The Collegian, Feb. 6, 2026

Collegian

Double-digit days to graduation Lingo,

Matthew Purucker News Editor

Hays discuss senior class goals

With fewer than 100 days left for the class of 2026 at Grove City College, the collective eyes of the seniors turn to May 9, the day of commencement.

However, as Senior Class President Jackson Hays said, seniors should not want to race through their last semester at the college. He emphasized that point in his speech during the 101 Days until Graduation Dinner Jan. 28.

“If graduation is the finish line, we’ve already (rounded) the last corner. We’re on the final straightaway. We can see the line ahead of us,” Hays said. “But what do you do when you’re on the straightaway? Do you ease up? Do you say I’ve (run) hard enough already? No, you finish strong. You put the pedal to the metal, and you give it all you have.”

“And that’s my encouragement to all of you today. Finish strong. Love well. Take advantage of the time you have.”

Hays talked about the senior class’s two-part gift: a display of the alma mater in the Pew Fine Arts Center atrium and additional water fountains with bottle fillers in various “high traffic” areas around campus.

“I really like this because basically all two parts cover the historical and sentimental level of the college, while also bringing value and functionality to the college as well,” Hays said. Lingo echoed Hays’s remarks during his speech, encouraging seniors to make the

most of the important time they have left at

and

nity at large.

“As Jackson said, you’re in the homestretch, but you’re not done yet,” Lingo said to

College TPUSA chapter launches

Emily Fox Editor-in-Chief

Grove City College officially has a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter on campus. TPUSA is a conservative educational program founded by Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed Sept. 10 while speaking to students at Utah Valley University. Now under the leadership of his wife, Erika Kirk, TPUSA continues its goal to encourage students on high school and college campuses to become young conservative leaders equipped to teach others about American conservative values, according to the TPUSA website.

The initiative to start a chapter at Grove City began last fall after two students, Moira Donovan and Allie Stegner, met the local TPUSA regional director.

“After speaking with him, we knew this was something we were personally interested in and thought there would be a lot of interest on campus,” Stegner said.

Stegner and Donovan had to register to become a chapter through both TPUSA and Grove City College’s process of

Campus to host historic bell

Julia Kramer Staff Writer

Carnegie Alumni Center will soon celebrate Pennsylvania’s semiquincentennial by displaying Mercer County’s first liberty bell titled “Partners Through Time.” A product of “Bells Across PA”, a project made by the America250PA organization, the bell’s painted sides showcase Mercer County’s landscapes and Grove City College’s Harbison Chapel.

“Bells Across PA is our way of inspiring connection through creativity,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. “As we prepare to mark 250 years of the American experiment, this initiative helps Pennsylvanians from every corner of the Commonwealth see themselves in that story. ‘Partners Through Time’ reflects the spirit of that Mercer County community and reminds us that history is something we all have a hand in creating. Each bell represents a unique collaboration between artists, communities and sponsors.”

close his speech. “You have 100 days, so make each one of

The bell not only celebrates the nation’s founding 250 years ago, but also Grove City BELL 10 GRADUATION 10

An ever-evolving identity

If you ask a student from Slippery Rock, Westminster or W&J to describe Grove City College, they’d probably say something like “Grove City? That Christian school? Oh yeah. They’re really strict there,” or “They have a lot of rules,” or “They aren’t allowed to drink on campus,” or maybe even, “They can only have the opposite gender in their room at certain times.”

Grove City College has a distinct reputation for being a Christian school, and not just in name, but also for operating according to Biblical standards. We take pride in providing a conservative Christian environment where students are educated to pursue their God-given callings. They do this all while fostering a tightly knit community where they can live, learn and grow among other believers, who encourage them in their faith as God intended the church to do.

Instead of just training them to “get by,” the college has a legacy of promoting Biblical flourishing.

As we reflect on 150 years, we see that this legacy is the culmination of the work and prayers of many people throughout the college’s history. There was a time when the college drifted from this original mission. In fact, former president Charles MacKenzie was hired in 1971 for the purpose of reorienting the college’s vision and returning it to its Christian foundation.

Fifty-five years later, we see the fruit of that labor. Grove City is more focused on faith than ever before, so much so that we’re known as “that Christian school” to surrounding colleges.

Our foundation and reputation are solid because of the people who came before us and took the time to reevaluate what the college stands for. Years of adminis

trative effort and the prayers of generations of Grovers shaped our identity today.

What does that mean for us? Sometimes, we tend to bury the past. We’d rather not remember a time when the college lost sight of its first love, but this isn’t a part of our history that should be brushed under the rug.

We shouldn’t be ashamed of needing to reevaluate, instead we should see it as a response to God’s call. Even God’s own people constantly needed to be reminded of what the Lord had done for them and their mission to live as an expression of love and gratitude for their creator.

In reevaluating our priorities, we participate in a long history of prodigals coming home. We should see our history as an example of God’s mercy. Though at times we stray, God calls out to us, and we are expected to respond.

Fifty-five years ago, Grove City answered that call, and now, we’re gifted with a beautiful display of the relationship between a perfect God and a people freely redeemed and continually brought back into the fold, even in our modern age.

Emily Fox Editor-in-Chief

Collegian Staff

Emily Fox

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Matthew Purucker

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Drew Pelesky

THE GREEN EYESHADE AWARD

This week’s award goes to our newest staff writer, Julia Kramer, for pivoting at the last minute when a lecture got canceled and putting together an article that saved the News section!

The secret history of Greek life at GCC

Mia Gallagher Celebrate 150 Correspondent

What is the Grove City College Greek community? Where did it come from? What’s so “secret” about these societies and their traditions? Why does the college have Greek life at all?

As another year of new active recruitment and initiation draws to a close, it seems a fitting time to address these very questions.

Celebrate 150

To celebrate Grove City College’s 150th anniversary, The Collegian is exploring the College’s history, traditions and culture in this ongoing series.

Kathryna Hoyman

Managing Editor

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The Collegian is the student newspaper of Grove City College, located in Grove City, Pa. Opinions appearing on these pages, unless expressly stated otherwise, represent the views of individual writers. They are not the collective views of The Collegian, its staff or Grove City College.

On the surface, the college’s Greek tradition may look silly, superficial and selective — just a bunch of young men and women planning campus events and “paying” for friends.

But diminishing the Greek community to these stereotypes neglects the rich histories and integral traditions these groups bring to campus life — let alone the lifelong friendships and philanthropic spirit its members gain from the experience.

“Greek life has always been heavily involved in the community of Grove City College. There were points in history where nearly 60% or more of the student body was Greek. They held events, participated in philanthropic activities and hosted dances,” Director of College Archives and Galleries Hilary Walczak ’09 said.

While the modern Greek community enjoys the visibility and inclusivity described above, its oldest societies were founded invisibly and secretly.

“(College founder) Isaac Ketler was adamantly against Greek groups forming on campus in the early years of the college, so much so that he forced students to sign a contract saying they wouldn’t join a fraternity or sorority, and if they were caught, they would be expelled,” Walczak said.

Early Greek societies formed around their members’ extracurricular interests. Their meetings and dealings took place in secret — often held in the boarding houses where students lived during the college’s early years.

Near the end of Ketler’s life, several student clubs and organizations began to form,

allowing the college’s oldest surviving fraternities — Pan Sophic (1911) and Adelphikos (1913) – to blend into campus life more readily.

“The PANS were able to fly under the radar because they formed as a club. There were lots of clubs forming around this time, so it was a little bit easier for them to do this. They were founded as a group of men studying the Greek philosophers,” Walczak said.

Upon taking office, the college’s second president, Dr. Alexander T. Ormand, officially recognized these fraternal societies and permitted the formation of others.

Like their older counterparts, later Grove City fraternities would form around the shared ideals and interests of their members. The brotherhood of Delta Iota Kappa, for instance, was established in 1916 by members of the college’s military training program and Grove City’s established national guard unit, Company M. Others, like Epsilon Pi and Omicron Xi (found-

ed 1919 and 1948, respectively), formed around the bonds made by soldiers returned home from World Wars I and II.

While each of these fraternal societies grew out of their own unique circumstances, their goal of providing personal and professional development to students unites them all.

“The college experience is an amazingly unique time in the lives of young men as they learn to understand who they are and what they stand for,” Associate Professor of Management John D. Smith ’88 said as he reflected on his time as a member of Epsilon Pi.

“I have leaned on these experiences all my adult life. They helped me learn how to set high standards for my actions, but also to care for others. It is amazing after all this time, how much my brothers mean to me to this day,” Smith said.

While the college’s fraternities were formally recognized

Deadline for study abroad approaches

Why scroll when you can travel?

Abigail McConaughy Contributing Writer

With additional reporting from Emily Fox, Anastasia Brown and Kathryna Hoyman

This week presents the last opportunity for students to explore the great wide world through studying abroad this fall.

For a school of its size, Grove City College’s Office of Global Programs (OGP) provides many possibilities for students and faculty to study and serve abroad.

Some of the OGP’s most popular offerings are the faculty-led travel courses, which allow students to get credit for a Grove City course while traveling with their professors to another country. The courses offered are usually classes that all students are required to take, such as SSFT or courses from the humanities core. Many students value getting to see historical sites with the added benefit of learning from their professors’ knowledge and experience.

Senior Isabel Golias spoke highly of her experience taking Christianity in Civilization in England and Scotland. “Travel courses are the ideal kind of trip for students who want to have experience abroad without spending an entire semester away from the community they have formed here at GCC. During the trip, you learn about another culture while growing closer with professors and fellow students you may not have met otherwise,” Golias said.

The OGP also offers semester-long study abroad opportunities. Many exciting destinations and academic opportunities exist outside of the U.S., and the chance to encounter other cultures by immersion in foreign languages and fresh experiences can help students develop innumerable skills.

“The Office of Global Programs here at Grove City is

an excellent resource that facilitates growth through providing an opportunity for multicultural learning and experiences. I had the incredible privilege to study abroad in Paris, France last fall,” junior Adam Budzik said.

“It was an eye-opening experience that left me with lasting relationships and a more well-rounded worldview. I encourage every one of my peers to pursue international opportunities that the Office of Global Programs has to offer. The opportunity to enter into another culture and learn is a much-needed exercise in this era. Stop by The OGP if you are interested!” he said. Along with the lifelong lessons that are initiated by time spent studying abroad, many

students’ favorite part of their experience is seeing the historical sites and scenery in the country they stay in.

“I loved exploring Edinburgh, like visiting the castle, walking along the River Leith, visiting the museums and shopping at all the bookstores,” junior Anna Scott said.

Students also enjoy the freedom of being on their own and traversing a new place. “I loved having the freedom to easily explore new cities and even countries outside of my three-day class week!” junior Leyla Zwolinski said.

During their semester abroad, some students receive further cultural experience by being placed with local families.

“While I was studying in

Dynamic through the decades

Kathryna Hoyman Managing Editor

In celebration of the college’s 150th anniversary, the 68th annual All-College Sing (ACS) theme is “Through the Decades.”

The event first graced Grove City College back in 1957, when it was called “Greek Sing” and served as a (mostly) good-natured competition between the college’s fraternities and sororities. In 1973, the event was expanded to welcome singers from all of campus, a unifying mission that the college continues to stress today.

This year, ACS will not only celebrate its own history, but also the history of the rest of the college, as groups are asked to perform a song within a decade from 1910 to 2020.

“We realize there may be some overlap of decades due to the number of entries we may receive, but would love to see all decades represented,” Tricia Corey, assistant director of alumni programs and events, shared. “As people walk into the arena that evening there will be a 15oth Celebration video playing with many historical photos, etc.,” she added.

Tricia has partnered with Barbra Munnell, senior director of library services, to co-advise the iconic event. They work alongside a student team that aids with communication, advertising and all the coordination that it takes to put on a production of this scale.

While the heart of ACS is to unify the college and encourage community building, there is perhaps a little more than friendly competition involved. With the highest possible score being 60 points, the groups will be judged 50% for musicality and 25% each for choreography and entertainment value.

Barcelona, I chose to stay with a host family with a roommate. My program (AIFS) placed me with a sweet, retired woman named Eugenia who had lived in Spain her whole life, and in Barcelona for over a decade,” Gilkinson shared.

“My roommate was another U.S. student from my program and was from Minnesota. We got along well and have been keeping in touch! One of the best parts of the host family package is that the families provide breakfast and dinner Monday through Friday. My host mom always made me a sandwich for lunch during the week as well! The food was amazing (and) fresh, and sometimes I even had local

ABROAD 4

The performing teams will be divided into five groups: fraternities, sororities, housing groups, non-affiliated men and non-affiliated women. The team that cinches the first-place title in each division will join generations of ACS winners on the plaque by the Commuter Lounge in the Breen Student Union.

On Jan. 28, an invitation to participate in ACS was sent out to the entire student body. Registration for the event is open until Feb. 13, when a completed form and the chosen song’s lyrics must be submitted. The form is available on the college’s alumni page, and Corey can be reached at coreypa.gcc.edu with any questions.

Formal rehearsal for the competing groups begins March 10, after which each team will get access to rehearsal rooms for one hour weekly. Despite this being a month away and the actual event not being for more than another two months, several of the especially competitive groups have already started planning and preparation.

This year’s ACS will be held at 7 p.m. on Apr. 25 in the Physical Learning Center’s Arena. Following a 68-year legacy, All-College Sing is revving up to once again unite students, families and alumni to celebrate a community that is 150 years strong.

Rizz 101

I attended the lecture last week on “How to Talk to Girls 101,” and frankly, I walked away unsatisfied. There was some excellent advice, and I took pages of notes, but I feel that I still have much to learn before I am prepared to attempt to talk to a girl. Do you have any advice that you could share?

-Taking Notes from Memorial

Unfortunately, I was unavailable to attend to speak at the talk, and I am unable to comment on what was said there. However, as Dr. Love, I have a wealth of information from my experiences and am well-prepared to share it with you.

Do’s and Don’ts of Talking to Girls:

● Do: Ask her questions about herself! You wouldn’t believe how many dates my friends have gone on where the guy only talked about himself. It’s OK to be nervous, but it’s never OK to be rude.

● Do: Be genuinely interested in what she has to say. Ninety percent of being good at talking to girls is being able to truly listen.

● Do: Talk at a normal volume. Being as timid as a mouse isn’t cute. Neither is being over the top.

● Do: Remember the small things. It means a lot that you remember an offhand comment she made.

● Do: Try to be friends before anything else.

● Don’t: Make a big deal about it. It makes it really awkward, really fast.

● Don’t: Approach her for the first time and say that the Lord has put it on your heart that she’s your wife. (It has happened, unfortunately.)

● Don’t: Get too close. Personal space is greatly appreciated.

● Don’t: Always try to fill every silence.

● Don’t: Always ask the same questions. Please.

I promise that it isn’t as hard as you are making it out to be. Talking to girls is NOT super scary. I know a lot of people say, “just go talk to her.” That’s hard, especially if you’ve never spoken with her before. However, you already have one thing in common with a lot of girls: you both go to Grove City College. That’s as good a starting point as anything.

One last piece of advice: Be normal about it. Carrying around a sheaf of notes is not exactly inconspicuous, so I probably wouldn’t do that. You’ve got this! Auspiciously,

Dr. Love Love M.D.

Think you’ve got what it takes to be Grove’s leading love authority?

Ever wonder who Dr. Love is? Dr. Love’s identity has been a well kept secret for years. Our current Dr. Love has been hiding in plain sight among you for the past three years, secretly advising the campus on all romantic adversities.

Now, The Collegian is giving you a chance to step into Dr. Love’s role for a week.

We’re hosting a contest to see who’s got the best (and most entertaining) advice for the campus.

Submit up to 400 words in response to the prompt below by Feb. 7 to FoxER22@gcc.edu for a chance to be featured in the Feb. 13 issue!

Prompt: My girlfriend and I have only been dating for two weeks, but Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Meanwhile, a lot of my friends are engaged and already have their forever plans locked down. I really like her, but it feels way too soon to do something over the top. I want to do something intentional and not cliche. What should I do, Dr. Love?

Six more weeks of winter

Julia Sikora Contributing Writer

This Pennsylvania tradition draws approximately 30,000 visitors to Punxsutawney, Pa. every year on Feb. 2. The year 1886 marked the first recorded Groundhog Day celebration, an event rooted in European traditions and myths. Similar beliefs associated with Candlemas Day, the 40th day of Christmas and the presentation of Jesus in the temple, held specific customs for centuries. According to the official Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, the date itself marked a milestone in the winter, and the weather that day was important. Since then, crowds have gathered annually to witness the groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, coming out of his burrow to look for his shadow. If he sees his shadow, six more weeks of winter are to be expected. If there is no shadow, Phil predicts an early spring. Gobbler’s Knob, the site of the Groundhog Day celebration, welcomed thousands of visitors to the 140th annual Groundhog Day festivities

ABROAD

continued from 3 Catalan meals, which was a great cultural immersion.

“Another amazing part of the Homestay is the fact that my host mom was an amazing resource for ideas of things to do! She recommended some

this year. Grove City College students braved the sub-zero temperatures during the early hours of Monday, Feb. 2 to take part in the tradition. Junior Anastasia Brown, Pennsylvania native, recalls fond memories of Groundhog Day from her childhood, saying “(I saw) it on TV broadcasts, which my family watches religiously each year.” She welcomed the opportunity to travel the two hours to Punxsutawney to fulfill her “lifelong dream” of participating in the day herself.

Gobbler’s Knob opens to the public at 3 a.m. on Groundhog Day. Stage shows, concerts, performances, special guests and firework shows entertain crowds prior to the ceremony. The special guest of honor this year was United States Senator Dave McCormick, the first sitting senator to attend the festivities. The ceremony is organized by members of the Inner Circle, local dignitaries responsible for carrying on the tradition of Groundhog Day every year. They interact with the crowd, knocking on the door of Punxsutawney Phil’s burrow, showing him off and

lesser-known spots and activities, which really helped me experience as well. Overall, my host family experience was one of my favorite parts of my experience in Barcelona!” she said.

interpreting the ultimate forecast.

Brown recounted “seeing the Inner Circle parade to the stage, winning a free tote bag and getting hot chocolate in a groundhog souvenir cup” as some of the most memorable parts of the morning. When the time came for Punxsutawney Phil’s annual prognostication, Brown “joined the crowd in booing” after the groundhog saw his shadow. She “had been longing for the warmth of spring every minute since 1:20 a.m. when (she) awoke,” yet the forecast loomed: six more weeks of winter.

In the end, the crowd reaction did not change the proclamation that came from the scroll read by members of the Inner Circle. Punxsutawney Phil called for six more weeks of winter after seeing his shadow this year. Even amid record-breaking snow, Pennsylvanians, Grove City College students and Groundhog Day enthusiasts alike wait eagerly for the prospect of an early spring next year, when it will be Groundhog Day — again.

Global Studies Coordinator Rachel Anderson advises all students who are thinking about or are currently studying abroad to apply for their passports early and to follow OGP on Instagram. Don’t miss the Feb. 15 deadline for fall 2026 application forms – adventure, alongside invaluable insight into the world, awaits!

Word on the street

What’s your best advice for talking to guys/girls?

Advice for talking to guys: I wouldn’t recommend it.

How to get the girl: Major in mechanical engineering and minor in dancing. Or major in mechanical engineering and minor in politics. Or minor in rizz. Conrad Smith ’29

Best advice for talking to girls: Idk just do it and don’t think.

Alexander ’26

Best piece of advice for talking to a woman: Just practice by talking to a wall, it’s pretty much the same thing.

Best piece of advice for talking to a boy:

his ig-

How to start a conversation with a man, 100% guarantee: Ask which animal he thinks he could take in a fight.

Iris North ’26

How to start a conversation with a man: First of all, ask him outright if he hates women. Like this: ‘Do you hate women?’ If you wish to continue speaking with him after this, ask him what his favorite artist is. It doesn’t matter if you know the artist or not. Ask him if he’s heard their latest album, and start talking about how much they ‘cooked.’ Whatever you do, do not pick your nose.

Cecilia Landis

’27

The magic lives on Harry Potter franchise gets a series

Randall Elvin Staff Writer

Harry Potter is returning to Hogwarts and Hogwarts is returning to our screens, but in a new form for the legendary wizard franchise.

More than a decade after “Harry Potter” topped the box office, the streaming giant HBO Max is hoping for magic of their own by bringing it back to the top. Their innovation begins with developing a TV series with fresh faces.

The adaptation is primed to be a full reboot, retelling all seven novels from the “Harry Potter” series, with each season focusing on a different book. As with most films, runtime was a serious factor in the original series, and many of the movies struggled due to poor time management. Rushed character development and cut scenes highlight this feature.

A series can address these

issues by eliminating the struggle for time. HBO found success in this strategy when they released “The Penguin” (2024). The self-titled series was an expansion of “The Batman” (2022), which was successful in telling a deeper story of a smaller character. HBO appears to be reworking the same technique with a different fandom. Quieter characters will get a chance to be understood in their own way. Characters like Ginny Weasley, Neville Longbottom and Draco Malfoy now have space to develop naturally, which will mirror the book more accurately than the movie adaptations.

Of course, rebooting “Harry Potter” doesn’t just come with guaranteed success and praise; it comes with real risk. It is going to be a real challenge to live up to the bar that the movies set. A classic soundtrack, iconic acting and undisputable success in the

box office were all outcomes of the franchise’s last output. Any new adaptation will face constant comparison, and we will have to find out together if the series rises to the challenge.

HBO appears to be aware of the stakes. Executives have described the project as a decade-long commitment, positioning “Harry Potter” as a flagship series for HBO. Creative leadership will fall to showrunner Francesca Gardiner, with Mark Mylod directing multiple episodes. Both are known for in-depth storytelling, which suggests a version of “Harry Potter” that prioritizes emotional depth.

J.K. Rowling is labeled as an executive producer, with HBO emphasizing its commitment to staying faithful to the novels. Casting has been announced for many of the major roles. Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stour will play Harry

Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, respectively. Other series regulars include John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall and Nick Frost as Hagrid. There’s also a unique layer that spawns from this show that is personal to us as a community. At Grove City College, there are many students who were not allowed to watch or read the “Harry Potter” series, especially those who were homeschooled or in otherwise conservative households. In those families, the franchise was discouraged or strictly banned due to concerns over magic and spiritual influence. Within Christian circles, the books were held in a middle ground, with some families being open and others being closed off. The series is a cultural staple to most, but possi-

‘Hope’ hits all the right notes A review of Petra’s new album

Benjamin Treadwell Contributing Writer

Among other revivals of classic acts, the legendary Christian rock band Petra has reconvened for not only a 50th anniversary tour, but also for an all-new album. On Oct. 8, 2025, they released the song “Deliver Us” as a single to build up to their Jan. 5 release of the album “Hope.” In their publicity pieces for the album, Petra promised songs to offer reassurance in Jesus for a despairing generation lost in a chaotic and uncertain time. They deliver 10 songs that do just that — and are much better than the average contemporary Christian music tracks. On the first listen, this album seems slightly incohesive; the band chose to vary the styles of the songs noticeably more than on their prior releases (the third track has a fascinating ’80s-rock-meets-islander

vibe.) However, the careful listener will notice that all the songs still sound like Petra, and several stylistic choices, such as the digital self-harmony recording technique for John Schlitt’s singing, tie the songs together with a subtle similarity. Further, while the individual songs’ styles vary more than in the past, the album has a very strong thematic structure and throughline.

“Hope” succeeds in its mission to provide songs that point the listener to Jesus in the midst of trouble. The organization of the album, examined carefully, is a Christian redemption arc. After the introductory, near-metal “Filthy Lucre,” (a penetrating Biblical call away from the pursuit of wealth), they present “Kiss the Coals” (my personal favorite from the album). This reference to Isaiah speaks of salvation in a light we all need to be reminded of: salvation and sanctification through trials.

God’s love is often compared to fire — but this song reminds us that it is a fire that will sear away our impurity. This consideration of growth through trials continues throughout the rest of the album (which I won’t completely spoil here). Without shying away from the pain of life in a fallen world, the songs present steady reminders that by relying on our savior, the Word and God’s providence, we will make it — and we can find joy in this journey. “Deliver Us,” the single, is the final song, prompting us to recall that after the trials and the sanctification, God will rescue us and this world — and we have a role in the plan of salvation. Each song also holds up as a musically excellent piece. The style is rock, yes, but Petra took the trouble on each track to have quality playing and musical depth. They do not limit themselves to the standard of a single singer, a

pair of guitars, and a drum set. In every song, the masterful keyboard work of John Lawry adds a beautiful layer, and toward the end of the album, Greg Bailey brings a powerful hit of emotion and musical complexity with his cello playing. Petra has always built layering into their songs, but now their music has the added benefit of modern recording equipment that preserves the musical quality better than before. Not only is the message of the album good, but so is the delivery. All in all, this is an amazing album. It might not be the perfect introduction to the music of Petra (I’m biased from having listened to their entire discography), but it is a timely soundtrack for our days of tension and conflict. For anyone who likes Christian music, rock and/or is tired of 201020s contemporary Christian music, give “Hope” a listen. I cannot imagine you’ll regret it.

‘David’

disappoints

Owen Pfaff Contributing Writer

My criticism of the movie “David” stems from the disrespectful portrayal of David’s character.

To be clear, this is not to say that because “David” fails to portray its main character as strictly as in the Bible’s narrative, it is thus barren of goodness. I fully expected certain elements of David’s character to be emphasized over others, especially given the intended audience: children.

However, the movie fails to capture the key elements of its source material to the point that the movie is deceptive in nature. In addition, the movie suffers significant damage to its plot given the butchered nature of David’s character arc.

The primary issue is that the film completely defangs David. He is a non-threat. At no point does he become the kind of person who could slaughter thousands of Philistines, murder one of his lieutenants and rape his wife.

Instead, the director decided to focus on the musician side of David. We are promised the warrior king and delivered the pop star. Obviously, the creators were never going to portray the full gore and horror of ancient Israel, and they definitely were not going to delve into “the incident,” yet they left David nothing. He has no fierceness, no cunning and no real sense of leadership.

As an example, in one of the opening scenes, David courageously saves a sheep from a lion, causing the lion to become trapped under a large rock. In a moment of supposed magnanimity, David frees the lion from the rock and allows it to roam free once again. This isn’t mercy; it’s foolishness. The scene is designed to make David appear kind and merciful, but it is undercut by his stupidity. He is a shepherd, and it is a shepherd’s job to kill the lions and the bears. The movie relies heavily on these kinds of scene dynamics to make David appear as good as possible.

There’s nothing wrong with having a sympathetic main character. However, David is not just sympathetic. He is perfect to the point that the movie fails to have a character arc. In the most basic form of storytelling (this is a generalization), a good character must overcome a psychological flaw to become the grown character.

Unfortunately, the movie fails to clear this bar. At times, it is implied that David struggles to trust God, however, at no point in the movie does he ever choose to do anything except trust God.

In the final sequence, the director attempts to give the illusion of an arc. David (because he is so merciful and loving to the guy who tried to kill him twice) attempts to save Saul from his “destiny.” The director casts it in the light that this is in defiance of God’s wishes. While this might technically qualify as a complete arc (which takes place in the last 15 minutes of the movie), it’s not foreshadowed and is at odds with David’s previous characterization.

There’s a lot more that could be said. I have only scratched the surface of the film’s issues. I would not recommend this movie to any audience.

Grove City College men and women’s basketball faced Washington & Jefferson this past weekend in the PLC Arena. Unfortunately, neither team was able to capture a win in this matchup.

Both teams are having good seasons, and the women’s team currently leads the PAC with a 7-4 record in the conference.

As the season winds down, the teams are working hard to secure a few more victories and hopefully a spot in the PAC playoffs.

Be sure to get to the PLC Arena to catch a game before the season is over!

By Luke Paglia, Photo Chief

Ever-present echoes

Olivia Petty Contributing Writer

What if books didn’t exist?

That could be good for society, not because people would read less, but because they would understand more. If books didn’t exist, we’d have to memorize everything to access and share it. Modern education minimizes the value of memorization. By memorizing more, we would be in constant dialogue with Virgil and Shakespeare, their words permanently stamped upon our minds and ever echoing in our ears. Easily available print sources cripple man’s mental capacity by minimizing the demand for memorization and attention. However, memorizing proves achievable

My

Jase Herrick Contributing Writer

Memorization brings the past to life

“The one who lends an ear to great passages keeps alive the spirit of the one who spoke them.”

and advantageous.

Memorization is achievable. Start with those three words.

“… The brain’s memory storage capacity (is) closer to around 2.5 petabytes (or a million gigabytes),” says psychologist Paul Reber. “For comparison, if your brain worked like a digital video recorder in a television, 2.5 petabytes would be enough to hold three million hours of TV shows. You would have to leave the TV running continuously for more than 300 years to use up all that storage.”

You don’t have to look things up to find answers. Your brain can store more information than many computers.

In an age of instant digital access, shortened attention

spans contribute to poorer comprehension and inhibited ability to read and memorize.

“The problem of screens has made people forget — if they ever learned — deep or vertical reading. No one reads more than a paragraph. The size of a screen is your attention span,” English professor Andrew Harvey said.

Memorizing allows you to retain more information than that tiny screen could ever hold. Memorization raises the dead, granting them immunity to “the whips and scorns of time” and the fickleness of OneDrive. Not everyone recognizes the value of the often-grueling process of memorization in an age of iCloud, Safari and SD cards.

Although requiring discipline and attention, the process of memorization proves advantageous. The one who lends ear to the voices of great passages, poems and proverbs by memorizing such sayings keeps alive the spirit of the one who first spoke them. To store up the words of Shakespeare is to be in constant conversation with him. Though bodies perish, ideas flourish when cultivated.

Memorizing a text allows you to know it better. Although books do allow people to know more, “Socrates seems to think that the shift from oral to book culture will make people not know things as well,” Harvey said.

Every time you memorize and recite a speech from Shakespeare, you are offering your audience the opportunity to listen to the

dead playwright speak. When you quote obscure lines from Dickens, you are providing your friends with the chance to hear Dickens’ opinion. The great authors live on through the ambitious memorizers.

“The well-educated person, who has a head and heart full of meaningful knowledge, is a better writer, speaker, thinker and servant because he or she has an overflowing font of resources within, ready for access at any time,” Leigh Lowe writes in her article “Repetition, Memorization, Recitation.”

Who wouldn’t want “an army of good words” (to quote Shakespeare) ready to argue or placate, defend or communicate as the need arises? To memorize is to command an army of good words rather than to submit to the tyranny of fickle technology.

desk is older than my dad

GCC’s ancient dorms reflect misplaced priorities

When I moved into Hopeman Hall at the start of the fall semester in 2024, my father helped me carry my belongings into the building. As soon as we stepped into the room I would be living in for the next nine months of my life, he stopped, looked around and said, “Wow. This place looks the exact same as it did when I was here.”

At first, I thought he was joking. But the more time we spent in the room, the more I realized he was right. The same old wooden chairs, the same scuffed up 200-pound desks and the same rickety broken ladders to the top bunk; all the furniture was the same.

Brian Herrick graduated from Grove City College in 1987 and would go on to father a daughter and two sons. The youngest of his sons, me,

would later attend the college and live with the same furniture he did 37 years earlier.

When he was here, the campus was a very different place. As technology has changed, classrooms have been updated and buildings have been renovated, such as the fancy-looking STEM building and the new Smith Hall of Science. Perhaps I am insane, but I cannot imagine that while I am doing homework at my desk, there was a guy sitting in the exact same chair 40 some years ago listening to Michael Jackson’s latest song, “Thriller,” on his cassette player, while his roommate watches the beginning of Michael Jordan’s rookie season in the NBA.

I know what you might be thinking. “The college has limited money, and the money is being spent elsewhere,” you might say.

To this argument, I have two responses. The first is that yes, the college administration has been allocating money to other places around campus. For

example, the college installed an extremely important renovation made to the end of the quad when they added a half circle of concrete to the sidewalk pathway. That was definitely an extreme necessity.

In another example of shrewd investment, the college renovated Lincoln Patio, adding a smokeless firepit, new outdoor furniture and a bunch more space for activities that likely nobody will ever use.

How about the bleak looking stairs leading to lower campus that are already cracking and falling apart? Yes, these renovations do seem super important and not unnecessary at all, which leads me to my second point.

It’s just my humble opinion, but maybe upgrading the interior living spaces of the people that attend the college might be more important than upgrading exterior elements like a patio or sidewalk.

I am in a unique situation in that last year, someone broke one of the old, 200-pound

desks that would have been in my room today. It was replaced by a newer looking, sleek wooden desk that now belongs to my roommate. That new desk sits right next to my old one, which is currently breaking into pieces.

His desk is clean, polished and has an outlet, multiple compartments and shelves.

Meanwhile my old desk has a light bulb that does not work and an engraving on it which I’m almost 100% certain reads, “Wagner ’82.”

Worse yet, the dorm rooms in Hopeman Hall have no screens on the windows. When it gets hot outside, the windows need to be opened.

These open windows are the perfect invitation for dozens of bugs to fly right on in, make themselves at home and stay the night.

Hopeman Hall has a lot of history. Its legacy is something worth preserving and being proud of, but that is not an excuse to hold onto furniture that has been falling apart for decades. The dorm rooms remain incredibly outdated

even as everything else on campus is getting renovated. It gives off a message that the college is trying to get as many students as possible to enroll and not caring for their flourishing once they arrive. Memorial Hall illustrates this point, serving as a highly stylized freshman men’s dorm shown off on tours, while only freshmen are allowed to live there. It is not a great look that the best dorms on campus are for freshmen only. If GCC can afford all the new renovations being made to campus, I am sure that some money can be passed the students’ way to improve the furniture in Hopeman. I should not be sharing a room with my dad’s college furniture like it’s a family heirloom. Let the 1980s stay in the 1980s where they belong and work toward getting some new furniture in Hopeman to improve the lives of Grove City College students.

On pomegranates and snow

Eli Wick Contributing Writer

I felt a sudden urge to leave my room at 1:20 a.m. after watching a particularly secular entertainment program. I took a walk outside in the chilling weather with the goal of getting a pomegranate-infused drink from the cafeteria. The cold truly does clear minds, sharpening the dullest priority.

I had been struggling in my faith for a good while until the Lord had revealed himself and his will to me, through the people around me and his magnificent creation.

So concerned was I in walking on an adult path that I had forgotten the essence of childhood. But that night, I had realized it, or, at least, I felt as though God revealed it to me. A sudden weight was swept away by the winds that kicked up fresh, glittering powder.

As I trekked through the thick, lazy snow, it almost felt like I was walking beside God. I asked him such childish questions as I would have 12 years ago, but somehow those questions felt more powerful than the existential ones that plagued me so recently and which entomb others.

I was imagining the taste of pomegranate, and felt the gusts swirl around me — a kind of surface cold that reminds you of the heat inside.

To the open, cloudy midnight, I remember talking to myself about the time Jesus had spent on this earth, the handful of years that he had to experience the vast flavors, emotions and chills we get to enjoy.

In the later chapters of the gospel, we experience Jesus’ new, risen body almost alongside him as he appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus. The two disciples appear quite sullen, but Jesus gives them an immediate reprieve — a personal autobiography and then the chance to break bread with him, before vanishing in front of their eyes. Later, Jesus appeared to the disciples, gathered at the news that their rabbi had been seen. But we live in a moment when Jesus is not seen, so I wondered aloud wheth-

HISTORY continued from 2

in 1913, it would take more than a decade for sororities to receive the same recognition. Despite this delay, female student societies continued to meet in secret as their male counterparts had before.

“One sorority was founded in secret in 1917. These brave women met in candlelight as to not be caught. They were the sisters of the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. They would later be forced to change their name to Zeta Zeta Zeta due to a copyright lawsuit from a national sorority,” Walczak said. Walczak, a Tri-Zeta alumna, now serves as the sorority’s advisor and continues to help the wider Greek community preserve its storied history.

The sisterhood of Gamma Chi would also form under the cover of secrecy in 1919, orig-

er Jesus had a chance to fully experience the creation he carefully developed. He has created so much for us that it feels unfair if he did not eat pomegranate or see the beauty of snow piling up.

I continued along the padded concrete, reflecting on this childish question. When I reached my destination, I purchased my drink as desired and unscrewed the cap to give it a taste. It tasted dusty, undesirable, like a cup after a long time open to an indoor air.

I went along my way outside and remembered yet another encounter one had with the Lord, a reflection of his goodness to creation: Abel’s offering, his first fruits. With my childish question from before, this passage in my mind burned for a moment, and I had my second strange urge of the night. I poured out a portion of my pomegranate juice onto the snow. It felt right.

With this small satisfaction, I continued along the path I took to reach the market and saw an icy trail some team of poor souls tramped down. I ran along the path, feeling like I was seven years old again, and contemplated a long-time dream of mine.

I confess, I have always wanted to be a father. I remember my own parents succeeding so well in caring and pruning my brother and I, but, unlike my father’s misfortune of two unruly boys, I have always wanted daughters.

I prayed to God in that moment, running through footand-a-half of snow, that he would never give me a child while I have the childishness I felt at that moment — only for the havoc we would wreak on the world together, one child of God in league with another (just with a touch more mischievous tendency).

That night had been an escape from darkness into a clarifying dose of creation. Only in that moment, when I allowed silence to overtake me, did silence invite its friends, joy and wonder, to kindly punch me in the face.

I drink my pomegranate beverage here, now, with thoughts of God’s mercy and unrestrained kindness, with prayers that he continues to amaze me and keep me in the company of wonder and joy. My drink now tastes sweeter than it ever has.

inating as a society for town girls. In 1924, the college officially recognized these sororities and permitted the formation of others in the same tradition.

Like the fraternities, the sororities offered their members community and camaraderie.

Career Services Office Manager Heather Carothers ’88 fondly remembers her time as an Alpha Beta Tau active and the meaningful connections the group afforded her.

“Greek life was alive with energy while I attended GCC. Social events, Bible studies and study groups were just a few of the fun and enjoyable opportunities that enriched student life during the late 1980s,” Carothers said.

“I was blessed to become a member of the ABT sorority my freshman year. Coming to the Grove from California, the ABT’s truly gave me a group of

No time for unity

Micaiah Brindle Contributing Writer

“This is not your grandfather’s Republican Party,” is a common phrase used to describe the transformation of GOP politics from the Reagan era to an American “New Right” generally defined by Donald Trump and his nationalist agenda.

The phrase is usually invoked to convey a negative view of the president’s movement, which is claimed to have stoked the fires of political polarization. Pundits say what is truly needed is a return to the times when Reagan worked with a bipartisan coalition, who spoke cordially with each other and worked for the common good.

Ultimately, despite our differences, we are all Americans, right? So goes the talking point. This type of politics would be favorable in the abstract but entirely misses the reality of American politics in the 21st century.

In 2026, leftism necessarily stands for anti-American, anti-Christian and anti-white principles. Its social views seek the abolition of all traditional Christian social order, including the family, marriage and gender.

The cult of transgenderism and abortion were among the most dominant of the leftwing’s stated policy positions in the last election cycle. Mass immigration — which prompted President Trump to run in 2015 — is the only acceptable position on immigration for Democrats to hold in politics. Their fervent anti-white positions view whites as the only demographic in America that can be discriminated against with the blessing of the state.

But we’re still all American,

wonderful sisters who blessed me with friendship, support and shared Christian values,” she said.

The college’s trademark independence extends to its Greek groups, none of which are affiliated with national or international fraternities or sororities.

The Grove City College Greek community enjoyed roughly 75 years of steady growth and popularity before facing challenges in the 1980s and ’90s. With hazing laws tightening nationally and the college ending local off-campus housing, Greek life took a hit. Some groups lost charters for running afoul of college rules, and others saw membership challenges. Membership caps and block classes were introduced during this time, and those changes continue to affect the modern Greek community.

“The

right? Well, left-wing radicals, many who were not born here, such as NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Rep. Ilhan Omar, continue to assert that our founders are evil and our history needs to be reevaluated.

This is simply a preview of the opinions that naturally produce such a chasm between political parties.

As a result of left-wing ideology which promotes such godless behavior, violence is increasingly occurring. This ranges from school shootings, often against Christians, by transsexuals inspired by their mental insanity and targeted political assassinations. The most relevant of these is, of course, when a left-wing radical motivated by ideologies that are universally pushed by the Democratic Party (namely transgenderism and anti-conservative bigotry), murdered Charlie Kirk who was exercising his First Amendment rights with college students in Utah.

President Trump also faced at least two attempted assassinations against him in the 2024 campaign cycle, not to mention the violent Antifa and BLM activists who burned cities across the nation in 2020 and engage in brutality against conservatives today.

In every one of these cases, especially after Kirk’s death, hundreds of leftist social media accounts both large and small celebrated the killing of a good Christian man with two children because he did not adhere to the aforementioned ideology.

The radicalization of the leftist base in particular shatters all attempt at unity. It is not Democrat “elites” who

Today, Greek life continues to strengthen its commitments to authentic fellowship and campus involvement, remaining true to the values that facilitated its founding. The community’s focus now rests on increasing camaraderie among its member groups — with the PanHellenic and Inter-Fraternity councils working to create this collective unity.

While the college’s modern Greeks no longer gather in secret or meet by candlelight, the history and traditions of their societies continue to shape their practices today. Greek life’s continued commitment to Christian fellowship and philanthropic investment makes it an indispensable asset to the Grove City College community, and young men and women raised in its embrace perpetuate its mission.

engage in domestic terrorism such as trying to harm ICE officials and impede their legitimate law enforcement activities. The left has become militarized against normal Americans to the point where politics has become existential, quite literally a matter of life and death.

Politics is no longer a tug of war over tax policy and environmental regulations. When a group defines itself by opposition to your country and you as a person (your religion, race, ideology, etc.), working with that group is no longer possible, and in fact achieving victory over that group should be one’s main goal.

Are we not required as Christians to oppose evil where we find it? Can any American truly call themselves a patriot while allying with radicals such as these?

Recognizing the stakes, the American right — the opposition to the left — must be a reactionary movement, tailor-made to combat the left while also establishing its vision of traditional Americanism which made this country great. The failures of the conservative movement to address leftism — frequently conceding ground in the process — must be removed for victory to be achieved.

After all, this isn’t Ronald Reagan’s Republican Party. And this isn’t your grandfather’s Republican Party.great. The failures of the conservative movement to address leftism—frequently conceding ground in the process—must be removed for victory to be achieved.

After all this isn’t Ronald Reagan’s Republican Party. And this isn’t your grandfather’s Republican Party.

MAGIC

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bly an odd niche here in Grove City. Production is expected to take place in the U.K., with a projected release window of 2026 or later. That extended timeline suggests care over urgency. If HBO applies the same discipline that made “The Penguin” successful, Hogwarts’ return will give this story the time and attention it always deserved.

Whether Grove City students ultimately tune in or decide to keep Hogwarts at arm’s length remains to be seen, but either way, the conversation alone proves the magic hasn’t faded and is far reaching.

Staff editorial

Oregon should secede

Christa Bashinski Entertainment Editor

The East and West are in a fight.

Oregon has been dealing with increasing polarization between the two regions since the anti-police riots in 2020.

The eastern side of the state is generally comprised of traditionalists, predominantly home to farmers, ranchers, miners and the like. The western side, albeit smaller, has cities like Portland and Salem that make up for their size with a dense population. Eastern Oregon makes up two-thirds of the state by area, but its city brethren host most of the population.

The two have big differences in policy preferences. Portland, known for its liberal governance, is a far cry from the East’s call for less regulation and more local control.

The Greater Idaho Movement is the product of this conflict. Eastern Oregon is attempting to redraw its state boundaries to relocate fourteen of its counties and several partial counties into Idaho.

Mike McCarter, the president of the movement, ex-

SWIM

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ness. Juniors Bryce Pope and Owen Hancock and sophomore Aidan McCarthy won in two events.

Fritz emphasized that out-of-conference meets against teams like SUNY Geneseo, University of Rochester, Carnegie Mellon, Calvin University, Ashland University and Penn West Clarion have allowed the teams to compete against challenging opponents, gaining experience to prepare for the end of the season.

“The biggest challenge at this point is maintaining our focus and discipline as we prepare for and compete in the conference championships,” Fritz said. “We’re hoping that going against tougher competition outside of the conference schools will provide additional motivation to swim fast with minimal challenge at the PAC championships so that

plained the rationale by saying, “For the last three years, we’ve been asking voters what they want for their state government. They’re telling us through these votes that they want their leaders to move the border. In our system, the people are in charge, and it’s time for their representatives to follow through.”

Local advisory votes have been heavily cited as support, with many of the eastern counties passing ballot measures in favor of the change. Some counties have even passed ordinances that require leaders to regularly meet with legislators about next steps. While this is progress, the movement’s success relies on approval by the Oregon legislature, Idaho legislature and U.S. Congress, which is something much easier said than done.

However, there is another solution. Oregon could (and should) secede.

This is not unprecedented.

The United States seceded from Great Britain. Texas attempted to secede from the United States. While this effort was ultimately blocked by the Supreme Court in Texas v. White, an exception could (and should) be made.

As The Collegian News Editor Matthew Purucker eloquently put it, “Oregon, more

our swimmers and divers can achieve their potential.

“The highlight of the meet against W&J this past Saturday was the induction of four alumni into our Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame. … The event was a great opportunity for our team to connect with our past and celebrate our tradition of excellence and long-lasting team culture,” Fritz said.

The inducted alumni were Rob Frey ’75, Jenna (Richert) Foster ’12, Megan (Bilko) Hoyson ’16 and Anne Shirley (Dassow) Hoselton ’20, each of whom set impressive records, achieved outstanding victories and earned the All-American title.

With conference play ending, the focus for the men turns to senior Caleb Einolf and the 200-yard relay teams.

“Einolf is currently ranked 3rd in the nation in the 100yard breaststroke and will be invited to the NCAA Championships,” Fritz said. “We

TPUSA continued from 1

starting a new club on campus.

They worked with the regional director to become a recognized chapter by TPUSA. To become approved at Grove City College, Stegner and Donovan found a faculty advisor, Assistant Professor of Accounting Keith Graybill, submitted a club proposal with an approval checklist and wrote the club’s constitution. Donovon then went before the administrative council.

After more than two months, they completed both processes and became one of over 800 official college TPUSA chapters.

“Our purpose is to ‘educate and equip students in the values of fiscal responsibility, free markets and limited government, promoting the principles of freedom and individual liberty in a respectful and civil manner,’ which are all key aspects of Turning Point and important things for college students to learn about,” Stegner said. “We also place a high emphasis on reflecting the character of Christ in all that we do.”

Grove City’s TPUSA chapter has already held an interest

like Ore-gone.” Oregon is clearly unhappy. And much of the country is unhappy with it. It’s only fair that we cut it loose.

Considering the state’s homelessness, violent crime and high cost of living, it has become a burden on its citizens.

According to The Oregonian, homelessness increased by 35% from 202o to 2023, with Daily Tidings finding an additional 35% surge from 2023 to 2025. Additionally, experts suggest that these numbers are understated, with ECOnorthwest reporting that the state spent $700 million in 2024 to find a solution.

City-Data has shown that despite Oregon’s 51% decrease in violent crime, Portland’s crime rate is still 2.1 times greater than the national average and higher than 95% of U.S. cities. To make matters worse, Oregon’s cost of living is 14.3% higher than the national average, with housing listed 38.5% above the national average by Best Places. This is particularly problematic when the unemployment rate is 5.2%, which is once again above the national average.

There are clear problems. There’s a clear answer. Fifty states feel like a lot, anyway.

believe that our men’s 200 medley relay of Owen Hancock, Bryce Pope, Einolf and Nathan Beukema, which is currently ranked 9th in the nation, should also be invited to the championships. And freshman George Witte should be able to join Einolf, Hancock and Beukema at NCAAs on the 200 Free Relay.”

For results for all events, visit the Grove City College Athletics website (athletics. gcc.edu).

“Based on our successful mid-season meet at Wheaton in December, the percentage improvement we typically experience from that meet to the conference championships, and how well the upperclassmen have been doing compared to recent seasons, we feel the team will post a lot of lifetime best times and new school and conference records in the coming weeks,” Fritz said.

meeting and begun planning several events for the spring semester, including hosting a table about the U.S. military’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in the student union.

The chapter’s first meeting will cover recent events surrounding immigrants and ICE. Students interested in getting involved with the group should join its Telegram channel, pay attention to its posters in academic buildings or sit in on one of its meetings on Mondays at 4:30 p.m. in Staley Hall of Arts and Letters.

“I personally hope to carry out TPUSA’s mission on this campus by approaching every interaction with the characteristics of Christ. This includes, but is not limited to, demonstrating truth, humility and love,” Stegner said. “I truly believe that it is so important to engage in free speech and open debate in ways that can equip students to think critically and act faithfully as they pursue their callings.”

continued from 1

College’s 150th anniversary.

The artist, Glen Sanders, is an adjunct professor of art at the college. “I enjoyed the artmaking, and I hope those who view it appreciate the work and that it represents the county as a family-friendly, nature-loving piece of Americana,” Sanders said.

Although America250PA provided the bell’s fiberglass mold, much of the funding for the project came directly from the college. “Grove City College is honored to support this important project as Mercer County marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s in-

GRADUATION

continued from 1

them count.”

Lingo said he wished he had stayed in touch with his professors and mentors after leaving the college, emphasizing his enjoyment celebrating his 25th reunion at Homecoming in October.

“It’s really special to be here, to be able to walk with these seniors through their last 100 days,” Lingo said. “I wish I had four years to have spent with them, but it’s wonderful whenever we can see students be launched into their callings. It’s a wonderful thing.”

After the speeches, seniors shared thoughts on graduating, connecting with friends and acquaintances. Senior Director of Alumni and College Relations Melissa MacLeod encouraged seniors to continue to connect with the college as alumni.

dependence,” President Bradley Lingo said. “It is especially fitting for the college to play a leading role, since the ideals that have shaped our country for 250 years have also guided Grove City College for the past 150.”

Recently installed in the rotunda of the Mercer County Courthouse, the bell’s delivery to campus will occur later in the spring, where it will reside permanently.

“We are grateful that Grove City College stepped up as the corporate sponsor for the bell – and that America’s 250th birthday coincides with GCC’s 150th birthday,” Mercer County Commissioner Ann Coleman said.

“I hope that over the next 100 days, you will be intentional about your time here, that you will enjoy the community that you have here, because there are many alumni who I talk to every day who would love to be in your seats right now,” MacLeod said during her speech.

The menu for the dinner included several types of pasta, main dish meats, berries and desserts. “This 100-day dinner did not exist back in 2000,” Lingo, a 2000 graduate of Grove City College, said. “It’s a great new tradition that I’m really glad we have because it’s important that students are intentional about the way they spend their last 100 days so they can finish strong.”

Sports

Lacrosse to launch

Reagan Thomas Staff Writer

The Grove City College men’s lacrosse team is set to launch its 2026 season tomorrow, entering the spring with high expectations and one of the most competitive early-season schedules in NCAA Division III.

Under Head Coach Alec Jernstedt, the Wolverines continue to establish themselves as a dominant force in the PAC, building on years of disciplined player development and a culture of relentless competition.

Grove City kicks off its campaign today, facing national powerhouse Salisbury at Archbishop Spalding High School in Severn, Md. — a marquee matchup that provides an immediate benchmark against one of the country’s most consistent contenders. The Wolverines’ willingness to open against an elite opponent reflects the program’s growing confidence and its commitment to testing itself early. After the high-stakes opener, the team returns home to Robert E. Thorn Field for its home debut on Feb. 14 against Ohio Wesleyan, another respected non-conference opponent that will help shape the trajectory of the early season.

February only intensifies from there as the Wolverines

will travel to Franciscan, Rochester Institute of Technology and Christopher Newport. Each of these opponents will bring a different brand of lacrosse — whether speed, physicality or disciplined structure — that should challenge Grove City to adapt readily. These matchups, played in rapid succession, will demand depth, conditioning and strong communication across the defensive unit.

The early March stretch includes another significant road test at Roanoke, followed by a return home for a highlight matchup against Baldwin Wallace, a game that consistently draws energy from the Grove City sideline and student section.

Once mid-March arrives, the Wolverines enter the heart of their schedule and the beginning of PAC play. Before conference games begin, Grove City will travel to Kenyon and York (Pa.), both programs known for disciplined structure and postseason aspirations. These matchups serve as the final tune-up before the Wolverines dive into league competition.

From there, the team faces a six-game stretch against Westminster, Chatham, Allegheny, Washington & Jefferson, Bethany and Hiram — a sequence that could determine PAC tournament seeding

and reveal the team’s staying power as the regular season unfolds. The season wraps up with home contests against Saint Vincent and Thiel, providing key opportunities to finish strong in front of a home crowd.

With a roster combining seasoned veterans like seniors Stewart McClain, Colton Lehberg, Rigdon Green and Tyler Gladstone alongside emerging underclassmen talent, Grove City enters 2026 aiming to sharpen its identity on both ends of the field.

The Wolverines have a battle-tested core that elevates the standard across every unit. The schedule’s intensity — packed with nationally recognized opponents — ensures this group will have every opportunity to develop resilience ahead of PAC tournament play.

As the Wolverines prepare to take the field tomorrow, excitement is building. Students, faculty and alumni are eager to see how this year’s group rises to the challenge of a demanding schedule and leverages the experience gained in previous seasons.

The 2026 campaign promises high-energy lacrosse, standout individual performances and a compelling journey for a program ready to take its next step on the national stage.

Men’s volleyball extends their sweep streak to four

Mia Gallagher Sports Editor

After a slow start to the 2026 season, the Grove City College men’s volleyball team is off to the races, tallying three-set sweeps in each of its last four matches.

Last Friday, the Wolverines traveled to Penn State Behrend to take on Penn State Altoona, Hilbert and Penn State Behrend itself. With dominant wins across all nine sets and stellar individual performances in each match, Grove City enters this final weekend of quad-matches with momentum and enthusiasm.

The Wolverines kicked off their weekend with a Friday night matchup against Penn State Behrend, securing their first sweep with three hardfought set victories of 25-21, 25-22 and 25-22.

Leading Grove City’s offensive effort against Penn State Behrend was freshman Evan DiMalanta, who notched 12 kills in the victory. DiMalanta was followed by junior classmates Carson Good and Max Gianneski, who added a combined 17 kills. Junior Craig Fair and freshman Thomas Krahe supported their hitters by tallying 26 and 12 assists, respectively.

Defensively against Behrend, sophomore Keith Otto posted a team-leading 10 digs. DiMalanta, Fair and Good also

got in on the action, each contributing five digs.

Saturday morning, the Wolverines earned their second sweep of the competition with 25-21, 25-19 and 25-17 victories over Penn State Altoona. Gianneski paced the Wolverines’ offense with 10 kills, followed by sophomore Reese Malcolm, who added seven. Senior Tieg Malcolm and Fair each tallied three aces in the victory, and Fair added 18 assists to his weekend total. Otto and Gianneski contributed a combined 21 digs to the team’s defensive stand.

Grove City closed its weekend with a 25-21, 25-17, 25-23

Sports at a glance Results

Men’s Basketball (8-12): W, Geneva (73-67)

Women’s Basketball (13-7): W, Geneva (94-66)

Men’s Volleyball (5-4): W, Hilbert (3-0)

Men’s Swimming (6-4): W, W&J (169-122)

Women’s Swimming (6-5): W, W&J (209-63)

Indoor Track and Field: Youngstown State Mid-Major

Upcoming

Men’s Basketball: Feb. 7, 3 p.m. at Bethany

Women’s Basketball: Feb. 7, 1 p.m. at Bethany

Men’s Volleyball: Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. vs Randolph

Men’s Swimming: Feb. 7, 1 p.m. at PennWest Clarion

Women’s Swimming: Feb. 7, 1 p.m. at PennWest Clarion

Indoor Track and Field: Feb. 7 at Penn State Sykes & Sabok Challenge

Men’s Lacrosse: Feb. 6, 4:30 p.m. at Salisbury

WOLVERINE WEEKLY HONORS

sweep of Hilbert, improving the program’s 2026 record to 5-4 overall.

DiMalanta recorded his second team-leading offensive performance of the weekend with 11 kills against Hilbert. Gianneski and Good each tallied seven kills in the nightcap. Krahe ended the match with a season-high 12 assists, and Otto chipped in 11 digs defensively.

After a week of rest, the Wolverines return to action at 7:30 p.m. this evening at home against Randolph. They will then host Olivet and Mount Aloysius tomorrow at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., respectively.

Off to the races Track and

Mia Gallagher Sports Editor

The Grove City College men’s and women’s track teams continued their 2026 indoor programs on Saturday with fast finishes and high marks at the Youngstown State Mid-Major Invitational.

Like the SPIRE Invite on Jan. 24, the Wolverines faced competitors from all three NCAA divisions and produced many top 10 finishes.

Senior Alex Mitchell headlined the men’s performance with individual wins in both the 400-meter and 500-meter events. He went on to notch a 10th-place finish in 200 as well.

Further supporting the Wolverines from the track were senior Isaac Busler, sophomore Jeremiah Knowles and freshmen duo Caleb Hina and Colson Frank, whose combined time of 10:36.69 secured seventh in the distance medley relay. This time also qualified them for regionals at the All-Atlantic Region Track and Field Conference Indoor Championship and broke the 10:39:81 school record from 2019. Knowles added a 10th-place finish in the 400 to round out the Wolverines’ track performance for the day.

Sophomore William Britton led the way in the men’s field events, earning 13th in the indoor pole vault with a program-record mark of 14 feet,

field preps for success at indoor champs

Senior Alex Mitchell won both the 400-meter and 500-meter events at the Youngstown State Mid-Major.

“At the end of the day, these meets are all preparation for PACs, so putting in the effort now will ultimately pay off later when it really counts.”

11.5 inches.

“It was a surreal experience. The energy on the track was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced while vaulting. Having the whole team there to cheer me on gave me the confidence I needed to keep jumping higher. I really do owe it all to God, Coach Maddie and my teammates, because I couldn’t have done it on my own,” Britton said.

As the indoor PAC championship draws nearer, Britton and the men’s team remain

confident that the challenging competition presented by these inter-divisional events has prepared them well to take on their PAC counterparts.

“I think I can speak for the whole team by saying that consistent practice and supporting the team goes a long way. At the end of the day, these meets are all preparation for PACs, so putting in the effort now will ultimately pay off later when it really counts. Everyone is working hard, and I know we can expect big things

-- William Britton

this season,” Britton said.

Paving the way for the women’s team was the distance medley relay squad of sophomore Julianna Lindberg, senior Audrey Karwowski and junior pair Annie Herrmann and Cayla Lawrence. The quartet produced a fifth-place finish for the Wolverines — the women’s team’s top finish of the day.

Sophomore Nadine Lauffer turned in two impressive performances in the 500-meter and 400-meter events, earn-

ing eighth and 11th place, respectively. Reflecting on her performance, Lauffer shared the mental challenges that come with competing at the collegiate level:

“Track is a very mental sport (as much as physical), and I believe you win your race before you even begin. Having the right mindset and fixing your eyes on the One who gave you the strength and gift to run is the key to running any race with confidence. That is something I have been learning this semester, and this meet in particular challenged me to stay focused on the true goal, which is always to run for His glory,” Lauffer said.

Rounding out the women’s top 10 finishes was junior Kendall Coddington, who took ninth overall in the high jump. Her final mark of 5 feet, ¼ inch placed first among the meet’s DIII high jumpers.

“One thing the team has been focusing on this season is to be present for each other. There are a lot more athletes than coaches, so sometimes this looks like giving your fellow teammates pointers when the coaches are busy with other athletes. We also have been making an effort to be present for our teammates at meets by watching and cheering for every event,” Coddington said.

Both teams will return to action tomorrow at the Penn State Sykes and Sabok Challenge.

Wolverines cruise past the Presidents

Matthew Purucker News Editor

Despite competing in unfamiliar events, the Grove City men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams had little difficulty defeating Washington & Jefferson in a PAC dual meet in James E. Longnecker Pool on Saturday.

The women’s team swept all 16 events in a 209-63 rout that showcased the versatility of Wolverine swimmers. Freshman Chaeli Keenan, sophomore Marideth Hull, freshman Mollie Massella and freshman Abigail Vance each won two events.

“For the women, we’re excited for their potential, but

also are not sure how to set our expectations, as we have a very young team,” Coach Dave Fritz said, highlighting upperclassmen Sadie Shofestall, Ellie Webster, Freja Kile and underclassmen Abigail and Addison Vance, Massella and Abby Tweed.

Freshman Mary Anne Altman took first in the 100-yard freestyle with a 56.39-second finish.

“When approaching the 100 free, I usually try to think about kicking off my walls because that’s one of my weak points,” Altman said. “I also try to get into a good headspace, since swimming is really a mental race more so than a physical one.”

As part of the changes for the meet, the teams altered their typical relay combinations to try to finish first through fourth place in the relays, succeeding in three of the four events.

“There was nothing significant about sweeping the women’s meet — I was actually disappointed that W&J didn’t put their best female in one of her best events so she could provide at least one good race — but I liked that both teams gave a good effort in the face of minimal challenge,” Fritz said. On the men’s side, the Wolverines’ 169-122 victory was a touch closer in competitive-