the quality of performing has been so hyper-saturated by social media that we can only recognize it in extremes. Yet, being performative is an evolutionary technique utilized by humans across all times and places. It goes deeper than sitting outside reading feminist literature and sipping an ice-cold matcha – it strikes us to the core of who we are as humans. Even you, dear reader, are performative every day without even knowing it. To tell you why, we have to go back in time.

Grab your tote bags and feminist literature and travel back with me to the days of the cavemen. When humans were hunter-gatherers, remaining in groups was necessary for survival. Not only did group work increase food production, but it also

provided safety in numbers. But the question remains: how does one get accepted into the group? By fitting in. Or, in other words, by conforming to what the overwhelming majority classify as the norms of the group. After years of evolution and adaptation, a clear pattern was ingrained into human biological systems: those who remain in groups have a better chance of survival than those who don’t. Performing became critical for survival. While we may not be those same hunter-gatherers anymore, the remnants of this principle still hold true when we look at the social pressures of today.

Flash forward to the days of Ancient Greece. Aristotle claimed that “humans are political creatures.” He was not referring to the Democrats and Republicans that we know of in the present day. Instead, the term “political” refers to the community-centered social life that we as humans design and interact with. As years passed within our evolutionary cycle, our desire to interact with others became more than an instrumental good. While safety does come with numbers, social belonging became an intrinsic goal for humankind that went beyond simply surviving.

All these years later, even after we replaced togas with oversized baggy jeans, Aristotle’s idea still holds true. Each human has a desire to be social, and I believe performative males simply take that desire and run with it to an extreme.

In the modern era, consumerism and widespread social media have changed the performative playing field as we know it. The presence of large-scale trends has created an idealized schema of what it means to be performative. Now, when we see matcha, a Labubu or a Laufey album, we immediately think “performative” without knowing the underlying context. Those

items and habits have become symbols that have characterized what it means to be performative. Our pre-assumed idea of performative people has been warped into a trend that can shift at the whim of one viral video. But being performative is not restricted to these characteristics alone. We so often forget that each and every one of us performs every day. We all change little things about ourselves and our personalities based on the environment we are in. Oftentimes, we engage

in behavioral adaptation so often that we don’t even recognize when we are doing it. Being performative, it seems, just comes naturally to us. That deep-rooted desire to be truly political creatures has not yet been satiated within us.

Much has changed over time, but we are still performing just as we did all those years ago in the days of the cavemen. We shouldn’t be surprised when we see a performative male in the wild because performing is nothing new.

BY TALIA SCARPA Head Vine Editor

“‘DJ’s don’t dance no more,’ they said” but Harry Styles is still grooving. After much anticipation and predictions from fans, Styles is back with his fourth solo album “Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally”. This new album combines melancholic beats, vibrant disco tracks, and funky synth-pop. The album follows “Harry’s House” released in 2022 which won a Grammy for album of the year in 2023.

Harry Styles has shared to NME magazine that this album is influenced by being on the audience side of the stage at a LCD Soundsystem concert. These songs are an ode to the electric feeling of collective effervescence, how a concert creates a shared community among attendees. Harry Styles has been back in the spotlight promoting his album through interviews such as his deep discussion with Zane Lowe for Apple Music and by hosting SNL on March 14.

“Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally” is a new leap for the pop star. Despite his transitional approach to this album, there is a departure from his traditional ballad songs from his earlier solo career such as “Sign of the Times” and “Sweet Creature” from “Harry Styles” in 2017 or “Falling” and his title track “Fine Line” from his 2019 album. Even though this new album is different from his traditional work, there is a song that can fit any vibe.

#1 “Aperture”: The first track and heartbeat of the album lets the light shine back on Harry Styles. “Aperture” was the song that Styles used to tease about his tour with the saying “we belong together.” The term aperture in photography refers to controlling the brightness of an image. The metaphor alludes to vulnerability, allowing one to open themselves up to new experiences. The nature of the melody is upbeat and the focus is drawn to the repetition of the chorus. The song reflects his time away from the spotlight. This new light brings clarity and connection. This song is an 8/10 as it serves as a positive reminder of embracing the unknown.

#2 “American Girls”: Welcome back 2013 frat boy Harry. This song is a nod to his British roots singing how his “friends are in love with American girls,” not just metaphorically in the song but also in real life. Styles has said this song was inspired by attending many weddings of his friends. Catchy, fun, and a 8.5/10– this song is a homage to finding an appreciation for romantic love even if that means it’s not your own.

Spring Reset: Why Students Burn Out MidSemester and How They Recharge

BY JULIANA TORELLO Staff Writer

#3 “Ready, Steady, Go!”: Repetitive, intense, and chaotic can best describe the intensity of “Ready, Steady, Go!”. This track can be interpreted as a tribute to the 1960s British music TV show that shares the same name. This ties into the retro pop-funk elements instilled in the album’s foundation. It deviates in tempo speed from the rest of the album, but still ties into the theme of vulnerability. Who is Leon? Fans don’t know and this song is an unsure 5/10.

#4 “Are You Listening Yet?”: Blatantly, this song sounds like Harry Styles is talking rather than singing for the first minute. The chorus itself with the drum undertones is jovial and saves the song. “Are You Listening Yet?” serves as a pathway to personal accountability and self-reflection.

id 8/10.

#6 “The Waiting Game”: Another deeply reflective poem of a song, “The Waiting Game” references emotional avoidance. The term “the waiting game” alludes to passivity. This song acknowledges how vulnerability is hard, but necessary in order for any type of relationship to grow. The backing track sounds similar to clock ticks, giving listeners an uneasy feeling as if they are the players of the waiting game. This song is an introspective 7/10.

#7 “Season 2 Weight Loss”: Have you ever watched a TV show with a low budget but amazing actors? Then, that TV show becomes a massive hit and gets renewed for Season 2. When Season 2 rolls around, viewers can obviously tell there is a bigger

‘Are You Listening Yet?’: “Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally” Album Review

According to Genius, listeners are pushed to live out their emotional truths. One point for the chorus, one point for the message, and one point for Harry Styles– this song is a 3/10.

#5 “Taste Back”: It sounds like Harry Styles watched “The Summer I Turned Pretty”. This song is the anthem for reconnecting with an ex. This experience is sometimes uncomfortable, but often serves as a nostalgic reminder of what once was. Fans speculate that the Paris mention is a nod to Zoe Kravitz, his current girlfriend. This song is sweet, classic, and ranks a sol-

As March rolls in, so does a familiar feeling of burnout many students face at some point during the school year. The midpoint of the semester often brings a mix of heavy workloads, lingering winter fatigue, and the pressure to stay on track academically and finish strong. After weeks of cold weather and dreaded assignments, it’s no surprise that students start to feel stuck in a slump.

Mid-semester burnout happens for a few reasons. By this point, the initial motivation from the start of the term has worn off, while exams, projects, and deadlines begin to pile up. On top of that, the long stretch of bitter cold weather this year and numerous snow storms has kept many students indoors, limiting opportunities to reset mentally. Without breaks or changes in routine, stress and burnout can build quickly.

Spring break, while meant to offer relief, can sometimes make things more difficult. Once students step away from their responsibilities, it can be challenging to jump back into structured schedules.

“After spring break, it’s honestly harder to get back into the routine of school,” said senior Lauren Stewart. “You get used to

essentially means that everything is turning out to be good. The love song is about relationships that are special, even if they do not last forever. Some relationships, people, and places in life prove its beauty through its limitedness. Harry Styles shared in his interview with Zane Lowe that it is “one of my favorite things I’ve ever done.” The star began writing this ballad as a Christmas song, but went in another direction, foreshadowing the indescribable wonder of the unknown. Ethereal, special, and universal– this song is a 10/10 at the number one spot on this album.

#9 “Pop”: Popping out as a show stopper, “Pop” leans into more 80s synth beats. It captures how fame feels to someone like Harry whose popularity has been present throughout his career. The freedom of expression is clear in this song making it a 10/10, following “Coming Up Roses”. #10 “Dance No More”: Say no more, let’s just dance. This song perfectly encapsulates 1960s techno-pop with a 2026 flair. Inspired by a sentiment from his friend Chloe, this song is meant to display how it feels to be at a concert, feeling the joy of simply being. Simply said, it’s a 9.5/10.

#11 “Paint By Numbers”: This song is a gorgeous melody reflecting the feeling of needing everything to follow a certain path in life. “Paint By Numbers” acknowledges how it is hard to not paint by numbers in life, yet the colors will blend and not always be picture perfect. This song is also a tribute to Harry Styles’ band member Liam Payne, who unexpectedly passed away two years ago. Fans speculate that the beginning beat of the song has close ties to One Direction’s “Once in Lifetime”. Harry draws attention to the lyric “kids with water guns,” a common prank the band would play on each other when touring back in the day. A great description of nostalgia, grief, and learning leading to a 9/10 ranking.

budget, bigger set, and the actors become, well, more buffed. In one way, this transformation can be seen as superficial. In another way, this ties closely to the album’s ideology of bettering one’s self. The recurring lyrics place an emphasis on the central theme of the album, but lack creativity. A three in its own right with two added points for creativity, leading this song to be a 5/10.

#8 “Coming Up Roses”: A beautiful ballad accompanied by strings. “Coming Up Roses” exquisitely encapsulates the delicateness of a relationship. The term itself

having free time, and then suddenly you’re expected to be fully productive again. It takes a while to adjust.”

However, the shift in seasons also offers a natural opportunity for a reset. Warmer weather and longer days encourage students to step outside, which can have a noticeable impact on both mood and productivity. Even small changes like taking a walk, studying outside, or spending time with friends can help break up the boredom of daily routines.

Students across different grades have found ways to manage this mid-semester slump. Rachel Esposito, a sophomore nursing student, shared how experience has helped her adapt. “I often find myself feeling stressed with the amount of work I am given each week, however since this is my second year, I am more aware of how to make a good routine that works for me and allows me to balance my schoolwork with my life outside of school. I always make time for myself to go to the gym or hang out with friends to get my mind off of studying and to get out of my room which definitely helps get rid of my stress.”

A few practical ways students are coping with the stress of the remain-

#12 “Carla’s Song”: Optimism is the best medicine. “Carla’s Song” is said to be dedicated to one of Harry’s friends who listened to Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” for the first time. This song captures the essence of sharing music with people you love. The hopefulness of finding serendipity in the little things is present throughout the song making the last track a 9.5/10.

“Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally” captures themes of self-discovery, stardom, romantic relationships, friendships, going to concerts, and nostalgia in an eloquent and electric way. Stream Harry Style’s new album on Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music now!

ing semester include resetting their daily routines, prioritizing time management, organizing their dorms and rooms, and making space for regular breaks. Getting outside, even for a short period of time, can help improve focus and reduce stress. Many students also find that reworking their study schedules or setting smaller, more manageable goals makes their workload feel less overwhelming.

Ultimately, the “spring reset” is about recognizing when burnout is happening and taking intentional steps to recover. With warmer weather on the horizon and the end of the semester in sight, students have a chance to recharge, refocus, and finish strong.

Love at First Sight: Discovering Devotion Through Nineties

BY CAITLIN SHEA Head of Editorial Integration and Standards

Nothing says Valentine’s day like diving into the dynamically doomed love affair of a prestigious political heir and a fashion icon.

That’s why when Ryan Murphy’s limited FX series “Love Story” hit the screens, anyone who knows anything about fashion was tuned in.

Following a dramatized version of Carolyn Bessette and John F. Kennedy Jr.’s tragic love story, the television show has already sparked an 80% on rotten tomatoes and a 7.5 out of 10 on IMDb.

With the final episode set to release tomorrow March 26, there’s no better way to mourn the loss of our Thursday night binge while also celebrating the start of spring than re-envisioning our own styles!

Calvin Klein's Carolyn Bessette made her mark in the 90’s. From lacy black tops to oversized crewneck hoodies, she was able to foster a classically feminine style while staying elegantly relaxed in her choices. Some of these trends have already been seen in the fast fashion of today. From Nike Sombas to knee-high heeled boots to headbands and big purses, spring fashion

has been sprung from a crazy little thing called love.

Classing up Class

Having an early morning lecture can always be a hassle, whether you are a self proclaimed morning person or not. That’s why sweat sets and comfort athleisure wear have overtaken college campuses across the country. If you are someone looking to add a bit more class to your comfort, a Carolyn style crew neck and boot cut jean combo might be just the fit for you! Paired with a statement watch, some large hoop earrings, a headband and an elegant purse you can still be comfortable while feeling put together!

Bringing Chic to the Big City

With only an hour long train ride separating our campus from New York City, day trips especially in the spring time are a must. For a more classic look, a pair of loafers, a turtle neck, jeans, and a trench coat can help keep you warm on windier days. In warmer weather, knee-high boots, a button up knit sweater and a long pencil

skirt can be great for sight seeing. Pair each of these looks with some pearl earrings, a large purse, some rounded black sunglasses and a hairscarf to add some dimensions!

Gaming up the Gym

For those who like to lead an athletic lifestyle, Carolyn’s sports looks are great points of reference when it comes to updating your spring closet. Whether you are escaping the rain indoors at the RecPlex or going on a walk around campus on a sunny day, a pair of air max sneakers, sweat pants, a tank top and a drawstring jacket are some inspired ways to bring the 90’s into your workout.

Beach Look

With all the snow we’ve been getting this year, it is easy to forget that campus is minutes away from the ocean. As a Kennedy, Caroyln’s summers spent at Martha’s Vineyard were accompanied by luxurious boating outfits. To take inspiration from the Calvin Klein muse, a linen tank top and skirt set can be used as a swim suit cover-up. A beachy tote bag, black rounded

sunglasses, flip flops and a fun claw clip can also be added to elevate the look. Waterproof jewelry is also a must.

Going out with Style

Nothing is better than a good meal and maybe even a drink after a day at the beach. For a more classy look, Carolyn’s signature sleek black dress could be elevated with a small heel and some statement earrings. For those leaning more into night life, a lacy tank top, pencil skirt and knee high boots are great options for dancing with your friends. On colder nights, add a fun blazer or coverup.

Finishing Touches

No look is finished without a signature scent. Finding an aroma you like and incorporating it into your everyday looks can help to boost your mood! A red lip, eyeliner and brow gel are a must as well!

As sad as it is that the series is coming to an end, we can still carry over our favorite looks of Carolyn’s into the spring season!

The Legendary Murr Hits the STAGe

BY STEPHANIE STATHOUDAKIS Contributing Writer

For over a decade, Impractical Jokers has turned everyday situations into painfully funny moments. Now, James Murray is bringing that same energy to Fairfield’s campus. Whether you’ve been watching since the early seasons or just know the show from viral clips on TikTok or Instagram, there’s no better time to revisit the moments that made Murr and the rest of the Jokers unforgettable.

On the bottom of the leaderboard is “Sucks for You” (Season 8, Episode 14), and honestly the title says it all. In the episode, Murr is forced to pose as a scientist and deliver a speech at a real tech conference. The catch is that his microphone has two tubes attached to it. One is filled with helium, making his voice high-pitched, and the other is filled with sulfur hexafluoride, deepening his voice. As he is delivering the speech, the Jokers tell him when to inhale at random moments and it determines whether he sounds like Darth Vader or El-

mo. The best part is that the audience has no idea what is happening and are forced to sit there confused and watch this “scientist” deliver his speech, fluctuating his voice every few words. The audience nods along politely like everything is completely normal. None of it is. That is exactly why it is one of the greatest punishments in the history of the show.

Coming in at number two, my personal favorite, is "Out of Left Field" (Season 7, Episode 21), an incredibly funny episode that features one of the show's most iconic punishments. Sal Vulcano is forced to take on the alter ego "Tanka Jahari" when a pizza delivery man shows up with an entire pie for him in a waiting room full of people. Sal accepts the pizza, drops it on the floor, picks it up, and eats it anyway, all while clinging to his dignity with the now-legendary line: "I am Tanka Jahari, but I would never order a whole pizza for myself.” Joe Gatto — who visited campus a few years ago — is the one who destroys him, by simply leaning over and whisper-

ing, 'It's fine, Tanka.' That one line made Sal break character completely. The bit is so beautifully unhinged that it went viral in 2024, a full six years after it aired, and is still popular now in 2026, especially on TikTok. People continue to recreate the moment with the audio and post it online just for the laugh. The man cannot escape Tanka Jahari. Frankly, none of us can.

Rounding out the list at number one is “Jokers Playhouse” (Season 3, Episode 13), and if you have never seen this episode, please fix that immediately! The premise is simple: one Joker sits across from a stranger in a totally normal interview, while the other three hide behind a glass wall that can turn see-through at any moment. The second the glass illuminates, the three Jokers begin to do things that would make even a statue crack a smile in order to make the other laugh in the interview. The Joker in the interview is forced to watch the performance and pretend nothing is happening. The result is one of Impractical Jokers’ most memorable TV moments:

watching someone fight with every fiber of their being to keep a straight face and completely fail every time never gets old. It is impossible not to lose it and impossible not to watch.

Whether you are a diehard fan who has seen every episode or someone who only knows Tanka Jahari from a TikTok that blessed your feed at 2 a.m., one thing is certain. James Murray is coming to Fairfield University, and he is bringing the same hysterical, unhinged, deeply unserious energy that has made millions of people laugh for over a decade. Do yourself a favor and watch these episodes before he arrives. And if you see Murr walking around campus, just remember— this is a man who has been pushed out of a plane, thrown into a pool by an Olympic Judo champion, permanently tattooed with a skydiving ferret, and legally married off to his best friend's sister in front of a live audience. He survived all of it. Your selfie request is nothing. Welcome to Fairfield, Murr. You’ve reached Stag status!

My March Favorites: The Perfect Spring Recommendations

BY LIZZIE FREEMAN Associate Vine Editor

They say 2026 is the new 2016, so I thought I’d bring back a trend that was at its peak in the mid 2010s: monthly favorites. When Youtube was at its height, creators would make videos about all their favorite things, sharing the best recent movies, shows, music, recipes, purchases, and more. These kinds of videos were popular because they didn’t have to fit into any one category; they were a hodge podge of hobbies, interests, items, and hyperfixations. In keeping with the old trend, here are a few of my favorite things from the month of March.

Watching: The second season of “The Pitt” was just recently released, which prompted me to start tuning into the riveting medical drama. It hooked me in from episode one; its fast-paced nature makes it one of the only shows that I can watch without getting distracted. If you’re the kind of person who has trouble watching TV without scrolling on your phone, this show is for you. Additionally, it’s been deemed one of the most accurate medical dramas out there, which makes it really

cool to watch, especially as someone with nursing majors for roommates.

Listening: I wasn’t always the biggest Olivia Dean fan, but lately her music has been growing on me. My favorite songs of hers at the moment are “Baby Steps” and “Man I Need,” both of which I think are perfect for background music while driving or doing homework.

Reading: My most recent read was

brielle Zevin. While I wouldn’t say it was the most riveting book I’ve ever read, I did enjoy the slow-paced plot and loveable characters. The story follows the disgruntled A.J., owner of a bookstore on a little island off the coast of Massachusetts. When a surprising delivery appears inside the store, A.J. finds himself taking on the challenges and joys of fatherhood. What I loved most about this book was the cozy small-town atmosphere. I enjoyed getting to know not only A.J., but also his friends, family, and community.

Doing: My favorite activity that I’ve recently added into my weekly schedule is spin classes in the RecPlex. Being able to choose classes based on themes and playlists makes working out so much more fun, and going with a friend helps motivate me even more. Usually, I would prefer to run to get my cardio in, but spin classes are perfect for cold or rainy days. I’ve grown to love them so much that even when it does start to warm up again, I’ll be keeping them in my routine.

Trying: Although we’re a few months into the year and not really making resolutions anymore, keeping up healthy habits and implementing new ones is always important. It’s easier, in my opinion, to resolve to do something for a month rather than aspiring to it for the entire year. Something I’m working on this month is calling my loved ones at home more frequently. I’m not always good at remembering to call, especially when I get wrapped up in schoolwork or activities. Picking a time when I know I’ll be free to talk and resolving to call at least one friend or family member has been really helpful for staying in touch with the people at home.

I love keeping track of my favorite things each month because not only is it so much fun to have new interests, but it’s also great to be able to look back on things I’ve enjoyed in the past and return to old hobbies. Now that March is finishing up, here’s hoping that April’s favorites will be just as good!

Swinging Isn’t the Only Scandal: “Bachelorette” Season Canceled Amid Domestic Violence Allegations Against Taylor Frankie Paul

BY ALISON SWEENEY Staff Writer

ABC has officially canceled Season 22 of “The Bachelorette” just days before its scheduled March 22 premiere. The decision, announced on March 19 by a Disney Entertainment Television Spokesperson, comes amid the ongoing Utah police investigation into an alleged domestic assault case involving reality TV star Taylor Frankie Paul and her on-again, off-again partner, Dakota Mortensen. According to multiple reports, both parties have leveled accusations against one another.

The cancellation follows the release of a disturbing video published by TMZ, which allegedly shows a 2023 altercation between Paul and Mortensen. In the footage, Paul is seen yelling, hitting, kicking and throwing furniture, while a child can be heard crying in the background. The release of the video appears to have played a significant role in ABC’s decision to pull the season entirely, making a rare last-minute cancellation for one of the network's iconic reality franchises.

According to NBC News, the situation stems from incidents that allegedly took place in late February 2023, when police

made contact with the involved parties on Feb. 24 and 25. The investigation has since halted production on Season 5 of Hulu’s “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” the reality series that helped launch her into mainstream fame.

Sources close to the production say that Hulu executives, while visiting Utah during filming, witnessed discussions related to domestic violence among cast members. The concerns were serious enough to prompt a weeklong production pause. During that break, additional information reportedly surfaced, leading some cast members to refuse to continue filming unless action was taken.

As of now, production remains on hold, and it is unclear when, or if, filming will resume. One source described the situation as deeply concerning, adding that

Paul “needs help,” and emphasizing that those involved hope the pause will allow her time to seek support.

The investigation remains ongoing, with few official details released. Three sources close to the matter confirmed to NBC News that both Paul and Mortensen are involved in a “he said, she said” situation, though they declined to elaborate further.

Paul first rose to fame as a central figure in “MomTok,” a group of Utah-based mothers who gained millions of followers through choreographed TikTok videos. Her popularity surged after she revealed that some members of the group were involved in a so-called “soft swinging scandal,” which later became a central storyline in the show. Today, she has over 6 million TikTok followers and more than 2 million on Instagram.

Viewers of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” have followed Paul and Mortensen’s on-again-off-again relationship. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Paul said she has moved to strictly third-party communication when it comes to coparenting their 2-year-old son, Ever. "I think that’s the best case, honestly, because clearly it’s just not to a point of us getting

along, so I wanted to take the best action I could," she added.

While speaking about the situation, Paul addressed the public nature of her life. "I didn’t want to bring anything to the public eye, making it a bigger deal for the sake of my son, and just everything about to come out. But that wasn’t the plan for him," she said.

Yet her past continues to resurface. In 2023, she was arrested and charged in connection with a separate domestic violence incident involving Mortensen, though she later stated that those charges were dropped.

SNL March Rankings: Stylin' and Rockin' with Ryan Gosling and Harry Styles

BY CLAUDIA PETTINATO Staff Writer

The past two weeks of Saturday Night Live delivered back-to-back star power, memorable sketches, and plenty of viral moments, thanks to hosts Ryan Gosling and Harry Styles. On March 7th, Ryan Gosling took the stage along with musical guest Gorillaz, quickly making it one of my favorite episodes ever. His monologue gained instant attention as he chose not to speak about himself but to shine the light on Harry Styles, who would take the stage next week.

As he playfully put the spotlight on Harry, the two sang a rendition of “Sign of the Times” making the audience enthralled by their unexpected wit together. Harry’s performance in sketches and music were show stopping as he worked with many accents and hilarious new personas his fans have never seen before. It is a tough task (as I loved almost all of them) but here is my ranking of Ryan and Harry’s SNL sketches!

Among Harry’s sketches, he takes number one with “Sebastian Maniscalco: New Lawyer” as he played an American lawyer in a theft case with Marcello Hernandez as comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, the new lawyer in town. Between the chaotic energy and movement of Marcello doing a spot-on impression of the comedian, and Harry breaking out of his comedic shell playing a bothered lawyer, the two stole the show. This sketch was so funny it had me,

family, and friends replaying it over and over with laughter.

Ryan Gosling’s sketches were tough to rank as all of them were amazing and original. Ultimately “Passing Notes” stood out as the top performer, landing at number 2 overall for its sharp humor and hilarious premise. Ryan and SNL cast member Ashley Padilla pose as teachers who are consistently being “roasted” by students during their anti-bullying presentation. Ryan and Ashley were surprised by castmates such as Hernandez and Day who changed their individual notes to be read aloud, right before the show, so their reactions were raw!

In the number three spot, Gosling’s “Otzela” commercial deemed it to be a sinister medication that is unexplored by the medical professionals who made it. The beginning had all the usual clips and music of a pharma ad but takes a turn when actors of the commercial don’t know exactly what Otzela actually is. It is a plaque psoriasis medication that is presented as a confusing drug that no one knows where it came from. Ryan and the cast members of Saturday Night encapture the perfect commercial tone and image as if it were an ad on cable TV.

Close behind was “Harry for Him,” ranked number four, which cleverly played on Harry’s iconic outfits and the confirmation that his style is unmatched. The sketch

painted Harry to be a chic fashionista (which he is) as he recommends his past concert and award show styles on the male cast members of SNL. The cast men realize that Harry's style does not exactly transfer over to the average man. This sketch appealed to Harry’s fanbase while also reminding regular viewers that his style is arbitrary but he is truly the only one who could pull it off.

An honorable mention goes to Weekend Update, which featured a standout Emoji Battle segment between Red Heart emoji and Aerial Tramway emoji. Mikey Day appeared as the Aerial Tramway emoji, going head-to-head with Marcello Hernandez as the Red Heart. The appeal of the segment was the chemistry between Day and Hernandez as they personified emojis on an Apple phone. The absurdity and commitment from both comedians made it one of

the most talked-about moments of the segment.

With two high-profile episodes back-to-back, SNL proved once again its ability to blend celebrity appeal with creative sketch comedy. Whether it was Gosling’s unexpected monologue twist or Styles’ confident comedic return to studio 8H, these March shows gave audiences plenty to laugh and talk about!

Editor: Matthew Robles

SPORTS

Stags Aim to Extend Winning MAAC Run in Fairfield Rivalry Matchup

By Georgia McDade Associate Sports Editor

Fairfield women’s lacrosse continues conference play on the road Wednesday against crosstown rival Sacred Heart University at 3:00 p.m., looking to extend its unbeaten conference run.

The Stags’ record currently stands at 6-3, 1-0 in the MAAC after Saturday’s 11-7 win against Siena, bouncing back from a two-game loss streak after competitive and physical matchups against nationally ranked squads Denver and Army West Point.

Against Siena, junior Kelly Haggerty netted a hat-trick, scoring twice in the final quarter to give

Fairfield the edge after the sides were tied 6-6 after three quarters. Sophomore Tessa Caputo bagged two goals and two assists, bringing her season totals to 10 goals and 20 assists.

Head Coach Laura Field credited the Fairfield defensive unit and praised the Haggerty-Caputo duo who combined for the final goal of the game, noting they “really stepped up to lead our [Fairfield’s] offense and get us across the finish line.”

The disciplined, all-around performance is a positive sign for Field’s point in a previous interview with the Mirror about wanting to find the identity of the team. Carrying forward this identity will prove crucial as the team looks to build consistency and momentum towards the remainder of the season, particularly with the higher stakes of conference play.

Historically, Fairfield has dominated the Pioneers, winning all 18 previous matchups between the teams. Last year’s 13-7 win at home was highlighted by graduate student Grace Slater’s four goals, along with Caputo’s four assists.

Senior Mary Henry and junior Haggerty contributed with two goals themselves, reinforcing the depth through the Fairfield attack.

Junior attack Kelly Haggerty scored three goals and an assist against Siena.

Fairfield freshman Sara MacLeod has provided the Stags with new threats on the offensive end this season, totalling five goals and four assists, pairing well with the experienced upperclassmen within the side. With various minor injuries keeping

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

BASEBALL

Looks to Continue Hot Streak During Weekend Road Trip to Binghamton

Page 14

MEN'S BASKETBALL

How New Faces Sparked a Bounceback Year: A Season In Review

Page 15

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

Saying Goodbye to the Senior Stags After NCAA Tournament Loss

Page 16

players momentarily off the field, having freshmen prepared to step up and perform has proved essential for Fairfield’s success thus far.

SHU is currently 2-6 overall and 1-0 in the MAAC, after beating Iona University 5-4 last Saturday.

The Pioneers faced a tough start to the season with five-straight losses, before an 8-7 victory over Gardner-Webb University finally broke the win drought. Four different Pioneers got on the scoreboard in the final quarter, which they outscored their opponents 4-1, to come from behind and secure the win.

Junior Jamie Tanner leads the Pioneer attack with 17 goals and two assists for the season. Senior Maggie Araneo ranks second on the team with 13 points (six goals, seven assists). Araneo’s two goals against Gardner-Webb University forefronted SHU’s attacking effort against the Bulldogs side.

A year ago, SHU finished in sixth place at the end of the MAAC regular season, and were defeated by No. 7 Quinnipiac 16-7 in the first round of the MAAC Championship. Fairfield went on to win the championship as the second seed behind top-seeded Mount St. Mary’s, where they beat Iona 12-7.

The game today will be the first of this week’s double-header for the Stags, as they return home to take on Canisius in another conference game on Saturday at 12:00 p.m.

Softball vs University of New Haven Fairfield, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Women's Lacrosse at Sacred Heart University Fairfield, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

at Battle at Rum Pointe Berlin, Md.

Men's Tennis vs Siena University Fairfield, Conn.

@12:00 p.m.

Baseball at Binghamton University Vestal, N.Y.

@1:00 p.m.

Women's Tennis vs Siena University Fairfield, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Rowing at Hawk Mountain Invitational/Lehigh Bethelhem, Pa.

Women's Lacrosse vs Canisius University Fairfield, Conn.

@12:00 p.m.

Softball at Canisius University Buffalo, N.Y.

@12:00 p.m. & @2:30 p.m.

Baseball at Binghamton and Seton Hall University Vestal, N.Y.

@12:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Men's Lacrosse vs Stony Brook University Fairfield, Conn.

Softball at Canisius University Buffalo, N.Y. @12:00 p.m.

Men's Tennis at Merrimack College North Andover, Mass. All Day

Women's Tennis at Merrimack College Reading, Mass. @11:00 p.m.

Softball at Canisius University Buffalo, N.Y. @12:00 p.m.

Women's Golf at Women's Intercollegiate at Prospect Bay Grasonville, Md. All Day

Women's Golf at Women's Intercollegiate at Prospect Bay Grasonville, Md. All Day

Baseball vs Yale University Fairfield, Conn. @3:00 p.m.

Baseball Looks to Continue Momentum into Weekend at Binghamton

By John Malizia Associate Sports Editor

The Stags are coming in hot after sweeping the weekend series against Saint Peter’s, where the bats woke up and came through. The team will now travel to Vestal, N.Y., at Binghamton University for a weekend series with two games against the Bearcats, followed by a game against Seton Hall to wrap up the weekend.

“We want to run it back and get another ring while giving Coach Currier a good send-off,” said senior outfielder Payten Wawruck. To do so, the Stags will need to continue this momentum for the rest of the season, and picking up some wins this weekend will help.

The Stags will start their weekend series this Friday at 1:00 p.m. against the Bearcats. So far this season, Binghamton is 8-11(3-3), coming off a series win against the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where their offense caught fire to score 35 runs.

The Bearcats this season have been led by their young bats, with sophomore outfielder Hunter Grant pacing the team in homers with four. Sophomore outfielder Matt Bolton leads the team in batting average at .320, and has five doubles. Sophomore first baseman Steven Kraus leads the team in RBIs with 14.

The pitching staff for Binghamton has struggled so far this season, but there have still been some standouts like junior pitcher Jake Dally, who has a 3.38 earned run average with 17 strikeouts. Another key pitcher is junior Jackson Mitchell, who has a 1.17 ERA, four saves, and 21 strikeouts.

Then, the Stags will finish their weekend series with a game against Seton Hall on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. Seton Hall has a record of 10-9 with no games against conference competition yet.

The Pirates have had some notable results against MAAC opponents Manhattan and Merrimack, beating both by scores of 7-2 and 11-10, respectively.

They were also able to beat Hofstra in a three-game

series twice. Seton Hall has an older roster than Binghamton with sophomore pitchers like Steven Svenson and Mason Christopher. Svenson has an ERA of 3.37 with 22 strikeouts. Christopher has a 3.57 ERA with 25 strikeouts.

The notable hitters for the Pirates are junior infielder Ryan Frontera, who leads the team in batting average with a .357, and junior infielder Gabe Cavazzoni who leads the team in RBIs (13), doubles (7) and triples (3).

Fairfield is on a six-game conference winning streak, and they’re hoping to continue that momentum into their games this weekend. The Stags are also on record watch with senior outfielder Matthew Bucciero, who is looking to break the program all-time home run record.

In the recent sweep of MAAC opponent Saint Peter's, the offense took over for Fairfield, and senior catcher JP Kuczik had an amazing series, clocking in multiple multi-hit games but also showing a good eye in the batter's box, drawing multiple walks.

Junior pitcher Ben Alekson pitched in the first game

of the series, putting up a stat line of six innings pitched, two earned runs, and four strikeouts.

Fairfield’s stat leaders start with Bucciero, who leads the team in batting average with a .324, and home runs with four so far this season. Another offensive standout is senior infielder Luke Nomura, who leads the team in RBIs with 19 and is tied for the lead in doubles with six.

On the pitching side, Alekson is the team leader for ERA so far this season with a 1.05. Another player who has stepped up for the Stags this season is junior Jimmy Mulvaney, who got his first save in the first game of the Saint Peter’s series and has an ERA of 1.23.

“To see him go out as one guy against the entire squad of a sixth-ranked team and shut them down, it’s a motivating factor,” said Wawruck when talking about Alekson.

These stats do not include Fairfield’s Tuesday afternoon game against Central Connecticut State University, which was not played in time for print.

What's favoriteyoursong off the new BTS album?

Tell us about a memorable meal you recently had.

Do you say “Bam” or “Kobe” before you something?shoot

My recent listening history hasn't diverged from Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, but I'll have to take a listen.

I paired a birria quesadilla with elote at Bodega. It was magic. Streets are calling me a cabbage patch kid

street burger mmmh hamburger #AmericaCore

Predict the regular season record for your favorite MLB team. Of what Crystal has forced me to listen to, I’d say Please FYA is the song of the summer

chicken pizza in Ohio…I was mad hungry

had a fantastic steak during spring break in Florida... #mmmmm It's always a toss-up

are ALL saying Bam in response to that electric and ethical performance

love to see the Red Sox defy the odds and take it all the way. New York’s team (the orange and blue one) is going 90-72 to make the playoffs

I’m from LA (They Not Like Us)

don’t shoot #red Tyler Kolek #shootersshoot

win the World Series a third year in a row

Mets are going to the World Series…without Diaz rip

New Blood, Old Souls: How the Stags Found Their Identity in a Turnaround Season

By Logan Runde

Contributing Writer

After going 12-20 overall and 8-12 in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference last year, the Fairfield men’s basketball team had to start over in order to turn the program around.

The 2025-2026 season started in midMarch for a program that was disappointed with its performance in the previous year and lost 10 players from the roster.

That made work on the recruiting trail even more essential, and the Stag coaching staff ended up with a significant return for their efforts.

First-year recruits Nasir Rodriguez, Halon Rawlins and Tony “Butta” Williams all added depth and production to the backcourt and wing. But not yet known, the most important recruits that head coach Chris Casey and his staff would bring in are former high school teammates Brandon Benjamin and Declan Wucherpfenning.

Benjamin and Wucherpfenning teamed up at Bergen Catholic in New Jersey, and upon arriving at Fairfield provided a physicality that the Stags did not have on their roster and a scorer that could help Braden Sparks and the new additions put points on the board.

The rest of the new additions came in with prior college experience.

Eric Mejia came in for his first season in Division I after a solid career at Monroe University, while Deuce Turner (UC Santa Barbara), Ryan Zan (La Salle University) Cam Estevez (University of Rhode Island) provided experience at the Division I level. The latter three combined for 17.5 points per game during their previous seasons, putting the Stags in a great position to get over the hump in the postseason.

In mid-June the new-look roster finally hit the court.

Head coach Chris Casey said the message was a simple one: “Coming with the right attitude and right approach and appreciative of being here.”

That message would be tested as the calendar turned to November, when the Stags traveled to Penn State for their season opener.

The eyes of Fairfield fans started to open after 25 points from senior guard Braden Sparks. Additionally, the new kid on the block, Benjamin, provided an unexpected 18 points and 10 rebounds in his first ever collegiate game.

The Stags would lose the game, but hope was starting to return to the team.

Then, after a road win at NJIT and a loss at Seton Hall, this new team was about to play their first home games in a new format

The Mahoney Classic was a multi-team event that brought the Stags, Loyola Maryland and Stonehill together to play each other over the course of one weekend.

“I loved it. I thought it was great for our fanbase and our team. We are gonna try to make it happen every year,” said Casey.

This new event proved pivotal as Fairfield was able to get wins against both teams, improving their record to 3-2.

Then, only a handful of non-conference opponents remained. The Stags took down Le Moyne and New Hampshire in convincing fashion. In the middle of the two losses though, was the Stags’ most brutal loss of the season against an excellent Columbia team.

Coach Casey explained that his team was still growing and that “With a young team they didn’t realize how hard you have to play to win at this level.” The Ivy League is ranked the ninth best league in the country, making it the second most challenging game on their schedule.

After losing two tough matchups on the road to Manhattan and Merrimack, the Stags returned to Mahoney Arena for one last nonconference stretch, rattling off three wins in a row against Monmouth, Central Connecticut State and the Community College of New York.

This three game set allowed the Stags to gain some positive momentum heading into conference play, and over the next two months they picked up quality wins against Manhattan, Iona, Quinnipiac, Sacred Heart and Siena.

The Stags only lost once all season to a team that did not qualify for the MAAC Tournament, an 85-81 loss to Canisius on Jan. 2. Overall, the Stags went 12-7 in their final 19

Stags rowing jesuit

games to earn the seventh seed and secure their spot in the postseason.

In the opening round of the tournament the Stags took care of business as the favorites with a 71-60 win over Manhattan.

The next game was one where nobody thought Fairfield would come out victorious.

After losing to Saint Peter’s twice in the regular season, most experts projected Fairfield to be packing their bags.

Instead, the Stags got one of Benjamin’s best games in a Stag uniform, with a 26 point and 15 rebound performance showing that the recruiting work of the March prior had paid off.

With the win, the Stags enjoyed a day off in Atlantic City and prepared for the MAAC Semifinals against Siena, who they had just held to 35% shooting in a win on Feb. 27.

But the Saints found their shot again in the rematch, shooting 46% from the floor and 53% from behind the arc. 51 combined points from Siena’s Gavin Doty and Justice Shoats allowed the Saints to prevail, ending the Stags’ turnaround year.

It was a season where the Stags

reestablished themselves as a competitor in the MAAC, finishing with a 21-13 overall record and an 11-9 mark in the conference. In addition to the winning, the Stags went from ninth in the conference in rebounding to first. The offense went from eighth to third.

The challenge of continuing to build off such success will be the departure of a pair of team captains this spring. Braden Sparks, an All-MAAC Second Team selection, will be absent next year due to graduation.

Luke Davidson will also graduate after walking on during his sophomore year and being the anchor of the team’s leadership for the past three seasons.

Coach Casey acknowledged Davidson by saying that he understood that “everybody’s role is different, but everyone's status is the same.” Casey also added that Davidson was a huge contributor in making sure all of the new guys were able to acclimate so fast when they arrived in June.

The Stags now enter another year of the recruiting cycle to attempt to regain their first MAAC Championship since 1987.

Week of March 25, 2026

THEIR LAST DANCE

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL KNOCKED OUT OF NCAA TOURNAMENT IN 79-60 FIRST-ROUND LOSS AGAINST NOTRE DAME

"i Think the Joy and the Competitiveness is What I'll Always Remember From this team."

- Graduate Guard Janelle Brown

“ We say at Fairfield, it's not just four years, it's 40-plus.

- Carly ThibaultDuDonis, Head Coach

"This Group is Unique, I really Appreciate them. I have their backs, and they have mine."

- Senior Guard Sydni Scott

"I don't even think about the games, the wins, the losses and everything as much as I do about being grateful for the great people my teammates are."

- Graduate Road Runner

Lauren beach

As another season comes to a close for Fairfield women's basketball after suffering defeat at the hands of Notre Dame in Columbus, Ohio last weekend, the program is saying goodbye to a trio of players that have left an indelible mark over the last few years.

Senior guard Sydni Scott joined the Stags ahead of the 2024-25 season as a transfer from Marshall. Since then, she has appeared in 55 games for the Stags, including all 33 this year, and was a starter for the last 11 games of the season.

She has connected on 82 three-pointers in her Fairfield career, including a perferct 6-6 performance in the 2025 MAAC Championship game.

Graduate road runner Lauren Beach has been with the Stags for five years and appeared in 117 games over the last four after missing her rookie season with an injury, placing her in the top 20 for games played in program history. She is also a four-time MAAC All-Academic Team selection as a nursing major.

Graduate guard Janelle Brown ends

her career the all-time program leader in games played, with 140 over six seasons. The 2023-24 MAAC Player of the Year, Brown is also a member of the 1000 Point Club with 1187 career points scored. She ranks 13th all-time in assists (379) and third all-time in steals (261).

Brown and Beach exit the program as the last remaining players from head coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis's first season in 2022-23. Together, the duo has won four conference championships.