The Fairfield Mirror 4/15/26

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026

Office of Student Employment Celebrates National Student Worker Appreiation Week

By KATHLEEN MORRIS Editor-in-Chief

The Office of Student Employment is celebrating National Student Worker Appreciation Week, joining a national effort to recognize students who balance campus employment with academic requirements.

Today, community members are encouraged to visit the Information Desk on the third floor of the Barone Campus Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for “Paws-itively Appreciated Wednesday.” The event features a raffle and an opportunity to meet Brody, a certified pet therapy dog.

Student workers are also invited to fill out cards to express gratitude for the supervisors who mentor them.

Brittany Costantini, the Assistant Director of Student Employment, highlights the community-oriented nature of the week’s events, which aim to foster connections within and beyond the workplace.

“It allows students to meet other students and expand their network,” she said.

In addition to today’s festivities, the Office of Student Employment is hosting a weeklong raffle and giveaway at the Kelley Center. To extend the fun, there will be an opportunity to win Fairfield swag and play a “Test Your Knowledge” game. Students can visit between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. through April 17 to participate.

The larger initiative was established by the National Student Employment Association, which designates the second full week of April to spotlight the essential contributions of student employees and the leaders who uplift them.

Maura Hegley, Associate Director of

BY JULIAN NAZARIO Managing Editor

In two weeks, Fairfield University will have officially finalized its new incoming class, as students across the nation submit their enrollment deposits and commit to a school for their higher education.

This year, about 4,500 students were admitted to the university, with the Class of 2030 applicant pool being once again the largest and most selective in university history.

With the May 1 deadline approaching, here’s a look at Fairfield’s application, admissions and enrollment numbers over the past decade.

The Office of Student Employment is housed within the Kelley Center. Students may visit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the celebratory week to play games and enter a raffle.

Financial Aid at Fairfield University, acknowledges the overarching value of pursuing employment on campus.

“It is many of the students’ first jobs and [they go through] all of the steps that they’ll need to do in the real world,” Hegley said.

Moreover, she underscores that campus employment offers a vital sense of independence. While some students may assume their earnings are automatically applied to tuition, the office clarifies that these positions provide a direct paycheck.

“It makes a difference in them staying here,” Hegley said, noting that many students use their earnings to support themselves or help their families. “They want the experience, and they want the money.”

Senior Natalia Adamski works as a Senior Fellow in the Office of Admissions. She describes her on-campus job as “an incredibly rewarding experience.”

“Working as a Senior Fellow has given me the opportunity to foster meaningful

relationships with staff, build strong friendships with my peers and play a direct role in shaping the incoming class,” she said.

The Office of Student Employment was established two years ago to support students like Adamski, serving as a centralized hub for all campus job resources.

This effort is further enhanced by the transition to the Workday platform, where students can browse listings for jobs across a wide range of departments. Ultimately, Costantini and Hegley aim to increase visibility and simplify the process for students seeking on-campus opportunities.

“Having it all in one place should really streamline that process for them,” Hegley said. “We’re doing a lot of outreach and trying to get students to know where to go.”

As the celebration of National Student Worker Appreciation Week continues, the Office of Student Employment encourages students to visit their website and explore opportunities for the upcoming semester.

Four Years of History, Only 40 Minutes Away Page 13

American Red Cross Blood Drive Today

By BRENNA BELASCO Associate News Editor

The American Red Cross Blood Drive is today, in the RecPlex Field House. The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To register to donate, those interested can follow the link on the event post on Life@Fairfield.

Donors can give either “Blood” or “Power Red.” Power Red returns most of the plasma and platelets to the donor, after the red blood cells are collected.

These donors must meet specific eligibility requirements: be in good health, weigh a minimum of 130 pounds for men and 150 pounds for women, meet height requirements, and have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.3 g/dL.

Prospective donors must also have Type A-, B-, or O blood types.

In addition to blood donation, students are also able to participate as event volunteer by emailing Campus Ministry.

What’s Fairfield's admission rate?

This year, 4 in 5 high school students who applied to Fairfield were not accepted to become part of the Class of 2030, marking the most selective applicant pool in the university’s history.

“As we [have] grown in national prominence, more students are selecting Fairfield as their first choice,” Cory Unis, Fairfield’s vice president for enrollment, said when the university announced the new class profile at the end of March.

The 21% admission rate also represents a 40-percentage-point drop compared to 10 years ago, when the Class of 2020 had a 61% acceptance rate. During the same period, Fairfield has become more selective than Villanova and Fordham and is now the third-most-selective university in the state, behind Yale and Wesleyan University.

How many prospective students apply to North Benson?

This year, the university received 21,662 applications from students across

49 states, including D.C. and Puerto Rico and 97 countries.

In 2016, Fairfield received just over 11,000 applications.

Even as applications have more than doubled over the last decade, Fairfield has maintained its test-optional policy and does not require applicants to submit written supplements.

Nearly two-thirds of the applications the university received for the incoming class did not include standardized test scores.

“Fairfield University evaluates prospective students using a holistic review process, looking at all aspects of a student’s record in making our admission assessment. This process reflects our educational mission as a Jesuit institution,” the university says on its website.

How has first-year enrollment changed in recent years?

Since 2021, when the class of 2025 arrived on campus for the first time, Fairfield has experienced what some students have described as the university “over-accepting” students, which led to so-called forced triples, lounges converted into rooms and longer lines at The Tully.

According to university data, the number of enrolled students per year at Fairfield

hovered between 1,056 and 1,118 before enrollment considerably increased during the post-COVID years.

Starting in 2021, more students have also decided to accept the university’s offer of admission, contributing to the larger cohorts.

The current first-year class was at a 28% yield rate, which indicates the percentage of admitted students who ultimately enroll. That number stood at 18% just five years ago.

Fairfield’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1977. Volume 53, No. 18

Editorial Board

Kathleen Morris

Editor-in-Chief

Danny McElroy

Executive Editor

Julian Nazario

Managing Editor

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 Editor

John Malizia

Associate Sports Editor

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

1073 North Benson Road, Barone Campus Center 104 Fairfield, CT 06824

Printing

Valley Publishing Company Derby, CT

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.

Behind the Band: Launching Longevity

By LIZZIE FREEMAN

Associate Vine Editor

Fairfield University’s music scene is taking off.

Fairfield has not traditionally been known for its music program; while there has always been a portion of the student body involved in musical pursuits on campus–glee, theater, etc.–it is not necessarily one of Fairfield’s biggest draws. This year, however, the number of students involved in music seems to be growing–but they’re taking things in a new direction.

In a previous issue, The Fairfield Mirror covered the creation of student band “Krent.” Now, a new group seems to be following suit. “Longevity” is emerging as Fairfield’s newest band, their newly-established name reflecting their attitude towards the future.

Rather than jumping right into performing, the band is moving slowly but steadily, hoping to come out stronger for it in the long run.

Sophomore Marguerite Brady is lead singer of “Longevity.” She explained that the name “Longevity” is partially attributed to the fact that the band members span across

several class years, giving them the opportunity to continue for several years to come.

Still in their infancy, the band’s schedule consists just of practices for now. Eventually, they hope to play shows around campus and maybe even in town, but they’re wary of moving too fast. They want to be sure that when they make their debut, they’ll be ready.

“Being in music ensembles before, I know what it’s like to go up on stage and know that you’re not prepared,” Brady said. “It shows through the performance and I don’t want to put anyone in that position, and I don’t think anyone wants to be in that position.”

When the band does decide to begin performing, listeners can expect a mix of pop-rock hits, but there are no rules for their set list. That being said, coming up with songs that fit everyone’s music taste and ability hasn’t always been easy.

It’s important to the band that the songs they choose are agreed upon by everyone.

Some of their go-tos include “Still Into You” and “Turn It Off” by Paramore, “Looking Out for You” by Joy Again, “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan, “12:51” by The Strokes and “Harness Your Hopes” by

As the band begins to find their groove, they are looking forward to future performances. Second year Peter Pond expressed hopes to one day play at the new location of Las Vetas Lounge.

The band is also excited about the possibility of a sort of “Battle of the Bands,” and they even hope to write their own music at some point. While these ideas are still in the planning stages for now, they hope to see them materialize in the near future.

First-year Vicente Vernaza remarked on the growing music scene. “I think it’s cool, anyone who’s a musician on campus, because I feel like there isn’t a very wide group of people,” he noted. While the hype around campus bands is a relatively new thing, it doesn’t seem that the excitement will be dying anytime soon. The more popular these bands become, the more musicians seem to be coming out of the woodwork.

As “Longevity” continues to grow, Stags can look forward to their future events and performances. Be sure to keep a lookout for “Longevity;” fans can be sure that when they make their debut, it will be worth the wait.

Halfway to the Beach Event Aims to Build Community for Class of 2028

By KOLETTE HENNELLY Contributing Writer

Halfway to the Beach is a spring event hosted by the Fairfield University Student Association to celebrate the Class of 2028 reaching the midpoint of their college experience.

The event will be held on April 22 from 6 to 8 P.M. on the Meditz Lawn and will feature “Krent Band,” along with limited-edition Class of 2028 hoodies for $20 each. The celebration is intended to give sophomores a chance to relax, socialize, and connect with classmates outside of the classroom as the semester winds down.

Sophomore Allison Corris, a member of FUSA’s programming board, shared, “Themed events let us connect with specific groups, and we’re really excited to bring the Class of 2028 together for something fun and entertaining.”

The event follows several recent FUSA pop-ups aimed at creating accessible, handson experiences for students. In February, FUSA’s flower-arranging event drew steady crowds as students used free materials to make bouquets for themselves or for friends and family.

Organizers said events like these allow students to participate in campus life without financial pressure, making social opportunities more accessible during a busy academic period.

Recent programming has also included

collaborations

Organizers said his presence added a more personal element to the event, giving students the opportunity to engage directly with a creator and choose personalized cards for Valentine’s Day.

“When students stop and take the time to choose something that reflects their relationships, it shows how much they still value personal connection, even in such a digital world,” Kleba said.

Organizers say the popularity of these events reflects a growing interest in in-person experiences that feel intentional and personal. Rather than relying on quick digital interactions, students are seeking opportunities to slow down, be creative and connect face-toface.

For FUSA event organizers, “Halfway to the Beach” is not just about drawing a crowd, but about creating a shared moment for the Class of 2028. By centering themed events and accessible activities, FUSA aims to strengthen class identity and foster a sense of community during a busy point in the semester.

Students & Faculty Express Registration Frustration

By HADLEY MARTINEZ Contributing Writer

As course registration continues this week, students and faculty are expressing a wide range of opinions on the process, from smooth experiences to significant frustrations. Many of them are tied to the university’s transition to Workday and inconsistencies in academic advising.

While the university’s transition to Workday has already been a source of discussion in previous semesters, students say the removal of midweek turbos represents a more immediate shift in their schedules.

Earlier this year, Fairfield announced that Wednesday turbos will no longer be offered, prompting a mix of optimism and frustration among students.

For some students, registration has been relatively manageable. Ben Tran, a junior biology major, described the process as “good” overall, though not without its challenges. With an increasing number of students competing for limited spots, he noted some difficulty securing certain classes and admitted to feeling “some stress.” Still, he said his advising experience has been “pretty good.”

Tran pointed to structural issues that could be improved, including the lack of priority registration for honors students. “I do wish the honors program had (priority) registration, that I would say. People have been advocating for this. As a member of the honors program, we don’t get access to priority registration, and I feel like we should...I think with all the stipulations and overrides, that’s where things kind of get hairy.”

Other students were far more critical. Sean Ammirati, a junior, described the registration process as “awful” and reported that he has not met with his advisor at all this year or in any of his previous years.

He suggested that advisors should play a

A

Workday.

more active role, proposing mandatory meetings and increased communication to ensure students are aware of the progress they’ve made and what classes they should aim to take next semester.

That confusion appears to be widespread.

Jordan Morgan, also a sophomore, described his advising experience as unhelpful, saying his advisor often repeated information he already knew. He also reacted negatively to the upcoming elimination of Wednesday “turbo” class periods, calling the change disappointing.

Not all feedback was negative. Dominic Pistone, a sophomore, praised his advisor for being well-prepared and helpful, particularly with long-term planning such as advice on keeping up with classes while studying abroad and declaring a minor. His experience highlights the uneven nature of advising, which varies significantly from student to student.

Faculty members also weighed in on the

process. Carl Scherage, a Business professor, described the registration period as a particularly busy time, requiring extensive one-on-one meetings with advisees. Scherage emphasized the importance of face-to-face advising sessions.

Professor Scherage also talked about how, for double majors, they should have two advisors instead of one. Having two advisors would help students be less stressed, confused, and alone when it comes to navigating their majors.

Sophomore Mike Kobus has already finalized his schedule and reported only a little bit of stress, largely because most of his required courses fall within his major.

However, he was blunt in his assessment of Workday, saying it “stinks.” He noted that the system can be confusing when trying to distinguish between completed courses and remaining requirements, an issue he says even advisors struggle to navigate.

How A Fairfield Student Is Turning Everyday College Into Content

By SCARLETT SEHRT Contributing Writer

At Fairfield University, the typical daily routine of a student or what they wear to class is unimportant. For other students, those moments don’t just stay on campus. They are part of the thousands of people scrolling online for something relatable. This action reflects a shift in how relatability points to a larger shift in what performs well online. Instead of perfectly polished influencer content, audiences are connecting more with everyday experiences that feel attainable. At a smaller school like Fairfield University, that effect can be even stronger.

Known

likes. Her page blends outfit inspiration with glimpses of everyday college life. While some creators stumbled into growth, Allarde approached it differently.

But unlike the general idea that social media growth just “happens,” Allarde was intentional from the start. “I’m a very creative person,” she said. “It was hard for me to find an outlet that I wanted to put my creativity in, and social media just struck that nerve for me. I was able to express myself and not have to listen to what other people were telling me

“ People are quick to judge...but once I found what worked for me, I’m much happier.” - Domenica Allarde ‘28

to do.”

Her interest in fashion didn’t come out of nowhere. Growing up in a family rooted in the industry, with her mom previously owning a clothing store and working in fashion, style has always been part of her identity. Social media simply gave her a place to expand on it.

“I definitely was intentional about it,” she said. “This is something I always wanted to do. It’s rewarding to have that intention and then actually see it succeed.” “Fairfield doesn’t have a huge influencer culture,” Allarde said. She saw this as a positive. “I actually viewed that as an advantage. It made my page stand out more.”

That success didn’t come from overly curated or unrealistic content. Instead, her

Regarding the elimination of Wednesday turbos, Professor Schereage indicated that the impact on teaching will be minimal because in the business school, standard 75-minute classes are held on Wednesday. Fairfield announced that there will no longer be turbos on Wednesdays. The planned elimination of Wednesday turbos drew mixed reactions.

“ As a member of the honors program, we don’t get priority registration, & I feel like we should...with all the stipulations & overrides...things get kind of hairy.” - Ben Tran, ‘27

Some students, like Tran, see it as a positive change that opens up more time for clubs and extracurricular activities. Others, like Morgan, are less enthusiastic because it was a way to even out his class schedule over five days.

Overall, the feedback reveals several key themes: a steep learning curve associated with Workday, inconsistent advising experiences, and a registration process that can vary widely in difficulty.

Students suggested improvements such as better training for Workday, increased advisor accountability, and clearer communication from the university.

As registration systems and policies continue to evolve, student and faculty feedback may play a crucial role in shaping a more streamlined and accessible process in the years to come.

most popular videos are some of her simplest. “My college outfits of the week videos always get the most engagement,” she explained. “I think it’s just because it’s relatable. People our age want inspiration or to see what someone else is wearing.”

Her content has also reached beyond campus. She regularly hears from high school students considering Fairfield, asking questions about social life, routines, and what the school is really like. “I get a lot of DMs from high schoolers asking what it’s like here,” she said. “That’s really rewarding. I would have wanted someone like that when I was applying.”

As more students begin sharing their lives online, Allarde believes Fairfield is starting to develop its own digital identity. “People are posting more day-in-my-life content, showing the beach, the houses, the parties…I think it’s definitely growing a presence,” she said.

Still, the reality behind maintaining that presence is more complex than it appears. While creating content may only take about an hour a day, the pressure to stay consistent and relevant is both real and constant. “I do feel pressure all the time,” she said. “I’m a perfectionist, and I want to keep growing, but it can get overwhelming. Social media is always there. People can look at your page anytime.”

That visibility has also come with challenges, especially on a college campus where online and real-life identities overlap.“ People are quick to judge,” she said, referencing negative experiences tied to anonymous platforms. “But once I found what worked for me, I’m much happier now.” Despite that, Allarde has made a conscious effort to separate her online presence from her day-to-day interactions.

Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing her platform beyond college, with the goal of eventually creating content fulltime. But one of the biggest misconceptions she wants to challenge is the idea that what she’s doing is out of reach for others. “Anyone can do it,” she said. “Anyone can post their day, their outfits, their life. I just wish it [were] more normalized, especially here.”

As Fairfield’s online presence continues to evolve, students like Domenica are showing that content doesn’t have to be extravagant to resonate. Sometimes, it’s as simple as capturing the life people are already living and inviting others to feel part of it.

Opinion Living Through Fairfield's Transformation

Am I Failing College?

me,” and man, I wish she could.

Many of us grow up hearing from parents or other adults that there is only one “right” way to do college. They tell us that college is supposed to be “the best years of your life” or that they “wish they could go back.” I entered my freshman year believing that narrative. I imagined myself with a big friend group, a boyfriend, and strong grades by the end of my first semester.

My expectations were especially high because of my mom’s experience. She went to a large university, was in one of the top sororities, and balanced it all while being pre-med. She often tells me she wishes she could “switch places with

By the end of my first semester, that vision had completely unraveled. I hadn’t found my people, I didn’t have a boyfriend, and I was trying to keep up with my grades.

When I got back to campus, I started noticing how much I was measuring myself against everyone else. I would see big friend groups in the dining hall and assume they had everything figured out.

you’re failing. But college isn’t a race to build the perfect life in one semester or even in four years. It’s a transition, and transitions are messy. There is time to meet your people. There is time to fig-

opportunity my parents had worked so

I felt deeply disappointed in myself, like I was failing, not just college, but the opportunity my parents had worked so hard to give me.

During break, I listened to my hometown friends talk about how amazing their colleges were, how many friends they had made, and how excited they were to return.

they had made, and how excited they

Meanwhile, I couldn’t even bring myself to look at a calendar. Every passing day just felt like a countdown to a place I didn’t want to be.

I would hear people talking about going out every weekend and feel like I was doing college wrong. I would beat myself up for going home on weekends, telling myself that if I were doing this “correctly,” I wouldn’t want to leave. It felt like everyone else had received a college guidebook that I somehow missed.

ure out what you enjoy. There is time to grow into a version of college that actually fits you, instead of forcing yourself into someone else’s.

But slowly, I started realizing that there isn’t just one version of the college experience. Some people find their best friends orientation.

during orientation. Others don’t meet their closest people until sophomore or even junior year. Some students love being on campus every weekend, while others recharge by going home. Some thrive socially right away but struggle academically. Others focus on grades first and friendships later. None of these paths are wrong; they’re just different.

The pressure to fit into one box makes it easy to believe that if your experience doesn’t look a certain way,

I’m still figuring it out. I still have weekends where I go home. I still catch myself comparing my experience to everyone else’s. But I’m starting to realize that doing college differently doesn’t mean doing it wrong; it just means I’m finding my own pace. And maybe we all need to be a little less hard on ourselves. Not everyone meets their best friends in the

first month. Not everyone loves every second of freshman year. Not everyone wants to stay on campus every weekend. College doesn’t have to fit a single perfect image to be meaningful. There is time to meet your people, time to make memories, and time to grow into the experience that’s right for you.

Maybe college isn’t about having it all figured out right away, but maybe it’s about giving ourselves the space to figure it all out.

Bring Back Long-Form Content

I consume a lot of digital content. I can scroll on my phone for hours, browsing through TikTok, sharing Instagram Reels with my friends, and curating my dream life through Pinterest boards. I’m a sucker for a bad reality TV show, and also devour a good documentary. But I also watch a lot of YouTube, a platform I feel like has decreased in popularity in recent years.

Obviously, YouTube isn’t necessarily “dying”- creators continue to grow by the day, many amassing hundreds of millions of subscribers. Around three million videos are uploaded every single day. People still tune in to see their favorite YouTubers post every week, and brand deals help creators generate good revenue. And of course, there’s also YouTube Shorts, which launched in the past five years, which has helped the platform– but not our attention spans.

There seems to be a much greater focus on short-form content across social media. With platforms such as TikTok and Instagram reels growing more and more popular by the day, society has become accustomed to constant stimulation. And this is slightly concerning. This scroll mentality, with users always craving the next dopamine hit, has the potential to really impact cognitive function. I’ve felt it myself: trying to “lock in” on my homework but feeling

like focusing on one subject at a time is a battle. I feel like I need everything sped up, forcing myself to “get through” to the next thing. Even TikTok has a recent update where you can press and hold on a video for 2x speed. You know it’s bad when I’m trying to speed up a 10-second video clip out of habit. This could have harmful impacts on our study habits and patience, things that are incredibly important as college students. We need all the focus we can get for our lectures, homework, and tests.

We should give long-form content its flowers. A lot of YouTube videos are truly cinematic experiences, whether it's a video essay the creator poured hours of research into, a well-thought-out skit with actors and an intricate script, or a creative project with thoughtful editing and fun music. Shorter content truly lacks the depth and nuance of a quick, 15-second clip.

Short-form videos limit context and don’t provide time for lots of evidence or multiple perspectives. Complex topics get reduced to simplified opinions

or “hot takes”, which can especially be detrimental when it is a political or social issue. Misinformation also spreads like wildfire in this digital age, and even more so when ideas aren’t fully fleshed out or don’t have facts to back them up.

Watching and, at this point, making long-form content feels like too much effort. But a lot of people ARE willing to put in the effort– and can produce truly fabulous videos, films or other types of projects. I think a lot of people just aren’t appreciating what a lot of YouTubers have to offer.

The Not So Quiet Pope

Short-form content definitely has pros: it helps viewers quickly discover new ideas or creators, it makes information very accessible, and it is, of course, a fun time. However, longer content, particularly on YouTube, will always have my heart. I have fond childhood memories of laughing along to my favorite YouTubers, something I still love to do to this day. Long-form content needs its resurgence- if not for anything else, for our poor attention spans.

basically fasttraditionally Catholic

apparently enough to convince the pub-

suggested that he was

There was a time when the world thought that Pope Leo XIV would be a quiet, diplomatic sort of pontiff. A moderate who wouldn’t ruffle too many feathers. Why the world thought this, I’m still not entirely sure. The Chicago-born pope was tracked by his predecessor, Pope Francis, to a position of authority in the years preceding his election, and the conclave that raised him to the Throne of Saint Peter was composed mostly of cardinals appointed by Francis. The fact that he had previously espoused traditionally Catholic positions on abortion and homosexuality was apparently enough to convince the public that Leo was a quiet moderate, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, which suggested that he was destined to continue the path Francis had set the Church on.

Well, if anyone still thinks that Leo is a quiet pope, they clearly haven’t been paying attention. Leo wasn’t chosen as a dignified, middle-ofthe-road choice. He was not chosen in spite of being an

American. The past year, and especially the past week, has proved that, if anything, Leo was chosen because he is American, progressive Catholic, and the right man for the job in this current moment. Don’t believe me? Just look at what he’s been saying.

destroying civilization was “truly unacceptable.” During his first Palm Sunday and Easter, he repeatedly denounced the He

On April 7, he said (without naming names) that President Trump’s rhetoric about destroying Iranian civilization was “truly unacceptable.” During his first Palm Sunday and Easter, he repeatedly denounced the war in Iran. He said similar things about the United States’ actions in Venezuela. His comments about immigrants have been, if anything, even more direct. More than his words, look at what he is doing.

More than his words, look at what he is doing. Refusing an invitation to celebrate the 250th anni-

bishops in the United States, with the result that they went from one of the most conserva-

of innocent lives, the evil of war and the importance of protecting immi-

went to Turkey and Lebanon. In April, he will be visiting and Equatorial Guinea. He has yet to

doubt he will while Presi-

Refusing an invitation to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and instead announcing plans to spend the day with immigrants in Italy is not subtle. Shuffling the bishops in the United States, with the result that they went from one of the most conservative contingents in the world to one of the more progressive, with a seemingly never-ending slew of announcements to make about the sanctity of innocent lives, the evil of war and the importance of protecting immigrants, is not subtle. Look at where he visits. During his first trip, he went to Turkey and Lebanon. In April, he will be visiting Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea. He has yet to visit the White House. Personally, I doubt he will while President Trump remains in office.

You see,

while the press might have been slow on the uptake, no matter how hard Leo hit them over the head with a rhetorical frying pan, Trump figured out what sort of man Leo was early on. Why else would Trump have members of his administration threaten the then-Apostolic Nuncio, Cardinal Pierre, with memories of the Avignon papal schism, publicly lie about it after it came out in the press, get called out by the press and the Vatican, insult Leo in response, get publicly humiliated in return, and then post a baffling AI-generated image of himself as Jesus Christ? And that’s just what's happened in the past week.

So yeah, Leo was never a moderate. It’s just taken him publicly embarking on the war-path, or more accurately, the peace-path, to get the world to wake up to it. There’s actually a pretty good trick for figuring out whether a Catholic in a position of authority is a progressive or not, and that’s by checking to see if William McGurn, who writes for the Wall Street Journal, is writing incoherent hate articles about them. He did it with Francis, and he’s doing it with Leo now, so there you have it. Pope Leo is officially a progressive, and thank God for that.

A Nostalgic Spring: Miley Cyrus Returns to Her Roots in the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special”

BY ALISON SWEENEY Staff Writer

For many current college students who grew up in the golden age of Hannah Montana, the newly released 20th anniversary special on Disney+ brings back feelings of childhood nostalgia. Led by Miley Cyrus with the help of host Alex Cooper from “Call Her Daddy,” the hour-long special features Cyrus singing old jams, revisiting old memories, and discussing what Hannah means to both her and her fans. As Miley calls it, her Hannah-versary reminds viewers why the show became such a defining moment of early 2000s pop culture.

Cyrus reintroduces her iconic alter ego with a live performance of the “Hannah Montana” theme song, “Best of Both Worlds,” making it the first time in over a decade that she has stepped back into Hannah’s mentality. There's still a sequined scarf involved, but it’s clear that this iteration of Hannah is embracing her past with a lot more maturity.

The second time Hannah takes the stage for the special, we get a two-song combo of "This Is the Life” and “The Climb,” both perfectly representing the Hannah Montana era. These moments stand out as some of the strongest in the special, not just musically but symbolically.

However, one of the most noticeable problems is the limited number of songs performed. With such a large list of fanfavorite hits, the decision to include only three songs feels like a missed opportunity. We were definitely robbed of “Nobody’s Perfect” or “Ordinary Girl,” as well as a

possible surprise guest star appearance.

Besides the performances, the special delves into more intimate moments of the golden era of Disney Channel. Cyrus reflects on her time growing up in the spot-

special place in her heart.

"I used to think of Hannah as something separate from myself. I would think of her as a character," Cyrus told the crowd. “And what I’m loving about this special is

light, offering behind-the-scenes insight into what it was like to be part of Disney Channel's most influential era.

Throughout the special, Miley continues to express love for all that Hannah Montana is and was, at one point, getting emotional while expressing gratitude for the fans. After her performance of “The Climb,” Cyrus took a few moments to explain how Hannah will always have a

that it’s my merging of Hannah and Miley together."

This perspective really ties into her closing message: “You can always find your way back home.” The line not only resonates with her personal story but also with those navigating change and finding their identity.

For those Fairfield students graduating this May, this special hits close to home.

As graduation approaches, the evolution from Hannah to Miley Cyrus’ present self reflects the transition seniors are currently navigating, leaving behind the familiarity of college life and navigating the uncertainty of adulthood.

“It reminded me of simpler times while also showing how I’ve developed and grown,” says senior Kaylin Spinelli, reflecting on her own perspective of the special. “Just like Miley had to move on from one phase of her life, I’m also preparing to leave behind my childhood and start something new in the real world. It feels nostalgic, scary, and exciting all at the same time to reflect on how far I’ve come and think about where I will go,” she says.

The special concludes with a debut of her new song, “Younger You," as clips from the show and her childhood play in the background. The song serves as a personal reflection and tribute to the Hannah Montana legacy. Themes of gratitude and self-reflection connect with audiences who grew up watching Hannah Montana. “Younger You” perfectly bridges the gap between her Disney past and her future as a singer and songwriter, as she honors who she was and where she comes from.

Ultimately, the 20th anniversary special reminds us that “the best of both worlds” celebrates nostalgic childhood memories while embracing the journey of personal growth. Moving from one chapter to the next shows that change isn’t just inevitable; it’s necessary in shaping who we become.

To the Moon and Back: Artemis II’s Top Five Moments While Making History

BY EMILY NASRAH Staff Writer

While Fairfield students were enjoying Easter break, four NASA astronauts were preparing to travel around the moon and back on mission Artemis II. Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen were tasked with the mission of traveling around the far side of the Moon on a 10-day mission. The spacecraft, named Orion, launched on April 1 and landed in the Pacific Ocean on April 10. While the flight may have come to an end, online chatter about the trip has continued to flood the internet. NASA made the journey very publicly accessible through livestreams and media coverage. The funloving crew of Artemis II has captured the hearts of many, including myself, and today, I am going to be running you through my personal Top 5 moments aboard the Artemis II.

sue all too well. At least now NASA and I have something in common: we both don’t know how to work Outlook.

Number 4: The Rise Plush

Second grader, Lucas Yee, submitted his design for the Artemis II mission mascot, won, and had his idea transformed into a small stuffed animal. The small moon plush, named Rise, wore a baseball cap modeled after Earth and was aboard the Orion as the crew’s zero-gravity indicator. Rise also had a microSD card imbedded within it that contained 5.6 million names from participants of NASA’s “Fly Your Name” program. The plush can be found floating around the Orion and even took over the Artemis II social media pages for a day. The crew constantly played catch using Rise and spun him around while floating in zero-g. These wholesome moments with Rise reminded me that even astronauts can have some whimsy in space, and so it goes in number four.

Number 5: Outlook Login

Incident

Less than a day after Orion launched, Reid Wiseman attempted to log on to Microsoft’s email application, Outlook. Unfortunately for him, Outlook is notorious for its lack of user friendliness and difficulties with signing in. He radioed mission control informing them he had opened “two Microsoft Outlooks, and neither one of those are working.” If Outlook can’t hold up here on Earth, it had no chance of surviving in space. As a frequent Outlook user myself, I knew Wiseman’s is-

Number 3: Victor Glover’s Speech

While aboard the Orion, the crew was asked what it felt like to be in the vast and empty expanse of space. Victor Glover gave a beautiful speech about unity between humans and our intrinsic worth and uniqueness. He reassured us all here on Earth that “you are special in all of this emptiness.” Glover’s speech is a testament to the importance of each individual person within this vast world and beyond. I was very touched by his words, and I have no doubt that his speech will inspire the astronauts of the future for years to come.

Number 2: The Nutella Fly Over

One day on a NASA livestream, a random Nutella jar was caught peacefully floating through the Orion cabin with none of the crewmates’ knowledge. NASA reported afterward that the jar was not a paid advertisement and instead was just a food preference of the crew. The moment took the internet by storm for its perfectly positioned flight path in the middle of the livestream. Even the official Nutella X account posted, “Honored to have traveled further than any spread in history.”

This may be one of the best instances of free advertising and left me wanting some Nutella-covered acai from Peet’s, and so it goes in number 2.

Number 1: The Carroll Crater

During their journey, the Artemis II crew took note of fresh craters on the moon that had no name. In lieu of this, the crew decided to radio NASA and propose a particularly special name for one of these craters. Surrounded by the rest of the crew, Hansen contacted mission control and suggested that the crater be named “Carroll” after Reid Wiseman’s late wife. He said, “We lost a loved one her name was Carroll. The spouse of Reid, the mother of Katie and Ellie... it’s a bright spot on the moon. And we would like to call it Carroll.” After Hansen finished the proposal, the entire crew hugged one another while the world watched with teary eyes. Thanks to the Artemis crew, now Carroll’s memory will forever be cemented on the Moon’s surface and in our hearts.

Reid’s love for his late wife truly captures what it means to love some-

one to the Moon and back. The crew of Artemis II have now officially travelled farther from Earth than any other humans in history. Their journey marks the continuation of human exploration into space and the unknown and they have brought us along for the ride.

Fairfield students, too, have been impacted by this historic mission. Second year mechanical engineering major, John Cummings, relayed his feelings about the mission to the Mirror: “I think many of us kinda always wondered what it was like to watch the Apollo missions. The farthest us humans have ever ventured. Many of us ventured into STEM because of that quest to understand more about the universe. Watching the Artemis mission feels like finally understanding the true scale of the Apollo mission. Our generation is picking up where the history textbooks left on to continue that quest.”

From floating Nutella to the heartwarming Carroll Crater, the Artemis II mission has proven to be a source of many memorable moments, bringing us closer together. The ability to be a part of this journey is something I will never forget.

Blooming Down the Runway: Spring 2026 Fashion Trends

BY TALIA SCARPA Head Vine Editor

Spring is in full bloom and at the bud of the fashion statements is the reemergence of pastels and florals. With the warmer weather predictions for the last few weeks of the semester here in Fairfield, more students will be out and about. From wedge sandals and midi skirts to buttonups and khaki shorts, here is a list of the top 10 spring 2026 fashion trends for both women and men that will stand out in the fashion industry.

That Friend You Know Always Listening to Olivia Dean:

We all have that one friend who is effortlessly fashionable without even trying. Her hair flows in the right direction and her clothes are always trendy, yet true to herself. The “Olivia Dean” style is a showstopping spring look.

Sophomore Olivia Stolar said, “I love Olivia Dean’s style, it’s so girly and fun but also elevated and timeless. I definitely want to incorporate her style into my look especially in spring through lace and frills.”

Soft, pretty, and whimsical– this style elevates the feminine essence through polka dots, maxi skirts, ruffles, kitten heels, and florals. Madewell and Anthropologie in Westport, CT offer both minimalistic designs and bright patterns to achieve this look.

One for Formal Season:

Spring also means formal season, which is a common weekend activity for clubs and sports teams as it gets warmer. This formal season is filled with warm color tones such as butter yellow, creamsicle orange, and poppy red. A mixture of fabric

textures are becoming popular for shape dimensionality.

The SONO Collection, a mall in Norwalk, CT, offers formal wear from conventional short dresses to maxi dresses at department stores such as Bloomingdale’s and Nordstroms. If you want to elevate the game and have the full dress experience, the Winged Monkey in Westport, CT houses a variety of pastel colored spring dresses, ranging from silk to satin.

Just a Chic Summer Country Girl: Country music is often associated with open windows and the fresh grass on your walk to class. The “chic country girl” aesthetic of vintage graphic tees, jean mini skirts, and high cowboy or frye boots will make a star appearance this season. Baseball hats are becoming more popular with bright colors, flat rims, and an almost “grunge” appearance. The Field Vintage at 39 Sanford Street, Fairfield, CT right across from Archie Moore’s has a plethora of graphic designs to get that edgy look. Stay tuned on their instagram for their pop up shops!

“Emily in Paris” Core:

The well-known Netflix show “Emily in Paris” shows the hottest attires in fashion along with one-of-a-kind looks. As many Fairfield University students travel abroad in the spring semester and upcoming summer programs, trendy yet semi-professional clothes are peak fashion moves. Sweater shirts, white jeans and ballet flats are part of the “clean girl aesthetic”. Silk scarfs make for versatile looks through neck ties, belt embellishments, and hair twists. Ciao Bella and Apricot Lane right here in downtown Fairfield sell fashionforward pieces that will make for in vogue outfits.

The OG Cool Girl:

As Wendy Williams said, “She’s an icon. She’s a legend. She is the moment.” We all know that one girl who walks around campus with a swagger. The OG cool girl is more than an aesthetic, it’s a lifestyle. She’s a little city and a little beachy. You can find these looks at Free People in Westport, CT, The Two Oh Three, in Fairfield, CT, and Wave Creations, a brand created by Fairfield students Madison and Paige Governale.

The Guy that Takes the Metro North to the City:

Some would classify him as the performative male, while others think he’s the coolest guy around. The male style guide is venturing into more gender fluid looks. Male button-up crop tops with longer jean shorts, otherwise known as jorts, is making quite the juxtaposition this season. Male purses or crossbody briefs in neutral tones will make for an interesting appearance. Abercrombie and Fitch in Norwalk or Greenwich have great options.

The Modern Day JFK Jr.:

Media influences style. As many people have watched Ryan Murphy’s “Love Story” series, the Carolyn Bessette minimalistic style is not the only one being remembered. JFK Jr. was a fashion icon in his own right. His street wear that crossed the line between gym outfits and fully put together looks is making for an unique style. Second Street Vintage in Westport and New Haven have the perfect options.

Not Your Average Gym Bro:

The “gym bro aesthetic” is one that

can be seen in the first floor of Fairfield’s RecPlex. Buffed and toned, yet stylish, this spring season will make men lean into pops of colors. Muscle tanks and draw string shorts will make an electric feature. Lululemon and ALO in Westport have the quintessential colors.

The Effortless Class Act:

The classic tone of quiet luxury and stable pieces. The effortless class act is the guy who has a great sense of style that represents his personality, emulating through his clothing looks. Simplistic navy, gray, and white tees with jeans will be part of this daily closet. Gap in Westport has these elevated basics options.

Sophomore Tony Chrisostomides said, “Some things I want to start wearing as the weather starts to shift are more button ups with outfits. They add a lot of style in a simple way along with a pair of jeans or khakis for men.”

Conrad Fisher Aesthetic:

You’ve heard the term coastal granddaughter, but what about the coastal grandson? “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has created a legacy for nostalgia and classic New England-inspired looks. The Conrad Fisher aesthetic is one for the preppy, timeless, and 90s suburban looks. The minimalist beachy, yet academic looks can be found at J. Crew in Westport and Greenwich.

Spring fashion is the unequivocal expression of the latest trends, pastel colors and texture combinations. Through the mixture of city and beach aesthetics and fashion trends that transcend time and place, find your niche and rock your personal style, stags!

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The Best Spring Book Recommendations

BY LIZZIE FREEMAN Associaete Vine Editor

Nothing says spring like sitting outside with a good book. Whether you’re looking for some light reading or are ready to dive into one of the classics, here are books worthy of carrying around in your backpack–just in case.

“Anxious People”

One of Fredrik Backman’s many bestsellers, “Anxious People” isn’t necessarily a spring-themed story, but its uplifting storylines and engaging writing deems it a great feel-good read. When a bank robbery goes wrong, a group of drastically different strangers wind up trapped in an apartment together. While that summary may sound like the beginning of some kind of Bond movie, the story is actually one of unlikely connections and happy endings. Not one of Backman’s characters is without their own

distinct charm, and when their personalities are confined to one room, hilarious chaos ensues.

“Pride and Prejudice”

What better way to set the scene for spring than with sprawling gardens, luxurious mansions and beautiful ballgowns?

Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is a classic, and for good reason. For years readers have swooned over the unexpected romance between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett, laughed at the ridiculousness of Lizzy’s mother and sisters and sat on the edge of their seats during the infamous profession of love.

“Remarkably Bright Creatures”

Shelby Van Pelt explores a timeless theme through a wonderfully unique and original premise. As 70-year-old cleaning lady Tova goes through her shifts at the aquarium, Marcellus the octopus observes from his enclosure, making it his final mission to solve the mystery of her son’s disappearance. The story combines heartwarming stories of family and friendship with whimsy and a little bit of magical realism, resulting in a fun read that will keep you turning pages just to get back to Marcellus’ point of view. After all, who wouldn’t want to read an octopus’ thoughts?

“Anne of Green Gables”

Another classic, “Anne of Green Gables” by L. M. Montgomery tells the story of well-meaning but mischievous Anne, an orphan who moves in with Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert to the little town of Avon-

lea. There, she lets her imagination run wild, basking in summery landscapes, new friendships and exciting adventures.

“Nine Liars”

If sweet, springtime-y novels aren’t your thing, add some suspense to your to-be-read pile. “Nine Liars” by Maureen Johnson is a young adult mystery that follows Stevie Bell, teenage detective. This is actually the fifth book in the “Truly Devious” series, but it can certainly be read as a stand-alone. While I recommend the entire “Truly Devious” series, book #5 is a little better suited to the warm weather, as the first few take place in an autumnal setting. “Nine Liars” had me hooked for hours at a time; mysteries like this one will hold your attention like few other books can.

“Once Upon a Broken Heart”

This young adult fantasy series by

Stephanie Garber is the epitome of fairytale fantasy. When the kind and genuine Evangeline meets the Jacks, the cruel Prince of Hearts, a forbidden romance begins to blossom. If your ideal spring vacation destination is Wonderland, this is the book for you.

“The Wishing Game”

A book perfect for book-lovers, Meg Shaffer’s novel follows Lucy Hart, a teacher’s aide who is invited to participate in a sort of mega-scavenger hunt hosted by her favorite childhood author. This book is for all the kids who used to binge-read series like “Magic Tree House” or “Harry Potter,” all the while wishing to be able to jump into the story themselves.

While these books fit the sunny weather and lighthearted atmosphere of spring, there are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing your next read. There’s no better time than now to pick up your new favorite book!

A Song for Every Occasion: A Fairfield Spring Moods Playlist

BY MELINA BARRIS Staff Writer and Designer

As spring settles in, Fairfield’s final weeks of the school year call for the perfect soundtrack. Whether you’re lounging with friends in the quad, watching the sunset on the beach or simply strolling around campus, the right spring song can be the finishing touch that makes these moments feel even more memorable.

Songs for Sitting out on the Quad

With the weather warming up, students have been spending their afternoons out on the quad, full of laughter, chatter and pickup games. Yet, what truly completes these spring days is a steady presence of music in the background.

At its core, “Silver Lining” by Mt. Joy is a warm, uplifting track that feels made for moments like these. It instantly softens the energy, making everything feel a little lighter. With its laid-back breezy sound, “Silver Lining” fits into the rhythm of the quad, becoming the perfect soundtrack to a simple spring afternoon.

Imagine a quiet spring afternoon, sitting in the grass with close friends, wanting to listen to something simple and genuine. A song that fits this feeling perfectly is “Flowers in Your Hair" by The Lumineers. Known for their soft, earthy music, The Lumineers capture that calm and intimate energy effortlessly.

Lastly, “Ventura Highway” by America is a classic. This song carries an easygoing, dreamy quality that perfectly reflects carefree moments spent with your friends. It blends a sense of wandering thoughts with a warm, comforting nostalgia, creating a sound that feels both relaxed and timeless.

Songs for Watching the Sunset

on the Beach

One of Fairfield’s defining features is its beautiful beaches. As the weather cools to the perfect temperature and the sun begins to set, music naturally becomes part of the atmosphere, enhancing the mood and bringing the scene to life.

“Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac is a timeless, effortlessly cool piece, known for its smooth and introspective vibe. Listening to this song while watching a sunset works together so well because the music naturally matches that transition in the day.

Although it contrasts with that classic soft rock feel, “Myth” by Beach House is a great alternative to listen to. Opening with layered instrumentals, it creates a hazy, calming mood. As the sky fades from light to dark, the song fills the moment with a warm and almost surreal energy, making it feel as if time itself is slowing down.

energy sound. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is exactly what makes it perfect for car rides. It’s the kind of track that instantly lifts the mood and gets everyone involved, whether it's shouting the lyrics or just soaking in the fun.

“Rein Me In” by Sam Fender and Olivia Dean is another trending song, but it is full of emotionally rich and soulful lyrics. Their voices blend, creating a harmony that feels both intimate and powerful. Rather than an overpowering moment, the song adds depth, making a simple drive feel more meaningful.

old times. The blend of soft and dreamy notes feels like a distant memory. The song has a light, airy quality that makes it feel effortless and genuine. It truly captures a peaceful, reflective mood to whatever moment you’re in.

A song that illustrates the feeling of growing up too fast is “Ribs” by Lorde. The song builds from something soft into a more intense, almost urgent feeling, which mirrors that rush of emotions. It feels a little chaotic almost, as if everything is changing and you can’t quite slow it down.

Songs for Car Rides with Your Friends

Of course, nothing compares to driving with your friends with the windows down, music blasting and sometimes with no real destination. When you are looking for a more upbeat energy with lyrics everyone can sing along to, these songs are worth turning the volume up.

Starting with “iloveitiloveitiloveit” by Bella Kay, this newer release has quickly gained attention for its infectious, high-

Created by Melina Barris

Lastly, “Missed Calls” by Mac Miller carries a nostalgic and slightly bittersweet tone. The beat is smooth and easy, but there’s an emotional weight underneath that makes the lyrics feel reflective without it feeling too heavy. It’s the kind of song that’s just as easy to sing along to as it is to get lost in, turning an ordinary car ride into something more memorable and real.

Songs when You are Feeling Nostalgic

As the end of the school year approaches, some students begin to feel nostalgic. Whether it’s because your season is coming to an end, classes are winding down, or final moments with roommates, music often brings that feeling out in all of us.

“Lovely Girl” by Racing Mind immediately evokes a sense of looking back on

“Pool House” by Backseat Lovers builds slowly, starting soft before growing into something more raw and powerful. That shift gives it a sense of emotional release, like everything you’ve been holding in finally surfaces. Overall, it has a coming-of-age feeling that makes it hit a little harder the more you sit with it.

Songs for Studying

With warm weather comes finals, and sometimes the best thing you can add to your study routine is less noise, not more. The right kind of music can steady your nerves while you flip through flashcards and help you stay focused without pulling your attention away.

“Come With Me” by Surfaces is a great song to listen to when studying. Its light, relaxed tempo naturally softens background noise and quiets racing thoughts. The easygoing rhythm creates a calm headspace, making it easier to concentrate and stay on track.

When it comes to late-night studying, SZA never misses. “Blind” brings a soft, low-energy presence that almost feels weightless. It's the kind of song that settles your mind, slows everything down, and helps you ease into a more focused, reflective flow.

Spring Into Summer: Bucket List

BYCLAUDIA PETTINATO Staff Writer

Spring is an era of renewal as the weather finally reaches the 60s and the wind is no longer harsh. With spring transitioning into summer, there are tons of fun activities to do when school is winding down before summer work or internships may begin for everyone. Keeping activities, hobbies and fun pastimes at the forefront of your day can make your spring transition fulfilling. Here is my list of a few spring bucket list activities I like to engage in and will try out this transition season!

Plan a day trip (or long trip) with friends or family! Planning a trip a bit in advance is the best way to lock in an exact date to do something fun with friends or family. Going to a nearby city for a weekend, taking a beach vacation, exploring a national park you’ve always wanted to go to, or just spending the day in a neighboring state could be just what you need to look forward to during the summer season.

Go to a farmers/flea market! Farmers markets are so important to support as local and organic food is a great alternative to large corporation food options. Along with farmers markets, flea markets are so

to be an excellent time in the sun.

Have a theme dinner party with friends! Sometimes I like to look on Pinterest to see fun ideas for a dinner party to host with my friends. Some ideas include mak-

fun to explore to find new decor, outfits, antiques or inspiration! Taking a friend to either one of these options is guaranteed

ing your own charcuterie board, bringing your favorite fast food chain meal or making your signature dish! This could be a

fun get together with friends and change up the vibe of a usual dinner party.

Go to an outdoor sports game! Even if it is not a major league game, going to a local baseball game could be fun to enjoy in the sun! Going to see an MLB game near you could be a great day spent in the ballpark.

Do some spring cleaning! Sometimes the one thing that is missing in your life is an organized room/workspace. Spending some time cleaning up your everyday space, clearing some clutter, and discovering things you thought you lost or forgot about can be so fulfilling and fun after it is accomplished.

Cleaning your space, enjoying a ball game or planning the best dinner party are just some fun ideas to keep your summer fun and busy. These spring into summer bucket list ideas are guaranteed to give you enthusiasm that will carry into the summer season and bring new beginnings!

Syllabus for Shine: The Ultimate College Girl’s Guide to Stronger, Longer and Healthier Hair

BY STEPHANIE STATHOUDAKIS Staff Writer

The guide to longer, shinier, and healthier hair is not as unattainable or complicated as you think.

I used to be addicted to bleaching my naturally almost-black hair with blonde highlights and continuously straightening it — because I genuinely felt my wild curly hair and "boring" color were less desirable, less acceptable. I used to hate my hair. And I know I'm not alone in that. So many people, including my friends and family, have wished at some point for a different shade, a different texture, more shine, less frizz. But after years of putting my hair through bleach, color, heat, chemical damage, and aggressive brushing, I have not only learned to accept my natural color, but also to prefer it, and I have reduced the amount of heat I apply to it.

After about four years of constant bleaching, my hair became thinner, duller, drier, and refused to grow past my shoulders. I was fed up. At the beginning of 2025, I went down every rabbit hole imaginable: TikTok, YouTube, haircare blogs. After trying what felt like half the products on the market, I finally landed on a routine that I genuinely believe saved my hair.

My first mistake was thinking an expensive, well-reviewed product was automatically the answer. I started using Kérastase's Magic Night Serum after hearing incredible things about it. I used it every night for three months, exactly as instructed, and my hair got worse — more split ends, more dryness, more breakage. I didn't connect the dots until much later when I realized that putting protein on your hair nightly actually causes damage. Then I tried the Bur Bur Growing Season Oil, applying it nightly to seal in moisture. Four months in, nothing had changed. I was spending money, putting in effort, and getting nowhere.

That's when I had to be honest with myself. The products weren't the full problem– the bleach and heavy coloring was. I stopped bleaching my hair in August

of 2025, and the transformation has been hard to put into words. Removing bleach from the equation didn't just reduce the damage, it created a healthier foundation for everything else I was doing to actually work. Products absorb better, my hair responds faster, and for the first time in years, I can actually see and feel a difference.

Here's what my routine looks like now: Scalp first. Before I even shampoo, I use the Ceremonia Scalp Scrub to remove buildup and excess oil directly from the scalp. It's gentle but very effective. I also use the Act + Acre Cold Processed Scalp Serum every night, and this is one of the products I credit most for the growth and thickness I've noticed. I tried the well-known Vegamour serum before this, but I didn't see results. The Act + Acre one is different, it is magic.

Washing. I normally wash my hair about once a week, always with cool water. Hot water opens the cuticle and leads to breakage– it's just not worth it. I use the Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner. The shampoo is slightly drying because I double cleanse to remove buildup, but the conditioner more than compensates. Every single wash, I also use the Oribe Mirror Rinse — it's marketed as a glass hair treatment and it delivers exactly that. Amika and IGK also make great glossing rinse out treatments if you want to try something at a different price point or with different ingredients; I've used both and they work great as well. I also invested in a good quality shower head to replace the one in my dorm because I learned that clean filtered water is less harsh on the hair shaft. I have used the Eskiin one since late August and I believe it contributed to a dramatic improvement in my hair softness and health.

Oils. If you want shiny hair, you need an exceptional hair oil: not too thick, not too thin. Finding the right one takes some trial and error. The Moroccanoil Treatment is a classic and smells amazing, but it runs a bit heavy for my liking. The Apivita Olive and Argan Oil is one I picked up in Greece and have been using ever since because it is a solid choice; it got my hair from horribly

damaged to where I am now. Right now I'm really loving the Kérastase Elixir Ultime oil and the Shu Uemura oil (their hair masks are also incredible) for the moisture and incredible shine they add. I also do a prewash oil treatment before every wash using the Roz Willow Glen Pre-Wash Treatment Oil, which is thicker and designed to seal the cuticle and deeply hydrate before shampooing. It sounds like a lot, but the logic is simple: load the hair with moisture before you cleanse, so the shampoo removes excess without stripping. I also use Redkin’s Shine Flash spray which acts as a sealing shine top coat to maintain that glow days after styling. The Antisocial Leave-In Dry Hair Mask by IGK is also a staple of mine that I use about once a week to give my hair more life and add moisture without wetting it.

After the shower. I use the Gisou Honey Infused Leave-In Conditioner, which also has heat protection built in. It even makes my curls look better when I wear my hair natural, adds shine, and smells incredible. The Marc Anthony Grow Long LeaveIn is a great, more affordable alternative, which I’ve also used and liked. On top of the leave-in, I use the IGK Good Behavior Heat Protectant before straightening/heat styling. Yes, I still straighten my hair about once a week. I've made peace with that. I just try to protect it as much as possible. Treatments. Every two-three weeks or so, I use the K-18 Molecular Repair LeaveIn Mask. It's protein-based, so you don't want to overdo it (too much protein can cause brittleness) but used in moderation it genuinely repairs damage in a way most masks can't. For weekly moisture masks, I rotate between the Nuxe Hair Restoration Mask, which is rich and thick, and the Tsubaki Hair Mask, which is a lighter and more affordable option that still works really well.

The details that add up. I switched to a Slip silk pillowcase at the end of December and noticed less breakage almost immediately. I sleep with my hair in a loose bun held with the Drowsy XXL Padded Silk Scrunchie, which also gives me a subtle

heatless wave by morning. During the day, if I'm putting my hair up, I reach for a Slip silk thin scrunchie or an Emi Jay clip. Both are sturdy enough that I'm not constantly readjusting and creating friction. For brushing, I use a wide-bristle detangling brush after the shower and a boar bristle brush day-to-day, always starting from the ends and working my way up.

Don't be afraid to cut your hair. I was. For the longest time I avoided scissors entirely because I was convinced trimming meant losing length. But getting micro trims every few months actually speeds up growth. It removes the thin, damaged ends that are just weighing your hair down anyway, and the difference in thickness is immediately noticeable. It feels counterintuitive, but holding onto dead ends is not the same as holding onto length.

One last thing worth mentioning: I didn't fully give up on color. I still get tinted or clear hair glosses/glazes every so often to add ultimate shine, depth and richness without the damage of bleach. It's a good middle ground if going fully natural doesn't appeal to you.

The truth is, there's no single product that's going to fix your hair. It took me years, a lot of wasted money, and finally quitting bleach to figure that out. But once I stopped chasing a quick fix and started actually listening to what my hair needed, everything changed.

Editor: Matthew Robles

SPORTS

Four Years of History But 40 Minutes Away:

The

Building of a Basketball Power and the One Hurdle Left to Overcome

By Danny McElroy Executive Editor

“We looked at each other, and we were like, yeah, this is it.”

It was that moment, in April 2022, when Carly Thibault-DuDonis and her husband Blake decided to make the jump. After four seasons on Hall of Fame coach Lindsey Whalen’s staff at Minnesota, and numerous declined offers from other schools, Thibault-DuDonis chose Fairfield to begin her head coaching career.

“It felt really bright,” she said of the Fairfield opening. “There were some head coaching positions I had turned down previously that just didn’t feel like the best fit or that the timing was right, but this one felt right for a lot of reasons.”

There would be big shoes to fill, with longtime coach Joe Frager retiring after a conference championship win and an NCAA Tournament trip the season prior.

Unbeknownst to Stag Country, a replication of that success would be just the beginning.

Columbus, Ohio, 2026 NCAA Tournament First Round, Pregame

Laughs and music echo through the lower interior hallways of the Schottenstein Center.

Fairfield women’s basketball, the No. 11 seed in the Fort Worth 1 regional, is just under an hour away from tip-off against No. 6 seed Notre Dame.

As the Stags begin their warm-up and stretching routines, there is a palpable confidence and joy noticeable to anyone who walks through the nearby tunnel.

“I think this year there was definitely a confident energy in that we have so many returners who have played on that stage in the past one, two or for some even three years,” said graduate road runner Lauren Beach. “I think we all really trusted and believed in our capability and the way we were prepared by our coaches.”

Women's Tennis at Quinnipiac University Hamden, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Softball vs Central Connecticut State University Fairfield, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Head Sports Editor: Crystal Arbelo >>crystal.arbelo@student.fairfield.edu

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS

WOMEN'S LACROSSE

Women's Lacrosse Eyes Fourth Consecutive MAAC Regular Season Title vs. Marist

Page 14

MEN'S GOLF

Men's Golf Prepares For Roar-EE Invitational

Page 15

Added to that was a determination to rise above the shortcomings of the previous two seasons. Despite so much history achieved in an extended run with a top five winning percentage in the entire sport, the Stags had taken convincing losses to Indiana and Kansas State in their last two trips to March Madness.

This time would be different.

Year one wasn’t always easy.

Challenged with the loss of a wealth of veteran talent from the inherited conference title team, including future WNBA draft pick Lou Lopez Senechal who transferred to Connecticut, Thibault-DuDonis and her staff guided the Stags to a 15-15 record in her first season at the helm.

“We didn’t achieve the success on the court that we wanted, but I thought that year was instrumental in building what is now our culture and our foundation that we’ve built upon since then,” ThibaultDuDonis said. “We were able to not only on the court teach the ball movement and the spacing and the selfless style in which we play now, but off the court we really dug into all of our values.”

The season came to a close in a 59-53 MAAC Quarterfinal loss to Siena. But with key contributors like Beach and guard Janelle Brown set to return, plus the arrival of Thibault-DuDonis’s first recruiting class, the potential for improvement was clear.

And even the most optimistic of fans

probably couldn’t predict what happened next.

The Stags exploded in ThibaultDuDonis’s second year, posting a program best 31-2 record, earning a first ever national ranking in the AP Top 25 and returning to the MAAC throne for a trip to the NCAA Tournament.

From the outside looking in, it was an unprecedented leap. But for ThibaultDuDonis and her staff, the signs were there early.

“That summer, we were running some bad offense in workouts and in practice, and we were still scoring, which is not an experience we had before,” she said.

That increased efficiency carried over into the start of the season, when the Stags scored 89 points in a blowout win over Lipscomb. They followed it up with a downto-the-wire 73-70 loss to SEC foe Vanderbilt, who would go on to make the NCAA Tournament as an at-large team that year.

“At Vanderbilt when we lost by three, we were obviously disappointed as coaches, and you don’t know what you’re walking into in the locker room,” Thibault-DuDonis said. “Are [the players] happy that it was a close game? Where are they at? And we walked into the locker room and they were mad, they knew they could win that game.” It was a performance and a response that, both on the court and off, proved

Read full article at www.fairfieldmirror.com

Men's Tennis at Quinnipiac University Hamden, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Baseball vs Mount Saint Mary's University Fairfield, Conn.

@3:00 p.m.

Men's Golf at The Roar-EE Invitational Kingston, N.Y.

Men's Lacrosse vs Towson University Fairfield, Conn.

@12:00 p.m.

Softball vs Siena University Fairfield, Conn.

@1:00 & 3:30 p.m.

Baseball vs Mount Saint Mary's University Fairfield, Conn.

@1:00 p.m.

Women's Lacrosse vs Marist University Fairfield, Conn.

@4:00 p.m.

Women's Tennis vs Niagara University Fairfield, Conn. @11:00 a.m.

Softball vs Siena University Fairfield, Conn. @12:00 p.m.

Baseball vs Mount Saint Mary's University Fairfield, Conn.

@1:00 p.m.

Men's Tennis vs Niagara University Fairfield, Conn.

@2:00 p.m.

No games scheduled.

Women's Golf at 2026 MAAC Championship Lake Buena Vista, FL.

Softball at Manhattan University Riverdale, N.Y.

@2:00 & 4:00 p.m.

Baseball at Fordham University Bronx, N.Y.

@3:00 p.m.

Women's Lacrosse Eyes Fourth Consecutive MAAC Regular Season Title vs. Marist

By Georgia McDade Associate Sports Editor

Improving to an eight-game win streak and still unbeaten in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, Fairfield women’s lacrosse concludes the regular season this Saturday, April 18 at 4:00 p.m. against Marist at Rafferty Stadium.

The Stags last went undefeated in the MAAC regular season in 2024, but were unable to secure the title that year in an 11-10 defeat in the championship game to Niagara, which has also won all its conference games this season.

Fairfield is 12-3 heading into this regular season finale against the Red Foxes, where a win would earn Fairfield its fourth consecutive and 17th overall MAAC Regular Season Championship.

Marist, who is currently eighth in the MAAC, holds a 4-11 record and enters Saturday’s matchup on a three-game losing streak. A double overtime defeat to Niagara marked their latest loss, but the result reflected a strong attacking performance against the Purple Eagles and one that almost produced a significant upset within the conference rankings.

Marist junior Kate Gaven led the Red Foxes against Niagara, totalling four goals and one assist, with her last score forcing the game to overtime. Gaven has 35 points for the season (20 goals and 15 assists) behind sophomore Amelia Pirozzi and senior Jesse Manger who lead the Marist offense with 37 points apiece.

In their last meeting a year ago, Fairfield overcame early attacking pressure from the Red Foxes and found their groove in front of the cage, scoring 18 goals over the last three quarters in a 20-10 victory. The Stags are on

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Who are you from Entourage?

Bid farewell to Sexy Dexy.

an eight-game win streak against Marist, recording 27 wins and 11 losses historically.

Fairfield goes into Saturday after a gritty 17-13 win against Quinnipiac - a victory that earned them a place in the MAAC Championship.

This will be the ninth appearance in the last 10 years for the Stags in the MAAC Championship, excluding the 2020 season when games were cancelled due to the pandemic.

Sophomore Tessa Caputo delivered a career-high eight points in the game against the Bobcats, earning MAAC Co-Offensive Player of the Week honors after recording two goals and an assist against Mount St. Mary’s from the previous game.

Caputo combined for five goals and three assists against Quinnipiac, alongside graduate student Kyleigh Tufano, who added four scores of her own, ultimately capping off a comprehensive and hard-fought win for the Stags.

Fellow graduate student Haley Burns collected another hat-trick and maintains her seven-game streak of getting a score on the board.

Fairfield reinforced its depth across the age groups, with both upperclassmen and underclassmen contributing to the team’s performance. First-year Lila Berkery impressed in the midfield, collecting three ground balls and four draw controls. Berkery’s clear impact highlights her growing role alongside senior Brynn Donnelly, who added a further nine draw controls to her season total of 76.

While the Stags enter Saturday’s matchup with a secured place in the post-season, a win would increase their chances of earning the No. 1 seed and the opportunity to host

@stagswomenslax

Tessa Caputo earned Co-Offensive MAAC Player of The Week honors.

the championship. However, if both current top seeds, Fairfield and Niagara, finish tied with 8-0 or 7-1 records at the conclusion of the regular season, the conference office will determine hosting rights after this weekend’s final games.

“It’s a must win,” Burns said. “Yes, we have to win to host, but more importantly, we just need to be playing like we have beenthat’s what we are focusing on.” Niagara, Canisius and Mount St.

“It's a must

win."

- Haley Burns, Graduate Midfilder

Mary’s will join Fairfield in the postseason tournament, with seedings to be confirmed after this week’s final regular season matchups.

The Appa will always

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According to a Buzzfeed quiz, I am Vince. I'll take it!

I hope he maintains his signature moves wherever he lands! Ciao!

I’ve only seen a few leaked clips, but the animation looks electric

A pair of extremely intimidating stuffed albino squirrels (shoutout Talia)

Buzzfeed says, “I am a perfect match for Ari.”

Dex, you can’t do this to me. PLEASE come back

I like that he’s still my bald little boy

There’s a new Avatar movie!? That I never have to watch it

I keep breaking my necklace by spinning it, so I replace it once a year

Listen, I don’t know who Ari Gold is, but that’s me

Sad to see a Big Man go…

Gum and Brita filters… A frilly green skirt for the FUDE show (shoutout Fairfield Failté!)

Are we all Ari? “You're a BOSS and bosses belong together.”

Let’s stick to basketball and baseball in the meantime

Crystal says I’m E???

Noooo, don’t leave, you’re so sexy hahaha…

Men's Golf Prepares For Roar-EE Invitational

By Kevin Sweeny Contributing Writer

This Saturday, the Fairfield University men’s golf team will travel to Wiltwyck Golf Club in Kingston, NY, to compete in the Roar EE Invitational, a one-day event hosted by Columbia University. The Stags have entered the tournament on a recent strong run, finishing second overall in a field of 16 schools at the Battle at Rum Pointe, where they lost to Iona by three strokes.

Wiltwyck Golf Club is a Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed par-72 course that stretches 6,877 yards from the tournament tees. At such a long distance, players will need a strong combination of power and precision off the tee. The course is also known for its narrow, challenging greens, which will demand accurate approach shots and strong wedge play to perform well in the tournament. The course has hosted the Roar EE Invitational for several years now, with the previous winner being Saint Thomas Aquinas College at a score of +2.

For the Stags, sophomore Rasmus Ditzinger has been their top performer in 2026. At the Savannah Intercollegiate Tournament back in February, he finished third out of 108 participants, carding rounds of 71, 72 and 75 throughout the weekend. In the Battle at Rum Pointe, he won for individual play in a field that included 99 golfers. Ditzinger finished at -9, winning by eight strokes, as he carded a 68 and 67. Iona junior, Sean Richards, finished in second place at -1, carding a 72 and 71. This performance from Ditzinger earned him the MAAC Golfer of the Week. Ditzinger made the All-MAAC Second Team last season and will continue to look to build off of that this year.

Fairfield sophomore Tadgh Burke has also been one of Fairfield’s best players, as

well as one of the best in the MAAC. He was last season’s MAAC individual champion at Disney’s Magnolia Course as well as the MAAC Rookie of the Year. He has gotten off to a good start this season, finishing 49th at the Savannah Intercollegiate Tournament at +13. In the Battle at Rum Pointe, he finished at T11, carding a 73 and 74 to finish +3 for the tournament.

Another important player for the Stags this weekend will be junior Anthony Naples. Naples has played a key role for Fairfield this season, carding a first-round 71 before finishing +15 and T60 at the Savannah Intercollegiate Tournament. He improved on this going into their second tournament of the season, as he

The Roar EE Invitational features a 15-team field with a good mix of schools across the Northeast. Defending tournament champion Saint Thomas Aquinas College is returning and will certainly be a team to watch.

Last year’s tournament runner-up, Lafayette College, is also returning this season, looking to be a top competitor again, as they only lost by two strokes last spring. Iona University, which beat Fairfield earlier this spring, will enter the tournament as a strong contender.

By

Fairfield baseball will look to rebound after dropping two of three in its series against Rider University over the weekend. The Stags will go into this weekend with a series against Mount Saint Mary’s at home, followed by a trip to play at Fordham University on Tuesday.

Fairfield has a 15-14(10-5) record at the time of print before their out-of-conference game against Columbia University.

Mount Saint Mary’s sits in fifth in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference standings right now with a 17-15(10-

excelling at the plate, including graduate outfielder Christian Bauman, who at the time of print leads the team in batting average with a .325. He also leads the team in doubles and triples with eight and two, respectively.

Another key batter for the Mount is redshirt sophomore infielder Bryce Rudisill, who leads the team in home runs with six and posts a batting average of .318. Senior infielder Alex Mendes is another strong bat for the Mount with a .319 batting average.

While the Mountaineers’ pitching staff isn’t as strong as their lineup, they still have guys like redshirt junior pitcher JB Manarchuck, who has an earned run average of 1.85 with 24.1 innings pitched. Another notable arm is senior pitcher Maximus McCrary, who has an ERA of 3.82 with 35.1 innings pitched.

Fairfield will have to exploit the weakness in pitching depth for the Mount in order for them to win the weekend

The Stags will then travel to Bronx, New York, to play Fordham University on Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. Fordham is 14-21(6-9) at the time of print, with some games left to play before their game against Fairfield.

Fordham has faced some MAAC opponents already this season, losing to Manhattan University 12-8 while beating Iona and Marist 14-2 and 10-5. They also failed to win a weekend series against another common opponent of the Stags, Davidson University, dropping two of three to the Wildcats earlier in the season.

Fairfield went 0-2 against Davidson back in February.

The Rams have struggled this season on both sides of the ball, but they still have some notable players

The field is rounded out by Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Fordham University, Hofstra University, Providence College, Canisius University, Saint Peter's University, Siena University, St. Bonaventure University, and the University of New Haven.

The Roar EE Invitational at Wiltwyck will serve as a strong test for Fairfield. It is also a final tune-up opportunity before they head down to Lake Buena Vista, Florida, later this month at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course. Fairfield is the defending MAAC champion, having claimed the title last April for the first time since 1997, and the Stags will look to carry their momentum into the postseason.

Baseball Faces Mount St. Marys and Fordham After Dropping Series to Rider

doing well. One of them is sophomore infielder Anthony Grabau, who is one of the best on the team for batting average with a .300. Senior catcher Tommy McAndrews leads the team in home runs with seven and runs batted in with 30.

On the pitching side, first-year pitcher Declan Cawley has an ERA of 2.90 in 31 innings pitched. Additionally, senior pitcher Aric Berg has a 4.11 ERA in 15.1 innings pitched, which gives him one of the best ERAs on the team.

Even though the Stags lost the series against Rider University this weekend, they showed the MAAC that they’re one of the better teams in the conference this year. The Stags came out firing in the first game with four home runs in the first inning, hit by senior outfielder Matthew Bucciero, senior outfielder TJ Schmalzle, senior catcher JP Kuczik and sophomore infielder Nolan Colby. Backed by a great pitching performance by junior pitcher Ben Alekson, the Stags never looked back, winning the game 10-3. Alekson finished with seven innings pitched, three earned runs and five strikeouts.

Miller only let up two runs in his start during the third game of

“Ben is one of the most effective pitchers I’ve ever seen. It’s crucial when you're trying to make a statement on Friday to set the tone for the whole weekend,” said senior infielder Luke Nomura.

Then, during the second game, graduate outfielder Zach Stephenson started the scoring in the third inning with a two-run home run. After giving up a run in the fourth inning, sophomore infielder Connor Scanlan smashed a double, building the Stags' lead to 3-1. But

Week of April 15, 2026

For The Family: Bobby and Timmy Regan

By Kathleen Morris Editor-in-Chief

Bobby and Timmy Regan are wellversed in victory.

Their latest success arrived in February, as the Fairfield men’s swimming and diving team claimed the 2026 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship, emerging triumphant for the first time in program history. On the pool deck, the brothers stood shoulder to shoulder atop the podium, at ease amid a swarm of teammates flashing “Stags Up” hand signals and wide grins.

The feat was unprecedented for Fairfield, a landmark in the team’s steady ascent in the rankings. Yet, it evoked a sense of deja vu for the Regans: a reprise of the championship rhythm they had embraced just four years prior.

In 2022, Timmy Regan capped off his senior season at Pomperaug High School by securing gold at the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Boys Swimming Class State Championship, adding another chapter to a dynasty that has dominated the state for decades. For Bobby, then a freshman, the achievement was a thrilling end to his inaugural season and what he then imagined would be the final time that he would share a legacy across lanes with his brother.

“I didn't know we would cross paths again at the same school four years later,” Bobby said, recalling how a certain sadness had been interwoven with their shared joy.

As their paths diverged, Timmy was eager to make a splash in a new pool. He was drawn to Fairfield from the start, driven by a desire to impact the program immediately rather than waiting for his turn in the rotation.

“I wanted to make all four of my years worth it,” Timmy said. “I didn't necessarily want to have to build up into a starting role. I wanted to come in and matter right away, and I think the MAAC was the place to do that.”

His attraction to Fairfield was extensive; the team culture and the university’s academic reputation were deciding factors in his recruitment. The location was a bonus, as the campus is less than an hour’s drive from their family’s home in Southbury.

While Timmy found his fit close to home in the Northeast, Bobby initially explored broader horizons. As he progressed through Pomperaug, his sights were not set on Stag Country. Instead of following in Timmy’s footsteps, he modeled his ambitions after his eldest brother, Billy, a swimmer for Ohio State in the powerhouse Big Ten Conference. Bobby had briefly turned his attention to the University of Tampa, allured by the Spartans’ recent NCAA Division II title. Still, his focus was pulled back to his home state when a fateful email from Fairfield coach Jake Lichter landed in his inbox.

“The ball just started rolling from there,” Bobby said.

Timmy provided the final nudge, hosting a campus visit that sealed his

younger brother’s collegiate course. The proximity to their childhood home –and, consequently, the backyard pool that spurred their love of the sport –proved to be a defining aspect of their experience. The short commute enabled their parents to be fixtures of the fan section, with their spirited support in perfect alignment with the team’s overarching mission for the year.

In an early meeting with the men’s team, coaches and athletes selected “For the Family” as the phrase that would guide their approach for the season.

“The big goal was to swim for something more than ourselves,” Timmy explained. “You're not just doing this for you. You're doing this for the team.”

The sentiment was adopted by the women’s team as well, who would eventually capture their fifth MAAC Championship on the very same day the men delivered their breakthrough.

The significance of this slogan sent a ripple across the program, forming into a tidal wave by the time the team reached the Spire Institute for the MAAC Championship in Geneva, Ohio.

After a rigorous season and an eighthour bus ride, the stakes reached new heights. For Timmy, the meet marked the culmination of a 17-year competitive career.

“I knew it was the last day I was ever doing it,” he said. “I know how it feels to lose, so that actually made it easier. I didn’t have to think about the 17 years or that it was my last race. It was all about the team and what I could do to help us get the points we needed on that final day.”

This energy translated to the water, as the team’s collective efforts during the preliminaries set them up for a dominant finish. As they headed in the final relay, the only thing standing between them and the trophy was a potential false start.

Once the race was safely underway, the looming victory became a reality, and the anticipation on the deck turned electric.

“When we hit the wall, and we all won… it was just so much excitement, so much joy, and just one of the greatest feelings of accomplishment, especially

because we all did it together,” Timmy said.

This jubilance was contagious, radiating to the stands where parents had traveled from across the globe to witness the culmination of years spent fostering their children’s dedication to the sport.

“We have people on our team from all over Europe, New Zealand,

final night in Ohio.

“Seeing Bobby win the 400 IM at our conference meet,” Lichter said. “I turned around, and Timmy turned to me and was like, ‘Jake, you can't say anything to me because I’ve got to get ready for the 200 freestyle and I might cry.’ He was just so proud to see his younger brother being successful.”

“I think that just speaks so much to them – that they care so deeply about each other,” Lichter continued. “To have them together like that and to see them cheering each other on was really quite

Across the program, that "For the Family" definition now defies genealogy. The Regans may be the only names on the roster connected by blood, but the relationships born in the pool rival those of siblings. The hours spent immersed in this distinct form of camaraderie, unique to collegiate athletics, foster friendships deeper than the pools they swim in every day.

Timmy and Bobby Regan reunited as teammates this season, infusing a sense of brotherhood into the team's culture.