Juggling assignments, sports, and work can be a daunting enough challenge without the additional task of checking the news. I have compiled some of the most prominent news stories from the international, national, and campus spheres to keep you informed and up to date.
In Wheaton news, fall break was a weekend of rain for those who remained on campus, although many students traveled home to visit family and friends. One day of classes later and MAP day arrived on Oct. 16. All students began their day with faculty-led panels on the topic of reciprocity and abundance, a call-back to the first year common reading of The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The remainder of the day included academic programming, a graduate school fair, and various fun activities around campus.
Students partaking in MAP day activities sold outside of Watson.
In sports news, Wheaton Men’s Water Polo took their first victory in program history on Oct. 18, in a 16-13 win over Washington and Jefferson College.
With Halloween fast approaching, Dean Irish is ahead of the game with an email sent to the student body on Oct. 17, reminding students of the drug and alcohol policy, the Title IX policy, how to report a bias-related incident, and a reminder on respectful costumes. Additionally, Dean Irish encouraged students to attend the SGA Halloween on the Dimple, this past Saturday from 2-4 p.m., which followed the Norton Halloween parade at 12 p.m.. If you are still looking for a treat, a campus obsession offers free drinks once a week. Aroma Joes, the popular coffee spot located only a few minutes off campus in Mansfield, offers free rushes every week from 3-4 p.m. on Wednesdays.
The U.S. government shutdown remains at the forefront of many news outlets, as it reaches nearly four weeks’ duration. Since the shutdown began on Oct. 1, thousands of federal employees have been laid off or furloughed. An Oct. 15 ruling put an end to any layoffs currently underway and ceased any more until the government shutdown is resolved. Despite this, a large number of Reductions in Force (RIFs) are still occurring.
This led into Saturday, Oct. 18, which saw 7 million people organize in over 2,700 U.S. cities for “No Kings” protests. Protestors rallied peacefully against policies of the Trump administration and what is being described as President Donald Trump’s abuse of power.
Internationally, the Gaza ceasefire was tested on Sunday, Oct. 19, following Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. However, the Rafah border crossing, which allows Palestinians to access Egypt for medical care, remains unopened. The next steps of President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan include the disarmament of Hamas, as well as Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza.
In France, the Louvre was robbed on Oct. 19 just as the museum opened. The thieves stole nine pieces of the French Crown Jewels in a seven-minute heist that ended in an escape on electric scooters. Experts say that because the items are so notable, they can not be sold; therefore, they will either be melted down or a buyer was secured prior to the heist.
Sadly, Diane Keaton, Oscar-winning actor of “Annie Hall” and “The First Wives Club,” passed away on Oct. 11 from pneumonia.
On a more uplifting note, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to María Corina Machado on Oct. 10. She received this award in recognition of her work to promote the democratic rights of the people of Venezuela.