The Patriot - February 27, 2026

Letter From the Editor in Chief

Hello Patriots!

As we reach our fourth issue of the spring semester, the campus feels different. The days are getting longer, the sun is finally showing up more often, and everything seems a bit lighter. This time of year brings new motivation and maybe some extra excitement for the warmer days ahead.

First, congratulations on finishing the first bi-term of the spring semester! That’s no small accomplishment. Whether it flew by or felt like it lasted a lifetime, you made it through. Take a moment to appreciate that. College moves fast, and it’s important to recognize your progress along the way.

With spring break only two weeks away, we hope you’re looking forward to some well-deserved rest. Whether you travel, spend time with family and friends, or just catch up on sleep, we hope your break is refreshing and safe.

This issue is full of exciting stories that show what makes our campus community special. We cover the recent musical production, International Dessert Night, and student philanthropy efforts that are making a real difference. We’re proud to highlight the people and events that make our university unique. As always, you’ll find even more inside that reflects the creativity, leadership, and spirit of our students.

As we get closer to spring, we’re looking forward to brighter days. It’s not just about the weather; it’s also about the positive energy on campus. Keep going, keep showing up, and keep supporting each other.

And if Kentucky weather surprises us with one more snowstorm, let’s all just agree to pretend we didn’t see it.

Here’s to sunshine, counting down to spring break, and finishing the semester strong.

Lots of love,

Filippa Malmström Editor-In-Cheif

Staff

Editor- in- Chief

Filippa Malmström

Managing Editor

Ally Kennedy

Staff Writers

Katrina Campbell

Jillian Cross

Sydney Dingus

Eli Dunn

Lily Fabela

Ximena Melendez Hernandez

Taylor Moren

Kasey Padgett

Alicja Sedlak

Sydney Taylor

Zak Willis

Emily Zecchini

Staff Photographers

Faith Baker

Alex Evans

Kurstyn Ison

Abigail McKamey

Faculty Advisor

Jeremiah Massengale

Campus

Fontana Returns to UC as Graduate Assistant

Carola Fontana will continue her connection with University of the Cumberlands soccer as a graduate assistant beginning with the 2026 season while pursuing graduate studies in organizational leadership. Fontana enjoyed a decorated playing career with the Patriots, earning NAIA Second Team All-American honors three times (2023–2025) and being named to the Mid-South Conference First Team All-Conference all three years. She was also recognized for her academic achievements, including CSC Second Team Academic All-America honors in 2024 and 2025. Over her career, Fontana played in every match, contributing key goals and assists, including a standout senior season in 2025 when she notched seven goals and 10 assists, led the team in assists, and was named NAIA Tournament Outstanding Offensive Player. She also tallied game-winning goals against top-ranked opponents, helping the Patriots make deep postseason runs and leaving a lasting legacy as one of UC’s most accomplished student-athletes.

Auditions For Student Directed 10-Minute Plays

Auditions for a night of three original 10-minute plays will be held at 7 p.m. March 2 at the Kohn Theater. The production offers performers an opportunity to gain stage experience with a minimal time commitment while collaborating on fast-paced, engaging works. No preparation is required for auditions. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to move, think creatively and work with others in a supportive and energetic environment. The event promises an evening of dynamic storytelling and theatrical fun. Whether someone is a seasoned performer or trying theater for the first time, the production team welcomes all who are interested. The event promises an evening of dynamic storytelling, collaboration and theatrical fun for both performers and audiences alike.

Cumberlands Music Department Awarded

Sharon McGinley, a staff accompanist for the University of the Cumberlands music department, was awarded District 10’s 2025 “Friend of Music” award by the Kentucky Music Educators Association at its annual conference. The “Friend of Music” award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding support and dedication to music education. McGinley was honored for her continued service to students and faculty, as well as her contributions to performances, rehearsals and campus events. Her recognition highlights the meaningful impact she has made within the department and the broader music community.

Cumberlands Basketball Teams Celebrate Senior Day with Wins Over Lindsey Wilson

University of the Cumberlands celebrated Senior Day Saturday with strong performances from both its men’s and women’s basketball teams. The men’s team defeated Lindsey Wilson 96-75 inside the O. Wayne Rollins Center, using a dominant first half and efficient shooting in the second to improve to 22-6 overall. Seniors Kyle Duke, Andrew McConnell, Brady Bell, and Anthony Harris were honored before tip-off and played key roles in the victory, with Harris recording a double-double and Duke and McConnell combining for 29 points. On the women’s side, the Patriots topped Lindsey Wilson 63-54 on Randy Vernon Court, highlighted by a program-record nine blocks from Zaram Fredricks and 21 points from Joy Kendrick. Both teams showcased balanced efforts while celebrating the contributions of their senior players, and now turn their focus to the upcoming Mid-South Conference Tournament as they look to carry momentum from their Senior Day wins.

UC Welcomes ‘Atomic Habits’

Author James f or Annual

Excellence in Leadership Event

James Clear, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Atomic Habits, will bring his practical approach to leadership to the University of the Cumberlands this spring. Clear, whose work has sold more than 25 million copies worldwide, emphasizes how small, consistent actions can lead to lasting change. He will speak at the annual Excellence in Leadership event on Tuesday, March 24, at 7 p.m. in the O. Wayne Rollins Center, sharing strategies for building better habits, improving decision-making, and achieving personal and professional growth. The event, sponsored by the Forcht Group of Kentucky, is free and open to the public, with tickets available beginning Feb. 24 for faculty and staff and March 3 for the community. Clear is a sought-after keynote speaker who has presented to Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, and his insights on habits, identity, and continuous improvement have influenced millions around the world.

60 UC Winter Athletes Named 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes

UC Patriots athletic department celebrated both athletic and academic success this winter, as 60 student-athletes across winter sports were named 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes, the national office announced Tuesday, Feb. 24. Women’s Swimming & Diving led all teams with 12 honorees, followed by Women’s Wrestling with 11 and Men’s Swimming & Diving with 10. Men’s Wrestling had nine Scholar-Athletes, while Women’s Basketball contributed eight, and Men’s Basketball, Men’s Bowling, Women’s Bowling, and Cheer each had at least one representative. Of the 60 honorees, 22 earned the distinction for a second consecutive year, and Women’s Wrestling and Cheer saw notable increases from 2025. To qualify, student-athletes must be at least sophomores and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, highlighting the Patriots’ commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

Local

Snow and Ice Lead to Class Cancellations at UC Again

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. — Eastern Kentucky received a significant winter weather event on Monday, Feb. 23, as freezing rain and snow created hazardous conditions across the region. The University of the Cumberlands canceled all classes for the day due to black ice and unsafe travel conditions. The mix of snow and freezing rain led to slick roads, prompting officials to urge drivers to exercise caution. Weather forecasts indicate that temperatures will rise later this week, bringing warmer conditions as students return for the start of the second academic term.

Former Williamsburg Resident Elected Lindsey

Wilson SGA President

COLUMBIA, Ky. — Former Williamsburg resident Zachariah Lawson ’26 has been elected president of the Lindsey Wilson University Student Government Association for the 2025–26 academic year. Lawson, who also serves as the student representative on the university’s Board of Trustees, is in his second term as student government president. An English major with an emphasis in communication and professional writing, Lawson helps coordinate student clubs and organizations, oversee student development initiatives,

Campus Life

Dr. Etter’s Legacy of Excellence Remembering

Beloved Cumberlands Music Professor

BY: SYDNEY DINGUS STAFF WRITER

Dr. David Etter passed away on Jan. 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Etter worked at the University of the Cumberlands from 1990 to 2016 as a Chorale conductor, voice instructor, music director for musical theatre and professor of music. He was also heavily involved in Williamsburg’s First Baptist Church as a deacon, choir member and food pantry volunteer.

Sharon McGinley, a staff accompanist in UC’s music department and Etter’s daughter said her father “immersed [she and her siblings] in music” and that her family “always had music playing at home.” Growing up, she said her dad worked to make music fun for her.

“If there was a record that I really liked, he would put it on cassette tape for me so I could listen to it in my room.” McGinley said.

She added that some of her most special memories were when he accompanied her on piano as she prepared for All-State and college auditions.

Etter connected McGinley to the university when the accompanist at the time was overloaded with teaching and accompanying duties. She said that the most satisfying part of her job is “getting to make and talk about music with students and see just the emotional and spiritual exploration as they start to connect with a piece. And realizing what [music] can bring out of yourself and what it can give to your listeners.” McGinley said that her father “saw talent as a gift from God,” and that people should “work hard and strive for excellence” to praise God.

McGinley recalled “Something a former student [of Etter’s] told me that I found really touching, was that whenever somebody came in to talk to my dad in his office or in the choir, he would turn to them and face them because he wanted them to know he was listening and open to whatever they said and wanted to take it seriously.” While Etter was fighting sickness, he was encouraged by videos from previous students. McGinley said, “At a point,

before he passed, Dad squeezed my hand and told me, ‘Love your students. You don’t know what kind of difference it will make.’” McGinley said, “I’m thankful that at the end of his life he was filled with gratefulness.”

Communication Arts Department Chair Jay Bourne is married to Sharon McGinley’s sister-in-law. His recalls Dr. Etter’s “consistent character” saying, “He definitely had a set of values, and he wasn’t going to change the way he thought things should be.” Bourne described the Etter family’s hospitality to him and his wife when they first came to Williamsburg and Etter’s professional accomplishments, saying, “I admired his musical proficiency.” Bourne highlighted the standards Dr. Etter held his students to and emphasized that Etter did not ask them to do any work that he was not willing to or had not already done. Bourne said, “I think they appreciated that because they felt prepared when they left.”

Dr. Jeff Smoak worked with Dr. Etter in the Music Department for over 20 years. “He was very instrumental in making me feel comfortable as a professor here,” Smoak said. “Anytime I had questions or concerns, especially in those first couple of years, he was someone I could always go to.”

Dr. Smoak said that the “bottom line with David Etter was his Christian foundation and Christian witness in this department,” Smoak added, “One of the things that I’ve always liked about Cumberlands is that we are free to express our Christian faith. And with David, it did not matter what the topic was, what the conflict was, what was going on. His Christian foundation was always his most defining characteristic of who he was, how he related to his students, how he related to his co-workers, and to the administration.” Smoak commented on how these Christian convictions heavily influenced Etter’s work ethic, “He was always finding ways to become a better singer, a better teacher, a better professor. He accepted nothing less than the highest standards for himself, and for his students and for everybody else around him.”

Jennifer McKinney, a UC alumna who studied under Dr. Etter as a vocal student said the most impactful lesson Dr. Etter taught her was to put the needs of others first just as Christ did. McKinney said, “He was a man that strove for excellence in everything and expected others to as well; but he still always valued the relationship more.” McKinney remembered, “There was a day that I came to my voice lesson with him, and I was really upset over a boy, but I also had a huge music performance coming up and really needed to focus on it. Instead of shoving my struggles aside to focus on the needed task, he set it aside to help me.” McKinney said that now, when she strives for excellence with her children and students she remembers “to pause and meet them where they are first.” McKinney said, “I need to love them as Christ would before I can ever expect them to achieve the greatness they can.”

The loss of this cornerstone to the Cumberlands music community is not borne lightly. However, it is more than evident that the excellence Dr. David Etter lived with and taught will continue to impact generations to come.

Student Life

Students Experience Flavors From Around the World Sharing Culture Through Dessert

make desserts, though.”

BY: JILLIAN GROSS STAFF WRITER

On Thursday, Feb. 19, campus smelled less like late-night ramen and more like coconut, chocolate and warm vanilla as students gathered for the university’s first-ever International Dessert Night: a sweeter twist on the long-running International Food Night.

International Food Night originally started as a student-led effort to share culture through food. Eventually, campus ministries stepped in to help grow it into a larger event that supports students in more ways than one.

“International food night started by students who wanted to share their culture,” said Rachel Li, one of the organizers. “Campus ministries took it on and made it an event so students who maybe are homesick or maybe can’t afford their own groceries can make food to share about their home and eat with others.”

This year, organizers decided to switch things up. Instead of food, the focus was entirely on desserts: cakes, puddings, pastries and sweets from around the world.

“Dessert night is a twist on international food night, and we have had about the same show for both,” Li said. “Fewer people signed up to

Even with fewer chefs in the kitchen, the turnout told a different story. The food went quickly. Within minutes of the doors opening, students were circling the tables.

For many of the students cooking, the night wasn’t just about serving dessert: it was about serving a piece of home. Arvid Farro of Aruba said he discovered something surprising while walking around the room. “I learned that Mexico has th same desserts as Aruba, the one called Gelatina Mosaico with Jell-O,” Farro said. “In Aruba, it’s called Bolo de Glas.” It turns out that even thousands of miles apart, cultures can meet in the middle over a bowl of colorful Jell-O.

The event inspired students future travel goals, all thanks to rice and coconut milk. Helena Jarosz, an international student-athlete from Poland, tried several desserts she had never tasted before. “No, I have never tried any of these,” Jarosz said. “Maybe some similar ones that we have in Poland, but I really liked it. I tried the sticky rice from Thailand and really liked it, now I want to try it in Thailand as well.”

American students were just as excited. Elias Urban of Texas said he came because a friend told him to, and he was glad he listened. “I was super excited to come in here,” Urban said. “I heard about this from a good friend. She told me to show up, and I did, and I can’t say I was disappointed. I thought having different cuisines from all these cultures was fantastic. A great experience. Really broadened my eyes, I’d say, as to how other people live.”

Megan Schoenlein of Ohio said she wanted to experience desserts that brought “a taste of home” to campus. “I decided to attend here because I wanted to experience different cultures, desserts, and them bringing a taste of home to campus, and how delicious their desserts are,” Schoenlein said. “My favorite desserts would be the ones from Mexico, Tres Leches.”

Luke Rich of Kentucky believes events like

this show what campus diversity really looks like. “I think it just really shows that this campus is like a mixing pot of all different countries and origins, and it really just brings us all together,” Rich said. “It’s really exciting to come here and see all the different desserts from every single country.”

Professor Chin Tan of Malaysia also contributed to the event. “I cooked something called Boa Boa chow, ”Tan said. He added with a smile, “A bowl is very uplifting.” But for Tan, the event carries a deeper meaning than just satisfying a sweet tooth.

“We are a university; we need to bring everybody together as one,” Tan said. “Whenever there is an opportunity to bring people from all over the year to share our culture.“ He believes students sometimes overlook opportunities to learn from each other. “One of the things that people don’t take advantage of is cross-cultural activities,” Tan said. “You can learn so much from another culture: It’s the beauty of the world.”

By the end of the night, the tables were nearly empty, but the room still buzzed with conversation. International Dessert Night proved that sometimes the easiest way to bring people together isn’t through lectures or presentations:

“She

Stage Lights Shine

Loves Me” Sparks Renewed Energy for the Arts

BY: ELI DUNN STAFF WRITER

From Feb. 12-14, the theatre department at the University of the Cumberlands presented the first musical it had staged in quite some time, “She Loves Me.” A romantic comedy written by Miklós László and directed for this production by Dr. Kim Miller, the show served as the inspiration for films such as “You’ve Got Mail.” The story centers on two co-workers who are sworn enemies yet unknowingly madly in love through a series of anonymous letters.

Talk around campus was widespread and enthusiastic, with students, faculty and local residents welcoming the return of a musical. Many expressed hope that continued support will lead to more productions of this kind. The show came together in about a month, making what the cast and crew accomplished especially impressive.

When asked about her thoughts on the production, Lauren Gray, who played the lead role of Amalia Balash, said, “It has been a lovely experience to say the least. I mean, it’s been quite a while since I’ve done a musical, at least since high school, so being able to do this

again, having the support and this new community, has been really nice. Busy, but nice!” The small cast said it formed deeper connections through the show. John Saylor, who played Steven Kodaly, said, “I have been friends with a few people in the cast for a while, but being in this show has made me grow closer to everyone involved here. It’s been really fun, I can’t lie.”

During the three-day run, community members traveled from across Kentucky to attend what had long been hoped for. The performance exceeded expectations with lively songs, strong acting and an engaging atmosphere. Students expressed excitement at seeing the production come to life.

There have since been discussions about the possibility of additional musical productions within the UC theatre department, given the talent displayed. While nothing has been confirmed, the interest remains strong. Hopes of a continued appreciation for the arts are very prominent and appealing to many on the campus. Some hope this can relaunch the usage of musicals at the Cumberlands.

Now that the show has concluded, audiences can reflect on the impact of “She Loves Me” and the production that took place. They can

appreciate the art that was shown and be hopeful that the theatre arts department really seems to be in great hands. The performance underscored the importance of the arts and their role in revitalizing communities where they have been less visible.

The show demonstrated that a campus can come together to appreciate the arts and what they offer. The arts in this community are dire and essential and hold deep richness of importance to many from here, yet many times they become overlooked and never really appreciated. This show has brought a glimpse of hope that really seems to be needed. It allowed the campus community to laugh and feel together, something not to be taken for granted.

Philanthropy in Action

SPA Event Encourages Giving and Campus Engagement

BY: KASEY PADGETT STAFF WRITER

Last week, the University of the Cumberlands Student Philanthropy Association hosted a “Floats for Notes” event in celebration of Kindness Week. Students completed a survey in exchange for a free root beer float. The event drew strong participation and marked another successful outreach effort for the organization. But what is the Student Philanthropy Association?

Savannah Wagers and Lilli Vance work in the Philanthropy Office, which many students on campus might not even know exists. Vance says, “SPA is a student-led organization founded in 2025 at the University of the Cumberlands. We exist to help students see how philanthropy directly impacts their campus experience and why it matters. Our members serve as ambassadors who bring philanthropy to life through fun campus events, hands-on community service projects, and conversations that show how giving back connects us all. SPA is about creating opportunities for students to get involved, make a difference, and be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Wagers is the Annual Giving Manager in the Office of Philanthropy. Wagers says, “I help lead campus-wide giving initiatives and work to connect students, alumni, and friends of the university with opportunities to support scholarships, programs, and campus improvements. A big part of my role is showing how collective giving, even in small amounts, makes a real impact for current students.”

Vance serves as the young alumni and volunteer engagement coordinator. In her role, she works to keep recent graduates connected to the University of the Cumberlands by creating opportunities for alumni and students to stay involved through events, mentorship, and service initiatives. She focuses on building relationships that extend well beyond graduation. She also co-

ordinates volunteers for One Big Give, the university’s annual fundraiser, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to successfully contribute to the institution’s fundraising efforts.

One Big Give is a familiar name to many UC students. The Office of Philanthropy plays a larger role in campus life than many may realize, supporting more events and initiatives than often recognized. ”One of the biggest is One Big Give, our 24-hour annual day of giving that brings the entire Cumberlands community together to support scholarships, programs, and the future of UC. Since launching our first giving day in 2019, it has grown bigger every year. We also partner closely with the Alumni Office, which means we are involved in events like Homecoming, Senior Week, Alumni Reunions, and the President’s Vision Tour. Philanthropy is woven into many traditions and milestones that shape campus life,” Wagers said.

Although the word “philanthropy” is often used on campus, its meaning may not always be clear. Wagers said philanthropy is simply the desire to promote the welfare of others. At the University of the Cumberlands, she said, that happens every day in ways students may not even recognize. She described philanthropy as showing up to serve in the community, tutoring a friend before an exam, supporting a meaningful cause or giving back so future Patriots have access to the same opportunities.

Philanthropy is not just about money. It is about impact. It is about using what you have, whether that is time, talent or resources, to make our campus and community stronger. The Philanthropy Office is the main point of contact for all UC donors and manages the relationships UC maintains with them and alumni. So why did Wagers and Vance start SPA, and what is the point?

“We started SPA because we knew there were students on campus who care deeply about giving back but just needed an outlet to get involved,” Wagers said. “We wanted to create

something that felt student-driven, energetic and welcoming. We also believe students are more likely to get involved when they see their friends and classmates doing the same.

“When philanthropy is shared peer-topeer, it feels authentic and achievable. SPA gives students the opportunity to take ownership of that culture and help make generosity and service visible on campus. By teaching students how they can give back to the university before graduating, we are cultivating a spirit of giving in our alumni.” Now that you have a good understanding of SPA, how can you get involved?

“The easiest way to support SPA is to show up and spread the word,” they said. “Come to our events, invite your friends and help us build momentum around campus. You can stay updated on upcoming events through campus emails or by connecting with one of our members.”

If you are interested in joining SPA, email our staff sponsors at savannah.wagers@ucumberlands.edu or lillian.vance@ucumberlands. edu for more information. “You can also reach out to a current member and join us at our next meeting. We are always excited to welcome new students who want to make an impact.”

BY

BY: LILY FABELA STAFF WRITER

Day in the Life of a UC Student

Juggling Academics, Activities and Everything In Between

Faith Barnes spends the afternoon in Patriot Park with friends, enjoying time away from academic responsibilities. Though her schedule is demanding, she prioritizes relationships, believing community is just as important as achievement.

Faith Barnes studies outside on campus, taking advantage of the warm weather between classes. Finding small moments of peace outdoors helps her recharge during the demanding pace of nursing classes.

Faith Barnes studies late Wednesday night in her dorm room. Balancing academic demands with her desire to serve others through nursing, Barnes often spends long evenings preparing for the future she feels called to pursue.

Faith Barnes studies outside on campus, taking advantage of the warm weather between classes. Even in a relaxed setting, her focused expression shows how seriously she takes her work.

Faith Barnes shares a bowl of chicken chili soup with friends before her weekly life group Bible study. Surrounded by community and faith, these gatherings provide encouragement and balance.

At the end of a full day, Faith Barnes prepares for bed in her dorm room. Rest has become part of her discipline, allowing her to recharge for the responsibilities and opportunities that await her each morning.