The Villanovan | Volume 120, Issue 8: April 15, 2026

This Week in Politics: Trump vs The Pope

Mia Galego Co-News Editor

The United States war with Iran continues to dominate domestic and international politics this week. A recent poll from CBS News found that the majority (64%) of Americans disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the conflict with Iran, up from 62% on March 22.

Recently, one of the most influential Americans and Villanova alumnus, Pope Leo XIV, has repeatedly publicly expressed his disapproval of the U.S. war with Iran. The Pope condemned the war in the Middle East and President Trump’s recent threats of violence against the Iranian population.

In a Truth Social post from April 7, Trump warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight,” regarding the war with Iran.

Just hours after the post, the Pope responded publicly.

“Today, as we all know, there was this threat against the entire people of Iran, and this is truly unacceptable,” the Pope said to reporters outside his residence, according to Reuters.

While the Pope has avoided calling out the president by name, it seems Trump has not been blind to his remarks.

On Sunday night, the president took to social media to criticize the Pope, claiming he is “weak on crime, and terrible for foreign policy.”

Trump also wrote that he preferred The Pope’s brother, Louis, whom he found much better because he is “all MAGA.” The president then went on to claim the Pope was “catering to the

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Blue Key Hosts Admitted Students Day p. 3

The Spires Celebrate 65 Years With Alumni Concert p. 7

Craig Melvin To Deliver Villanova’s 2026 Commencement Address

Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief

Kailey Fahy Co-Editor-in-Chief

Current co-anchor of NBC’S TODAY show, Craig Melvin, will deliver Villanova University’s 2026 commencement address on Tuesday, May 19, University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D., revealed to The Villanovan on Wednesday.

Honoring tradition, The Villanovan is privileged to be the first to break this news to the community.

Melvin is an Emmy award-winning journalist with 25 years of professional experience. In addition to anchoring the TODAY show, he is also co-host of the “3rd Hour of TODAY” as well as host of syndicated “Dateline NBC” broadcasts. He officially stepped into his role as co-anchor for the first and second hours of the TODAY show on Jan. 13, 2025. He co-anchors alongside Savannah Guthrie.

He has covered a diverse range of both national and global events, including Republican and

Democratic national conventions and three presidential inaugurations.

“I think it’s important that we depend so much on information these days and receiving information,” Fr. Peter said to The Villanovan when asked why he chose Melvin. “I think journalists, whether they be print journalists, television journalists, whatever they might be, however we receive the news from them, they have an important vocation, career in life to bring facts and bring the public information. They do that every day on the Today Show.”

“They capture the essence of world news that happened the day before, at the beginning of that broadcast every day. So, I think it’s important that as we look at how we go forward as a University, and particularly as we send our graduates off, the importance that each one of them have of telling the truth. We believe so much in truth here. And I think that there’s no better example of it than people that share the news with us.”

Since joining NBC News and MSNBC in 2011, Melvin has inter-

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Transfer Mania: Basketball Navigates Offseason

Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief

It has become a yearly ritual for college basketball programs to rehaul their entire rosters as thousands of players enter the transfer portal.

Villanova men’s basketball is coming off its first NCAA Tournament appearance in four seasons, and there are only two Wildcats officially returning and one freshman signed from

Villanova Celebrates Dr. Cera Murtagh’s Book Launch p. 4

Love On Lancaster: It’s Wedding Season p. 8

the 2026 recruiting class.

Over a half dozen Wildcats are in the transfer portal, and one has already found a new home. Head coach

Kevin Willard and his staff have already begun building a roster for the 2026-27 season.

Rising senior guard

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Kick-Off Event p. 4

Track & Field Competes At Duke And Rutgers p. 11

Schedule Builder: An End Of An Era p. 6 Womens Tennis Splits Weekend, 1-1 p. 12

Tyler Perkins announced he was returning to Villanova for his final season. Perkins won the Big East Conference’s Most Improved Player of the Year award. He averaged 13.7 points per game, which matched his career high during his freshman year at the University of Pennsylvania.

“Tyler does a lot of things that impact winning,” Willard said on Perkins returning. “He did a great job of adjusting to what was a

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VOL. 120 | ISS. 8

www.villanovan.com

@thevillanovan

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness / Receiving

Stolen Property / Theft From a Motor Vehicle

April 8, MAIN CAMPUS GROUNDS.

A female resident student, under the age of 21, had consumed alcohol and was evaluated. She was also observed on CCTV entering and removing property from a Public Safety vehicle.

Criminal Mischief

April 9, GOOD COUNSEL HALL.

A male resident student reported a damaged exit sign in Good Counsel Hall.

Receiving Stolen Property / Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition

April 10, MAIN CAMPUS GROUNDS.

A staff member reported a folding table stolen from a rental tent on campus. The table was later recov -

CORRECTIONS

ered inside of a residence hall and one of the offenders was identified as a female resident student.

Criminal Mischief

April 10, FEDIGAN HALL.

Unknown individual(s) intentionally damaged two university window screens. The value of the damaged property is unknown.

False Alarms to Agencies of Public Safety

April 12, SULLIVAN HALL. Police responded to Sullivan Hall for a fire alarm activation. The cause of the alarm was a pull station activation. There was no sign of smoke or fire.

Disorderly Conduct / Harassment / Indecent Exposure/ Open Lewdness

April 12, SULLIVAN HALL.

A male resident student reported that a group of males had repeatedly poured an unknown liquid

under his door and then one of the group exposed himself and sexually harassed the victim.

Criminal Mischief

April 12, DELUREY HALL. A damaged exit sign was discovered in a residence hall.

Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.

This Week in Politics

Mia Galego Co-News Editor

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radical left.”

“I don’t want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States because I’m doing exactly what I was elected, IN A LANDSLIDE, to do, setting Record Low Numbers in Crime, and creating the Greatest Stock Market in History,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. “Leo should be thankful because, as everyone knows, he was a shocking surprise. He wasn’t on any list to be Pope, and was only put there by the Church because he was an American, and they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald J. Trump.”

Shortly after the extensive post, the president shared an AI-generated image that appeared to depict himself as Jesus Christ.

In the graphic, he was wearing a white robe and healing a man who appeared to be sick. Trump has since removed the image, telling reporters at the White House he thought the image depicted him as a doctor.

“I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor, and had to do with the Red Cross, as a Red Cross worker there, which we support,” Trump said. “Only the fake news could come up with that one.”

In an interview with CBS News later that day, the president reiterated his decision to remove the image.

“I didn’t want to have anybody be confused. People were confused,” Trump said.

The president has received backlash from both prominent Christian and International leaders.

On Sunday night, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, spoke out about President Trump’s actions.

“I am disheartened that

the president chose to write such disparaging words about the Holy Father,” he said. “Pope Leo is not his rival; nor is the pope a politician. He is the Vicar of Christ who speaks from the truth of the Gospel and for the care of souls.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who previously had strong ties with President Trump, also released a statement on Monday, calling the president’s comments “unacceptable.”

“The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church, and it is right and normal that he calls for peace and condemns every form of war,” Meloni said.

The president also spoke to reporters on Monday about his criticism of the Pope, not issuing an apology for his remarks.

“Pope Leo said things that were wrong,” Trump said. “He was very much against what I am doing with regards to Iran, […] I’m just responding to Pope Leo. There’s nothing to apologize for. He’s wrong.”

Before departing for his 10day trip to Africa, Pope Leo XIV stood tall against the president’s criticism, responding to the remarks on Monday morning.

“I have no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the church is here to do,” Leo XIV said to reporters aboard his plane. “We are not politicians, we are not looking to make foreign policy, as he calls it, with the same perspective that he might understand it. But I do believe that the message of the gospel, ‘blessed be the peacemakers,’ is a message that the world needs to hear today.”

The conflict between two prominent American figures highlights just one way the conflict with Iran has impacted both domestic and international politics. As the war continues, one can expect discourse surrounding the conflict to heighten.

Earth Week Preview

Margaret Miller Co-News Editor

This year’s “Earth Week” kicks off Monday, April 20, with numerous events celebrating the environment and sustainability at Villanova. The Student Sustainability Committee (SSC) is involved in many of the events taking place. Sophomore Siena Hall, an executive board member of the Student Sustainability Committee, spoke about this week’s goals and the events taking place.

“One of SSC’s goals is to educate Villanovans about conservation and sustainability of our environment, and Earth Week is a great time to do that,” Hall said. We have lots of exciting and interactive activities to get the community involved and become more educated.”

Emma Spangler, the executive operations chair for the SSC, talked about the critical role of this week and the committee.

“Earth Week is one of our most fun collaboration events, where it feels that sustainability themes that guide my academic journey and leadership are at the forefront of everyone’s minds on campus,” Spangler said. “I think everyone has a certain respect for the Earth and nature around us, but Earth Week gives those who might not always have a platform to share their experience and wishes for positive change.”

The week starts with a campus tree tour at 12 p.m. on April 20, led by Hugh Weldon, Villanova’s Horticultural Supervisor. The Albert Lepage Center for History in the Public Interest is also hosting a virtual webinar from 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Monday titled “What’s at Stake with the Energy Crisis,” contextualizing today’s energy crisis with historical challenges. This panel will feature Robert Lifset, PhD, University of Oklahoma, Julie Cohn, PhD, Rice University and Tyler Priest, PhD, University of Iowa.

On Wednesday, April 22, the annual Sustainability Fair will take

place at the Riley Ellipse from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., featuring vendors, research presentations, food, arts and crafts. Corr Chapel will also host an Earth Day Mass at 12:05 pm, and it will be presided over by Villanova’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Rev. John Abubakar, OSA, PhD.

Furthermore, Queen Quet, Chieftess of the Gullah/Geechee Nation, is the keynote speaker for Earth Week. Her address will take place on Thursday, April 23, titled “Resilient Roots: Sustaining Gullah/ Geechee Culturally & Environmentally.” The book signing is at 5:00 p.m., and the talk starts at 5:30 p.m. in Driscoll 132.

The once-a-semester pop-up thrift store, Wildcat Thrift, hosted by the Student Sustainability Committee, will occur on Friday, April 24. Organizations and individuals will set up tables with second-hand items. Vendors will be able to donate unsold clothing to the committee. This event will take place at the Oreo from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Spangler spoke about this event’s importance.

“Students in the Student Sustainability Committee saw a genuine need for promoting a circular fashion economy within their own community,” Spangler said. “Especially with fast fashion themes and clothing trend cycles in the new age, this is ever more important. SSC leaders created Wildcat Thrift to advocate for more sustainable shopping close to home.”

The week rounds out with the Earth Day of Service. Participants can choose time slots of 10:30 a.m. to noon, noon to 1:30 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 26. This is a service opportunity for individuals to work in the new Campus Garden.

Hall spoke on the importance of the week.

“As an executive board member on SSC, I feel that Earth Week is an extremely important time to raise environmental awareness to people who might not normally think much about it,” Hall said.

2026 Commencement Speaker: Craig Melvin

Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief

Kailey Fahy Co-Editor-in-Chief

viewed notable high-profile figures, such as former President Bill Clinton, then-Vice President Joe Biden, former Ambassador Nikki Haley and former Secretaries of State John Kerry, Mike Pompeo and Condoleezza Rice. In addition to his coverage of national news stories, Melvin has covered six Olympic Games and six Super Bowls. He has also authored two books, “Pops: Learning to Be a Son and a Father” and the children’s book, “I’m Proud of You.” Melvin brings valuable insight into higher education and has served on the board of trustees for Wofford College, his alma mater. He is also active in several charitable organizations, including the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, in honor of his brother Lawrence Meadows, who passed away in 2020 after a years-long battle with stage 4 colon cancer.

Fr. Peter first met Melvin in May 2025 when he made an appearance on the TODAY show to

speak about the election of Pope Leo XIV, a Villanova alumnus.

“When Pope Leo was elected, the TODAY show was the first national broadcast that reached out to Villanova University and asked me to come and be interviewed,” Fr. Peter said to The Villanovan. “And they were so excited about the fact that Villanova University had a Pope and wanted

to know all about the University and all about Pope Leo and what kind of a man he was and what kind of school Villanova was and what we did. So, I thought when we were looking for a speaker for this year’s graduation, since [the TODAY show] showed so much interest in who and what Villanova was all about, that they would be a good candidate.”

Melvin joins a list of notable Villanova commencement speakers, including his co-worker and former NBC Nightly News anchor Lester Holt (2023), Philadelphia Archbishop Reverend Nelson Pérez (2024), former Villanova men’s basketball head coach Jay Wright (2022) Michael Bloomberg (2017), then-Second Lady of the United States Jill Biden (2014), U.S. Senator Patrick Toomey (2013) and former NBC Nightly News host Brian Williams (2003). In commencement speeches, graduates often crave words of wisdom and advice as they move on from their undergraduate studies. Fr. Peter believes Melvin will provide that.

“He’s gone to various world events,” Fr. Peter said. “He’s been part of it. He’s been exposed to the world. And that’s what we’re doing. That’s what we’re sending our graduates off. We’re sending them off into the world.”

The University is set to host the Baccalaureate Mass and Bachelor’s Degree Commencement and Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, at Villanova Stadium. In the event of severe weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors in the Finneran Pavilion.

Blue Key Hosts Admitted Students Day

Finn Courtney Co-News Editor

Saturday, April 11, was a day future Villanovans in the Class of 2030 will not forget as the campus hosted its annual Admitted Students Day. The main purpose of Admitted Students Day is to give potential students an inside look at Villanova culture, including academics, social life and extracurricular activities.

This day allowed prospective members of Villanova’s Class of 2030 to get a feel for a campus that may be their new home for the next four years and see what Nova Nation is all about. As always, Admitted Students Day’s goal is to influence students to enroll at Villanova and find their path. Led by months of planning from Admitted Students Day director Steve Marinelli and junior director Kate MacLaughlin, the day is one of the most important of the year for Blue Key members and they hope the same is true for admitted students travelling to campus.

“Being senior director has been the highlight of my college experience,” Marinelli said. “Villanova has changed my life, and now, I’ve had the opportunity to help shape a day that will change the lives of the next generation of Villanovans. It’s my final way of giving back to a place that has given me more than I could ever have imagined.”

For MacLaughlin, the day means so much, not just for the current Villanova community but hopefully the one to come.

“For so many admitted

students, [Admitted Students Day] is the day where they can really picture where their home is going to be for the next four years and beyond,” MacLaughlin said. “It is such a special moment to see Blue Key and our Villanova community welcome the admitted students with open arms and grow the passionate, caring, and supportive Villanova community.”

Beginning bright and early, admitted students and their families were warmly welcomed to campus by Blue Key’s spirit line, with campus tour guides bringing their passion, energy and cheering to represent the Villanova community.

For Marinelli, this year’s Admitted Students Day and specifically that grand welcome meant something truly special.

“My favorite moment was walking back through the spirit line with my family,” Marinelli said. “Four years ago, I walked into the Finn as a shy person, not knowing what to expect for my future. Now, being able to walk back through with my proud parents beside me was the ultimate full-circle experience.”

From there, parents were seated in the Finneran Pavilion as University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue O.S.A., Ph.D., gave his customary welcome speech, and they also heard from current Villanova students.

After the kickoff event, students were able to personalize their day on campus by attending specific academic presentations and events about their college and open houses for potential majors and minors, and study abroad opportunities. Those tabling for majors

hope to inspire admitted students in the same way they themselves were when they were considering committing.

The day also included guided tours by Blue Key members to freshman dorms on South Campus and Main Campus, giving admitted students a sneak peek of what freshman living looks like at Villanova. Blue Key members also manned several information booths across campus to answer questions and provide directions to those unfamiliar with the campus’s layout.

“It is amazing getting to show the families reasons why I love Villanova and what truly makes it home,” tour coordinator Corey McCall said. “For me, it is the community, and having Blue Key is a great way to show that community that we have. The biggest appeal of ASD has to be getting to know your fellow classmates that you will continue to grow with. Something that is always emphasized is that if you look around, you could be sitting next to your future roommate and best friend. While this is a time for us to welcome the admitted students, it is also the beginning of their journey in building their community.”

While Blue Key’s members handle the majority of the duties on Admitted Students Day, the day really brings together the whole campus, which was evidenced by students tabling for their on-campus organizations, of which Villanova has more than 110.

From Greek Life to club sports to on-campus service organizations to media clubs to more, Villanovans of all years came out to inform the next generation of

students about the things that have made Villanova such a special time for them.

“For Admitted Students Day, I tabled with [Alpha Phi Omega], and I was impressed with the amount of interest that students that aren’t even at the school yet have for our campus activities,” sophomore Brett Alexander said. “It’s amazing to see that incoming students are already so excited to not only come to Villanova but are eager to get involved with a bunch of many different organizations. Villanova has great extracurriculars, and it’s important for new students to feel like their interests are represented in areas outside of the classroom.”

For Blue Key members heavily involved with Admitted Students Day like MacLaughlin, they know just how important and lifechanging their role can be.

“My favorite part about [Admitted Students Day] is getting to talk to families one on one,” MacLaughlin said. “Choosing a college is such a huge decision that can change these students’ lives. Talking to these students and connecting with them is always so special.”

To wrap up the day, admitted students and their families were invited to attend an optional Mass in St. Thomas of Villanova Church. Admitted Students Day accomplished what it set out to do: to display the unique heart and spirit that make Villanova a true home for its students. While the Class of 2030 has not yet arrived on campus, those in Blue Key and those who tabled hoped potential students could see a place for them at Villanova and a bright future.

Villanova Celebrates Dr. Cera Murtagh’s Book Launch

Addy McDougall Staff Writer

Sophia Thomas Staff Writer

Faculty and students gathered in the Falvey Library Speakers’ Corner on Thursday, April 9, to celebrate the book launch of Dr. Cera Murtagh, Professor of Political Science and Irish Studies at Villanova University.

Murtagh’s new book, “Civic Parties in Divided Societies: Northern Ireland and Bosnia-Herzegovina,” was released in 2025 and discusses emerging civic political parties in the two countries. Murtagh defines civic parties as those that reject ethnonationalism and organize around alternative issues. Her book discusses how such parties have persisted in Northern Ireland and Bosnia-Herzegovina despite prevalent ethnonational politics and limitations of consociational power-sharing systems. The book also explores how societies can move away from ethnic polarization and work towards more inclusive, issues-based democracies.

Murtagh took on a decades worth of fieldwork and over 100 interviews in preparing her findings for this work. She described how her interest in the subject was shaped

by her experience growing up in the Republic of Ireland at the time when the Troubles, a violent ethnonationalist conflict ending in the establishment of a power-sharing system, was taking place in Northern Ireland.

During the launch, Dr. Murtagh sought to answer the question that has animated her entire scholarly career: “how do societies move on from violent conflict towards something more just, something more inclusive and something that is more whole,” said Dr. Camille Burge-Hicks on Thursday as she introduced Dr. Murtagh to the audience.

Her scholarly interest in the subject was truly born when she was working for a summer in New York and met Bronagh Hinds, a founding member of the Northern Ireland Women’s Coalition. This party had a great impact on the peace agreement process.

Her book is a comparative analysis of two core cases: Northern Ireland and Bosnia. These two cases have many structural differences but also share some similarities. Very importantly, they both share the idea of power-sharing, in different forms.

“Over the course of 12 years, I spent extended periods of time in both places, doing field work, which I have to say was an absolute privilege,” Murtagh said.

In her book, Murtagh challenges traditional theories of conflict resolution and asserts that power-sharing only accommodates the main groups in a divided society. Murtagh argued that this “obscures other forms of politics,” and her work alternatively applies an intersectional lens to divided societies, accounting for other factors like gender and class, consequently making civic parties more visible.

Murtagh stated the four key findings of her research, first affirming that civic parties in both Northern Ireland and Bosnia-Herzegovina face major structural barriers from formal and informal institutions. Secondly, these civic parties show critical agency in navigating these barriers and seizing openings. She also found that such openings come with risks that can undermine the civic parties’ goals. Finally, Murtagh concluded that civic parties in Northern Ireland face comparatively fewer and lesser barriers than in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

“Civic parties exist within these societies and they have real agency,” Murtagh said. “They are not passive victims and they are not irrelevant. They actively play a role in politics and how societies transition from conflict to the type of politics that emerge after.”

Students from all disciplines expressed great interest in Dr. Murtagh’s book launch.

“As a biology major, I wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to learn about or engage in this kind of discussion,” freshman Shannon Stroup said. “This was a very eye-opening experience.”

Her students in the political science and Irish studies departments made up the bulk of the support shown for their professor’s event, and expressed a lot of pride in her research.

“She is an incredibly qualified writer because she cares about cross community peace building efforts to end conflict or to bring about peace and democracy in post-conflict societies,” senior Emmett Shea said. “Dr. Murtagh asks the questions that others do not. We were all so proud to see her present her research to the community that she cares so deeply about.”

Murtagh concluded by speaking about the intended contributions of her book, hoping to emphasize that civil political parties are key to understanding conflictto-peace transitions, power-sharing systems need to better accommodate civic parties and international actors should support grassroot civic politics.

She lastly added that her findings serve as lessons for Northern Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina and other divided societies to “move towards a more positive peace and social justice.”

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Kick-Off Event

Mia Galego Co-News Editor

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and is dedicated to fostering dialogue surrounding sexual violence and supporting survivors. Throughout the month, students and staff educate the Villanova community on proactive prevention.

It’s On Us Nova is a campus-wide movement grounded in three key principles: prevent, respond and support. The campaign is inspired by the national It’s On Us movement, which is the largest college sexual assault prevention nonprofit program in the nation. It is a call to action, emphasizing everybody’s responsibility to prevent sexual violence and make Villanova a safer place.

On Wednesday, April 8, It’s On Us Nova hosted a Sexual Assault Awareness Month kick-off event at the Oreo. All students and staff were welcome and encouraged to wear teal to show their support.

Ryan Rost, Villanova’s Title IX coordinator, was tabling the event with other staff members from the Title IX office, located in Tolentine Hall 207. At the table, students could learn more about the Title IX office and the resources it provides, and take the It’s On Us pledge for a free t-shirt.

“We’re raising awareness about the importance of preventing harmful behaviors and harmful culture and harmful narratives as it relates to sexual violence,” Rost said. “The It’s On Us pledge is important so that people can

kind of put into action what their intentions are, because we know a lot of our community is passionate about the issue of sexual violence and sexual violence prevention. Coming here and participating in some of the other things we have going on are just tangible ways and intentional ways to raise awareness about the issue of sexual violence.”

Villanova’s health promotion student organization, Peers Offering Wellness Education and Resources (POWER), was also present at the event. Corinn Eads is a Community Advocate for POWER and serves as the Training and Recruitment Co-Director. Eads was tabling for POWER.

“I think the biggest reason I’m out here tabling for Sexual Assault Awareness Month is to just increase awareness among students,” Eads said. “I think a lot of students on campus don’t know the resources that we have, and this is a very important and serious topic. We need to get the resources out, so people know who they can go to when they themselves need help or people they know need help.”

Some partners from the surrounding community were also present, including the Delaware County Victim Assistance Center and the Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County. These are 24-hour community partners that provide support and resources to people within Delaware County.

The Title IX office and other partners will be highlighting resources related to sexual assault prevention throughout the month.

From 5-6 p.m. on Mon -

day, April 13, in Dougherty West Lounge, the Title IX Office hosted an event titled “Creating a Culture of Respect.” The conversation centered on healthy relationships, consent, bystander intervention and creating a culture of respect.

“What we are trying to promote is the culture of conversation,” Rost said. “Everyone thinks and knows that sexual violence is wrong. If they see something, more than likely they are going to do something. Then we’ve got to back that train up a little bit and figure out what the things are that lead up to that culture within our community that can be improved and addressed to create that culture of respect.”

From 6-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, Title IX will be

hosting a “One Love Escalation Workshop.” The goal of the workshop is to help students deepen their understanding of healthy relationships and learn strategies for responding to escalating relationship conflicts.

From 4-6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, Title IX will be hosting the “Stand With Survivors: Sexual Violence Awareness Solidarity Walk.” Students can join campus and community partners at the Oreo for a walk to support survivors and bring awareness to the issue of sexual violence.

There are numerous opportunities throughout April to learn about prevention strategies and show support for others. All Villanovans have a responsibility to prevent sexual violence.

OPINION How To Embrace Streaming Culture

Kaitlin Lawrenson Staff Writer

Binging one show for hours on end has never been my vice. I have never been able to keep my attention span for that long. From getting antsy to wanting to fall asleep, it takes me months to push through shows. When I came to college, I quickly realized that my routine was not going to support streaming or television enjoyment. However, over this past semester, I have begun to lean into the streaming world and found ways to enjoy it. In my opinion, streaming movies and television shows can be for everyone when each person finds their own way to enjoy them.

There are many different forms in which I have discovered that I enjoy digesting large amounts of film at a time. For example, the classic movie theater trip will always be one of my favorite activities when I’m home on a break or just looking for something to do. I don’t know if it’s the novelty of fresh popcorn and snacks or getting to see the movie on the big screen, but I will jump at the chance to go to the movies. While in the theater, I am enthralled for the movie’s runtime.

Additionally, as a newly avid gym patron, I have always needed more than just music to keep me on the treadmill. My Zach Bryan playlist and my thoughts have never been enough to sustain me for more than a few minutes. I began playing shows on my phone during my workouts. It has honestly become one of the only reasons I push through every day and stay active. Now, I am not only taking care of my body but also catching up on shows and finding ways to enjoy them. Being in college, I have limited time. From classes to activities to wanting some downtime, my priority

is rarely going to be making sure I have a new show to watch. At night, I’m so tired that I spend most of my time aimlessly scrolling on social media.

However, there are breaks throughout the day in which I have begun to deeply enjoy streaming shows that aren’t just in the Davis Center. Between classes, I sit on the steps outside Falvey Library, or even grab a quick coffee before heading to my next lecture, and I have found small pockets of time that make streaming feel manageable rather than overwhelming. At a place like Villanova, where the pace is both busy and structured, these in-between moments have become the perfect opportunity to press play on something new without committing to hours at a time.

What I have come to realize is that streaming does not have to look like the stereotypical all-day binge session. Instead, it can be broken up into short, intentional moments that fit into a college student’s schedule. Whether it is a 20-minute episode while eating lunch or half of a movie while winding down after a long day, the experience becomes less about finishing something quickly and more about enjoying it gradually. In a way, it mirrors the rhythm of college life itself: fast-paced yet full of small resets.

For many students at Villanova, streaming has also become a social activity, even if it is not always done in the same room. Group chats light up with recommendations, reactions and debates about the latest episode of a trending show. It creates a shared culture that connects people across different majors, dorms and friend groups. Even if you are not someone who naturally gravitates toward watching television, it is easier to engage when it is part of a larger conversation.

Sophomore Communication

major Emily Carter shared a similar experience.

“I never used to watch shows in high school because I couldn’t sit still that long,” Carter said. “But now I watch episodes between classes or while I’m getting ready, and it actually helps me relax without feeling like I’m wasting time.”

Her perspective highlights how streaming can adapt to individual lifestyles rather than forcing people into a single, rigid way of consuming media. There is also something to be said about how streaming can serve as a mental break. College can be demanding, and at a school like Villanova, where students are constantly balancing academics, extracurriculars and social lives, finding moments to decompress is essential. Watching a show, even briefly, can provide a sense of escape and allow students to step away from their responsibilities for a short period of time. It is not about avoiding work but about creating a healthier balance.

I have found that my relationship with streaming has completely changed since coming to college. What once felt like an impossible commitment has turned into something flexible and enjoyable. By letting

go of the idea that I need to watch everything all at once, I have been able to appreciate shows in a way that fits my attention span and my schedule. It has also made the experience feel more rewarding, as I am not rushing through episodes but actually taking the time to enjoy them.

Ultimately, streaming is not a one-size-fits-all activity. At Villanova, where every student’s routine looks a little different, it is clear that there are countless ways to make it work. Whether it is during a workout, between classes or as a way to unwind at the end of the day, streaming can be tailored to fit into even the busiest of schedules. It is less about how much you watch and more about how you choose to incorporate it into your life.

So, for anyone who feels like they do not have the attention span or the time to sit down and binge an entire series, I would argue that you do not have to. Sometimes, all it takes is a few minutes, the right setting and a willingness to try something new. In a community like Villanova, where students are always on the move, those small moments can add up to something surprisingly enjoyable.

Manufactured Crisis: Why Polarization Will Only Get Worse

Liam Foley Staff Writer

The United States will soon enter a period defined by unprecedented amounts of domestic political violence. This opinion follows logically from three interconnected realities.

First, the United States is a plutocracy, governed in the interests of a small wealthy elite rather than its citizens. Three weeks ago, I wrote an article probing whether the United States was more of a plutocracy than a democracy. Since then, I’ve gone deeper into the literature, and I no longer have any doubt. It is. And there are three factions of the ruling elite vested in it staying this way: the Technological Industrial Complex, the Military Industrial Complex and the Financial Industrial Complex. I truly think the few leaders of each of these are willing to subordinate democracy and morality for power and profit.

The second connected reality is that the plutocracy’s greatest threat is the masses becoming aware of how power actually operates in this country. They have to keep people blind to it. Yet unlike China’s, America’s plutocracy can’t openly censor or

silence those who expose it. America’s plutocrats are constrained by a constitutional democracy whose rules they can’t afford to break, because the moment they do, their power is exposed as corrupt, and revolt will be likely.

This tension has pushed our plutocracy toward a sinister and highly intelligent strategy: rather than suppress, they distract, dividing the nation over emotional politics and keeping the masses deliberately polarized. When the masses are consumed by abortion, gun rights, immigration, gender identity or surface-level economic grievances like minimum wage debates, and are fighting with each other, the plutocracy remains invisible. In the grand scheme of things, all of these issues are nothing compared to the issue of wealth consolidation, which would be a unifying issue for the average citizen. Mass media conglomerates play the biggest part in manufacturing this internal division. The Roberts family, which owns Comcast and MSNBC, and the Murdoch family, which owns the Fox Corporation and Fox News, are in the same elite circles. The politicians funded by the ruling elite play a part, too, as they are intentionally polarizing. This elite-activated polar-

ization eventually leads to real political violence when individuals with predisposed psychological conditions become so consumed by it. When constantly fed narratives that foster fear, insecurity and hatred of the other political side, they take violent action.

The third connected reality, and by far the most critical, is that this cycle of manufactured polarization will only intensify as artificial intelligence reshapes the economy. With the advent of artificial intelligence, the plutocracy’s economic and political grip will only deepen. As that grip tightens, so too will the need to keep the masses polarized. More power and wealth consolidation mean more vulnerability to exposure. Ruling elites will begin taking whatever measures necessary to ensure polarization not only continues to exist, but intensifies. I have no idea what all of these specific plays will be, but I am quite positive they will be made in increasingly bold and dangerous ways. And that will ultimately lead to more political violence, whether it’s intended or not.

Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter, now X, may be one of the earliest visible signs of a ruling elite finding more creative ways to manufacture polarization. This was a

political play, not an economic one. As outlined by Jacob Silverman in “Gilded Rage: Elon Musk and the Radicalization of Silicon Valley,” Musk’s takeover of Twitter was a calculated move to control what information the public sees, what gets amplified, and what gets buried. Log on to X today, and you’ll notice that Musk’s posts, intentionally polarizing, emotionally charged and politically divisive, are almost always surfaced on your For You page, whether you follow him or not.

The plutocracy fears unity over its economic and political power. As we enter the next election cycle, I hope the masses can become more aware of how emotional politics and polarization of the other side are exactly what the plutocracy wants. I unfortunately find this unlikely and expect polarization to reach unprecedented levels, leading to more frequent political violence.

A friend recently told me my articles make sense, but finish without a “what now.” He’s right. I don’t have an answer yet. I’m still trying to understand the forces at play well enough to propose a real solution. For now, awareness feels like the right place to start.

EDITORIAL BOARD LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

KAILEY FAHY

DYLAN JOHNSON

SOPHIE LATESSA

AVERY CHALK

EMMA TAYLOR

Editor-in-Chief

Editor-in-Chief

Managing Editor

Opinion Editor

Opinion Editor

The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonymous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as determined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

Mourning Schedule Builder: An End Of An Era

Emma Taylor Co-Opinion Editor

Over the past month, another class registration period has come and gone with the familiar urgency and routine that accompanies every semester. Students reviewed the courses offered next semester and have anxiously battled for a seat in the competitive classes, but this time it looked a little different.

On Nov. 19, Villanova’s Office of the Registrar sent an email to the student body announcing an upcoming change in class registration software.

“Effective Dec. 7, 2025, Nova Schedule Builder will be disabled in NOVASIS,” the email read. “Moving forward, the Plan Ahead tool will serve as the primary resource for registration planning assistance.”

The email then expanded on the reasoning for this shift.

“Our data shows that term over term for the past number of years, students are heading to Plan Ahead for course planning and scheduling, with a sharp decline in Nova Schedule Builder usage.”

Plan Ahead is an allaround unreliable and unintuitive downgrade compared to the Nova Schedule Builder, and it has made registration more daunting than it already is. Schedule Builder was organized and clear, and showed the most important information about a class right where students needed

to see it. It allowed one to add or drop classes quickly. It was colorful. It was perfect. Plan Ahead is the opposite. It crashes when one tries to look up an attribute. It loads slowly while switching from the visual schedule to details. It somehow shows too much information and not enough at the same time. With all these issues, it takes significantly more time

to plan everything out, to the point where one might as well wait until the actual registration time to make any decisions on the courses.

“It took me probably five times the amount of time to make my schedule without Schedule Builder,” junior Isabella Leff said. “You have to have so many different sites open to find the exact classes and info you need. With Schedule

Builder, you could find classes with open spots way easier, and it was just a good way to actually visualize the schedule.”

Admittedly, even a glitchy system has its benefits, as freshman Lauren Janos points out.

“I really liked having my preferred plan sync right into my registration, and it made it easier to resolve any conflicts if they come up,” Janos said. “But, I do think some of the information regarding the restrictions and section-specific requirements is definitely harder to find.”

The University has offered an array of Plan Ahead workshops since its announcement last November through various emails.

“We are hosting an Open House Workshop dedicated to the Plan Ahead registration tool—the preferred method for securing the classes you need,” an email sent on Nov. 25 stated. “Here is your chance to talk with Registrar Staff about how to utilize Plan Ahead and have a stress-free registration experience.”

These events are helpful, but they raise the question of how necessary this switch really was. Who benefited? Students face a learning curve during an already high-pressure time, and University administration has to organize all these events to assuage their anxiety. These changes don’t seem that necessary, and, if reinstated, Schedule Builder would surely be welcomed back with open arms by the general student body.

New Crosswalk System Leaves Pedestrians Behind

Camila Caruso Staff Writer

“Walk sign is on for all crossing.”

This is the familiar message heard at the intersection of East Lancaster and Ithan Avenues on Villanova’s campus. As the boundary between Main Campus, The Commons, and South Campus, this intersection sees heavy foot traffic daily to the point where hundreds of students know instinctively when it’s the pedestrians’ time to cross.

A recent change in traffic light patterns at the intersection has sparked great displeasure among students and is an altogether unwelcome shift. With it, a deeper problem comes to light: our society prioritizes cars over walkers.

To start, the transition was introduced in early March without an email notifying Villanova students. Only after long waiting times, confusion about when the

crossing sign appears and uncomfortable arguments between walkers and drivers became common was an email sent on March 22.

“Starting last week, Radnor Township changed the traffic signal timing at intersections along Lancaster Avenue from Villanova Center to Rosemont,” the email said. “This is part of the Township’s implementation of its Traffic Adaptive System, which uses AI-powered technology to optimize traffic signal operations by analyzing real-time traffic data and adjusting signal timing to improve overall traffic flow.”

Senior Jonnathan Robles shared his opinion about the traffic light change.

“I think that the light change has increased the waiting time at the intersection and has confused several students,” Robles said. “I’ve seen several students cross when they were not supposed to have and almost get run over. I think it takes some time to get used to it, but I have seen increased wait

time for students.”

Long after the announcement about how the new AI system was put in place and directions on how to cross were emailed out, many students were still unaware of what was going on. I noticed how many students happened to cross out of time, and I saw more angry drivers about to hit students.

It is hard to imagine what cities were like before cars, but many European cities are still highly walkable and viewed as an example. In Spain, many places still have narrow streets designed mainly for pedestrians. Those places are full of commerce, cultural events and daily rituals that are not possible in a zone marked by tremendous highways.

Since the advent of cars, our cities have become far less walkable. In the majority of places in the United States, having a car for work became a must, and getting food or shopping in general often requires a vehicle as well. Even if you want to get somewhere

walkable, like a plaza, you need a car to get there in the first place.

Research conducted in 2003 by David R. Ragland, a professor emeritus at UC Berkeley, as well as Peter Jacobsen and Charles Komanoff, found that there is “safety in numbers” for pedestrians. They discussed the tendency of the risk of injury per person to decrease as the number of people walking or biking increases, which shows the possible relationship between walkable cities and pedestrian safety. The more people walking, the safer they are from potential roadway accidents caused by drivers.

The AI-powered traffic light systems do have their pros and cons. Drivers enjoy smoother traffic and sufficient time to change direction, but pedestrians face longer wait times to cross the streets and are less safe when doing so. Ultimately, we have to evaluate which direction we are moving with the design of our cities. Is it be better to drive comfortably in our cars or walk without risk of harm?

CULTURE

The Spires Celebrate 65 Years With Alumni Concert

Open up TikTok and search #villanovaspires. Better yet, scroll through your For You Page. Either way, if you’re a student at Villanova and your algorithm is anything like the rest of ours, you’re likely to come across the Villanova Spires singing their rendition of Jeremih’s “Birthday Sex.”

The Spires are one of nine a cappella groups on Villanova’s campus. But long before the Spires went viral on social media, they were just a group of college students who loved three things: singing, their guitars and each other.

The Spires were originally founded as a folk guitar group by Tom Picardo in 1961. It wasn’t until 1988 that the group became fully a cappella.

Now, on the 65th anniversary of the group’s founding, the current 12 members are hosting an anniversary concert intended to bring together generations of Spires.

The concert will open with an introduction, followed by a selection of songs from the current members, which will feature everything from their A Capalooza set to senior-specific solos.

From there, alumni will be brought onstage by decade, culminating in a final performance with all alumni singing “Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce, who is another founder of the group.

“When you join a club here

at Villanova, you enjoy it for four years, and then sometimes you stay friends with people,” music director and senior Aleko Zeppos said. “But Spires is the gift that keeps on giving. I mean, we have such a great alumni network, and we’re able to do something as unique as this alumni concert, where we invite these guys, dating back to the 60s, to come join us on stage and sing songs that we all know, or show each other unique songs from our times, and just bond over that. I mean, it’s really special.”

Another musical group on Villanova’s campus, the Villanova Choir, produced many of the Spires’ founding members. In the 1960s, several men from the choir formed the Spires, which began as an unofficial subset of the group. Any kind of folk music one could think of, the Spires performed it.

Since then, the Spires have evolved, but brotherhood has remained the grounding force behind its evolution.

“What differentiates us from any other group or club on campus is that we’re a friend

group,” president and junior Cole Joyce said. “And the medium we do that through is music.”

The Spires only began doing birthday visits, featuring either “Birthday Sex” or their signature song, “Good Ol’ A Cappella,” this academic year. But the impact of those mini performances has been nothing short of astronomical.

“It goes to show how much of an impact only 12 people can have on the community,” Joyce said. “Singing these [birthday songs] feels very normal to us, but I read some of the comments on TikTok, and it’s kind of unreal.”

The comment sections are flooded: “I should have gone to Villanova,” “My best friend goes there,” and others tagging friends, encouraging them to audition for the group.

“Just to see people taking pride in the school from something we’re doing is kind of crazy,” Joyce said.

However, that’s the impact the Spires want to be having after their 65 years on Villanova’s campus.

They want to engage the very University that has welcomed generations of alumni.

“We’ve maintained a brotherhood [all these years],” Zeppos said. “It’s just a group of brothers that enjoy singing and enjoy sharing our gifts with the rest of the Villanova community.”

The Anniversary concert will be held in the Villanova Room from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, when guests can see six decades worth of Spires sing.

Letters From Lauren: Senior Songs

Lauren Armstrong Senior Columnist

Dear Seniors,

As the weather is getting warmer, it feels even more real that we will be graduating in just a month. It is the beginning of graduation photo season, as well as the perfect time for church picnics, long walks and driving with the windows down blasting music.

Recently, one of my go-to playlists has been my Spotify collaboration playlist with my roommates titled “Grad,” which one of my roommates sent us in January with a text attached saying “sad emotional songs only.”

Do not get me wrong, I love a sad emotional song, but while reflecting on my time here at Villanova, some songs remind me of campus, of the experiences and of the best parts of the college experience, in addition to the sad emotional ones.

After this realization, I began to make another playlist, and while it is titled “Don’t Make Me Leave,” it is compiled of what I believe is the perfect recipe of songs for every college senior.

The Throwback – “Satellite” by Harry Styles

I attended a Harry Styles concert at Madison Square Garden with my roommate in September of freshman year. Many of my friends have had similar experiences, whether it was attending Hoops Mania with friends from their hall, or a song played at sorority bid day, everyone has a song or two that brings them back to those first few months as a Villanovan.

The Tradition – “Swag Surfin’” by Fast Life Yungstaz

When I think of Villanova, I think of traditions that contribute to the Villanova community. As I stood in the Spirit Line for Admitted Students Day (ASD) this past weekend, and the song “Swag Surfin’” was played, I was brought back to the countless basketball games and ASDs I attended as a senior in high school and at Villanova.

The Reflection – “Don’t Look Back In Anger” by Oasis

One of the biggest lessons I have learned in my senior year is that holding grudges is not worth it, especially when we all only have a few weeks left on campus. Reflection is always important, yet when big changes enter one’s life, it is even more important to see what you can do to change your life. None of us will want to look back in future years with regrets. I encourage some reflection going into the next few weeks.

The Involvement Culture –“Blame It On The Boogie” by The Jacksons

Every time “Blame It On The Boogie” begins, I am transported back to August and the Orientation program. This song transformed into our annual flash mob for the New Students. One of the best parts of

Villanova is the involvement culture. Whether it was played in a meeting or in the Special Olympics flash mob, many songs will transport you back to your favorite communities on campus.

The Friends – “Ribs” by Lorde I was terrified I would never meet my people at Villanova. I was wrong. Throughout the past four years, I have made friends who will last a lifetime. I have friends from every corner of campus, from The Villanovan, who are older and who are younger and who make me feel like my best self. Even though “it feels so scary getting old,” Villanova brought me “the only friend[s] I’ll need.”

The Sad and Emotional - “Nobody Knows” by The Lumineers Graduating is sad and emotional. It only means that we were lucky enough to have had an experience so good that we do not want to leave. “Nobody knows how to say goodbye,” but we do not have to say goodbye. Maybe just “see you later.” Seniors, we are almost at the end, and it is okay to see happiness amongst the sadness with the changes coming our way. So plug your headphones in and start listening.

With love always, Lauren

Love On Lancaster: It’s Wedding Season

Maggie Fitzgerald Co-Culture Editor

I am reporting live with a new lease on life. Rather, a new lease on love. After returning from my cousin’s beautiful wedding this weekend, my pessimism about the happily-ever-after has somewhat subsided. Among the company of my entire South Side Irish Catholic family, and in the presence of a true love story, I was blissfully reminded of the joy of weddings. As this glorious season is upon us, I thought it would be fitting to dedicate this week’s column to appreciating the details that make weddings so special. As a single, unmarried woman who has attended a mere two weddings in my lifetime, I am probably woefully unqualified to insert my opinion. Then again, when has that ever stopped me?

The Attendees

My mom has given me some incredibly valuable advice. On the topic of weddings, she has strong opinions on who should make the invite list. After a wedding spent largely entertaining her parents’ friends, she has impressed upon me the importance of inviting only those who played meaningful roles in your life. When it comes to weddings, certain things feel as if they must be done. Plus-ones? Extended family? What about children? Here’s the thing: your wedding is about you and your partner. It is a time to celebrate your love, and with those who played a part

in making you the people you are. Sometimes it may be necessary to invite your mom’s childhood bestie, but don’t forget your own autonomy. So, make the tough calls and invite those you truly want to spend your special day with.

Timeless, But Personal

Do you want to look back on your wedding photos and cringe, hating what was trending at the time? I am not suggesting that you shouldn’t stay true to yourself. I am warning that following fashion or pop culture fads that aren’t true to your sense of style will most definitely never end well. Just because it’s trending doesn’t mean it’s worthy. For your wedding, when in doubt, err on the side of timeless. Weave personal details throughout the ceremony, bringing a

sense of self into the celebration. For example, my cousin Emily’s Texas wedding came to life through small touches like glass cowgirl vases with wildflowers, but was effortlessly classy with white ribbons on wooden pews. Trust your judgement. Your wedding should be authentically you.

Hostess With The Mostest

While your wedding is undeniably about you, being the star and the host is unfortunately part of the bargain. No need to fear. Wearing two hats is possible. Whether it be a local or destination wedding, your guests have spent their time and money to take part in your ceremony. Let them know that it means something to you. Find a way to greet your guests, but set aside moments for just you and your partner. Another cousin of mine

stopped at each table and snapped a quick Polaroid, creating a special moment with everyone in attendance, but coveting sacred time with each other as the bride and groom. Be a gracious host, but have fun doing it.

Celebrate, Really

As I stated in my testament to birthdays, life is meant to be celebrated. Your wedding is a prime example of this. I am a firm believer that the festivities should last much longer than just a ceremony and reception. If you want a whole weekend, or God forbid, a week, take it. While you certainly don’t have to mandate attendance, spend time with loved ones who are willing and able to participate in the festivities. Not to continually harp on about my weekend wedding experience, but we arrived on Wednesday and spent time as a family all the way until the wedding on Friday, then continued with breakfast the next day. In this regard, the wedding was elongated to allow for even more memory-making. It wasn’t just a wedding day. It was a weekend of joy and celebration of love.

In all seriousness, there aren’t any rules for your wedding. That being said, it will be a day you remember for the rest of your life. One thing I know for certain (speaking from zero experience whatsoever) is that the most important thing is who you choose to spend the rest of your life with. The rest will fall into place.

With love, Maggie

A Musical Tradition: Dr. Daly’s Annual Organ Concert

Cali Carss Co-Culture Editor

On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Dr. Christopher Daly performed at his annual organ concert in the St. Thomas of Villanova Church. Drawing a large crowd of students, professors and residents, Dr. Daly performed a nearly hourand-a-half-long set inspired by the 250th “birthday” of the United States of America. This has been the running theme of all concerts in the Musica Nova calendar this academic year.

Musica Nova is a concert series created and run by ACS professors Dr. Betsy Springuel and Dr. Elizabeth Jane McGuire. Starting in 2017, the Musica Nova program was preceded by Dr. Daly’s annual concert by over a decade. Now that his program is included in the larger theme, the music chosen follows suit.

Daly walked out to start his concert in a red, white and blue suit, very true to the theme. The program was facilitated by Dr. John Immerwahr, a retired ACS professor and lover of organ music. His introductions to each piece and explanations of what to listen for as Dr. Daly played gave the audience a clearer perspective of the music they were hearing.

The first piece was termed a tribute to strong American values.

“Fanfare for the Common Man” by composer Aaron Copland was an exciting way to begin.

The next few songs were

described together by Dr. Immerwahr, who instructed the audience to pay special attention to the way musical themes were repeated in different styles and by different parts of the organ. Two different and playful versions of “Le Tic Toc Choc” were also played.

The midpoint of the program was marked with a piece by J.S. Bach, perhaps the most revered organist/composer in the entire canon. Daly played the “Trio Sonata IV” as a tribute to this great.

“I wanted to choose pieces that were not in my repertoire,” Daly explained to the audience during a brief Q&A session towards the end of the program. “None of these pieces were in my repertoire before this, and then I always have to play a little bit of Bach.”

The next piece, though, was in many ways even more special. Immerwahr explained to the audience that he had shared his love of organ music with his brother, who became an organist and composer himself before tragically passing away at 20.

Armed with just the theme of a piece his brother had written inspired by Bach, Immerwahr recently set out to recreate it. He was successful in that endeavor, and the annual organ concert was the first time this version of the piece was performed.

Following this touching tribute, McGuire took over the commentator role to explain the crescendo of the next pieces and how the audience should listen for

more romantic notes that came to the forefront. Springuel accompanied Daly as the soprano voice for the shorter of the two pieces.

Finally, the program closed with a series of real tributes to classic American patriotism. Dudley Buck’s “Concert Variations on The Star Spangled Banner” featured as the last official piece, but the true final flourish was an encore of “Yankee Doodle” on the organ.

“[I wanted to represent] the ideals of our country, because we do have ideals, even if we don’t live up to them that are 250 years old and older,” Daly said.

The concert received a standing ovation from the crowd before everyone went to the recep-

tion being held in St. Rita’s chapel. “The event was really well-attended, and he played a variety of thoughtfully arranged songs,” senior Kelsey Hearns said. “We even had the chance to learn how the organ works and hear how his story of playing the organ started.”

This concert was a wonderful opportunity for Daly’s students to learn about his commitment to his music, and its value was across the church.

A time-honored and beloved tradition, the 27th annual recital was a testament to the community Daly and the rest of the Musica Nova program have created on campus.

What Keeps Male Survivors Silent

Christopher Brown Staff Writer

While sexual violence against women is widely recognized in public discourse, awareness of male survivors remains limited. Although women are disproportionately affected, men still represent a substantial portion of victims and are often less likely to report their experiences. Understanding why underreporting happens is essential to improving support systems and visibility for all survivors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 4 men in the U.S. experience contact sexual violence in their lifetime, including rape, sexual coercion, unwanted sexual contact or being made to penetrate someone else. Despite these figures, advocates say support services for men remain significantly less visible.

At Villanova University, Ryan Rost, the Title IX coordinator, points to cultural expectations around masculinity as a key factor causing underreporting. Norms that men should be strong, not victims and are “less of a man” if they are victims can discourage disclosure.

“I think one way that we try to overcome those narratives is simply sharing information and data that we do have individuals at Villanova and beyond who are male-identifying and have experienced sexual violence,” Rost said.

Even when men do disclose, they may encounter disbelief or victim-blaming. Some survivors are told they must have “wanted it,” particularly if they experienced physical arousal and did not resist. Advocates emphasize that trauma responses like freezing or compliance are common and never imply consent.

As Rost emphasizes, stigma and shame can depend on the gender of the perpetrator. Some male survivors fear being judged for their sexuality if their perpetrator was male, while others face dismissal when the perpetrator is female.

Misconceptions that women cannot assault men continue to influence public perception.

“When there’s an experience of harm where the perpetrator is a woman, people might say, ‘Well, you can’t actually be assaulted by a woman,’ and that’s not factual at all,” Rost said.

Such attitudes reflect what advocates describe as the “ideal victim” narrative that permeates public conversations around sexual violence. It emphasizes women as victims of sexual violence and men as the sole perpetrators, suggesting the opposite is rare.

Research, however, shows that male victimization does not always fit these expectations. Data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) indicates that the majority of men who were made to penetrate, were coerced and more reported

only female perpetrators. These findings challenge common stereotypes about how sexual violence is understood.

Victimization can have devastating consequences for male survivors, including PTSD, depression, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and difficulty with work or school. The psychological impact is often intensified when survivors feel isolated or cannot get help.

Despite these challenges, many men still disclose their experiences in various ways. According to Villanova University climate data shared by Rost, men who report are likely to tell friends or roommates. Though some also feel more comfortable disclosing to counselors or University officials.

“It seems that men may feel safer, or more comfortable, at least these men, coming to a counselor or a University official, as opposed to telling a friend,” Rost said.

However, experts note that many survivors never report at all. According to Rost, the top four reasons why men in the same survey told no one about their experiences were, one, they were ashamed and embarassed, two, they didn’t think others would think it was serious, three, they didn’t think others would think it was important and, four, they didn’t think what happened was serious enough to talk about.

Institutional support exists, but awareness remains limited. Villanova University’s support services

include the Sexual Assault Resource Coordinator team, the Counseling Center and the Title IX Office. These resources provide advocacy, counseling and crisis support.

Off-campus resources, such as the Delaware County Victim Assistance Center and Domestic Abuse Project, offer counseling, advocacy, accompaniment and assistance with legal processes. These organizations provide confidential support to students outside of the University’s campus.

Advocates emphasize that improving outcomes for male survivors requires increasing access to services for male survivors and challenging cultural narratives that discourage disclosure. Increasing awareness, normalizing conversations about male victimization and ensuring supportive responses are key steps towards creating change.

Ultimately, experts stress that sexual violence prevention and response must include all survivors, regardless of gender. Greater awareness can help reduce stigma and ensure that all survivors receive the help and support they need.

People interested can find resources on the websites of the respective organizations or on Instagram @itsonusnova, @delcovictimassistance and @dapdelco. People should also mark their calendars for Villanova’s Solidarity Walk on April 20, where the community will walk around campus to raise awareness of survivors from various identities.

Unpacked: Amsterdam, France And Monaco

Emma Cote Abroad Correspondent

Over the course of the past two weeks, I spent my time visiting France, Monaco and Amsterdam. Given the lack of time left abroad, I’ve thrown out any life lesson of slowing down I’ve acquired thus far in favor of making the most of my time.

We arrived in Nice, France, late Friday night. Early that next morning, we were already boarding a brief 30-minute train to Monaco. The relaxed nature of traveling between countries is an experience I haven’t had until now, and one I’m going to miss when back in the United States.

Surrounded by race cars, luxury stores and yachts, we explored Monaco over the course of a few hours. We spent much of our time camped out at the Fairmont Hairpin, a prime viewing point for the nicest cars I’ve ever seen. I’m not necessarily a huge car fan, but I could have spent all day there.

I was glued to the window the entirety of the coastal train ride back to Nice. Upon arriving, we explored Old Town and made our way towards the beach. My mom studied abroad for sometime in France, and every corner we turned helped me understand why she loved it so much. I can still distinctly recall her teaching me how to say “Hello, my name is Emma,” in our Church parking lot on an early Sunday morning when I was younger. This weekend, I put that French lesson to the test, and entirely butchered it somehow.

The next week, I made my way to Amsterdam along with some of my friends from Villanova. There truly is no travel experience that even begins to surprise me anymore, and that includes the first night of this trip. Running from a delayed plane to a random port along the Amstel to make a wine and cheese night cruise my friend had booked was hardly out of the ordinary. After the tour guide made me jump from the dock on deck with my travel bag strapped to my back, I was ready to go.

Following that hectic beginning, we made our way down the canal. Amsterdam’s “dancing houses,” were illuminated by the warm streetlight overhead, allowing for us to take in the best views of the architecture.

Seeing the tulips in full bloom this season has been on my travel bucket list for quite some time, and the trip lived up to every expectation I had. Immediately after getting off the bus that Saturday morning, we were transported into what felt like a Disney movie.

We took our time coursing through the expansive garden paths, only stopping to take in views of the meticulously well-kept fields. I honestly could have spent the entire day there.

There’s many ways I’ve come to recognize I’m nearing the end of my time abroad. A “check in is right around the corner,” email on my phone, a dwindling bank account and the finalization of my summer plans have all served as reminders that time is inevitably running out.

However, in the whirlwind of the past three weeks this bleak reality

hit me hardest in a park in Amsterdam over our grocery store picnic dinner. One of my friends who is also studying abroad in Italy shared that she had a mere two weeks left in her program. Looking down at the date, probably for the first time in weeks, I

realized I wasn’t too far behind. As I embark on my last few trips of the semester, I’ll be writing from Malta next.

Until then, Emma

A Revolutionary Set: Villanova Production Of ‘Urinetown’

Massimo DiLeo Staff Writer

A musical named “Urinetown” might sound funny to those who don’t know its story. However, avid Broadway fans and theater lovers can attest to the fascinating ways this musical challenges the potential of corrupt government systems. “Urinetown” follows a timeline in which everyone must pay to use the bathroom. Instead of restrooms inside everyone’s homes, there are “public facilities” with varying price levels that citizens must pay to use when necessary. Of course, this society is extremely corrupt, and although it does not reflect our current reality, it can still guide us to think about the functions of government systems today.

This musical premieres on April 16, 2026, and Parris Bradley, the executive director at the Mullen Center and set designer for “Urinetown,” shared what the set will include.

The set’s design is centered around four main locations situated upon a turnstile. These four locations will work together throughout the show, and it is up to the actors alone to successfully move the set depending on the scene.

The first of the four locations is Public Amenity Number 9. This is the cheapest facility citizens can pay to use, and is where the actors will spend the majority of their time. The set uses wallpaper to display dirty tiles and stairs, which will allow viewers to step into this reality more intensely.

The second of the four locations situated on the turnstile is the Urine Good Company. This company is often described as monopolistic and corrupt because it controls all public restrooms. This set incorpo-

rates large amounts of “power blue.”

Power blue is an example of how color can be used to influence audiences and evoke specific emotions. The blue used for the Urine Good Company set will make us think of its power.

The color green might make us think of the environment. This is just one example of how even the smallest details, such as choosing the colors for a set, can have large impacts.

The next two locations are on the smaller ends of the four-sided structure on the turnstile. One side represents a street corner, while the other becomes a secret hideout. Wallpaper with a brick pattern was used to create a realistic-looking street corner. The secret hideout is meant to be underground, so it is being made to appear as such with a lot of grey. These locations, in addition to the two described above, incorporate the Brechtian theatrical style, which means they will provoke critical, objective thinking rather than emotional immersion. This style shows how, by connecting all four locations, any confusion is broken through, and the set does not hide anything from them either.

Although it may appear that the citizens in this reality have the worst experiences of everyone and that all hardship falls on them, having all four locations joined together will remind viewers that what affects one side affects all sides. The conjoined reality created in this set will show how the hardships affect everyone, even if the citizens seem to get the worst of it.

Those who wish to see Villanova’s production of “Urinetown,”can visit villanovatheatre. org/urinetown to purchase tickets. This production is set to premiere on Thursday, April 16, and close on Sunday, April 26.

Transfer Mania: Men’s Basketball Navigates Offseason

Dylan Johnson Co-Editor-in-Chief

Continued from p. 1

new style of play for him this past season and we’re excited to have him return as one of our leaders.”

Perkins will be a mainstay in Villanova’s starting five and will be a key leader.

The only other Wildcat to announce their return was rising redshirt sophomore Matt Hodge. While he tore his ACL in a late-February game against St. John’s, two months later, Hodge is already off crutches in his path to return to the court sometime early next season.

“I think everyone saw how valuable Matt was to our team this past season when we lost him,” Willard said on Hodge’s return. “We really missed him and can’t wait to see him back on the floor fully recovered.”

With Villanova’s portal additions and Hodge’s injury, he might start the season off the bench and get limited minutes.

It is currently expected that Malachi Palmer and Chris Jeffrey will also return to Villanova next season, but official announcements have yet to be made.

In the transfer portal so far, Villanova has landed two transfers, with seemingly more on the way. Oregon transfer forward Kwame Evans Jr. and Ohio State

transfer forward Devin Royal both announced their commitments to Villanova on Monday, April 13.

Evans Jr., 6-foot-9, joins Villanova after spending three seasons at Oregon. He averaged 13.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game during last season. Evans was a top-20 prospect in the 2023 recruiting class and was a potential NBA lottery pick after his freshman year.

Royal averaged 13.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists at Ohio State last season. He has spent his entire collegiate career at Ohio State, starting in 59 games while averaging 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds. He averaged 13.7 points per game in both his junior and sophomore seasons. Royal totaled 96 appearances as a Buckeye.

During his time at Ohio State, he transitioned from a power forward to a small forward.

The two pickups are a much-needed fit for Willard’s team, which lacked size and physicality last season, especially against top-25 teams.

While Villanova was able to land two recruits in the transfer portal so far, freshman starting guard Acaden Lewis and redshirt sophomore starting guard Bryce Lindsay had entered the transfer portal on Sunday, April 5. Lewis, a four-star recruit out of high school, was Villanova’s primary ballhandler as a freshman.

Lewis committed to Miami on Tuesday after averaging 12.2 points along with a team-high 5.3 assists and 1.9 steals per game.

He was named to the All-Big East Second Team and was runner-up for Big East Freshman of the Year. He set two freshman program records for assists (176) and steals (63).

Lindsay recently had a Zoom interview with USC on April 8 as he looks for a new program. He had a successful start to his time at Villanova, averaging 16.9 points and 44.7% from beyond the arc in his first 14 games. However, through conference play, he fell to 7.9 points per game.

Other transfer portal entries include Braden Pierce, Nico Onyekwere and Zion Stanford. Pierce was a backup center to Brennan, who followed Willard from Maryland. He averaged 1.2 points and 0.9 rebounds. Onyekwere redshirted and Stanford departed the program in March. Willard and staff still have to address how they will staff their starting guard slots. Villanova hosted Arkansas transfer guard DJ Wagner on Tuesday, April 14.

The program plans to host Cornell transfer forward Jake Fiegen for a visit. Fiegen is deciding between Villanova, Northwestern, Virginia and Vanderbilt. He will make his final decision after he visits Villanova.

The transfer portal opened on Tuesday, April 7, and will close on Tuesday, April 21. Players in the transfer portal do not have to choose a team before the April 21 deadline.

Track & Field Competes At Duke And Rutgers

Genna Cottinham Sports Columnist

This past weekend, Villanova track and field athletes competed at the Duke Invitational in Durham, NC and Rutger’s Relays in Piscataway, NJ.

Senior Marco Langon won the 5K at Duke, running a 13:28.43. Langon set the meet record and put up the seventh fastest time in program history.

“We’re just coming down here to get the time,” Langon said to FloTrack. “There was no other reason.”

The Duke Invitational was Langon’s first meet for the outdoor season. His runner-up was Wake Forest junior Rocky Hansen who finished in 13:29.53.

Three more Wildcats rounded off the top five in the 5k. Junior CJ Sullivan finished at 13:41.28, earning third place at the meet and the ninth fastest time in program history. Junior Bailey Habler and sophomore Jack Fenlon earned fourth and fifth place at 13.41.57 and 13:44.87, respectively.

“When you go down to Duke they try to get some times for the NCCAs,” men’s head coach Marcus O’Sullivan said. “The heats are in descending order, so it’s important to pick and choose what meets they could do better in.”

At Rutgers, the women’s

team dominated the top four in the 800 meter race. Sophomore Bella Walsh earned first place with a personal best of 2:06.27. Freshman Sophia McInnes and junior Caelen O’Leary reached season bests to claim second and third place. McInnes and O’Leary finished less than a second apart at 2:09.68 and 2:10.17. In fourth place was freshman Gabby Pistner at 2:13.35.

Back at Duke, all Villanova men’s 400-meter runners made the top 10 in their event. Junior Ethan Walls ran a pest best of 47.95 in the 400 meter race to finish in second place. Freshman Andy Guiser ran a personal best of 48.61, earning sixth place. Rounding out the top ten were senior Matthew Griffin and junior Luke Rakowitz at 49.05 and 49.12, respectively.

Junior Dan Watcke claimed third place out of 105 competitors in his 800 meter race. Watcke finished

with a time of 1:47.93. Geiser also ran a personal best in the 200-meter at 48.61. The 400-meter hurdle race had three top 10 finishers with sophomore Liam Gluck leading the pack with second place and a time of 54.69. At fifth and seventh place were seniors Sal Barretta and Ronan O’Neill, finishing at 55.25 and 55.61.

At Rutgers, the women’s 1500- meter had three Villanova runners in the top five. Freshman Maeve Smith finished in 4:33.32 to claim second place. Freshman Cecilia Montagnese ran a 4:37.44 personal best to earn third place. In fifth place, senior Kinsey Pogue crossed the line at 4:46.12.

In the 1500-meter men’s race, Sophomore Ben Thomas ran the metric equivalent of a sub-4-minute mile at 3:41.29. The time helped Thomas claim fifth place and a personal best. Grad students Sean Donoghue and Devon Comber finished at 3:42.71

and 3:47.71.

Junior sprinter Lore Olakunle ran a 12.65 100 meter race and got a personal best. Sophomore Chris Coulter had a 17.47 meter season best in shot put to reach seventh place. Coulter also had a 38.38 meter personal best in discus. Junior Aidan Shay achieved a collegiate personal best of 51.70 meter in javelin.

Rookies dominated the throwing events at Rutgers. Jess Bentum earned third place in the hammer throw. At 49.23 meter the freshman got a personal best and moved to No. 8 in program history.

Hallie Kees earned sixth place in javelin. At 40.93 meter, Kees also landed at no.8 in Villanova history for that event. Senior Jimmy Milgie ran a season best to get fifth place at 48.49 meter.

Men’s distance runners will have the week off from competition in preparation for the 130th Annual Penn Relays starting on Thursday, April 23.

“You can’t truly rest for Penn Relays,” O’Sullivan said. “It’s so early in the season…it is such an important event for us. This week practice will progress as normal and then more conservative training for the week of Penn Relays.”

Villanova track and field is scheduled to attend the Virginia Challenge in Charlottesville and the Paul Donahue Invite in Chester, PA this weekend.

Womens Tennis Splits Weekend, 1-1

Sophia Cratty Staff Writer

This past weekend, Villanova women’s tennis (11-9, 1-3 Big East ) closed out its regular season with a 4-3 loss to Georgetown University (8-8, 4-2 Big East) on Saturday, and a sweep against Haverford College (8-7) on Sunday.

On Saturday, April 11, Villanova traveled to College Park, Maryland, to play Georgetown at the Smith Center.

The Wildcats claimed the doubles point. At No. 1, Emi Callahan and Maggie Gehrig took home a 6-2 win, followed by a 6-4 win at No. 3 from Miriam Gondorova and Olivia Corcoran. At No. 2, Lauren Monti and Jenna Stevens’ match went unfinished with a 6-6 split.

After a three-set battle in singles play, Corcoran earned a victory at No. 1, 6-4, 2-6, 6-3. Then, Gondorova picked up a point at No. 3 after coming back from a first-set loss: 0-6, 7-6, 6-4.

Georgetown took four out of the five remaining singles matches to edge out the Wildcats.

“It was a tough one against Georgetown,” head coach Steve Reiniger said. “It was a battle. It couldn’t have been a closer match.”

Then, on Sunday, April 12, the Wildcats hosted Haverford and swept the Fords, 7-0. The match

also marked the team’s senior day celebration of its three members of the senior class.

“The highlight was Savie Seebald,” Reiniger said. “She hadn’t been in the lineup, so it was nice for her to end her career with a good win, and she played very well.”

At No. 1 doubles, Callahan and Gehrig earned a 6-1 win, and then Monti and Stevens at No. 2, and Freshman Riley Cicero and Senior Savie Seebald at No. 3 earned identical 6-1 wins.

Then, in singles play, Villanova maintained control, sweeping all six matches in straight sets.

Corcoran, in the top spot, set the tone with a 6-0 win after her opponent retired. At No. 2, Stevens won, 6-0, 6-0. Cicero, at No. 4, triumphed 6-3, 6-2. Alina Kornyevea secured the win with a 6-0, 6-1 score at No. 3. Seebald, at No. 5, and Callahan, at No. 6, added straight-set wins.

On Sunday, the team was missing a few key players because of the match the day before.

“And Emi Callahan made her singles debut,” Reiniger said. “We twisted her arm a little bit because we were banged up from the day before. Maggie didn’t play singles, neither did Lauren Monti or Miriam, so we were missing a lot. I almost forfeited No. 6 singles, but Emi took one for the team and won like 6-0. ”

All the seniors played on

Sunday, in honor of Senior Day, and the team had a senior celebration following the match.

“All the seniors played in the match, and then when the match was finished, we went up to the O’Dea Room and celebrated the seniors,” Reiniger said. “The team made a nice video to play for the seniors. They got to frame jerseys, and we had food. It was a nice celebration, all the Senior parents were there too.”

With the regular season wrapped up after Sunday’s decision, Villanova heads to South Carolina for Big East Tournament play. It is the sixth seed in the tournament.

“On Wednesday, we travel to Cayce, South Carolina, for our conference tournament,” Reiniger said. “The seeds just came out, and we’re seeded six out of eleven. Last year, we were seeded fourth. We’ll play Providence in the first round, and if we win that, we’ll play St. John’s. I know our team will be ready. We played them in the regular season, and it was a pretty close match.”

On Thursday, April 16, Villanova plays Providence in Cayce, South Carolina, in the Big East tournament. First serve is set for 9 a.m.

Should Villanova win, it will advance to the quarterfinal round, facing the No. 3 seed St. John’s on Friday, April 17, at 1 p.m.

April. 8 - April. 14

Wednesday, April 8

Men’s Tennis vs. Lehigh 4-0 L

Friday, April 10

Tracl & Field @ Duke Invitational no team scoring Baseball @ Xavier 4-8 L

Softball vs. Seton Hall 8-5 W

Saturday, April 11

Water Polo vs. No. 22 Wagner 11-12 L

Rowing @ Knect Cup

Track & Field @ Rutger Relays no team scoring

Women’s Tennis @ Georgetown 3-4 L

Men’s Tennis @ Georgetown 1-6 L

Track & Field @ Duke Invitatonal no team scoring

Women’s Lax vs. No. 20 Denver 5-14 L

Men’s Lax vs. Providence 9-10 L (OT)

Baseball @ Xavier 7-9 L

Sunday, April 12

Rowing @ Knect Cup 3-4 L

Softball vs. Seton Hall 0-4 L Baseball @ Xavier 6-9 L

Women’s Lacrosse Defeated by Denver, 14-5 WEEKLY SCOREBOARD

Casey Healey Co-Sports Editor

On Saturday, April 11, Villanova women’s lacrosse (8-5, 2-2 Big East) hosted No.20 Denver (11-2, 4-0 Big East) and fell, 14-5, at Villanova Stadium.

The Wildcats took an early lead, and went up 2-0 on goals from redshirt junior attacker Elena Torres and redshirt sophomore midfielder Mary Moore in the first period. Villanova managed to hold Denver scoreless for the first 15 minutes of play.

In the second quarter, Denver got things going with its first goal of the game. Villanova responded with a goal from junior midfielder Rose Christie, assisted by Moore.

Denver made it 3-2. Then Moore assisted redshirt junior midfielder Bella Piselli to give the Wildcats a 4-2 advantage. The Pioneers closed the deficit to one, heading into halftime with Villanova up by one, with a score of 3-2.

At halftime, alumni of Villanova women’s lacrosse were recognized at midfield.

“It’s so special to have had 40 women back to celebrate the program and to support our team,” head coach Jill Batcheller said. “We’re so lucky that these women have taken the time out of their lives to come and bring their families and bring their kids to come and support the team. I think that’s just truly what Villanova is.”

Early in the third period, Denver capitalized on a free position to tie things up. The Pioneers went on to gain the lead, 5-4, and Villanova would not regain it for the remainder of the match.

The ‘Cats did not score through the entirety of the quarter, as Denver went on a four-goal run to make the score 6-4 going into the final period.

“Denver really started stepping up in the second half of that game,” Batcheller said. “So

I think they just had more threats that were supporting their team in driving. And I think that was just something we could have made a quicker adjustment on.”

Although a win was still in sight for Villanova, it was unable to bring back its momentum from the first half of the game. Denver extended its goal streak to seven, making the score 9-4. The ‘Cats were still unable to find the back of the net, and Denver managed two more goals to take an 11-4 advantage.

Finally, Moore was able

Women’s Tennis vs. Haverford 7-0 W

Monday, April 12

Golf @ West Virginia Invitational 12th out of 19

Tuesday, April 14

Golf @ West Virginia Invitational 11th out of 19

to add one more for Villanova off an assist from Christie. However, Denver tallied three more goals to end the game with a final score of 14-5.

Junior midfielder Emma Verhoust notched eight draw controls, and freshman goalkeeper Allie Bell had seven saves in goal. Villanova had 23 shots on goal, compared to Denver’s 32.

The ‘Cats won the draw control battle, with 12 to Denver’s nine. However, they fell short on ground balls and caused turnovers.

With the loss, the Wildcats are now 8-5 on the season and 2-2 in the Big East conference.

“I think again, we’re going into Georgetown with our game plan defensively,” Batcheller said. “What just happened with Denver is just trying to stay a step ahead. If we’re their offense down and their main looks and knowing what they’re trying to anticipate and what comes next.”

Next up, Villanova will host Georgetown (10-4, 4-0 Big East) for its last regular season home game on Saturday, April 18 at Villanova Stadium. First draw is set for 11 a.m. In the two teams’ last matchup, the ‘Cats were defeated, 13-9. Villanova is currently 0-8 against the Hoyas at home.

Noah Okenquist Staff Writer

This past weekend, Villanova’s baseball team traveled to Cincinnati, OH, where it was swept, 3-0, by Xavier (16-21, 6-3 Big East) in the three-game series. The losses put the Wildcats at 11-20 on the season and 0-6 in Big East play.

“We’ve had a bunch of guys step up as leaders this season,” Coach Mulvey said. “Michael Whooley, Jake Francis, Carter Richey always says the right things at the right times. And Collin Quintano is a quiet leader for us, he leads by example.”

Game one kicked off on Friday, April 10, when the ‘Cats fell, 8-4, at Hayden Field.

Villanova struck first in the opening inning. Sophomore Austin Lemon, senior Michael Whooley and sophomore Brayden Leonard managed to get on base.

Lemon reached home plate to score on a fielder’s choice from sophomore John Freitag, giving Villanova an early 1-0 lead.

In the second inning, the Musketeers responded with four runs on two hits. A two-run home run, along with back-to-back singles, scoring two baserunners, gave Xavier a 4-1 lead.

Baseball Swept By Xavier, 0-3

“We had some trouble with the long ball with Xavier,” Coach Mulvey said. “But since Xavier’s field is shorter we were expecting more to get out. Our job was to make sure that if they did, they were solo to limit the damage.”

Through the fifth, Xavier added a pair of runs and maintained a 6-1 advantage. It added another run in the seventh on a solo home run.

Lemon added an RBI double in the seventh inning to rally the ‘Cats. Freshmen Larry Hotaling and Jack Roventini got on base, scoring on a passed ball and an RBI, cutting the deficit to 7-4.

In the eighth, Xavier took advantage of two walks and a passed ball to extend the lead to 8-4.

“That’s what it’s all about in those high-pressure situations,” Coach Mulvey said. “You perform to your best, and that’s what we’re ok with. Being able to perform at that peak is what separates the great from the best.”

The Wildcats returned on Saturday, April 12, for the second

game of the series. Despite an early lead, Villanova lost again, 9-7, after the Musketeers’ late rally.

Lemon’s single allowed senior Collin Quintano to knock him in for Villanova’s first run in the opening inning. Redshirt sophomore Mark Gialluisi then hit a solo home run in the second.

A few more Wildcats managed to score, giving Villanova a 5-0 advantage by the end of the inning.

Freshman Larry Hotaling drove in Gialluisi in the third inning to make it 6-0. Xavier hit a solo home run to make the score 6-1.

Villanova added another run, putting the score at 7-1. Xavier continued its momentum and took advantage of a bases-loaded situation to cut the deficit to 7-4.

Xavier’s two-run home run in the eighth, along with an RBI single

in the ninth, tied the game at 7. Xavier used a two-run home run to walk it off and secure the win. Villanova’s final game of the series, on April 12, saw a 9-6 loss. Although the ‘Cats had a late surge in the ninth inning, it was not enough to overtake Xavier and prevent the sweep.

The Musketeers struck first with a solo home run in the opening inning. Hotaling tallied his first career home run in the top of the second to even the score at 1-1.

Villanova’s starting pitcher, senior Bobby Finn, retired several hitters over four innings to keep the Wildcats alive.

It wasn’t until the sixth inning that the Musketeers finally took the lead with an RBI single. They hit a double to clear the bases and added a few more runs, giving Xavier a 8-1 lead.

Quintano and Leonard attempted to rally the Wildcats for a comeback in the ninth with a couple of hits. They managed to cut the deficit down to 3, with a score of 9-6.

“Any success you have you’ll use to gain momentum individually and collectively,” Coach Mulvey said. “I have all the confidence in this group and I know what they’re capable of. We haven’t even scratched the surface yet.”

Villanova dropped its last game with a final score of 9-6.

Villanova’s next game is slated for Tuesday, April 14, against Bucknell at Villanova Baseball Complex. First pitch is scheduled for 3:35 p.m.

Men’s Lacrosse Falls To Providence, 10-9, In Overtime

Sammie McKee Co-Sports Editor

On Saturday, April 11, Villanova men’s lacrosse fell to Providence College, 10-9, in overtime.

Though Villanova (5-6, 2-1 Big East) led 7-3 at the conclusion of the third quarter, the Wildcats committed six turnovers during the final 15 minutes of regulation, allowing Providence (5-8, 1-2 Big East) to score six fourth-quarter goals to tie the game and send it to overtime, where junior midfielder Rhett Chambers scored the game-winning goal.

“We haven’t turned the ball over like this,” head coach Michael Corrado said. “In the first half, we were turning it over in the clear, and in the second half we were turning it over on the offensive end…we had 17 turnovers, and that’s too many.”

Chambers led the Friars, scoring three goals and tallying one assist.

Graduate attackman Luke Raymond and senior attackman David Link led the Wildcats, scoring three goals each. Freshman midfielder Kessy Cox and senior midfielder Lucas Newton picked up two assists each.

The Wildcats took 33 shots, with 20 of them on goal. In comparison, Providence had 45 shots, with 25 of them on goal.

Villanova committed 17 turnovers, while Providence gave up 16.

The match marked the

team’s Senior Day, which celebrated 12 members of the senior class. In addition to celebrating the class of 2026, the team also welcomed back its alumni for Alumni Day and Lax Fest.

In the first half, the ‘Cats found early offensive success, winning the game’s opening faceoff and scoring three goals in the first quarter.

Five minutes into play, Link scored. Shortly after, junior midfielder Nick Lucchesi registered, before Link registered his second goal of the game.

A minute later, Providence responded. Senior midfielder Luke Schmidt scored the Friars’ first goal before the first quarter ended, 3-1.

During the second quarter, Raymond buried two goals, giving the Wildcats a 5-1 advantage at halftime.

At the break, men’s lacrosse alumni gathered on the field where they were recognized for their contributions to the program and its rich culture.

Following halftime, Providence scored two goals, cutting its deficit to 5-3.

Villanova found two more goals before the third quarter ended, 7-3.

With 11 minutes remaining, senior defender David Evanchick scored his first career goal.

Seconds later, freshman defenseman Nate Smith answered for Providence, burying a goal after a faceoff.

“Usually, when one of your defenders scores, it gets the side-

lines excited. Then, unfortunately, in the following face-off, we let them score,” Corrado said. “But it’s great for him, he’s an awesome kid, and he’s had a great career here.”

The Friars scored two more unanswered goals, cutting Villanova’s advantage to just one goal with under seven minutes remaining.

Link scored Villanova’s final goal making the score 9-7. With over two minutes remaining, Providence scored, again shrinking Villanova’s advantage to a single goal.

With one minute and 15 seconds remaining, Providence gained possession after a shot clock violation. 30 seconds later, Chambers

After winning the game’s final face-off of regulation, Villano-

va failed to score, sending the game into overtime.

In sudden-death overtime, Chambers scored, giving Providence the comeback victory.

“We had a couple of chances and really good opportunities that we didn’t take advantage of,” Corrado said. “We played too much defense and had way too many turnovers.”

Villanova will continue its Big East campaign on Saturday, April 18, by traveling to Milwaukee, WI, to face Marquette (6-5, 2-1 Big East).

During the teams’ last meeting in April, 2025, Villanova defeated Marquette, 14-13.

Face off is set for 11 a.m. CDT/noon EST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Rowing Competes At Knecht Cup

Casey Healey Co-Sports Editor

This past weekend, Villanova’s rowing team competed at the Knecht Cup in Pennsauken, N.J. The regatta was held on the Cooper River.

Villanova’s first boat was the 2V4, featuring Lorelei Cadorette, Ella Larken, Isabelle Rotival, Taylor Pansy and Lily-Kate Foley. It crossed the finish line in 8:27.96, qualifying for the Petite Final on Saturday.

“I was proud of the team,” head coach Carissa Adams said. “It’s a multiple race regatta, so that’s what’s exciting about it.”

The V4 boat finished in 8:24.78, 11 seconds behind Wisconsin and eight ahead of Lehigh. V4 rowers Abby Shang, Nicola Ranon, Eliska Bohmanova, Emmi Stanton and Mary Eagle moved on to the semifinals, where they placed fifth with a time of 7:52.47.

The 2V8 managed a third-place finish behind MIT and UMass. It crossed the line in 7:06.59.

Villanova’s final race featured the V8. Cate Donnelly, Maggie Coyne, Jalyn Colon, Sylvia Marks, Ava DeJong, Ella Cooper, Farrah Bardouille, Sarah Robillard and Natalia Peng posted a time of 6:57.75. The boat earned fourth place, just two seconds behind Temple and Colgate in the close finish.

Mason Canton Staff Writer

“They’re coming together, and then every time we race, we are talking about, we’re either winning or we’re learning,” said Adams “We try to take something

away from every race.”

The Wildcats returned on Sunday for the conclusion of the Cup. Villanova competed in six races total.

The 2V8 boat earned a fifth-place finish in its semifinal, crossing the line in 7:36.94. Moving onto the final, it finished in third place, with a time of 7:17.82, putting the boat at 15th place overall.

“I was impressed by how well, overall, the whole team handled themselves with composure. Some people could have come out of the heat and felt discouraged,” Adams said. “They just put their heads down and did the work.”

Up next were the V8 semifinals. There, Villanova finished with a time of 7:20.95 to move on to the final round. In the final, the boat came in third place with a time of 6:58.57 and managed a ninth overall finish.

The 2V4 brought Villanova to its third final of the day. The Wildcats finished in third place with a time 8:42.69, just under one second behind Boston College. The finish once again gave them a ninth overall placement.

The final race featured Villanova’s V4, who crossed the line in 8:36.42 and earned a 13th overall finish.

“Today we were working on just rowing with ease and rowing loose instead of with tension,” Adams said. “We are just trying to really refine our stroke and blend as a crew.”

Villanova will not compete again until April 24-25, when it will travel to North Carolina for the Lake Wheeler Invitational.

Men’s Tennis Falls To Georgetown, 1-6

On Saturday, April 11, Villanova men’s tennis fell, 6-1, to Big East opponent, Georgetown.

Strong Georgetown (7-14, 3-3 Big East) performances in both doubles and singles play secured the conference victory, handing the Wildcats (5-15, 0-4 Big East) another setback in Big East competition as the regular season winds down.

Georgetown took early control of the match, claiming the doubles point with wins on courts No. 1 and No. 3. The pairing of Arthur O’Sullivan and Cyrus Zia defeated junior Ethan Carr and senior Cooper Gordon, 7–5, at the top spot, while Burke Pablo and Hank Williams earned a 6–3 victory over juniors Kush Anand and Thomas Wakefield on court No. 3. The No. 2 doubles match featuring sophomores Quincy Jones and Jack Sherner went unfinished.

“I thought Quincy and Jack put together a great match before it was abandoned,” said head coach Brad Adams. Adams was able to find some bright sports in the less-than-ideal result.

In singles play, the Hoyas continued to dominate, winning five of the six matches. Arthur O’Sullivan defeated Gordon in straight sets, 6–1, 6–3, and James O’Sullivan followed with a 6–3, 6–4 win over Carr. Joshua Lamm-Bocharov added another point for Georgetown with a 6–2,

With the loss, men’s tennis now drops to 0-4 for the 2026 season against Big East opponents.

6–1 victory against Quincy Jones at No. 3 singles.

Jonah Hill earned a threeset win at No. 4, surviving a competitive match against junior Justin Frattarelli, 5–7, 6–0, 7–6 (10–7), while Jacob Mann topped Sherner, 6–4, 6–0, at No. 5.

Villanova’s lone point came at No. 6 singles, where sopho -

more Evan Ancu took a confident straight-set victory, 7–6, 6–3. Adams emphasized both the milestone and areas for growth, noting Ancu’s first BIG EAST victory, he also added that the team needs to improve its “attention to detail on the big points” and “making sure we’re not giving away free points.”

With the loss, Villanova drops to 0-4 against Big East opponents.

Reflecting on the match as a whole, Adams noted that Villanova had opportunities but struggled to maintain momentum.

“We had our chances against Georgetown, but took our foot off the pedal a bit, and they were able to break back and get into the set,” Adams said.

He maintained that the team will continue to focus on the mental side of the game moving forward.

With the regular season complete, the Wildcats now shift their focus to postseason competition and the challenges ahead in the BIG EAST Tournament. Adams expects Villanova to enter as the No. 8 seed and emphasized the importance of mindset heading into the matchup.

“We shouldn’t put as much pressure on ourselves,” Adams said. “Let’s go in, compete, and give it our all.”

The Wildcats are likely to face either St. John’s or DePaul in the opening round. Both programs feature strong, experienced players.

Still, Adams believes an underdog approach could benefit the team.

“[Villanova] should play pretty free,” Adams said about their No. 8 seed.

Villanova will now travel to the Cayce Tennis & Fitness Center in South Carolina, where quarterfinal matches are scheduled to begin Friday, April 17, at 9 a.m.

Waterpolo Falls To Wagner, 11-12, In MAAC Semifinals

Noah Okenquist Staff Writer

This weekend, Villanova’s water polo team (20-9, 7-1 MAAC) fell to No.22 Wagner (13-12, 6-2 MAAC), 12-11, in the MAAC semifinals, hosted in Poughkeepsie, NY. The Wildcats were seeded in No. 2 while Wagner was a No. 3 seed. The loss ended Villanova’s season.

Both teams got off to a hot start, matching each other at two goals by the end of the first period. However, Villanova was outscored 4-2 in the second and trailed 6-4 at the half.

The Wildcats tied the game again at 8-8 heading into the final quarter. In the fourth, the Seahawks maintained a steady lead as Villanova fought back to stay even.

Wagner ultimately outscored Villanova in the final period, 4-3.

“We stuck with the gameplan,” Coach Gordon said.

“Played good defense throughout the game and we were back and forth. I credit the team for fighting down the stretch.”

Sophomore Layla Canales led Villanova with four. Seniors Sara Withers and Ella Mattocks contributed two each.

Withers also collected four assists, while senior Anna Painter and sophomore Riley Hull had two. Both the exclusion and steal categories featured eight Wildcats.

Canales had three steals, while Painter and Maddocks had two. Jones, Withers, Hull and freshman Tessa Pettit each tallied one steal.

Hull also drew seven exclusions, and Mattocks followed behind with six. Canales, Jones, Painter, Tippy Maguire and Emmie Mallory had one.

“The grit is incredible,” Coach Gordon said. “They were

never backing down until the final whistle. They’re tough in the second half all the way down the stretch, we just ran out of time. It says a lot about the work ethic with the energy and hours.”

With the loss, seniors Mattocks, Withers, Painter, Jones, Isabel Foley and Gracin Kerry all finished their careers at Villanova. Withers ends her career as Villanova’s all-time leading assist

leader, surpassing Ellen Howe, who has held the record since 2005. She also holds the record for most assists in a single game with seven.

Mattocks’s 80 goals and 71 exclusions on the season establish her as one of the strongest centers in program history. She was also named to second team All-MAAC for the second consecutive year.

Hull was named the MAAC Offensive Player of the Year and earned first-team all-conference honors.

Gracin Kerry and Canales were named third team all-conference. Kerry saved five of 12 attempts against Wagner and totaled 177 saves on the season.

“The senior group left this spot in a much better position than when they came in and they’ve left a lasting legacy,” Coach Gordon said. “They’re really skilled and talented, they work tremendously well, and they’re a good example to set for everyone else coming through.”

Villanova ended its season with a final record of 20-9 and 7-1 in MAAC play. It is the Wildcats’ third consecutive season reaching the 20-win mark.

“We’ve had another great year,” Coach Gordon said. “We’re losing a big group with the seniors but with the preparation we do, everyone will show up with the minutes now open. The harder we practice against each other the better everyone is prepared.”

Golf Finishes In 11th Place At Mountaineer Invitational

Jack McFadden Staff Writer

On Tuesday, April 14, Villanova men’s golf closed out its regular season at the Pete Dye Golf Club, earning 11th place out of 19 teams competing at the Mountaineer Invitational in Bridgeport, WV.

The result follows their home victory at the Wildcat Fazio Invite at the Galloway National Golf Course on April 7.

The 54-hole event started with 36 holes on Monday, followed by the final 18 on Tuesday.

On day one, Villanova finished in 12th out of 19 through the first 36 holes, shooting 303 (+15) in the first round and 258 (+3) in the second round, leaving them at 561 (+18) after the first day.

Coming off a second place finish at the Wildcat Invitational, Senior Ryan Pamer was the first to hit off the tee for the ‘Cats. In round one, he finished shooting par, 72 (E). In round two he improved and shot 69 (-3), where he birdied seven of 18 holes, leaving him with a score of 134 (-3) earning him a tie for seventh place following day one of the tournament.

Fifth-year Brockton English followed for Villanova, shooting 143 (+6) and finishing the day in 50th. Junior Nathan Marion shot 147 (+10) coming in at 77th.

Senior Matt Zerfass struggled on day one and finished in

84th after shooting 146 (+11). In round one he shot 81 (+9), followed by 74 (+2) in the second round. Sophomore Vibhav Alokam rounded out the results for the Wildcats, shooting 148 (+13) and finishing the day in 87th.

“We are very happy with the way the whole team has performed the last few weeks,” assis -

tant coach Patrick Aylward said. “We are playing our best golf at the right time of the year.”

On the final day of the tournament Villanova shot 293 (+5) in the final round. Through the two day invitational the ‘Cats finished with a total of 889 (+25), earning them an 11th place finish.

Clemson University took

home the win at the Mountaineer Invitational shooting 844 (minus 20) as a team.

Pamer continued his success from day one into day two, shooting 70 (minus 2) in the final round where he eagled on hole six, and birdied three others. Overall Pamer shot 211 (minus 5) to earn himself a tie for sixth place.

“Coop’s top 5 finish in West Virginia against one of the strongest fields in college golf really shows he can play with anyone in the country,” Aylward said.

“Playing two great golf courses in Galloway National and Pete Dye Golf Club in the last two weeks gives us a lot of confidence going into the Big East Championship.”

Alokam finished the final round shooting 72 (E), while Marion followed shooting 75 (+3). Both finished shooting 229 (+13) leaving them tied for 80th. English finished off the tournament shooting 228 (+12) to put him in 77th. Zerfass shot a 231 (+15) through both days putting him in 86th.

Junior Patrick Stout of Oklahoma State finished at the top of the leaderboard where he shot 205 (-11) through the three rounds.

With the invitational culminating tournament play for the spring season, Villanova now has a few weeks of practice to prepare for the Big East Championship which will begin May 2. The championship will take place over three days in Hardeeville, S.C at Riverton Pointe Golf and Country Club.

Softball Falls In Series Against Seton Hall, 1-2

Eliza O’Neil Staff Writer

Villanova’s softball team played Seton Hall (15-23, 5-13 Big East) at home from April 10-12. The ‘Cats (9-33, 5-13 Big East) went 1-2 in the three-game series against the Pirates.

The first game was held on Friday, April 10, during which the Wildcats won 8-5 over a six-and-ahalf- inning game, a strong start to the three-game face-off.

Freshman pitcher Carly Zych started on the mound for the ‘Cats.

Seton Hall jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning. Senior outfielder Madison Ostrowski got on base and scored on a home run from sophomore Ava Mahnken to tie the game at 2-2.

After the Pirates hit a home run in the third to regain the lead, Villanova responded with a five- run fifth inning to take control of the game for good. Freshman Katie Reed and senior Maddie Burrows hit singles and scored on a hit from Runco and a throwing error from Seton Hall.

A single from Ostrowski and a walk tied the game at 5-5, then a base hit from freshman Jacquelyn Cox and an error on a ground ball gave Villanova a 7-5 advantage.

Runco hit a sacrifice fly in the sixth to score junior Mackenzie Waghorn, and Villanova led 8-5.

Villanova held up through

Genna Cottingham Sports Columnist

Philadelphia native Denae Carter sat on the bench every evening, waiting for her older sister’s basketball practice to be over. With their mom working at night, Carter had no choice but to be on the sidelines.

At eight years old, the coach finally asked if she wanted to play. The coach brought her to the other side of the gym, and Carter was set to practice with the third grade team.

“I didn’t know anything about basketball, and I was terrified,” Carter said. “He walked me over there, and they let me practice with them even though they had no idea who I was that day.”

The six-foot senior forward later attended St. Basil Academy and graduated in 2021. Although SBA has since shut its doors, Carter still holds the title of the school’s all-time leading scorer. Since the school closed after her senior year, the administration was unable to make a banner for her accomplishments.

Several of her high school teammates were from middle school and AAU teams. They became her sisters, although Carter already had five of her own. In sixth grade, she was the only girl on an all-boys middle school team. Along with the help of friends and family, players fought to create an all girls middle school team, and were successful.

Carter went on to win four conference championships for the Athletic Association of Catholic Academies (AACA). She led SBA to a

the remainder of the game with freshman pitcher Maggie King on the mound.

King managed three strikeouts in four innings.

On Saturday, the ‘Cats fell 4-0 to Seton Hall in the second game of the series.

The game remained scoreless through the first three innings, but the Pirates broke through with two runs in the fourth inning. They added two more in the fifth to extend the lead.

Villanova was unable to respond offensively and managed only a handful of hits from sophomore Jaclyn Morra, Burrows, Runco and Mahnken.

“We were able to get momentum in game one with some key at bats. We were patient at the plate, drawing walks to get on base and key hits led to five runs in one inning,” said head coach Bridget Orchard. “The last two games we couldn’t get any momentum going. Their pitchers and defense did a good job of keeping our batter off balance.”

Runco started on the mound for the Wildcats. She registered three strikeouts over four innings before sophomore pitcher Lexi Kobryn came in during the fifth for relief. She threw three scoreless innings.

The loss marked the seventh time Villanova has been shut out this

Wildcat Watch: Denae Carter

24-3 record in her final season.

“I still talk to most of them today,” Carter said about her former teammates. “It really started as this small little interaction, but I’ve known those girls my whole life now.”

When the college recruitment process began in the middle of COVID-19, Carter and many of her peers were unable to make official visits to campuses. She remembers having countless phone calls and Zoom meetings with coaches, players, and team staff for several potential schools.

Carter was able to get in contact with a former Olympian, WNBA player and staff member at Old Dominion women’s basketball: Nicki McCray-Penson. McCray-Penson connected with Carter and when McCray-Penson took over the head coaching position at Mississippi State, she recruited Carter, who joined the team in Starkville, MS. She had many coaches during her two years there.

“It was just really hard for me because there seemed to be no stability,” Carter said. “I didn’t know how it would affect playing time, I didn’t know how it would affect my experience there, and then not having my family there was the hardest part.”

A two-time SEC freshman of the week, Carter averaged six points per game her rookie year and had a team-high four double-doubles.

The next year at Mississippi State, Carter’s season ended, after she tore her right ACL. Following her surgery, one of her sisters stayed with her in Mississippi for two weeks to aid in the initial post-op recovery. Once

season. On Sunday, April 12, the Wildcats dropped the series finale, 4-0. It was the first time the ‘Cats have been shut out in back-to-back Big East games since 2014 against DePaul.

Seton Hall took the lead early in the third inning, tallying three runs. They scored an additional run in the sixth to go up 4-0. Villanova struggled again on the plate, but managed to avoid a no-hitter.

“We need to be more disciplined at the plate and swing at pitches that we can drive rather than chasing balls or pitchers pitches,” Orchard said.

Ostrowski and senior Lily St. Jean both hit singles, while Morra knocked a double. However, none could reach home plate.

King started on the mound and pitched for five innings. She struck out two, walked one and gave up three runs on six hits. King was later relieved by sophomore pitcher Sophia Mount.

“Headed into Towson need to get back to the basics and focus on enjoying the game,” said Orchard. “They play well when supporting each other and not putting pressure on themselves to get it done.”

The loss brings Villanova’s record to 9-33 overall and 5-12 in the Big East.

Villanova will travel to Towson, Maryland, to compete against Towson on Wednesday, April 15. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m.

the two weeks passed, Carter had to attend every doctor’s appointment, class, and practice by herself, without the support of her family.

During that time, she realized that proximity to her family was her biggest priority. She entered the transfer portal before her junior year, and Villanova women’s basketball head coach Denise Dillon convinced her to come to ‘Nova. Dillon had recruited Carter prior to her choosing Mississippi State.

“We kinda stayed in touch with things in a line here at Nova,” Dillon said. “It really gave her an opportunity to acclimate herself, transition in, have an understanding of what Villanova was about as a community and the team when she’s healthy and recovered.”

Just a half hour from her house, Villanova was the perfect place for Carter to continue her ACL recovery and athletic journey. Many of her teammates at Villanova grew up playing against or with Carter in AAU basketball in Philly. Former and current teammates, including Ryanne Allen, Zanai Jones and Kaitlyn Orihel are players she knew prior to joining Nova Nation.

“It was a lot of like connections, a lot of familiar faces coming back here,” Carter said. “[Allen] and I have been playing against each other since we were eight.”

Dillon and the rest of the women’s basketball support staff, as well as the sports medicine team, played significant roles in Carter’s recovery. She was closer to her family, had a close bond of teammates, and finally felt supported both academical-

ly and athletically.

“Danae really understood the competitiveness of… wanting to be the best in Philly and leading her team the last couple of years,” Dillon said. “We had breakfast the day she made the decision to come to Villanova, and there were tears in her dad’s eyes. [Her family] was at every game.”

At the beginning of her junior year, Carter tore her ACL again, this time in the left leg.

“You’ve done it once, you could do it again,” Carter said. “There are days where you could lift your leg and then the next day you can’t even get it off the ground. That kind of mental strength was definitely the hardest part the second time around.”

Entering her senior year, Carter was fully healthy. She felt confident in her play and hopeful for the team’s future. However, she was unsure of her leadership capabilities. After all, she sat out her entire junior year, but it gave her a new perspective on how she views the game.

Carter’s new knowledge made her the perfect role model that her younger teammates to look up to.

“I think we all really loved each other and loved working hard together,” Carter said. “It made it I think people were able to see that on the court. We love celebrating each other’s small accomplishments.”

In her final basketball season, Carter started in all 35 games and averaged nearly nine points per game. The team’s camaraderie both on and off the court returned the ‘Cats to March Madness for the first time in three years.

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