Staff Reports – Pipe Dream

Housing Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 03:27:00 +0000

Housing Issue 2025

Welcome to Pipe Dream’s 2025 Housing Issue!

As students settle into their housing and look for next year’s leases, Pipe Dream shares on-campus construction updates, advice for off-campus students and columns about the United States’ housing crisis.

News

SA housing survey allows students to rate landlords, living spaces

Renters’ rights: What to know when moving off campus

Super occupancy housing persists amid ongoing campus construction

New 350-bed residence hall in Mountainview under construction

Oneida Hall to undergo major renovations

Housing Nightmares: The worst stories submitted by students

Arts & Culture

Essential stores for off-campus students

Binghamton’s dining halls, ranked

Community art hubs for students living downtown

A guide to getting involved with your living community

Opinions

We need to build houses, not data centers

Microdistricts can solve America’s housing crisis

Housing Nightmares: the worst stories submitted by students

Staff Reports — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 23:54:28 +0000

Living away from home while attending college is an exciting adventure for many students. However, sharing a space with roommates and dealing with landlords can be frustrating. Continuing an annual tradition, here are just some of the worst housing experiences students have faced. Responses have been lightly edited for clarity. “Secondhand smoke” Freshman year, my randomly assigned roommates were obsessed with smoking weed in the dorm. When I got COVID-19, I asked if they could stop for a couple of days — and they said no. “Sticky situation” My roommate knocked on my door one morning, asking if he could use my bathroom. He then clogged the toilet and was unable to plunge it. My anxiety spiked when he placed the dirty plunger, sopping wet, directly onto my tile wood floor. “Everything but the bathroom sink” While I still lived at College-in-the-Woods, I went into the bathroom one night and the entire sink was clogged with someone’s Friday night vomit. The vomit stayed there for two days until cleaning day on Monday. “Third wheeling” Two of my roommates started dating when we lived together and would fight right outside my door in the living room at least once a week. Like, half the time they would hook up in one of their rooms after (also right next to my door). It was like I was a ghost haunting one of the couples from “90 Day Fiancé.” “Living at Stonebridge” When we moved in, there was lingerie on the floor and a mousetrap on the ceiling. They said we had to clean it ourselves. Eventually, we had to withhold rent to fix our moldy ceiling leak and then they threatened to evict us (even though they agreed to the rent withholding). They kept the security deposit even though they returned it months past. I looked them up and there’s an active case against them because they didn’t pay contractors over $20,000, so I don’t think I’ll get my deposit back. “House of Horrors” Arriving in the United States as an international student is already overwhelming — new country, new culture and endless uncertainties. For me, what should have been an exciting start quickly turned into a housing nightmare that lasted my entire first year. Before I arrived, my friends and I signed a lease for a specific property. However, when we landed, the landlord shocked us by saying the house wasn’t ready. He placed us in a temporary apartment instead, insisting we pay rent for it and promising the original property would be ready within a month. That first month passed, and when we asked about moving into the place we had actually signed for, he delayed it by yet another month. The temporary unit we were stuck in was in terrible shape — broken windows that let in freezing air, nails sticking out of the stairs, and a visible layer of dust coating everything. It was so dirty and unsafe that we had to scrub and clean the entire apartment ourselves just to make it livable. By October, after repeated promises, the landlord finally admitted the original property wouldn’t be ready anytime soon. But since it was already mid-semester, most decent housing options were gone, leaving us with no choice but to stay. When we signed a full 10-month lease for the temporary place, we even provided the landlord with a detailed list of problems to fix — cracked windows, missing furniture, holes in the walls. Most of these issues were ignored. Battling the Cold and a Broken Home As winter approached, our situation worsened. The house was unbearably cold, and we had to wear puffer jackets inside. Our lease included utilities, yet when we repeatedly complained about the freezing temperatures, the landlord dismissed us, saying, “It’s just your first winter — you’re not used to the cold.” When his electricity bill suddenly spiked, he finally sent someone to check the heaters. The technician confirmed the heaters worked fine — the real problem was the cracked windows that couldn’t keep the heat in. Even with this proof, the landlord delayed fixing them and only replaced the windows after January, once the harshest part of winter had already passed. Rats, Cardboard Repairs and Excuses Because of a large hole in the apartment, rats began entering and destroying our groceries — not once, but twice. Instead of calling a professional to fix it properly, the landlord sent his nephew, who tried to “patch” the hole using cardboard and paper. When we questioned this absurd solution, the landlord casually claimed, “The rats probably just like the smell of Indian spices.” The Roommate From Hell As if dealing with the property wasn’t enough, we also had to live with a nightmare roommate. She was 26 years old, but her behavior was unbelievably reckless. She once clogged the bathroom toilet by flushing cardboard tubes, then refused to clean up. She left the electric stove on for 12 hours straight, creating a serious fire hazard. At one point, she insisted that eggs needed to be refrigerated or they would hatch into chicks. She also refused to take out the trash for eight whole months and didn’t even know what day trash pickup was. The most shocking incident was with her pressure cooker. She argued that because her pressure cooker was “new technology,” it didn’t require water. We had to carefully explain that pressure cookers only work by creating steam from water — otherwise, they could be extremely dangerous. On top of all this, she repeatedly lied to our landlord about us, blaming us for things we didn’t do. Eventually, we caught her red-handed and had to show the landlord video recordings, pictures and chat screenshots to prove our innocence. Even the landlord eventually had to move her out because she became a serious safety risk to the household. The Final Straw: A Snake in the House In the last ten days of our lease, things hit rock bottom. A snake appeared inside the house because the landlord had never maintained the grass or yard. When we reported it, his response was disturbingly casual: “Don’t worry, the snake won’t do anything — it’ll just kiss you and go.” A Legal Battle for My Deposit When our lease finally ended, the landlord refused to return my security deposit. I had to send a formal legal notice before he finally paid it back, over a month later. Looking Back This entire experience taught me how vulnerable international students can be when navigating housing in a new country. Between false promises, unsafe living conditions, a toxic roommate and a dismissive landlord, my first year was filled with constant stress. I am deeply relieved to be free of that property and that landlord now. By sharing my story, I hope to warn other students to ask tough questions, document everything, and never settle for unsafe or unfair treatment.

Orientation Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 13:29:49 +0000

Orientation Issue

Welcome to Pipe Dream’s 2025 Orientation Issue! For students who want to learn more about Binghamton University, whether you are new or old, this issue is for you.

Our News section features articles about the people, places and resources to know and an overview of 2024-25 news cycle. In the Arts & Culture section, read guides to the local and campus art scene and upcoming multicultural events. The Sports Desk awards the best coach and players of the year, and our Opinions staff and Executive Board share advice for incoming students.

As the new academic year begins, we hope this issue will provides support, guidance and excitement for the year ahead.

News

Arts & Culture

Opinions

Sports

Pipe Dream’s Words of Wisdom 2025

Staff Reports — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:57:00 +0000

Grace Scullin, Editor-in-Chief

“As a freshman, there’s a lot of pressure to meet as many people as you can in hopes of making friends. Don’t stress about it too hard — you’ll find your people, even if it’s not in the first two weeks of college. Also, don’t take microeconomics.”

Emma Alicea, Managing Editor

“Don’t stress too hard about the future. Everything will work out the way it is supposed to, as long as you put in the work to get there. Sometimes things work out perfectly when they happen in a way you didn’t expect them to!”

Antonia Kladias, Opinions Editor

“Balance will prevent burnout — even if you have four exams in one week, make time for the things you enjoy and the people around you.”

Jordan Ori, Assistant Opinions Editor

“Push yourself out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to do stereotypical ‘freshman’ things.”

Gabriel Przybylo, Sports Editor

“Don’t be afraid to try foreign experiences. Go to that office hour you’ve been putting off and strike up a conversation with a wonky professor, explore the beauty of Binghamton and its surrounding areas, go to the GIM of the club you aren’t certain about.”

Joseph Brugellis, News Editor

“Embrace the unexpected and don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone. It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about being in a new environment, but remember that you’re not alone. Be sure to talk to the other people on your dorm floor — one conversation can lead to many more.”

Christina Forte, Arts & Culture Editor

“You don’t need to have everything figured out as a freshman. Make this year about exploring different interests, building new skills and discovering your passions — the right path will become clearer over time.”

Stephanie Downey, Copy Desk Chief

“Embrace college and all it has to offer with an open mind and an open heart. Say yes to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to take chances. When things get overwhelming, take a deep breath and remember that everything has a way of working out in the end.”

Rowan McArthur, Design Manager

“Explore campus as much as possible. Visit the nature preserve and the greenhouse, wander the Glenn G. Bartle Library and Fine Arts basement mazes, flip through oversized books in the libraries — find your spot.”

Johnny Yang, Digital Editor

“Just be yourself.”

Abigail Karavally, Photo Editor

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get everything right the first time. Whether it’s making friends or a difficult class, facing these challenges and making mistakes is what helps you learn about yourself. Freshman year is an amazing opportunity to get to know yourself better than ever before and make some of the best friends of your life, but you won’t get that without messing up along the way.”

Yifan Zhang, Video Editor

“Try to eat balanced meals — Binghamton is not known for cuisine, but try to make the best out of it and fuel your body accordingly.”

2025 Senior Columns

Staff Reports — Thu, 08 May 2025 21:59:23 +0000

In an annual tradition, senior members of our paper write their final reflections as they conclude their time at Pipe Dream. Read their stories below.

Senior columns from Pipe Dream’s staff:

Brandon Ng, Editor-in-Chief

Don’t be a stranger

Lia Richter, Managing Editor

My final editor’s note

Julie Ha, Opinions Editor

On letting go of closure

Allison Peteka, Digital Editor

Pipe Dream gave me my voice

Revati Gelda, Arts & Culture Editor

A quiet love letter

Caspar Carson, Photo Editor

Home away from home

Ella Connors, News Editor

Never stop at beginnings

Emmanuel Fuentes, Business Manager

Chords of change

Jacob Knipes, Assistant Sports Editor

Jacob Knipes announces Pipe Dream retirement

Isabella Tomaselli, Assistant Copy Desk Chief

The exit ramp

Jacob Gressin, Assistant Photo Editor

Be comfortable with the uncomfortable

Sarah Lettieri, News Intern

There’s still time

Emily Maca, Arts & Culture Intern

Finding the right words

Senior columns from Pipe Dream’s contributors:

- Keep your friends close

- A tribute to the not-so-best years

Drug Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 02:59:31 +0000

Each spring, Pipe Dream curates content related to drugs — medicinal and recreational — in our annual Drug Issue.

In this year’s issue, the News Desk discusses drug safety, while columnists opine on topics like Ozempic and the effects of weed on productivity. Finally, our Arts Desk debunks misinformation on pertinent topics such as birth control and depictions of drug use in mainstream media.

News

Arts

Opinions

Restaurant Week Spring 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:54:40 +0000

Spring has sprung, which means that the Binghamton community can enjoy Restaurant Week deals from beloved local eateries. From Tuesday, April 1 to Thursday, April 10, included restaurants are offering three-course meals at a discounted price.

This semester, Pipe Dream visited 11 restaurants to sample their offerings. From speakeasies and fine dining establishments to bars and casual sit-ins, this spring’s Restaurant Week offers a multitude of options from both Binghamton classics and newer additions to the restaurant scene. Read on to explore the delicious options available this spring.

205 Dry

Hidden in plain sight, 205 Dry brings an air of elegance to the lively Artist’s Row in Downtown Binghamton. The speakeasy, founded in 2018, captures the classic Prohibition Era feel with its book-filled shelves and dimly light chandeliers.

Alexander’s Cafe

For Restaurant Week, I had the chance to visit Alexander’s Cafe with my photographer, Jared, for a $15 three-course lunch. Walking into the sun-filled environment, we were greeted by big chalkboards full of exciting menu items and a platter of baked goods. We sat down, relishing the cafe’s calm atmosphere filled with low chatter from other customers. The simple decor, posters of Binghamton and the homey blue and beige colors of the dining room created a nostalgic environment.

Craft

I visited the bar and grill on 135 Washington St. with my photographer and roommate, Lily, on Thursday. Immediately, we were greeted by an energetic space with a wide-open wall to let in the fresh, newly spring air. The colorful lights shone green, likely due to residual St. Patrick’s Day decor, and Thin Mint Milkshakes were practically on every table.

Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli

Downtown by Chef Jay Pisculli offers a three-course dinner for the price of $35 for this spring’s Restaurant Week, and their menu features spring-inspired dishes, like a green goddess salad and lemon meringue cheesecake.

Iron Agave

Located on 60 Court St. in the heart of downtown, Iron Agave offers an extensive, rotating menu of food and drink options inspired by Mexican and southwestern flavors. Opened in December 2023, the eatery features high ceilings and wooden accents that create a relaxed atmosphere.

Little Venice

After being greeted and seated by our host, we were warmly greeted by our waiter, Veronica, and handed a basket of succulent bread with butter and a carafe of water. What stuck out to me immediately was the ambiance, with walls completely filled with 19th-century paintings of western Europe and the music playing in the background — a promising start to our dining experience — as I felt immersed in Italy. After placing our orders, we waited eagerly for our first course to come out.

Lost Dog Café & Lounge

Since its opening in 1994, Lost Dog Café & Lounge has been a staple in Binghamton’s community and restaurant scene. Founded by a former all-female band with a lifelong love of cafes, the establishment blends delicious food with music events and a great atmosphere. Because my photographer, Emzie, and I have only been to the Lost Dog once in our time so far at Binghamton, we jumped at the opportunity to try out their spring Restaurant Week menu.

Parlor City Vegan

Located on 81 Clinton St., Parlor City Vegan offers a new twist to comfort food classics. Established in 2016, its many dishes were inspired by co-founder Sara Liu’s family recipes and a larger goal to bring the community together.

Saké-Tūmi

I went to the Court Street lounge on Wednesday night with my photographer, Emzie, and we both were thrilled at the variety of choices. Their dinner menu offers three courses: an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert or drink. For an extra special dining experience, the entree section provided a choice between sushi dishes and kitchen dishes, so any palette can be left satisfied. To get the most bang for our buck, Emzie and I decided to share all the bites.

Spice of India

The concept of a “hidden gem” may be an overblown one by this point, but Spice of India is more than deserving of this moniker. Located adjacent to the Mirabito just off of Vestal Parkway East before you enter Binghamton proper, few would think much of this eatery just walking or driving past it. But those who do give it a try this Restaurant Week season will be rewarded with a flavor explosion incomparable to its contemporaries.

The Grove

With a clublike atmosphere, large floor-to-ceiling windows and an already-large crowd, we knew what to expect: hearty portions and quick service. We settled in, I ordered a Diet Pepsi and our server dropped off a stack of menus.

TEDxBinghamtonUniversity 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:37:13 +0000

TEDxBinghamtonUniversity 2025

Established in 2010, the TEDx conference comes to Binghamton University every year, featuring professionals and student speakers. This year’s theme, Refraction, encouraged speakers to explore unique ideas and new perspectives. Before the conference, Pipe Dream’s News Desk interviewed each speaker, highlighting their backgrounds and work.

Faye McCray ‘03 is an attorney, writer, journalist and entrepreneur. A Goldman Sachs consultant, she has published content for HuffPost, Healthline and Parade Magazine, specializing in career mental health and wellness. Read more

Guru Madhavan, MBA ’07, Ph.D. ’09 is a biomedical engineer and policy advisor serving as the senior director of programs at the National Academy of Engineering. He has made multiple contributions to public health through advising the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the E.U. Malaria Fund and has been named a distinguished young scientist by the World Economic Forum. Read more

Sarah Zarember ‘24 graduated from the School of Management and is pursuing a Master of Business Administration while also focusing on her consulting company, “Suit Up with Sarah.” As a musician, Zarember approaches marketing and leadership through a creative lens. She aims to learn, grow and gain confidence through all of her unique experiences and encourages other developing professionals to do the same. Read more

Clay Jeon, a junior majoring in philosophy, politics and law, focused his talk on philanthropy and charitable giving. He is a part of the Dickinson Town Council’s E-Board, the New York Public Interest Research Group, the Binghamton Policy Project and the Pre-Law Education Organization. Read more

SA Elections 2025-26

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:56:03 +0000

The campuswide election for next year’s Student Association Executive Board and Binghamton University Council representative will be held this Thursday, March 27 on B-Engaged.

Each year, Pipe Dream publishes questionnaires responses from every candidate on the ballot. Our Executive Board then interviews each candidate and decides on endorsements, which reflect a majority vote. Our News Desk also attends the SA candidates debate.

This page will be updated as more news or election-related content comes in.

Editor’s Note: As of publication, Irene Cui, one of two candidates running for University Council representative, has been temporarily reinstated to the ballot and has been permitted to participate in the SA and GSO candidate debates. Pipe Dream will adjust accordingly pending a decision from the Joint Grievance Board.

Candidate Platforms

The News Desk sent questionnaires to every candidate currently on the ballot, asking them about their backgrounds, platforms and visions for the campus community.

President

President: McKenzie Skrastins

President: Joseph Kornblum

Executive Vice President

Executive Vice President: Nick Ginsberg

Executive Vice President: Batia Rabin

Vice President for Finance

Vice President for Finance: Gabriela Meza

Vice President for Multicultural Affairs

Vice President for Multicultural Affairs: Rome Maliha

Vice President for Multicultural Affairs: Jestina Tam

Vice President for Programming

Vice President for Programming: Atticus Fauci

Vice President for Student Success

Vice President for Student Success: Kristina Donders

Vice President for Student Success: Lauren Wilner

BU Council Representative

BU Council Representative: Mackenzie Cooper

BU Council Representative: Irene Cui

Debate

SA Debate

SA Endorsements

Pipe Dream’s SA and BU Council Endorsements 2025-26

News

Candidate in University Council representative race disqualified

Candidate previously disqualified from University Council representative race ‘temporarily’ restored

Joint Grievance Board finds Cui eligible to run for University Council representative

SA Congress tables certification for two campuswide races

SA Judicial Board orders special election for EVP

Results

SA’s Elections and Judiciary Committee releases unofficial election results

Vice President for Programming: Atticus Fauci

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:58:48 +0000

Atticus Fauci, a junior majoring in economics, is running unopposed for the Student Association’s vice president for programming — an office that chairs the Student Association Programming Board and provides guidance for students planning events. His responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? To continue the work we have been able to accomplish this year. Continue to provide premier public programming to the students of this University. Attempt to move fall concert on a Friday. Continue digital media. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I am from Binghamton. I hope for a future of many different careers. I can name every sitting senator and every president. I run a landscaping company during the summers. Anti-billionaire. Pro “a push for a Mexican and American Chinese fusion restaurant.” Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. I plan to not only run on my achievements: Continued popular programming. Digital media platforms such as: “Professors read ‘Rate your Professor’” A Tiny Desk Concert with Last Year’s Spring Fling Opener, a pillar of my promises from last election. Most profitable fall events since the start of the pandemic, while simultaneously lowering the cost of fall concert tickets for students. But also my goals for SAPB’s future: Increase transparency with act allocation. More unique and notable marketing campaigns. Continue SAPB’s Growth with budget increases, higher revenues, more money making events. Increased opportunities for students to engage with digital media. Keeping fall concert ticket prices low. Moving more events to Fridays and more accessible locations. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? I grew up attending SAPB events all my life, I know what we’ve been and what we can be. My connections with this town run deep in Binghamton University. Ex: I was in Rome, Italy with the director of the Anderson Center. I do Brian Rose’s landscaping. I do Baghats (VP of research) landscaping. Family friends with Sheila Doyle, director of the foundation. Have known Ryan Yarosh, media and public relations director, for years. Etc. I have been lucky enough to be in many other leadership roles on campus where I learned from my mistakes and created new connections. President of College Democrats. E-Board for Club lacrosse. Social for Newing College. Lobbyist for the University. I was the VPP for the 24-25 academic year. My economics degree allows me to leverage our budget better. What is your favorite book of all time? “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Currently reading: “Saving Capitalism: For the Many, Not the Few” by Robert Reich. “Personal Writings” by Albert Camus.

Vice President for Multicultural Affairs: Rome Maliha

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:55:29 +0000

Rome Maliha, a junior majoring in economics, is one of two candidates on the ballot for vice president for multicultural affairs, whose office advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, collaborating closely with several University offices and the multicultural community. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I am running for vice president of multicultural affairs because I believe in the power of cultural connection. Experiencing different cultures while traveling the world has been one of the most enriching parts of my life, and I want to bring that same sense of exploration and cultural appreciation to Binghamton. Our campus is already incredibly diverse — we have so much of the world right here. My goal is to make that diversity more accessible, celebrated and unified for all students. One of my mentors told me when I came to Bing, “You bring all of yourself to BU. You carve out your own space instead of shrinking to fit what’s acceptable.” I still remember that. It resonates deeply with me, and as VPMA, I want to help every student feel empowered to embrace their full identity and culture on campus so they can feel at home away from home. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? Hey! I’m Rome (as you know). I was born in Bangladesh, so I had the unique experience of growing up in two different continents (very fun). I’m very passionate about building community, and empowering women and children, and in large, people who need it, which is reflected in my previous roles. Treasurer of JUMP (Juvenile Urban Multicultural Program): Bringing up 100-150 at-risk NYC youth, pairing them up with mentors (who are BU students) and helping them navigate their path to college to show them the opportunities available to them, so they realize they don’t have to stay where they are, there is a world full of opportunities waiting for them. Events coordinator for PGS (Pretty Girl Sweat): Creating a supportive safe space where women can strengthen their minds, learn about their bodies and cultivate a sisterhood. Programming & projects coordinator in the VPMA’s office, where I’ve had the opportunity to organize events like the Multicultural Extravaganza, a day dedicated to showcasing different cultures — like the fashion show I planned, and the food catering having various cultural foods — bringing together cultural orgs to celebrate the diversity on campus. Also planned the first ever Multicultural Professional Development Summit along with the President’s cabinet, collaborating with Fleishman, MRC and the Alumni Association. My beliefs are also reflected in things beyond that as well. I’m very involved with the Multicultural Resource Center, currently planning my internship for credits coming up. Because of my advocacy, the MRC launched the first-ever Women of Color Summit in collaboration with SUNY Broome right here in our Mandela Room. Outside of leadership, I love dancing (I’m performing for Bengali New Year, and the Henna Fashion Show!), boxing, Taekwondo, painting, and I’m a real estate associate working toward my Property & Casualty Insurance Certification. Fun fact: I took a gap year to travel before college and was also bald during that time! I love learning about human nature, exploring philosophies, what we are bound by whether it be physical or mental. In the future, I plan to keep pushing boundaries and embracing every opportunity — because as I always say, the sky is not the limit, we can reach the stars if we aim for it! (I also wanted to be an astronaut when I was younger, and I watched interstellar the other day and cried my eyes out). On a personal note, beating cancer was crazy so trust me when I tell you, there is no point in the limitations and social conditionings we see around us. It definitely solidified my belief in not only going after what you love no matter what but also cherishing everything we have that we love, because if not, we miss when life happens. Especially during times like this, we must work toward a united community where we do not take for granted all the opportunities afforded to us, and help students reach these resources. I’m also a plant mother — blue hyacinth — name: Peri-winkle!! <333 Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. My platform is centered around four C’s: communication, connection, collaboration and community to build a community where we not only feel like we belong but uphold an atmosphere of respect and appreciation for our differences. Anybody who’s a part of the multicultural community knows how disconnected and cliquey it can feel at times, and I aim to bridge that gap. Some of the initiatives I have planned: Continue our annual Multicultural Extravaganza so we can celebrate our cultural diversity and increase interaction within the multicultural community. Continue hosting our Alumni of Color Networking Dinner and Professional Development Summit with Fleishman, MRC, and the Alumni Association to give students direct access to career mentorship and professional connections. Create collaborations between orgs by giving them incentives like grants and sponsorships for their event so they can engage a bigger student body and create connections they may otherwise not have. Launch Monthly Skill-Building Workshops: help students in multicultural orgs gain interpersonal and transferable career and leadership skills that will help them succeed in their orgs, and ensure the continuance of the org itself. Introduce Monthly Fireside Chats with MRC & Q Center: Given the current circumstances, I believe it is of utmost importance to create open safe spaces for students to come and voice their concerns or ask for help or resources. Building community around shared experiences and uplifting the voices that are actively being silenced. Expand Multicultural Events & Engagement: Strengthen our B-Friendly server to better connect students and organizations, and increase communication among cultural orgs to broaden reach and minimize conflicts (room booking war may never stop lol). Advocate for Student Holiday Accommodations: Push for a student holiday exemption form, ensuring students can observe religious or cultural holidays without academic penalties!!! We have so many parts of the world here to experience, it is a shame how much of our orgs struggle to engage the student body, and so many students end up feeling lonely. I aim to increase interconnectedness between the student body and support and representation for cultural orgs. I want to ensure that BU is a place where everyone feels like they belong, so we can #BUnited@BU. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? Growing up in two different continents has genuinely given me a perspective that encompasses many different paths of life. My love for immersing myself in new cultures and traditions stems from my deep respect for our history as humans, the heritage we hold is engraved in our DNA, and it is as necessary to express as your need to breathe. You cannot be who you are without knowing where you come from. Learning our roots and growing from them is how we truly flourish, not by abandoning our past and ancestors but by embracing and honoring them. This deep appreciation for our humanity and respect for every heritage is why I would do my utmost as VPMA to honor each and every student that is here. I am also Muslim, and Eid is one of our holidays but we don’t get the day off for it. One of the initiatives I want to complete is the student holiday exempt form where students will be able to celebrate their religious holidays that may not be acknowledged by the school. One of the main reasons I came to BU was because of how much it strives to create an inclusive space for us all, and I want to see it continue especially at precarious times like these. What is your favorite book of all time? I actually used to be a bookworm (reading way beyond my grade level and now diagnosed with ADHD lolll), so this is a hard question. One of my favs is “Midnight Library” where in a brush with death, a woman gets to a library where she finds all the books of her lives that her different choices could have led her to. In the end she realizes, it’s not about what you don’t have, but about watering what you do. Pain is inevitable but it is more important to know that there are people in your corner and to be content where you are. We all have things we lack but focusing on that negates the presence of everything we do.

BU Council Representative: Irene Cui

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:53:28 +0000

Irene Cui, a sophomore majoring in economics, is one of two candidates running for BU Council representative. The council, composed of 10 members, supervises certain University operations and provides a direct link between students and high-level administrators. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I’m running for BU Council representative because, over the past two years, I’ve realized that I have a true passion for advocacy. Through my experiences, including advocating for and collaborating with student organizations on campus, I’ve developed a strong commitment to helping others and ensuring their voices are heard. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have strong representation and a platform for students to express their concerns. I want to take that advocacy to a larger scale, where I can help make tangible changes that directly benefit our campus community. By running for BU Council representative, I aim to create a direct line of communication between students and the council, foster a safe space for addressing issues of discrimination and bias, and work toward improving accessibility for everyone on campus. I am committed to using my passion for advocacy to make a lasting impact on this campus and ensure that every student feels supported and heard. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I’m a sophomore majoring in economics with a minor in digital and data studies. Beyond academics, I’m the treasurer and a member of the Speech and Debate team, serve as director of community relations in the President’s cabinet, and work as a senior consultant in the Speaking Center. I’m passionate about traveling and have been to all 50 states, plus six countries in Europe. I’m also a big Dunkin’ fan, especially when it comes to their Cookie Butter Cold Brew! In my free time, I’ve started a rubber duck collection, which has been a fun little hobby. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in economics and focus on research in business economics and public policy after graduation. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. As BU Council representative, I will establish a fully student-run committee that provides a space for students to report incidents of discrimination and bias. This committee will work collaboratively to address these issues, ensuring transparency and accountability while fostering a safer and more inclusive campus environment for all. Additionally, I will implement monthly accessibility checks across all campus facilities — including classrooms, residence halls and dining halls — taking a crucial step toward enhancing accessibility on campus. These checks will help identify and address areas where accessibility can be improved, ensuring that every student has equal access to campus resources. I am also committed to expanding kosher, halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, and culturally diverse food options, while advocating for extended dining hall hours to better accommodate students with varying schedules. Above all, I believe our campus should reflect the needs of its students. I will work closely with student organizations to ensure my advocacy is rooted in real student experiences and concerns, striving to create a campus where every student feels valued, supported and heard. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? As a first-generation immigrant, my background has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by students from underrepresented communities. Having navigated systems that weren’t always designed with people like me in mind, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the importance of inclusivity, accessibility and advocacy. This experience fuels my drive to ensure that all voices are heard and that students from diverse backgrounds feel supported and valued on campus. Being a first-generation college student also means I value hard work, resilience and the importance of creating opportunities for others who might not have the same advantages. This drives my desire to advocate for greater access to resources, including better dining options, accessible facilities and spaces where students can share their concerns without fear of criticism. Additionally, my involvement in various aspects of campus life gives me a diverse perspective on the different needs and concerns of students. These experiences allow me to approach advocacy from multiple angles and connect with a wide range of students. What is your favorite book of all time? “Becoming” by Michelle Obama.

BU Council Representative: Mackenzie Cooper

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:52:06 +0000

Mackenzie Cooper, the current University Council representative and a junior majoring in politics, philosophy and law, is one of two candidates running for council representative. The council, composed of 10 members, supervises certain University operations and provides a direct link between students and high-level administrators. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? From the moment I joined student government as a freshman, I knew I wanted to play a role in shaping a campus where every student feels heard and supported. Throughout my time as council representative, I have taken on initiatives that reflect the needs of my peers, always striving to make campus life more inclusive and accessible. This work has reinforced my commitment to fostering a stronger, more connected student community — one that I hope to continue building in this role. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? Campus involvement has always been a huge part of my college experience, and I’m proud to be an active member of several SA organizations, including Hillel and Chabad. I’m also part of Phi Mu, where I’ve found an incredible community of supportive and driven individuals. Beyond campus, I’m excited to spend this summer interning in Washington, D.C., where I hope to kickstart my career and eventually build a future after graduation. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. I have been able to learn the ins and outs of campus administration over the past year as BU Council rep. I have structured my platform to fall within these operations while also achieving the best for students. Additionally, I plan to continue to promote inclusivity of voices through my BU Council Committee, which I hope to expand in my next term. Lastly, I believe that especially with the current major changes we are seeing in campus administration, specifically with the retirement of President Stenger, it is important to have stability in the council representative position, given how close their working relationship is. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? My expansive history in student government and advocacy has given me the knowledge and tools necessary to most effectively represent the campus community. Serving as a student congress representative, chairing the finance committee, and engaging in state-level student government have all provided me with the experience, leadership and insight needed to excel as a council representative. I am also familiar with more unique aspects of campus beyond student government through my involvement in intramural sports and Greek life. As a council representative, I will use this experience to promote transparency, accountability and increased student involvement in our university’s governance. What is your favorite book of all time? “1984” by George Orwell.

Vice President for Multicultural Affairs: Jestina Tam

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:50:10 +0000

Jestina Tam, a junior majoring in biology, is one of two candidates on the ballot for vice president for multicultural affairs, whose office advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, collaborating closely with several University offices and the multicultural community. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I am running to be VPMA because I want to continue fostering a community that emphasizes shared collaboration and belonging. During my time at Binghamton, I have had the opportunity to connect with, and feel accepted by, so many people from all different cultures. I have also been a part of the Student Association since my freshman year, when I was a minute taker, and that showed me a lot about the inner workings of SA, like how the committees and Congress meetings ran. But I knew that I wanted to do more. As I sat through those meetings typing away, I realized that I wanted to help advocate for changes that students wanted, so I leapt at the opportunity to be the president’s chief of staff during my junior year. As the chief of staff, I was exposed to a whole other side of SA; a side where I had the tools to take action. I was able to plan and help collaborate on meaningful projects and connect with departments like Fleishman and B-Healthy. I was able to advocate for initiatives like the “Holiday Off” form and the “Multicultural Networking Event” that would help students get nonrecognized religious holidays off and connect with diverse staff and alumni, respectively. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? As a junior, I have been a part of many clubs. During my freshman year, I was the survivor and caregiver coordinator at the American Cancer Society, a member of the Public Service Learning Community, a mentee in the Environment and Ecology Knowledge Community in the Emerging Leaders Program, a dancer in the Pakistani Student Association’s Mock Shaadi, and a member of the Bangali Student Association’s Gaye Holud. I also got involved in the Student Association as a minute taker. During my sophomore year, I became a mentor for ELP under the Public Service Knowledge Community, a Biology 113 teacher’s assistant, the Hinman College Council’s service vice president, a dancer for the Indian International Student Union’s Tamasha, the Philippine-American League’s Barrio, the Bangali Student Association’s Pohela, and a model for the Henna Club’s first-ever fashion show. I continued being involved in the Student Association as a Minute Taker. Currently, as a junior, I am an apartments assistant for Brandywine, a program assistant for ELP, a dancer for BSA’s Pohela, and a model for the Henna Club’s fashion show. In the Student Association, I am a receptionist and the chief of staff in the president’s cabinet. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. As the VPMA, I will “A.C.T. Now!” A for Advocacy: I will advocate for the culture and diversity of Binghamton by continuing the “Multicultural Networking” event that started this year as a collaboration between the VPMA and president’s office. This event brought together diverse Binghamton alumni and staff who conversed with current students about their career journey. I also plan on continuing my event “Party Safe,” an immersive initiative in collaboration with B-Healthy aimed at showing and teaching students “red flags” in social settings. After months of communication and planning, I hosted this event at Sexapalooza and it was a hit! Over 40 students came within two hours. My most memorable part of the night was when some students approached me and expressed how grateful they were to this event because they wished they had it their freshman year. C for Collaboration: As mentioned previously, I really want to create a community focused on inclusivity and collaboration. Throughout my time at Binghamton, I have felt connected to all the clubs I have been a part of — even when I was not of that culture. This inviting and friendly atmosphere is what I want all students to feel; to be unafraid to explore new cultures. Because of this, I want to continue the peer mentorship program started by VPMA Krizia Yao where students from different cultures befriend and bring each other to explore their respective cultures. T for Tributes: I want a mural placed in the University that celebrates all the multicultural organizations on campus. I want this to be visible so incoming students can see what organizations they could join. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? Through my time at Binghamton, I have had many roles where I plan large-scale events, delegate roles and manage a team, and communicate with multiple outside organizations. Specifically, based on my experience in the Student Association — starting as a minute taker my freshman year and becoming a receptionist and the president’s chief of staff my junior year — I believe I am fit for this role because I have seen the SA run at multiple levels. From being behind-the-scenes typing committee and Congress meetings to actively starting my own initiative, “Party Safe,” in collaboration with B-Healthy and delegating initiatives and roles to my teammates, I have learned to adapt and hone in on valuable skills. What is your favorite book of all time? “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara. I truly enjoy how Yanagihara writes and captivates you into the book. Although the book is very tragic, it reminds me to constantly push forward and see the bright side of everything.

President: Joseph Kornblum

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:48:10 +0000

Joseph Kornblum, a junior majoring in business administration, is one of two candidates on the ballot for SA president, the office that chairs the organization’s E-Board and serves as its primary representative. His responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I’m confident that I can make a real impact on campus, which is why I’m running. The SA should be as dynamic as the students it represents! Having multiple candidates brings different perspectives, and I am ready to bring innovative solutions to improve campus life. Based on my experiences as a representative in the SA Congress, where I worked to promote open dialogue and strengthen our campus, and my current role as president of the Off Campus College Council, I have firsthand knowledge of how to bring real change to students. I want to build upon past accomplishments and implement new initiatives that will not only improve student life but also help prepare us for success in the next stages of life. A major focus of my platform is enhancing professional development opportunities for students. At the end of the day, we’re all here to set ourselves up for future success — whether that means landing an internship, securing a job or building a professional network. I am dedicated to making Binghamton a place where students can gain the skills, connections and experiences they need to succeed in their college experience and beyond. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I’m a junior studying business administration in the School of Management. I’ve been privileged to be involved in a variety of clubs and leadership roles on campus. I founded Binghamton’s GeoGuessr Club around two years ago, and I’m currently the president of OC3, where I work to support and connect off-campus students. Before that, I served as an OC3 Congress representative for a year. I’m also the treasurer for MEOR and have been involved with the Management Consulting Group, TAMID and Chabad throughout my college experience. Beyond clubs, I’ve had the opportunity to TA for Intro to Theater 102, Astronomy 114 and a mentor for Management 111, which has been a great way to connect with students and faculty. I’m a huge Detroit Lions fan (finally some good seasons!) and love the outdoors — camping trips are unreal. Geography and traveling are big passions of mine. Over spring break, I backpacked through El Salvador and Colombia, and I’m always looking for new places and cultures to learn from and about. Professionally, I’m passionate about management information systems and consulting which I intent to pursue a career in. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. My platform centers around improving student life both on and off campus. I will utilize the SA’s resources to strengthen professional development opportunities for all students. I will work closely with pre-professional organizations and all clubs to ensure they have the resources they need, facilitate funding to bring in guest speakers and host networking events and promote career-building workshops to give students the tools to succeed. I will introduce a workshop series to help students maximize their online presence and take advantage of professional opportunities. I am and will be open to meet with any and all students to hear their concerns and in turn, use that information to provide our campus with the best resources possible. Mental health is so important, and I want to recognize all that has been done and is being made to support students — it’s essential to student life. I will continue to advance awareness of services, and making it easier for students to access support when they need it. I will work to distribute clear, accessible information on available resources and continue meeting with students to better understand their concerns. As president, I will work with the SA E-Board and administration to continue ensuring campus safety and well-being while fostering a more open and inclusive environment where all student voices are heard. With this in mind, I will establish a Campus Safety Board within the SA to address security concerns, provide students with a direct platform to voice issues and collaborate with administration to implement real solutions that will work to benefit both on- and off-campus students. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? I come from a family of four brothers (including myself) and a mom and dad where we all loved and respected one another despite our differences. We are all very close and despite our different stages in life still manage to spend quality time together. In addition, I graduated from a small high school where everyone knew one another and looked out for each other. The sense of community, inclusivity and support that I grew up with has shaped my leadership style, and my commitment to make sure that every student has a place where they feel heard and valued. As SA president, I will work hard to ensure that all students feel that they have a voice and that their concerns and needs are met on campus. I will organize events that foster opportunities for students to socialize, develop friendships and build a close-knit campus community. Beyond that, I will focus on ensuring that every student — whether they’re from in state, out of state or an international student — feels welcomed and empowered to make the most of their time at Binghamton. What is your favorite book of all time? I’ve always loved Greek mythology since I was a kid. I’d have to give it to “Percy Jackson: The Last Olympian.”

Vice President for Student Success: Lauren Wilner

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:45:34 +0000

Lauren Wilner, the director of policy for the vice president for student success and a junior double-majoring in philosophy, politics and law and environmental studies, is one of two candidates on the ballot for the SA’s VPSS, an office that advocates for students’ academic needs and general well-being. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity Why are you running for this SA position? I’ve always been naturally drawn to helping others and being the director of policy this year has been very fulfilling toward this passion of mine. I love working and collaborating with other students who feel the same way and getting to see our ideas and passion for change take shape every week. I want to continue doing this and coming up with and carrying out initiatives that will help better our campus. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I am the type of person that enjoys a full schedule whether that includes classes, work, meetings or anything fun. I like to read, crochet, hike, play soccer, watch TV and movies, listen to music, experiment with makeup and beauty products and hang out with my friends. My favorite show is “Parks and Recreation,” my favorite movie is “Star Wars,” and my favorite musician is Noah Kahan. I also love stand-up comedy, and my favorite comedian is John Mulaney. I am very involved on campus. I am the director of policy for the current vice president for student success, I am the president of the Binghamton Citizens’ Climate Lobby, I am the director of outreach for the Food Recovery Network, I am a Binghamton University tour guide, I write for Binghamton Night Live, and I hold a few other fun positions on campus. I want to go to law school after college and one day be an environmental lawyer. I also want to work in the government one day to create and effect important policies whether that be a legislator or working for the Environmental Protection Agency. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. I want to continue what my predecessors have done in this position while doing new things to make our campus better. I want to make our campus more sustainable and increase support for disabled students and underclassmen. I want to combat food insecurity on campus, and I want to promote mental health resources and the importance of civil dialogue. I will do this through achievable initiatives that I will implement like promoting community solar, increasing efficiency in the food recovery process in dining halls, hosting and partnering on events geared toward civil dialogue, building a stronger relationship with the food pantry, getting a permanent bus line to the farmer’s market, etc. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? I have the experience and knowledge to change campus for the better for people who have environmental concerns about our campus all the way to mentally disabled students who have concerns about resources and support for students like us. But what is bigger than that is I care just as much about concern and worries that students have that I might not be able to relate to. Being a student at Binghamton University as long as I have has allowed me to understand what needs to change. There are a lot of people with different passions and who want to see different things changed for them and others on campus. I have learned about these through talking to students as a student leader and a fellow student who shares their concerns. I have been in some kind of role that is dedicated to helping students on campus since my freshman year. I have the experience and knowledge to know how to take my ideas and transform them into achievable and effective initiatives that will improve campus for everybody. What is your favorite book of all time? “Where the Crawdads Sing.”

Vice President for Finance: Gabriela Meza

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:40:49 +0000

Gabriela Meza, a junior majoring in economics, is running unopposed for the Student Association’s vice president for finance, whose office is responsible for establishing financial policy and approving large expenses and organizational expenditures. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I am running for vice president for finance because I want to make a positive change on campus. I am very passionate about helping others and being a strong backbone for support. In this position, being available and kind are very significant factors. I want to make the VPF office a kind and welcoming place where students are free to ask questions, can express their needs, and feel cared about. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I am involved in various different organizations on campus. Firstly, I am a general assistant to the VPF. This position has allowed me to interact with various different campus groups and learn how to serve them best. Another organization I take pride in is Association of Latino Professionals For America. This year, my fellow co-founders and I created the Binghamton chapter of the organization to be able to help Latino students from all majors learn the skills needed to develop their professional brand! In the future, I plan on breaking out into the operations management industry. My passion for development and my background in analytics have provided me with the skills needed to succeed in the industry. This summer I have accepted a position as an operations management intern for Teachers Federal Credit Union where I will continue to build these skills! Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. My platform is centered around four pillars: Communication, Innovation, Reliability and Efficiency. I strive to create a supportive environment for students and promote positive change! My first pillar addresses transparency for students. I hope to implement a feedback form for students to comment on the effectiveness of the VPF office. I will continue to improve the positions of assistant roles to ensure each organization is getting the best assistance possible. Secondly, Innovation is necessary. Treasurer training is currently in person. I want to create an online treasurer training option for students who cannot make the in person training! My third pillar is built on reliability. I want to be a trustworthy source for students and organizations. Kindness is key! Finally, I believe the efficiency of OCCT is very important. I hope to increase existing bus lines so students can safely travel to and from campus! How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? As a co-founder of ALPFA I have learned the importance of mentorship and being a resource for students. Giving back to students by helping them achieve their goals is something I am very passionate about. Our recently launched internship program has allowed me to use the knowledge I have gained throughout my time at Binghamton to provide mentorship to students who want to develop and strive professionally. This experience allows me to be able to offer a sense of community to the organizations and look to me and the rest of the Student Association for support. What is your favorite book of all time? My favorite book of all time is “The Hunger Games.” This book has been a favorite of mine since middle school, when I first read it.

Vice President for Student Success: Kristina Donders

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:39:05 +0000

Kristina Donders, the speaker of the Student Association Congress and a junior double-majoring in mathematics and political science, is one of two candidates on the ballot for vice president for student success, whose office advocates for students’ academic needs and general well-being. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I’m running for vice president for student success because I’m committed to empowering students to reach their full potential. Many students aren’t aware of the resources the SA offers, and I want to improve the visibility and accessibility of these services. To truly support students, we need to meet them where they are, equipping them with the tools and advocacy to navigate the challenges and opportunities at Binghamton University. Student government is about empowering students, and I plan to do this through my platform’s three pillars: mental health, civic engagement ,and increased student outreach. Over the past three years, I have seen the positive impact the Student Association has had, both from within the SA and from a club perspective. My experience as a two-time SA Congress rep., former secretary to the VPSS, and current speaker of Congress have given me the insight, knowledge and passion to serve in this role effectively. I love working with and advocating for students. I would be humbled to have the trust of the student body to drive meaningful change on their behalf. This campus has given me so much, and I am eager to give back by making it an even better place for all students to succeed. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I’m a junior, and I’m from Sackets Harbor, New York — right up near the Canadian border. In my time here at Binghamton, I have served as an SA Congress representative, secretary to the VPSS, and am the current speaker of Congress of the Student Association. Serving as a Congress representative reinforced my belief in the power of the student voice. The most exciting project I took on was writing and implementing S2324-R9: Resolution Calling on Elected Officials to Support Federal Protections for Children of Long-Term Visa Holders. This project reaffirmed my passion for civic engagement and demonstrated how students can drive real policy change. As secretary to the vice president for student success, I got to know the inner workings of the VPSS office. I took on two main projects: a campaign advertising SA elections to the student body and an accessibility social media campaign, which the office continues to host today. Outside of the SA, I’m the president of KnitWits, Binghamton’s knit & crochet club, where I get to spread my love for all things knit & crochet with the student body. Additionally, I’m a student researcher in the Political Science Department, where I use the statistical inference software Ecological Inference to determine districts in New York state that may be violating the Voting Rights Amendment (1965). In my free time, you’ll probably find me crocheting, watching “Madam Secretary” on Netflix or skiing — depending on the season. In the future, I hope to use data to promote the development of disadvantaged communities and advocate for social justice. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. As VPSS, I will work to help students reach their full potential by helping students help each other. Many students don’t realize that the SA is a resource for their success, and I want to change that. By giving students the tools to support one another, we can create positive change on campus. My platform accomplishes this through three pillars: mental health, civic engagement, and increased student outreach. My first pillar is mental health. I want to create a confidential peer support group — similar to the VPSS’ Title IX Peer Advisors and SA Advocates — to help students navigate the on-campus mental health resources available to them. Additionally, I will collaborate with the University to host more Opioid Overdose Prevention & Mental Health First Aid Trainings — giving students the resources they need to help each other. My second pillar is civic engagement. I look forward to continuing the VPSS’s Multicultural Voting Fair & Chalk the Vote to empower students to advocate for themselves through voting. Additionally, I want to work with the next speaker of the SA Congress to host an SA Congress GIM to encourage diverse students to get involved in the SA. My third and final pillar is increased student outreach. I want to strengthen the SA’s connection with student organizations and launch a space where students can voice concerns, big or small, regardless of whether they think the SA is feasibly able to fix them. By meeting students where they are, we can make SA a more accessible resource. Ultimately, I want to help students succeed by fostering a culture of peer support, engagement and advocacy. If elected, I’m ready to bring these initiatives to life. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? My background in the SA, as well as in clubs, has given me a multifaceted skill set to serve the campus community. As mentioned above, my experience as an SA representative, former secretary to the VPSS, and current speaker of Congress has improved my ability to collaborate with diverse groups of people and create meaningful solutions. My deep understanding of the SA and VPSS office will allow me to build on existing resources and expand opportunities for students from day one. As the president of KnitWits, I see firsthand how clubs interact with the SA. This perspective will help me strengthen collaboration between student organizations and the SA to better support club success. Finally, as a speaker of Congress, I have experience in leading tough conversations. I want the SA to be a space where students feel heard and where leadership takes action to address these concerns. Overall, my experience in both the SA and student organizations has prepared me to be an effective, approachable and proactive VPSS who helps students succeed. What is your favorite book of all time? My favorite book of all time has to be “Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief.” It’s the book that sparked my love of reading when I was 10 years old and led me to discover so many other wonderful books.

President: McKenzie Skrastins

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:37:26 +0000

McKenzie Skrastins, the current Student Association president and a junior majoring in mathematics, is one of two candidates on the ballot for SA president, an office that chairs the organization’s E-Board and serves as its primary representative. Her responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Student Association president. With my cabinet, I’ve launched a range of initiatives, from organizing the “Org Mixer” — a networking event designed to foster collaboration among student leaders — to hosting panels that connect students from underrepresented high schools with Binghamton’s student leaders, bridging the gap and inspiring future success. While I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, I recognize that our work is far from over. There is still so much more to be done to create a more inclusive, dynamic and empowering campus environment, and I remain committed to pushing for even greater impact. Next year, I aim to lead initiatives that I was unable to implement this year or that emerged too late in the year to put into action effectively. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? My name is McKenzie, and I’m from Queens! I currently serve as the 2024-25 Student Association president, following my role as the 2023-24 chief of staff in the president’s cabinet. Beyond the Student Association, I am the director of internal affairs for Binghamton’s chapter of Pi Mu Epsilon, the National Honorary Mathematics Society, and an active member of the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and the Collegiate Sciences and Technology Entry Program. My research experience spans both Binghamton and other institutions, with a primary focus on bioinformatics and biostatistics. In my free time, I enjoy reading, building LEGO and playing card games. I was a girl scout for 13 years, and I still own all of my vests. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. As the face of the SA, I’ve prioritized being approachable so that both organizations and students feel comfortable reaching out to me. Over the past year, my team and I have met with SA organizations over 100 times, spoken in more than 20 classes and engaged with countless students. In every conversation, I ask for feedback to ensure our initiatives truly reflect student needs. Continued outreach will be my focus as the 2025-26 SA president. Next year, I plan to build on these efforts by focusing on supporting newly formed clubs and SA businesses, making sure our work represents as much of the student population as possible. Next year, a few of the many initiatives I will continue are: a. Revitalizing the Regalia Project, which collects gently used graduation regalia for donation to the TRIO Office b. Collaborating with representatives at the Bartle library to create an archive for student organizations. c. Hosting the “Multicultural Professional Development Summit,” connecting students with diverse alumni and recruiters while equipping them with tools to navigate multicultural workplaces. Some initiatives I’d like to start: d. Adding a feature to the OCCT website that updates students on when a bus is full and won’t be making any more stops e. Working with the VPMA to improve the calendar for large-scale club events f. Increasing off-campus participation by expanding SA’s presence downtown How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? My background allows me to bridge the gap between students who are deeply involved in the Student Association and those who have never engaged with it. Having served in the SA president’s office for nearly two years — first as chief of staff and now as president — I deeply understand the role’s responsibilities and its potential to create meaningful change. At the same time, I spent an entire year at Binghamton without any SA involvement, giving me insight into what it’s like to be a student outside of the organization’s reach. Because of this, I am uniquely positioned to make the SA more accessible and impactful. I can advocate for students who feel unheard, ensure our initiatives address real student needs and use my experience to strengthen both student organizations and campuswide engagement. My goal is to make sure every student feels represented and supported. What is your favorite book of all time? My favorite book of all time is “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë. I first read it during my senior year of high school with my book club and immediately fell in love with its narrative and characters. Jane’s unwavering sense of self-worth resonated deeply with me. Though many around her assumed she was weak and passive, she consistently defied those misconceptions, proving that quiet strength can be just as powerful as outspoken defiance. One of the most striking moments in the novel comes when Mr. Rochester warns Jane that if she leaves, she will be utterly alone, with not a single person in the world to care about her. Despite his emotional manipulation, Jane firmly advocates for her personal beliefs by declaring, “I care for myself. The more solitary, the more friendless, the more unsustained I am, the more I will respect myself.” In this moment, Jane is not just standing up for herself in the face of rejection; she is asserting that her self-respect and personal convictions cannot be swayed by fear or isolation. Her refusal to compromise her values, even at great personal cost, left a lasting impression on me. This book is one of the reasons I am so passionate about advocacy. It taught me that advocating for myself and others is not simply about defiance; it’s about standing firm in our beliefs, asserting our worth and defending our right to uphold what we know to be true. Jane’s resilience in the face of adversity has shaped the way I approach advocacy, ensuring that every voice, especially those often overlooked, has the chance to be heard and respected.

Executive Vice President: Batia Rabin

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:34:51 +0000

Batia Rabin, the current Student Association executive vice president and a junior double-majoring in philosophy, politics and law and women, gender and sexuality studies, is one of two candidates on the ballot for executive vice president, whose office oversees all nonfinancial administrative duties related to SA-chartered organizations and oversees the management of the B-Engaged platform. Their responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I’m the current EVP and I really enjoy being in this role so I wanted to run again. There are also more things that I want to accomplish and would only be able to do if I ran again. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? I’m part of KnitWits so one of my hobbies is knitting and crocheting. I make the bees that KnitWits sells and I recently made a dinosaur plushie for a friend. I also like to read and plan on reading “Dune” over break. In terms of career plans for the future, I’m not really sure what career I want to pursue, although I am considering law school. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. My platform: I want to get more storage space for clubs and am actually in the middle of project with Pete Nardone, the director of the Union, to do just that. I want to ensure that any SA E-Board events that we can are not held on religious holidays. Lastly, I want to buy more equipment that clubs can borrow from the SA instead of having to buy or renting. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? As the current EVP, I already have experience in this role and would be able to continue to efficiently do my job. Much of my campaign promises from last year I have succeeded in accomplishing this year. I created a storage grant where clubs with storage could receive boxes and shelves from my office in order to organize their space. I allocated more space to clubs in conjunction with the previous EVP, Andie, than ever before. I also have been very quick with responding to emails, approving events, and overall providing the resources that clubs need. While I wasn’t able to move UFEST to a Sunday due to University requirements I was able to move Club Carnival and actually expanded the event. This year we created the Equipment Rental Request Form where clubs can borrow equipment from the SA, such as tables, chairs, cameras, etc. What is your favorite book of all time? My favorite book of all time is “Ender’s Game.”

Executive Vice President: Nick Ginsberg

Staff Reports — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:32:56 +0000

Nick Ginsberg, a junior double-majoring in political science and sociology, is one of two candidates on the ballot for executive vice president, whose office oversees all nonfinancial administrative duties related to SA-chartered organizations and oversees the management of the B-Engaged platform. His responses to Pipe Dream’s questionnaire have been lightly edited for clarity. Why are you running for this SA position? I am running to be the executive vice president because I want to put organizations at the core of the Student Association. My extensive experience spans two branches of the SA and within student organizations: from Congress, to the Finance Committee, to the vice president for finance’s office as an assistant. Because I worked for the vice president for finance while I was also a member of the Finance Committee, I played a key role in increasing funding to organizations to the highest levels while the central expenditures of the Student Association were being lowered. As the current chair of the Finance Committee, I have redefined the committee by increasing our efficiency in meeting with organizations, ensuring frequent meetings to serve those who elected us. I love being able to support these organizations financially and see the positive impact on campus. As executive vice president, I would have an even greater role in supporting organizations, leveraging my experience to enhance their success outside of just the funding they receive. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you a part of any clubs? Any hobbies or career plans for the future? My name is Nick, and I am a junior double-majoring in political science and sociology with a minor in human rights. My academic interest lies in how Supreme Court justices make decisions and how those decisions affect the civil rights and liberties of Americans. At Binghamton, I was the president of the Rainbow Pride Union and currently am the vice president of the Mock Trial team, where we compete across the Northeast, acting out cases as if we were real attorneys and witnesses. My career plan is to attend law school after graduation and practice civil rights law. Outside of law, I love musical theatre and singing, even though I’m not very good at it. I always sing at top volume in my car on the way to campus. Please succinctly describe your platform and what you hope to accomplish through it. My platform is built on two main pillars to place organizations at the core of the Student Association. Organizational Support: I will maximize storage space by revising allocation rules to include a rotational storage cage for provisionally chartered organizations. To improve communication, I will create an FAQ page and allow students to submit questions directly for quick responses. For UFEST and Club Carnival, I will implement a form for organizations to choose their preferred table sections, enhancing organization visibility and effectiveness. Organizational Efficiency: I will expand SA Rentables by implementing a system for equipment rentals through B-Engaged and the SA reception tablet and create a website section to track rental equipment. To streamline event approvals, I will create an automated workflow on B-Engaged for recurring events. Additionally, I will shorten the fall and spring leadership conferences to cover only essential material, making them more efficient and beneficial. By focusing on these two pillars, my goal is to deliver sweeping changes to the EVP office, ensuring that organizations are truly at the core of the Student Association. This approach will support organizations and enhance their efficiency, allowing them to thrive and better serve the student body. How does your background influence what you are able to offer the campus community? My background as the chair of the Finance Committee and a member for the past two years has given me extensive experience in meeting the needs of over 200 Student Association organizations. Additionally, my experience as the president of the Rainbow Pride Union and vice president of the mock trial team has provided me with a deep understanding of organizational needs. My extensive work in DEI, both through my campus involvement and my work with the Broome County Public Defender, has shaped my commitment to service as my guiding principle. I am a highly transformative leader who has experience delivering lasting change to the financial arm of the Student Association, operational efficiency to organizations, and advocacy for students through my campus involvement. What is your favorite book of all time? “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn.

Multicultural Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:03:00 +0000

Welcome to Pipe Dream’s second-annual Multicultural Issue, spearheaded by the Arts Desk to highlight Binghamton University’s diverse student body!

We adhered to the Multicultural Resource Center’s definition of “cultural organization,” which includes cultural and affinity, LGBTQ+, preprofessional and service, cultural Greek, religious and performance groups. This year, we had the opportunity to collaborate with 10 student organizations, ranging from dance teams and publications to preprofessional and religious groups. After being sent an email from the Student Association’s vice president for multicultural affairs, organizations reached out to us, choosing the type of article they preferred: a feature, an event preview, a guest column submission or a Q&A. The participating organizations were decided on a first-come, first-serve basis to ensure our coverage is as democratic and holistic as possible, allowing us to focus on each group’s unique voice. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to share the valuable work of all the cultural organizations featured in this issue and hope that readers gain insight into some of the robust multiculturalism that our campus’ student groups have to offer. If any multicultural organizations are interested in coverage outside of Multicultural Issue, please reach out to arts@bupipedream.com with any inquiries.

Candela: Latin Dance Club blends cultural education with community

Founded in January 2023 by Kofi Waldron ‘24 and Skyla Rivera ‘24, Candela: Latin Dance Club provides an educational and welcoming space for students looking to learn Latin dance styles.

Read more

ColorStack promotes skill development and professional development

Founded in 2023, Binghamton University’s ColorStack chapter was developed to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community for Black, Latine and Indigenous students looking to launch fulfilling technical careers in the competitive computer science sector.

Read more

Corazoncitos serves the Latine community, fundraising for nonprofits

Each year, Corazoncitos, a philanthropic organization that serves the Latine community on campus that raises awareness about socioeconomic and political issues in the United States and Latin America, partners with a nonprofit in the diaspora that shares a similar goal.

Read more

Korean-American Christian Fellowship promotes spiritual growth

Established over 30 years ago by two young women who wanted to host a Bible study on campus, the Korean-American Christian Fellowship has since grown from an independent student organization to the official college ministry of the local Korean Baptist Church of Binghamton.

Read more

Check out four of LASU’s biggest events

The Latin American Student Union, an activist and cultural organization founded in 1969 by 10 Puerto Rican students, has long been educating about and advocating for Latinx issues and creating a community of students with Latin American backgrounds.

Read more

Pretty Girls Sweat empowers women to achieve their fitness goals

Since its arrival on campus in fall 2015, Pretty Girls Sweat has made waves as an organization fiercely dedicated to women’s wellness and health education.

Read more

PULSE’s ‘HOPE’ publication offers a vibrant insight into the organization’s values and ideas

Established in 2007, Powerful Ladies Striving to Elevate, or PULSE, was created from a vision to give women of color a safe space to come together and build long-lasting relationships, discuss career growth opportunities and empowerment, share advice, and learn and constantly adapt with one another.

Read more

A Q&A with Rainbow Pride Union

Rainbow Pride Union, an organization long dedicated to building community among LGBTQ+ students that was founded in the 1970-71 academic year as the Harpur Gay Liberation Front, is returning to its activist and politically focused roots.

Read more

SHPE provides opportunities for professional development and community

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, a chapter of the nation’s largest association dedicated to advancing Hispanic leadership in STEM fields that has been on campus since 2002, emphasizes not just academic and professional success but building community.

Read more

Undivided creates a culturally diverse space for musicians

As its name suggests, “Undivided,” an R&B group on campus, amplifies a diverse group of voices across campus.

Read more

Sex Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 03:03:04 +0000

Welcome to Pipe Dream’s annual Sex Issue!

In the news pages, we examine the intersection of sexuality and disability, review the long history of local queer organizing and interview a Binghamton nightlife legend who discusses female empowerment in a male-dominated society. Opinion columnists reflect on soulmates, sex myths and how sex reveals our true natures. You’ll find a Q&A with the founder of HOTBOX, scrutiny of banned books and advice for Valentine’s Day gifts, dates and rom-coms in the arts section.

In a day often panned for its obsession with materialism — for its emphasis on spending money rather than spending time — we hope this year’s focus on intention, learning and understanding inspires you to make this the best Valentine’s Day yet.

NEWS

The intersection between disability and sexuality: A certified sex therapist weighs in

LGBTQ+ history in Binghamton spans decades

Behind closed doors: Young adults and pornography access

Rasa von Werder, a Binghamton legend, embraces sexuality with age, discusses relationships with younger men in new book

A look at Trump’s gender-focused executive order

The Southern Tier Aids Program works to stop the spread of HIV

OPINIONS

On becoming ourselves in bed

Don’t pursue your soulmate. Create them.

We must reform the way we think about porn

How Snapchat got me a sustainable situationship

Ten sex myths we need to move past

ARTS

A Q&A with Sativa from HOTBOX

Banned books that discuss sex, sexuality and relationships

Five romantic comedies to watch this Valentine’s Day

Six Valentine’s Day gifts, ranked

Six Valentine’s Day date ideas

Don’t leave your past self behind

Staff Picks: Superbowl LIX

Staff Reports — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 02:38:36 +0000

Brandon Ng, Editor-in-Chief Chiefs 21, Eagles 17 ”I think the Chiefs will win, but I have no real reason why.” Lia Richter, Managing Editor Chiefs 34, Eagles 29 “I’ve been struggling with this prediction, because I do not want the Chiefs to win since I am a 49ers fan and am still sad. However, I do think they will win, and it will be close, considering how close the game with the Bills was. Johnny Yang, Sports Editor Chiefs 42, Eagles 17 “Patrick Mahomes is the GOAT. Tom Brady who? Three-peat incoming.” Jacob Knipes, Assistant Sports Editor Chiefs 38, Eagles 35 “I stare into the dark abyss of another national Mahomes day and no longer have the energy or vigor to resist. It has become a futile exercise to bet against a Chiefs Super Bowl. It is inevitable. Maybe CJ Stroud can defeat the evil empire next year. Kendrick opens with ‘HUMBLE.’ and closes with ‘Not Like Us’.” Gabriel Przybylo, Assistant Sports Editor Chiefs 31, Eagles 23 “Jalen Hurts has struggled mightily under pressure, and Steve Spagnuolo will thrive knowing that. A nice run or two from Barkley might keep the Eagles in the game, but despite Mahomes having arguably his worst supporting cast so far, the Chiefs offense has been firing on all cylinders. Mahomes will continue to find a way to get the job done and secure the three-peat.” James Leather, Sports Intern Chiefs 35, Eagles 31 “Mahomes wins his third ring in three years. It’ll be a close game until the the fourth quarter when Jalen Hurts barely misses a sack on Mahomes at the 10-yard line. Mahomes then throws a bullet to Travis Kelce for the go-ahead touchdown sending New Orleans into utter shock and cementing the Chiefs as the three-peat champs. Travis Kelce then brings out Taylor Swift on the field for celebration and proposes to her. The world explodes.” Julie Ha, Opinions Editor Chiefs 38, Eagles 35 “I don’t really like the Chiefs, but they’re the NFL sweethearts and it’s a proven conspiracy. It’ll be a miserable, but really homoerotic, day.” Revati Gelda, Arts & Culture Editor Chiefs 56, Eagles 49 “With my limited knowledge of football, I would go with the Chiefs since they’ve consistently won. I’m mostly tuning in for Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance though.” Jaiden Del Rosario, Assistant Arts & Culture Editor Chiefs 25, Eagles 21 “The Chiefs win every year. It’s going to be the Chiefs.” Christina Forte, Assistant Arts & Culture Editor Chiefs 56, Eagles 40 “Jaiden said that the Chiefs usually win, but Lucy said the Eagles are having a great season, so I’m not sure about this one.” Lucy Harnish, Arts & Culture Intern Eagles 56, Chiefs 40 “Although the Chiefs defeated the Eagles in the 2022 Super Bowl, the Eagles have had a great season and have the unstoppable running Saquon Barkley on their side. Based on this, I predict a high-scoring game with an ultimate Eagles victory.” Sarah Lettieri, News Intern Eagles 27, Chiefs 22 “I hope both teams have fun!”

Local Business Issue 2025

Staff Reports — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 03:50:55 +0000

Welcome to Pipe Dream’s 2025 Local Business Issue!

In this special issue, the first of the spring, we feature charming local restaurants — student favorites — like Chris’ Diner and Paul & Sons Pizza and curated vintage stores like Stellar Human and Mabel D. Orr Fashion Boutique. An opinion columnist reflects on Binghamton’s industrial past, and the city’s director of economic development describes her efforts to attract and strengthen local businesses.

Read the full issue to learn more about these gems of Binghamton life.

News

In the heart of Binghamton’s West Side, a bastion of New York-style pizza and family

From a dream to reali-tea: Nihao Tea House in Johnson City offers classic Taiwanese boba

With goods from across Eastern Europe, Euro Food Market and Bakery serves niche in Binghamton’s community

Discover antiques and vintage treasures at Endicott’s Finders Keeperz

Binghamton’s director of economic development discusses the vital role of local businesses

Arts

Stellar Human offers eclectic vintage on the East Side, will move downtown within a month

Mabel D. Orr brings a one-of-a-kind experience to Binghamton’s vintage scene

On State Street since 1996, family-owned Chris’ Diner serves comfort food and community

Iron Agave is a vibrant addition to Downtown Binghamton’s restaurant community

Take a stroll down Antique Row

Opinions

Binghamton must actively reconnect with its diverse past

Spring Sports Preview 2025

Staff Reports — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 01:36:07 +0000

Spring Sports Preview

After a strong fall season, Binghamton will continue its success throughout the rest of the spring as it hunts another Commissioner’s Cup in 2025.

Baseball and softball are once again expected to finish near the top of the conference. Women’s lacrosse will look to repeat after winning its first ever America East title in program history, while men’s lacrosse will look to get back in the playoff mix.

Overall, Bearcat fans should be excited as strong performances are expected.

Baseball

Softball

Men’s Lacrosse

Women’s Lacrosse

Basketball Issue 2024-25

Staff Reports — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 02:33:37 +0000

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Season Preview: Men’s basketball gears up for fourth year under head coach Levell Sanders

Coming off his first .500 season at the helm of the Binghamton men’s basketball team, Binghamton head coach Levell Sanders’ fourth season will require a new identity for BU basketball. With several key players graduating, Sanders will lean on breakout seasons from his sophomores and transfers to take the Bearcats to the next level.Read more

America East men’s basketball previews 2024-25

Pipe Dream Sports men’s basketball all-conference picks 2024-25

Senior guard Marcus Banks Jr., senior guard Shamir Bogues, fifth-year forward Max Brooks, senior guard TJ Long and fifth-year guard Evan Timberlake were selected to Pipe Dream Sports’ America East Men’s basketball preseason all-conference team.Read more

Tymu Chenery: ‘I think we all want to get to the twenty-win mark’

Gavin Walsh: ‘We’re ready for them to see what we’ve been working on’

Ben Callahan-Gold: ‘We’re going to bring excitement around Binghamton’

Nehemiah Benson: ‘The key is playing the right way’

Jayden Lemond: ‘I want to do the best that I can in my role and be the best version of myself’

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Season Preview: Women’s basketball looks to take America East by storm in 2024-25

For the Binghamton women’s basketball team, it’s in with the new and out with the old. The 2024-25 season marks a year of extensive changes to the coaching staff and the overall roster. With the newness of the team, there are still many question marks that remain for this mix of young and experienced Bearcats.Read more

America East women’s basketball previews 2024-25

Pipe Dream Sports women’s basketball all-conference picks 2024-25

Senior forward Adrianna Smith, graduate student guard Kayla Cooper, redshirt junior Jadyn Weltz, graduate student forward Anna Olson and sophomore guard Mia Mancini were named to Pipe Dream Sports’ America East Women’s basketball preseason all-conference team.Read more

Jadyn Weltz: ‘I’m excited to get the chance to hang a banner up’

Genevieve Coleman: ‘The last one should be the best one’

Yanniah Boyd: ‘The game doesn’t stop so you can’t stop’

Camryn Fauria: ‘We all came back hungry’

Abby Misier: ‘Every day I feel like I get better’

Pipe Dream’s Halloween playlist

Staff Reports — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:53:20 +0000

Listen to the playlist here! Julie Ha, opinions editor and a senior double-majoring in English and comparative literature “Call for Help” by Pearly Drops I’m not a usually fan of Pearly Drops, but this song is pure romance sprawled out on a graveyard or Catherine Earnshaw’s departing words, a haunting Heathcliff and I welcome with love and hysteria. Sandra Tervonen sings against sweet, sappy synths, “Before I vanish / So hear me out / I’m drained and worn out / Let me go,” though presence has always been fleeting and it’s clear her dissolution is inevitable — there’s nothing more simultaneously heartbreaking and romantic than that, and there’s nothing more horrifying (nor lovely) than smothering yourself with dead words, prancing around with the ghost of Catherine and becoming a hag in your own little Halloween hellscape. Antonia Kladias, assistant opinions Editor and a junior majoring in biochemistry “Black Magic Woman” by Fleetwood Mac If I were a witch in a movie walking through a spooky forest, this is the song that would be playing. It’s a little bluesy and a little spooky. This song makes its way into my fall playlist every year, and it should be in yours too. Jordan Ori, opinions intern and a junior majoring in English “This Is Halloween” by The Citizens of Halloween When it comes to Halloween music, the quintessential song that defines the genre is “This Is Halloween” from “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” It would feel disingenuous for it to not have a spot on the list, given how iconic it is. The medley of voices from the citizens of Halloweentown is both eerie and familiar, reminding me of when I was younger and watching the movie for the first time. The chorus is hauntingly catchy and sets a spooktacular tone, not just for the movie, but for Halloween in general. It perfectly encapsulates the childlike wonder we all felt walking among a sea of costumes to visit ghoulishly decorated houses while trick-or-treating growing up. Danica Lyktey, a freshman majoring in psychology “Strangers” by Ethel Cain While not a song you would typically hear at a Halloween costume party, this song has that eerie sound that is central to Halloween music. Ethel Cain’s voice has an almost devastating gothic tone to it, particularly in this song. The song explores a relationship gone bad. Hidden behind seemingly loving lyrics in the beginning is the devastating fate that befalls Ethel — being murdered and cannibalized by her own lover. We see her grappling with the loss of her life and the song ends with the build-up of Ethel calling out to her killer as he consumes her. The closing line of the song is Ethel’s last words to her mother as her torture finally ends, leaving the listener with the haunting feeling associated with Halloween. Dennis Molnoski, a sophomore majoring in cinema “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus Gloomy, moody and steeped in dark gothic atmosphere, “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” helped to bring about the goth rock genre. Taking almost three full minutes just to get some lyrics in, the first third of the song acts, in my opinion, as a means of building suspense and creating a musical space. We get a soundscape filled with tapping, clicking, sharp screeching guitars and so many other misplaced noises that creep into the scene and keep the listener guessing. The buildup of the first third of the song transitions into a set of haunting vocals, showing us “The Count” in all his glory. The lyrics themselves act as a eulogy of sorts, commemorating a horror icon whilst embracing some of the camp of early Universal Monsters movies. As someone who loves goth rock, I just think this is a perfect intro to the genre and a very fun, spooky song in its own right. Kyriaki Yozzo, a senior majoring in philosophy, politics and law “Rotolock” by Daphne Oram There’s a glint in my eye and a secret up my sleeve when I listen to this song. It’s a soundtrack for a spider — with this running through my headphones, I’m weaving webs, swinging from one string to the next. They’re delicate and they bend, but there’s no breaking here — just spiral and suspension. All lacuna and lull. The esteemed Daphne Oram, one of the mothers of electronic music and synthesizer pioneers, knew exactly what shape to give these wavelengths. The depth of the troughs, the distance between peaks — it’s all perfect. Set the tone by putting it on a loop so you can get caught in it. Spinning, spinning, pulling thread, go, going and gone! Nathan Sommer, a senior double-majoring in history and Latin American and Caribbean American studies “A Dream” by Mütiilation Satan, Transylvania, occultism, playing dress-up — dungeon synth is THE genre for Halloween. The frigidness of Black Metal crossed with the eerie misdirection of industrial ambient music, Mütiilation’s “A Dream” from their 2001 Black Millenium is perfect for those who would rather be the one rising from a coffin than the unsuspecting visitor of Bran Castle. If Bela Lugosi was alive he’d be rocking a Darkthrone cutoff and nobody can convince me otherwise. Suhiliah Lall, a sophomore majoring in Cinema “Fearless” by Olivia Holt Is it really Halloween if you didn’t watch a Disney Channel Original Monstober movie? “Girl vs. Monster” is a classic Halloween movie that everyone can enjoy. The song’s message about overcoming fear aligns perfectly with the spirit of Halloween and it encapsulates the movie’s adventurous spirit, appealing to fans of the film and adding a fun, youthful touch to the Halloween playlist. The catchy chorus and memorable hooks make it a sing-along favorite, perfect for getting everyone in the Halloween mood. “Fearless” is not just a song, but an anthem for those looking to celebrate the thrill of the season with confidence and joy. Deniz Gulay, a sophomore majoring in history “Ya Vernus’ (I’ll Return)” by Igor Tal’kov Halloween is something I’m completely foreign to — it’s one of those things I’m trying to learn as I adapt to life in this country. My song is therefore not just about Halloween itself, but the time of the year it’s in and the way autumn makes me feel. As autumn itself is slowly giving way to winter and this year is ending, I’m thinking specifically about this song’s lyrics and the way they move me emotionally. It makes me think of the long way I had to go to reach where I am now and all that is still ahead of me in life. I therefore dedicate this song to the hope of the future and the ambitions in our hearts — I imagine that we all have somewhere we wish to reach in life, and I hope that you’ll eventually get there too. To me, the joy that comes from this song is better than all tricks and treats.

Election Issue 2024

Staff Reports — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:01:29 +0000

Pipe Dream’s 2024 Election Issue is here. All eyes are on the polls as the country barrels toward another tight race on the national and local levels. Pipe Dream reached out to candidates running for elected office in the Binghamton and Vestal area and examined a referendum that would rebuild the local Human Rights Commission.

Other features explore the contentious rematch between Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro and Democratic challenger Josh Riley for the 19th Congressional District and investigate the controversial statewide ballot measure Proposal 1. It is vital for voters to make informed decisions before casting their ballot and acknowledge their role in the democratic process. In the final stretch before Nov. 5, consider the vast impact of your five minutes with a pen and an envelope. Students can cast their votes in the Mandela Room on Election Day in the University Union or vote by mail.