Network News March/April 2025 Issue : simplebooklet.com

This March—and every day—we honor, uplift, andamplify the voices of women. Women’s HistoryMonth is a time to reflect on the incredible womenwho shape our lives—our grandmothers, mothers,aunts, sisters, friends, cousins, colleagues, andinspiring leaders. These women are the foundationof our existence, influencing the world in ways bothbig and small.At Bay Path, we learn about the many battleswomen have faced—both within themselves andagainst societal challenges. Yet, despite theseobstacles, women continue to show up every day fortheir communities with love, care, and dedication.As March comes to a close, let’s remember thatevery woman—and every person—deserves support.Take a moment to encourage someone, step out ofyour comfort zone, offer a kind word, give acompliment, or simply sit with someone and listento their perspective. Small acts of kindness canmake a lasting impact.Donyel Caroline- Caroline Austin_ Donyel Le'Noir FeltonContact Us: studentnewsroom@baypath.eduEDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to our March/April issue! As weclose this chapter and step into April, weencourage you to embrace your true selfand celebrate your journey, your growth,and everything that makes you unique.This issue is filled with stories, campusresources, and reflections to inspire andsupport you along the way. To our seniors, graduation is just aroundthe corner, marking the end of onechapter and the beginning of another. Asyou prepare for this transition, take amoment to reflect on how far you’ve comeand the impact you’ve made. No matterwhere life takes you next, stay true toyourself and the path you’re meant tofollow. Here’s to a season of newbeginnings, self-discovery, and making themost of every moment!

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Embracing Womanhood: My Transformative Journey at Bay PathLooking back on my high school years, attending Bay Path was thelast thing I thought I would do. As a single teenage girl, I wantednothing more than to go to a university with plenty of boysaround... and would you look at me now? I am in my third year atBay Path, and this experience has truly changed my life. Enteringan institution like Bay Path was both a leap of faith and a personalrevelation. I arrived here on campus in the early month of January2023 with a mix of excitement and apprehension. I felt somewhatuncertain of what to expect from an environment that was radicallydifferent from the co-ed spaces I had grown up in. But over time,this unique experience shaped my perception of what it truly meansto be a woman. It has unveiled strengths, challenges, andopportunities I never fully grasped before. In a space where womenare not the minority, I quickly realized how much of my confidencehad been shaped by the gender dynamics outside of thisenvironment. The pressure to conform to society’s often narrowexpectations of women: how we should look, behave, or performwas replaced by the freedom to express myself authentically. I nowfeel that I am not just any woman but that I am important, I am aforce, and I am capable of excellence. To wake up as a woman onthis campus is to know that I will not be silenced, that I will not beafraid to share my ideas, and that I will unapologetically be myself. One thing that I will be forever grateful for is the amazing women Ihave met on this journey. Whether it be my friends, my teammates,or my professors, everyone at Bay Path has such genuine andauthentic energy, something you will not find elsewhere. As we livein a society that often sets women against one another, the womenI’ve met here have been nothing short of inspiring. They are mymentors, my collaborators, my cheerleaders, and most importantly,my sisters. The women on this campus celebrate your successes,catch you if you fall, and are with you every step of the way. Female friendship is the most undeniable feeling of human love.My friends and I share a bond that is rooted in empathy,understanding, and mutual respect. The people that you meethere are the ones that will stay in your life forever. Beyond the relationships that others and I have created oncampus, my experience at Bay Path has forced me to confrontand question the societal narratives surrounding womanhood.Without the presence of cisgender men, it has allowed me tocreate my way of thinking about my identity. In co-ed spaces,there is often an unspoken expectation to perform femininity inways that align with male-dominated ideals of beauty,intelligence, and success. At the previous institution I attended, Iwoke up early to put on makeup, find a nice outfit, and do myhair. Here, I roll out of bed. It is not because I am lazy butbecause I have trust in this community that my femininity is stillthere even when it isn’t present.Womanhood can look like anything. It can be soft and nurturing,fierce and ambitious, artistic and analytical, or anything inbetween. There are no limitations here, and I love how Bay Pathencourages us women to be versatile. Being a part of thiscommunity has shown me the significance of self-expression,solidarity, and breaking free from societal expectations. I nowknow my purpose, my strengths, and my weaknesses, which issomething I did not expect to have put together in three years.Being a woman at Bay Path is to carve out space for yourself,support your peers around you, and constantly move forwardinto the person you want to be. As I progress, I do so with asense of confidence that can only come from being a student atBay Path. I thank the women before me and all of those who arecurrently around me; your presence is a gift to me, and I cannotwait to continue to grow together. By Caroline Austin

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Who are some women, whether in your life orhistory, who have inspired you the most? Why? The first woman I truly looked up to was mypaternal grandmother. She was beautiful andelegant, and successful in her field. She managed aclothing boutique in downtown Springfield when itwas truly a destination. She taught me how to dressfor certain occasions, how to behave in differentsettings, and most of all, how to be kind. She was,and still is, my first hero. Other women I admireare Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Princess Diana, andJustice Sonia Sotomayor. Each knew hardships intheir lives, but each had the strength, the stamina,and the drive to try to change the world for thebetter. What advice would you give to young women who arejust starting to navigate their careers and life goals?My advice to young women is to follow yourdreams. It may not be a direct path, so be preparedto navigate the challenges and learn from thejourney because when you reach your dream, it isexciting and exhilarating. You may also find thatonce there, you will develop a new dream based onwhat you learned from the original journey.Another thing that I like to educate young womenabout is the tremendous value of networking. Speaking with...Professor Sandra Sherry-Pitzer Can you share a moment in your life when you feltparticularly empowered as a woman? I was the first woman in my family to attendcollege and go as far as a Masters plus. Being thatrole model for my daughters was extremelyempowering.What challenges have you faced as a woman in yourpersonal or professional life, and how did youovercome them?In my professional life, I am in a career that manywomen choose. It is said that women arenurturers, and to some degree, I agree. I can flipthis question by saying it is a joy for me to seemore men entering this field. One of the mostrewarding aspects is the trust and respect that weoffer each other. I am blessed to be working witha talented and compassionate team of therapists.The first woman I truly lookedup to was my paternalgrandmother. She wasbeautiful and elegant – andwas successful in her field. By Mariana Martin

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Tyrese Joanne Nagamos is adynamic force on campus,balancing multiple leadership roleswhile championing studentengagement and culturaldiscussions. As the author of NoStable Orbits, Tyrese hasdemonstrated their storytellingtalent, but their impact extends farbeyond literature.Serving as the Secretary of theStudent Government Association(SGA), Tyrese plays a vital role inensuring student voices are heardand fostering clear communicationwithin the organization. They alsolead the Current Affairs Club,where students engage in opendiscussions about pressing socialand political issues.In addition, Tyrese is the President of theWomen of Cultural Backgrounds BookClub, a space dedicated to connectingstudents through literature that highlightsdiverse cultures and experiences. Throughthese roles, Tyrese continues to createmeaningful conversations and inclusivespaces on campus.Tyrese Joanne NagamosTyrese finds empowerment in TV seriesfeaturing strong female leads and well-developed, intelligent characters.However, their journey as a woman hasnot been without challenges. One of thebiggest obstacles they have faced is notbeing taken seriously in both personaland professional settings. They overcamethis by proving their worth and standingfirm in their abilities.Their greatest inspiration is their mother,whose strength and guidance haveshaped their path. When offering adviceto young women navigating their careers,Tyrese shares a powerful message:“Don’t lose yourself in what other peoplewant from you.”Through their leadership, advocacy, andpassion for storytelling, Tyrese JoanneNagamos continues to make a lastingimpact on their community.By Jaiyla Lopes

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Dr. Yadilette Rivera-Colón, PhD, Bay Path’s Department Chair of theUndergraduate Science Programs and an Associate Professor of Biology, receivedan Women’s History Month award for her work to bring STEM education to thePuerto Rican community in the Greater Holyoke area. The question given to allthe awardees was "What does it mean to be a woman today?" During her speech, DrYadilette Rivera-Colón said "To be a woman is ser poderosa, ser apasionada, serimparable. And though the journey is not always easy, I would not trade it foranything. Porque estamos dando forma al futuro and the future is ours to claim."Photo top: See the group of honorees and Dr. Yadilette Rivera-Colón (fourth fromright) and in the photo below, she shares the podium with her little daughter, Ayla.”Congrats Dr. Yadilette Rivera Colón

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The 2025 Signature Scholarship winners have been announced! Each year, accepted Bay Path students are invited to participate inthe Signature Scholarship Event where they have the opportunity tocompete for a range of scholarships. One prospective student isevaluated and selected to receive the top award of receiving a fulltuition scholarship for each year of their undergraduate on-campusstudy.Dozens of outstanding prospective students take part in this event,sharing their time, talent, and intellect and demonstrating theirpassion for learning and for Bay Path. Several students receivescholarships in significant amounts, but only one student receivesthe top award. This year, future Wildcat, Daniela Gonzalez was selected to receive the Presidential Scholarship, in the amount of full tuition for up to four years of her undergraduate study!Daniela participated in the "A Whole New World: Explore your ‘digital self’ in the new world of AI, Virtual Reality, social media, multimedia, music and film" session with Professor Janine Fondon. Daniela will be a Justice & Forensic Studies major and will be amember of the softball team. She is from Fishkill, NY, attendsJohn Jay High School, is a first-generation college student, and hasgoals to go to law school and become an attorney. Professor Janine Fondon reflected on Daniela's participationduring the competition, stating, "Daniela is a powerhouse. She isready to soar with full acceptance that college will provide her bestnext step in life." Daniela's participation and evaluation proves thatshe is deserving of this recognition.”We are thrilled to welcome Daniela and her peers to the Bay Pathcommunity this Fall 2025! Daniela Gonzalez, winner of thePresidential ScholarshipDaniela and her parents joined with Bay Path teammembers for a “Zoom celebration” announcing the Presidential Scholarship winner.And the winner is...Daniela Gonzalez

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JUMPING GENRESDuring the event, O’Brien read anexcerpt featuring her protagonist,Louie, a man in his sixties withdeeply rooted political beliefs thatdiffer from his daughter’s. In thepassage, Louie searches for a gift forhis girlfriend, rejecting an engraved“special” necklace with a quip: “Iwant to pick out a gift that tells theperson that she is special, not theword special.” His description of heras someone “whose face looks likeit’s walked a lot of miles” highlightsO’Brien’s command of language—blending humor, risk-taking, andvivid imagery in a way that surprisesand resonates with readers.Character-Driven Storytelling: AnnaMantzaris’ OccupationsMantzaris takes a different approachin Occupations, a short storycollection that places characterdevelopment at the forefront. Eachstory is named after a different jobtitle, reflecting themes of identity andtransformation.In February 2025, the Friends ofHatch and the Bay Path MFAprogram presented Jumping Genres,a literary event featuring MeredithO’Brien and Anna Mantzaris, bothauthors and faculty members at BayPath University. The event, held viaZoom, showcased the authors’unique approaches to fiction,followed by a Q&A session withattendees.Exploring Plot and Politics: MeredithO’Brien’s Louie on the RocksO’Brien, author of Louie on theRocks, centers her novel aroundplot-driven storytelling, usingdialogue, multiple perspectives, andcourt documents to craft a narrativereflective of today’s politicallandscape. Her background injournalism is evident—her prose issharp, deliberate, and unafraid toconfront difficult topics.In honor of the Hatch event,Mantzaris read The Librarian,which begins with descriptions ofchaos and disarray—a metaphorfor how her characters start theirjourneys undefined, evolving astheir stories unfold.Mantzaris’ writing invitesinterpretation. Phrases like “twillribbons… become rivers… apendant serves as a city center”blur the lines between fiction andreality, allowing readers to shapemeaning from her lyrical prose.Her use of fluid imagery andshifting perspectives showcases herability to redefine everydayobjects, evoking emotion anddeeper introspection.BAY PATH MFA HOSTED “JUMPING GENRES” WITHAUTHORS MEREDITH O’BRIEN & ANNA MANTZARISby Nathan Pelish

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Nathan Pelish is aGraduate Assistant atBay Path Universityand is in the MFACreative NonfictionProgram. Jumping Genres: Two UniqueApproaches to FictionThough their styles differ,O’Brien and Mantzaris bothdemonstrate the power of genre-blending in fiction. O’Brienincorporates real political eventsinto her storytelling, whileMantzaris focuses on theevolution of character and readeralike. Both authors also explorethemes of family—O’Briendrawing from her ownexperiences with her father andMantzaris featuring her motheron the cover of Occupations.Together, their contrasting yetcomplementary writing stylesprovide students and readers withan expansive creative toolkit,encouraging them to experimentwith their own narratives.For those who missed the live session, arecording is available: - Watch on YouTubeA PDF transcript is also available—contactBay Path University’s MFA program foraccess.To support the Friends of Hatch, considermaking a donation: - Donate HereMeredith O’Brien shares her novel via ZoomAnna Mantzaris shares her book during Friends of Hatch Zoom

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EC: Why did you choose to pursue a degree in forensicscience, and what got you interested in the field?MH: “As a kid, I would always watch Forensic Fileswith my great grandfather, and my mom liked theshows too. So, I was basically watching it all thetime. I thought the forensic scientists were so cool,and I wanted to be like them. So when I was ready, Idecided to pursue a degree in forensic science tofulfill a dream that would make the younger me (andcurrent me) really proud.”EC: Being a science major can be challenging; howhave you navigated the many courses required for thedegree?MH: “Time management and making sure you'retaking care of yourself are the biggest things to keepin mind when it comes to navigating not only thecourses but the work that comes with them. Thereare days in the week where I will do nothing buthomework, study, look up supplemental materials -it can be a lot. You need to take breaks throughoutthe day to check in with yourself to make sure youcan handle it. Sometimes you can, sometimes youcan't, and that's okay. But if you take breaks and canget your work done before the due dates, you'll havefree time to do whatever it is that you'd like, even ifthat's doing nothing.”Career: Forensic ScienceCareer: Forensic ScienceBy Emily CyrankowskiIn many areas of life, women battle daily to make their voices heard. The drive to succeed in careerfields that are male dominated is fierce and requires hard work and dedication to stand outfrom your peers. Forensic science is one of the few fields in which women make up the majority. I haveinterviewed a junior at Bay Path University, Marisa Harris, who is currently working towards herdegree in Forensic Science.EC: Do you have a mentor, and if so, how have they helpedyou in your journey?MH:“I do have a mentor! They have helped meimmensely with networking opportunities and resumebuilding, and they really push me to challenge myself.They've given me a level of confidence that I didn't knowI could achieve.”EC: What are your aspirations for after graduation?MH: “After graduation, I would really like to be in thecrime lab or doing anything science-related that makesme happy.”EC: What advice do you have for anyone considering goingfor a forensics degree?MH: “It's a lot of work and dedication - take care ofyourself and know that it's okay to take breaks. Thereare a lot of people on your side who want you to succeed,so never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.”“Being a woman in STEM can be challenging, but withperseverance and dedication, anything is possible. Having a greatmentor can help you make connections with others and build theskills needed to succeed in your field. Don't let anyone rob you ofyour imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It's your placein the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you canwith it, and make it the life you want to live.” — Mae Jemison

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The international bestselling guide tomanaging time and prioritizing tasks—in a fully revised and updatededition featuring 2 new chapters!There's an old saying that if the firstthing you do each morning is eat alive frog, you'll have the satisfactionof knowing you're done with the worstthing you'll have to do all day. ForBrian Tracy, eating a frog is ametaphor for tackling your mostchallenging task—but also the onethat can have the greatest positiveimpact on your life. Eat That Frog!shows you how to organize each dayso you can zero in on these criticaltasks and accomplish them efficientlyand effectively.In this fully revised and updatededition, Tracy adds two new chapters.The first explains how you can usetechnology to remind yourself of whatis most important and protect yourselffrom what is least important. Thesecond offers advice for maintainingfocus in our era of constantdistractions, electronic and otherwise.Book WatchEat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways toEat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways toStop Procrastinating and Get MoreStop Procrastinating and Get MoreDone in Less TimeDone in Less Time

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EXPLORING THESMITH COLLEGEBOTANIC GARDENExploring the Smith College Botanic GardenFor this trip, my friends and I visited the Smith College BotanicGarden in Northampton, Massachusetts. The garden featuresboth outdoor and indoor spaces, but since it’s winter, theoutdoor section is fairly quiet—though it will come to life as theseasons change. The gardens are open year-round, and best ofall, admission is free for visitors of all ages.If you plan to drive, free parking is available on campus, thoughas with any college, parking can be unpredictable, so beprepared to walk a bit.Inside the Lyman Plant HouseThe highlight of the botanic garden is the Lyman Plant House,a 12,000-square-foot conservatory home to over 2,200 labeledplant species. This historic structure, built in 1895, is one of thelast remaining 19th-century indoor plant conservatories in theU.S. Inside, you’ll find a variety of plant collections,informative exhibits on the garden’s history, and even rotatingdisplays from local artists. Each room showcases different planttypes, making it a fascinating space to explore.Other places to visit nearbyOnce you’ve finished wandering through the gardens, there areplenty of other great spots to check out:Smith College Library & Museum – A short walk from thegardens, this stunning building is worth a visit for itsimpressive architecture and quiet study spaces.Downtown Northampton – Just a little farther, you’ll find avibrant main street filled with unique shops, deliciousrestaurants, and cozy cafés.Academy of Music – If you plan ahead, you can catch ashow at this historic venue. Be sure to purchase tickets inadvance, as events often sell out.Northampton is a great place for a quick outing or a full-dayadventure. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll throughthe gardens or a fun day of exploring, it’s definitely a go-todestination when you need a break from campus life.by Charlotte Valle

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The long-term impact of the current administration’spolicies on future generations is difficult to predict.Many people believe that the rise of right-wingpopulism may shape the political landscape for years tocome. Once-reliable programs with bipartisan support,like student loans and Medicare, have now becomemore uncertain. Additionally, the administration’sstance on climate change and fossil fuel drilling presentssignificant challenges that could be hard to reverse inthe future, impacting both the environment and theeconomy for generations to come. Dr. Surbrug remindsus that history is not linear and that we can never fullypredict the future.Viewpoint: Dr. Robert Surbrug Shares InsightsI had the distinct privilege of speaking with Dr. Surbrug, during which I had the opportunity topose several important questions aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the recent changesimplemented under the Trump administration. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Dr.Surbrug for his time and valuable insights. Caroline AustinHow do you see thelong-term impact of thecurrent administration’spolicies on futuregenerations in the UnitedStates?By Caroline AustinTo ensure progress and unity moving forward, the new president should focus on several key areas.First, addressing the economy and the rising cost of living will be critical to help families and stabilizethe nation’s financial future. There could be bipartisan support for some of these bread-and-butterissues. Regarding healthcare, it is important for the president to clarify his position on Medicare andMedicaid, especially as the massive personnel cuts by Elon Musk’s DOGE (Department of GovernmentEfficiency) have caused alarm about those programs’ future. Finally, unifying the country will be asignificant challenge, especially with the divisive role of media consumption. The stark contrast betweenright-wing and left-wing outlets only deepens the divide, making it harder to find common ground.What key areas shouldthe new president focuson to ensure progress andunity in the countrymoving forward?

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How has the Presidentaddressed the currentstate of inflation, supplychain and the overalleconomy?The President’s approach to inflation and the economy hasbeen contradictory. On the campaign trail, he promised tolower egg prices, focusing on reducing everyday costs forconsumers. However, economists expect the president’s focuson tariffs to exacerbate inflation, at least in the near term.While these tariffs may support employment in certaindomestic industries, they will provoke retaliatory tariffs byU.S. trading partners, thereby threatening American jobs inexport-oriented industries. Meanwhile, the current economicuncertainty has sent the stock market plummeting, whichaffects Americans’ retirement accounts.What are the most significantchanges we have seen indomestic policies such ashealthcare or education sincethe new President took office? Since the new President took office, several significant changeshave occurred in domestic policies, particularly in healthcare andeducation. One notable proposal is eliminating the Departmentof Education (which only Congress has the authority to do),sparking debate about federal involvement in education.Universities have also seen a reduction in research grants, raisingconcerns about academic innovation. In the realm of Diversity,Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), anti-DEI policies have gainedtraction through threats of cutting federal aid to colleges anduniversities. Regarding healthcare, the president’s attempt toeliminate the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) during his firstadministration fell just short in Congress, leaving its futureuncertain in his second administration.The new administration’s policies on social issues, such asracial equality, gender rights, and LGBTQ rights, have hadmixed effects. One group that has felt the brunt of thesepolicies is transgender individuals, particularly as certainstates passed laws restricting their rights, creating an unevenexperience depending on where someone lived. Theadministration has also faced criticism for a reduced presenceof African Americans in key cabinet positions, which hasraised questions about its commitment to racial equality. Onimmigration, efforts to deport undocumented immigrantsand even some green card holders have continued, which hassparked debates about human rights and the treatment ofimmigrant communities. Regarding gender rights, theadministration has so far chosen not to nationalize abortionbans but has instead left the issue to individual states, furtherdeepening the divide on reproductive rights.How have the newadministration’s policiesaffected social issues such asracial equality, gender rights, and LGBTQ rights?

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Since January 2025, President Donald Trump’sleadership style has represented a marked departurefrom previous administrations. Dr. Surbrugcharacterizes this presidency so far as more of anauthoritarian style, with an emphasis on consolidatingpower within the executive branch and reducing the roleof institutional checks and balances. Unlike pastpresidents, Trump does not prioritize seeking areas ofbipartisan compromise. His leadership style is alsonotably less formal, bypassing traditional news outletsand relying more heavily on social media.How would you describe the overall shiftin leadership style underthe new presidentcompared to the previousadministration?Dr. Surbrug notes the two policies where he feels there has beenthe most abrupt change: immigration and DEI. There is anoticeable difference in President Donald Trump’s efforts tochange immigration policies. Now, there are many fewer peopletrying to come into the United States due to tougher borderpolicies, increased deportations, workplace raids, and stricterasylum rules. Secondly, President Trump has also focused onterminating DEI. Right when President Trump took office, hesigned an executive order titled Ending Radical and WastefulGovernment DEI Programs and Preferencing, which mandatedthe cessation of all DEI-related mandates, policies, programs,preferences, and activities within federal agencies. In addition,President Trump revoked Executive Order 11246, which hadpreviously required federal contractors to implement affirmativeaction to ensure non-discriminatory employment practices basedon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,or national origin.What are the key policy areas where we haveseen the most significantchanges since the newadministration took office? Have you observed anynoticeable shifts in thepolitical discourse orpublic rhetoric since thenew president took office? Dr. Surbrug explains that public discourse is deeply divided. Polls showthat many people who voted for President Trump have continued tosupport his presidency. Looking back to when President Trump firsttook office in 2017, the streets were flooded with protests and rallies.Liberals have been slowly recovering from their post-2024 electiondemoralization to mount growing protests, though still not on the scaleseen during Trump’s first term. Dr. Surbrug has also noted that, on bothpolitical sides, there has been a continuing deterioration in how peopletreat those with differing opinions. Threats and abusive language remaincommonplace. He suggests that we need to look back to a time whenpolitical opponents were seen as just that—opponents, not enemies.

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You can also find more information about the eventthrough Whova. Let's all show our appreciation forour hardworking students this upcoming April!Network News: Live will feature special guestpanelists Monte Belmonte and Kaliis Smith of NewEngland Public Media's "The Fabulous 413," andBrian Lapis, Meteorologist at WWLP and broadcastadvocate, attendees will hear from Bay PathUniversity Student Newsroom , this year the goal isto amplify our voices and learn about the power ofcommunication in a rapidly changing world.Network News co-editors, Donyel Le'Noir Feltonand Caroline Austin will begin the discussion withpanelist about the power of education through theinfluence of media and how students' voices willchange the media world.Visit Bay Path students throughout the day, startingat 8 am and join the Network News Team on April8, 2025, from 10:30 to 11:45 am on theLongmeadow Campus of Bay Path University inD'Amour 7. 2025 Academic Achievement Day by Jaiyla LopesWith the deadline ending and April approaching,Academic Achievement Day is coming. If you don'tremember, Academic Achievement Day is whenstudents showcase their talents and accomplishments,where you will hear presentations from your peers andgraduates, TAWC, and doctoral students. During this event, you will see how much your peershave grown through the semester and experience thejourney of learning with them. If you can't attend thein-person session, that's ok. It will also be held Liveon Zoom. Academic Achievement will be held onApril 8th this year, so make sure to mark yourcalendars cause you don't wanna miss out. Here are some students who will be showcasing whatthey have learned so far, so come down to supportyour peers through their journey, but come to learnabout something you probably never knew about. Some presentations to look forward to are AveryCaraccioli's "The Role of Social Media and Self Imagein Cosmetic Surgery," and Victoria Florez's "La. V.Beauty Make Up Seminar" or Tyrese JoanneNagamos's "In My Mind: A Poetry Series on MentalHealth." You are encouraged to attend as manypresentations as possible to show your support.

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As students at Bay Path began their spring break,Muslims around the world eagerly awaited Ramadan,a month filled with community, faith, and of course,fasting.Ramadan was the 9th month of the Islamic lunarcalendar. That year, it began on the evening ofFebruary 28th and ended on March 29th, 2025. Everyyear, Ramadan would “shift” by beginning 10 daysearlier as per the lunar calendar. The end of theIslamic month was marked by a celebration calledEid-al-Fitr. Beginning March 1st, able-bodiedMuslims woke up before dawn to eat an earlymorning meal called suhoor and abstained fromeating or drinking during the day until sunset, whenthey broke their fast during a meal called Iftar.The month of Ramadan was important to Muslimsbecause it was the month the Quran, the Islamic holybook of guidance, was revealed by Allah (God).Muslims fasted to show gratitude to Allah, strengthentheir faith, and focus on self-improvement. Fastinghad also been scientifically proven to improve heartand brain health, as well as prevent cancer. Alongsidefasting, Muslims spent extra time in Ramadandonating to charities, supporting the community,praying, and reading the Quran. After Iftar, many Muslims went to the mosque, theMuslim house of worship, to perform late-nightprayers called Taraweeh. Ramadan was a strenuousand physically demanding month for Muslims but wasultimately an incredibly rewarding time Muslimslooked forward to every year.What is Ramadan?References What is ramadan? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://yaqeeninstitute.org/what-islam-says-about/ramadan#what-is-ramadan Intermittent fasting: What is it, and how does it work? (2024). Retrieved fromhttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/intermittent-fasting-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work by Hebah HabibYou could support your Muslim friends, colleagues,and students during Ramadan by being respectfuland considerate. It was important to be aware thatfasting people’s energy would likely be lower later inthe day, so it was helpful to schedule meetings andevents earlier in the day when possible.Overall, being inclusive and open-minded was agreat way to make Muslims feel supported duringthe month.If you had any questions and were interested inlearning more about Ramadan while enjoyingdelicious food, all were welcome to attend theMuslim Student Association x Women of CultureRamadan Iftar on Wednesday, March 19th, inBlake Dining Hall, at 6:00 pm.Bay Path’s Muslim Student Association also hostedan event each week in celebration of Ramadan,including a calligraphy and henna fundraiser and aWomen in Islam event, so attendees stayed tunedfor further updates!It was customary for Muslims to greet each otherwith the saying “Ramadan Mubarak” or “RamadanKareem,” translating to “blessed Ramadan” and“generous Ramadan” as the month began.Ramadan Mubarak, everyone! May this monthhave been filled with joy and community for you all!

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Education Club’s Book Drive EventEducation Club’s Book Drive Eventby Caroline AustinBay Path’s Education Club is dedicated tomaking a difference and is currently rallyingsupport for an alumna’s first-grade classroom inLos Angeles, which was recently impacted bywildfires.Understanding the importance of education andcomfort during difficult times, club membershave been collecting donations of new or gentlyused children’s books to help rebuild theclassroom’s library. To make each book evenmore special, they have also handwrittenheartfelt messages inside, offering words ofencouragement and support to the youngstudents.If you would like to contribute, there’s still time!Donation bins have been placed around campusin Blake, Bollum, Wright, Elliott, and the RyanCenter for your convenience. Donations will beaccepted until April 4th, so don’t miss the chanceto make a meaningful impact on these students'lives. Your generosity can help bring joy andinspiration to a classroom in need!

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HORMONALIMPACT OFSKINCAREby Aida SmithThe average daily application of 12 personal careproducts by women exposes them to over 168chemicals. Such products are made with endocrine-disrupting chemicals like parabens, phthalates, andtriclosan, which are associated with hormonalimbalance, reproductive organ issues, and increasedbreast cancer risk. Greater awareness of such healthrisks prompts more women to adopt "clean beauty" —harm-free products — in order to protect their healthand restore hormonal balance.Endocrine-disrupting chemicals interfere with thebody's natural production and regulation ofhormones. These chemicals can mimic or interferewith progesterone, estrogen, and other hormones andlead to interruptions in the reproductive cycle as wellas overall health.Parabens – Parabens are used as preservatives inmoisturizers and cosmetics, can mimic estrogen,and were discovered in breast cancer tissue.According to a study published in EnvironmentalHealth Perspectives, parabens were present in 99%of breast cancer tissue samples tested.Phthalates – Found in fragrances and nail polish,phthalates have been linked to decreased fertility,early puberty, and pregnancy complications. In astudy in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology &Metabolism, researchers found that high levels ofphthalates are associated with disrupted thyroidfunction.Triclosan – An antibacterial component intoothpaste and soap, triclosan has been shown todisrupt thyroid hormone function and normallevels of estrogen in animal studies.The endocrine disruption by these compounds has thepotential to hasten the development of breast cancerand reproductive issues. In 2021, a review in Frontiersin Endocrinology noted that long-term exposure toEDCs has been found to be linked with increased ratesof hormone-sensitive cancers, including breast cancerand ovarian cancer. Phthalates and parabens, inparticular, have been found to be associated withincreased levels of estrogen, which can advance thegrowth of hormone-sensitive tumors.In response to these health concerns, the clean beautyindustry has grown enormously, with projected salesreaching $15.7 billion by 2025 (Statista). Clean beautyproducts are produced without the use of syntheticchemicals, like EDCs, and focus on natural, organicproducts. Significant businesses like Beautycounter,Ilia, and RMS Beauty are leading the shift towardssafer products.Consumers are also demanding transparency. TheFDA recently issued new regulations requiringmanufacturers to list all ingredients in cosmetics anddemonstrate product safety. This shift reflects thegrowing awareness of the connection between beautyproducts and women's health.To minimize exposure to hazardous chemicals, takethese steps:Read ingredient labels – Avoid products with"fragrance," which can contain phthalates,parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben), andtriclosan.Switch to clean beauty products – Choose productsthat are "paraben-free," "phthalate-free," and"triclosan-free" on the label.Choose fragrance-free products, such as SSkip-scented products, as they are likely to have unlistedEDCs. Opt for unscented or plant-scented ones.Apply fewer products – Streamline your skincareroutine to reduce overall exposure.

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ABOVEALUMNIOur alumni column is aspace where formerstudents can connect withcurrent students, sharingexperiences from campus,online, and beyond. Here,we celebrate the uniquejourneys of our alumni—from the moment theychose to seize the day atBay Path to where they arenow. Your post-graduation story matters,too. We want to hear how younavigated challenges, persevered,and became the professional thatBay Path helped inspire.If you're interested in sharing yourstory—whether through writing orin-person discussions—we’d love tohear from you! Your journey canmotivate, connect, and engage ourBay Path community.BPU Alumni at Strawberries andChampagne Source: Bay Path AlumniFacebookSCOOP...POSTGRAD TIPS ONCE A WILDCAT, ALWAYS A WILDCAT!THEIR BPUSTORY...

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Legacy & Leadership: Alumni SpotlightsSAM ROBINSONSAM ROBINSONMy story begins in the Fall of 2014 before I evenstarted at Bay Path. I had just started at STCC(Springfield Technical Community College) but itwasn’t the right fit for me. I then applied to HCC(Holyoke Community College) and graduated in2020 in the midst of COVID. I then applied toBPU and got accepted as a transfer student. Somemay ask how I found Bay Path. I found it throughmy mother who did the one day Saturday programfor Criminal Justice and graduated in 2009. Iremember being so nervous to even try new thingssince I was much older than other students comingin. I knew that coming in I would be an outcast. Itwasn’t until mid October that things changed forme. Romana East asked me if I had my camerawith me because there was an event on campusthat she said I would enjoy taking pictures at and Idid enjoy taking pictures at the event. Springsemester came quickly and it was time for Softballseason. I went to my first game and hit it off withthe girls on the team. Little did I know that Iwould get hired by the Athletics department abouta week and half later. That was the best day for me since now I wouldbe getting paid to take pictures and go to sportsgames. I then ended up going to volleyball gamesand made friends with those girls as well. Theytreated me just like part of their family eventhough I wasn’t on the team. For me being much older than a lot of thestudents I couldn’t really connect with them soinstead I stayed in my room most of the timeunless I was hanging with people on my floor orheading to class, chorus or other things I waspart of. Also being a transfer student I didn’t getto enjoy a freshman year like most of thestudents there already did so that made it hardon me to make friends as well. Bay Path helped shape me into the person I amtoday. I still take pictures at the sports games,and other things I enjoy doing like help plan theannual Bay Path Night at the SpringfieldThunderbirds. I may have graduated in May butBay Path is my home and that will never change.I will always be a Wildcat.

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Congratulations to senior captain MadisynVera on being selected as Student Athlete ofthe Week! Madisyn has had an outstandingstart to the season in Myrtle Beach. Over thecourse of nine games, she recorded 13 hitsand finished the week with an impressive .600on-base percentage. In addition to heroffensive success, Vera excelled defensively,finishing her trip with 13 putouts in theoutfield.As the Wildcats returned to campus for theirregular season, Vera marked a significantmilestone by collecting her 100th career hitagainst Massachusetts Maritime Academy onSaturday, March 15th. Achieving 100 hits isan extraordinary accomplishment, reflectingexceptional consistency, skill, and dedicationthroughout her career. We are incrediblyproud of you, Madi, for your early successesto start the season!Beyond athletics, Madisyn is activelyinvolved in the Bay Path community. Sheworks as a student ambassador, engagingwith prospective students and serving as alead student influencer. Additionally, she iscompleting an internship in the athleticsdepartment, where she contributes hergraphic design skills for social media. AsMadisyn prepares to graduate this spring, sheis also working on her honors thesis, focusedon fostering a brighter future for Bay PathAthletics.Madisyn Vera truly embodies the spirit of astudent-athlete, balancing excellence in bothher sport and her campus life.Congratulations, Madisyn, on receivingStudent Athlete of the Week!STUDENT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTby Caroline Austinx Madisyn Vera

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Bay Path Softball Season Opener:Bay Path Softball Season Opener: Myrtle Beach Recap 2025Myrtle Beach Recap 2025Bay Path University Softball opened their season with nine games across four days in Myrtle Beach,South Carolina over spring break. The team went 3-6 on the week with a .333 winning percentage,consistently improving their win record on the trip over the past three years. Despite a few toughlosses, the team bounced back to take home three solid wins and play competitively in the matchups.The Wildcats put up 46 runs and 59 hits through the week with a team batting average of .266, onbase percentage of .351, and slugging percentage of .320!The team's offense was led by Madisyn Vera batting .520 with 13 hits, 2 doubles, and 9 RBIs;Madison Sunderland batting .393 with 11 hits, 5 doubles, and 9 RBIs; Caroline Austin batting .370with 10 hits, 2 doubles, and 6 RBIs; Madison Tessmer batting .364 with 8 hits and 2 RBIs; SophieVerrengia batting .333 with 5 hits and 5 RBIs, and Ansley Morrison-Robles batting .241 with 7 hitsand 3 RBIs. Defense held a .940 fielding percentage and turned 3 double plays, and the four pitchersput up a combined 22 strikeouts throughout the week. Diving deeper than the numbers, the Wildcats faced some of their toughest competition all season onthis trip. To play at a high level off the bat sets the team up for success moving forward, working outany challenges on the field early before the season here in the Northeast. The Wildcats look forwardto the games ahead to carry the success into the regular season and continue the road to anotherpostseason appearance! by Madisyn Vera

Network News March/April 2025 Issue

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