Massive Wildfire Burns 15,000 Acres in Lacey Township, Forces 5,000 to Evacuate
By: Michael Bautista
LACEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A fast moving wildfire in Lacey Township has burned through an estimated 15,000 acres since it ignited last Tuesday, prompting mass evacuations, road closures, and one of the largest wildfire containment efforts in recent New Jersey history. Fueled by drought conditions and high winds, the blaze is now about 75 percent contained, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
Local authorities say the fire originated in the Pine Barrens and was allegedly started by a 19-year-old who set a bonfire in violation of statewide burn restrictions. He is now facing charges for risking widespread injury or damage and violating fire safety laws. The suspect was then released with a court summons.
“This is definitely one of the largest fires we’ve seen in recent history,” said Trevor Raynor, assistant division forest fire warden. . “We’ve been three to four times busier this year compared to the same time last year, and the total average burned has increased just as much.”
The fire has led to the evacuation of roughly 5,000 residents and the temporary closure of major highways, including parts of the Garden State Parkway. On Sunday, April 27 a team of roughly 65 firefighters remained on the scene, with hundreds of first responders such as police, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and emergency management teams having circled through during the fire’s peak. Raynor emphasized that New Jersey’s interagency coordination has been key in managing evacuations and ensuring resident safety. “Evacuations fall under the Office of Emergency Management,” Raynor said. “We order them, and they implement and coordinate the logistics. Our partnerships with local agencies are critical— we train with them year-round.”
Illustrated Infographic By: Michael Bautista
Climate Conditions and Suspected Cause
New Jersey has been under a drought warning since November, which has drastically increased wildfire risks. Dry conditions have led to heightened fire activity and prompted statewide burn restrictions in the fall. The Forest Fire Service has implemented proactive measures including fire tower staffing, increased patrols, and contracted aviation resources during peak season.
“Our fire towers are manned on dry days, and we use both permanent and contracted aviation to support suppression efforts,” Raynor said.
Infrastructure Protection and Public Alerts
The fire’s proximity to the decommissioned Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station raised concerns about critical infrastructure. Raynor reassured that the Forest Fire Service coordinates closely with local fire departments to protect structures and sensitive facilities.
“We deal with the wildfire itself, while local departments are brought in to protect infrastructure. We also advocate for defensible space—ideally 100 feet—around homes,” Raynor said.
Some Ocean County residents have even criticized the lack of timely alerts and information, In response, Raynor said the service uses multiple channels, including Nixle alerts, reverse 911 systems and coordinated social media updates to reach the public.
Ocean County Residents React
For Tyler Delpercio, a Rowan University sports CaM and journalism major, the wildfire wasn’t just a headline—it was personal. Delpercio’s family home is located off Exit 67 in Waretown, just a few miles south of the burn zone. Though he was away at school in Glassboro when the fire broke out, he stayed in constant contact with friends and family.
“My buddy was sending me photos. One of them works in EMS and was up close with the fire,” Delpercio said,”Seeing those photos… I was like, wow, I know exactly where that is.”
His neighborhood lost power for nearly a full day, though no direct damage had occurred. “One of my neighbors had to evacuate, though. He’s about 70 and couldn’t breathe because of the smoke. There was ash falling on the ground,” he said.
Delpercio commended emergency officials for decisively shutting down both sides of the Garden State Parkway. “You don’t really see that happen. So I think they handled that part effectively.”
He also reflected on how the experience changed his perspective on climate change. “California was on fire for like a month. Now New Jersey’s burning? I feel like we’re talking like it’s too late,” Delperico said. “Honestly, I think we’re done for.”
Delperico wasn’t the only one who was affected by the recent Ocean County Wildfire that spread into Lacey Township. Matthew White, 23, a sports CaM major at Rowan University and resident of Ocean County also shared a similar experience.
“I was at work and saw the smoke when it was still a controlled burn,” White said. “By 6 p.m. my mom had texted me that we had lost power. When I left work at 9, it had spread.”
White recounts being able to smell the smoke and having it lingering within his lungs. “I breathed it in and coughed. I know people who evacuated too — friends in Forked River and Lacey Township.”
Though he initially told friends he wasn’t worried, the stress had built up. “I wasn’t able to sleep. I kept thinking about my family, my barber’s shop in the area near the fire and everything,” White said. “The fire came so fast, the wind changed its direction, and it threw everyone off. It’s just hard to react that quickly.”
He added by stating that the last fire he vividly remembers occurring in his town was back in 2012. “I think it’s people who make dumb mistakes that ultimately causes stuff like this,” White said.
More Fires Across South Jersey
The recent Lacey Township wildfire wasn’t the only recent blaze alarming residents.
Earlier last month on Thursday, April 17 a brush fire near the train tracks behind Glassboro High School briefly threatened the surrounding area of Glassboro, N.J. Rowan University students reported seeing smoke clouds billowing from campus. The fire was quickly extinguished by the Glassboro Fire Department and didn’t cause any injuries or property damages, but it did reignite public anxiety over growing fire risks.
Back in November 2024, the Jennings Creek Wildfire in Wharton State Forest scorched 1,607 acres across the Atlantic and Burlington county areas. That fire took more than a day to fully contain, with aircraft and more than 70 firefighters deployed. No injuries or structural damages were reported. However, the incident again underscored how New Jersey’s wildfire season is expanding in both intensity and duration.
Strategy, Resilience, and Prevention
To meet the growing threat, the Forest Fire Service is adapting through provocative measures such as prescribed burns, fire breaks, and public education. The agency aims to treat 25,000 acres annually but was forced to scale back due to drought.
“We shifted to response and public awareness campaigns instead,” Raynor said. “We’re also using grants to install fire breaks and conduct fuel mitigation around communities.”
The service also partners with federal and military agencies like Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the Warren Grove Bombing Range to enhance regional resilience
Raynor also stressed the role of community members in prevention. “There are great resources on our website under the SMART initiative—mitigation, awareness, response, and training,” he said.
Illustrated Infographic By: Michael Bautista
Looking Ahead
With three significant wildfires in under six months—Lacey Township, Glassboro, and Jennings Creek–it’s clear that wildfire season isn't just a Western issue anymore. It’s here, and it’s accelerating. As New Jersey faces hotter, drier conditions, state officials are urging residents to do their part, report suspicious activity, follow local burn restrictions, create defensible space around their homes, and stay alert during high-risk days. A single spark can set off a chain reaction, but awareness and caution can stop the next fire before it starts.
More than 30 men of diverse and ethnic backgrounds sit in a half-circle to discuss their thoughts and emotions at the Men of Color Alliance’s Men’s Mental Health Discussion on February 18, 2025 in Room101 at Discovery Hall. (Photographer: Michael Bautista)
Over 30 men of diverse and ethnic backgrounds sat in a half-circle Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the Men of Color Alliance’s (MOCA) Men’s Mental Health Discussion. With steady voices they let their guard down by discussing their thoughts and emotions in a space that encouraged vulnerability.
The MOCA hosted a Men’s Mental Health Discussion in room 101 in Discovery Hall with the help from fraternities and organizations. The event was co-sponsored by Phi Beta Sigma, Alpha Phi Alpha, The Black Therapeutic League (BTHL).
Throughout the hour-long conversation kicking off at 8:15 p.m., attendees filled the 37 seats arranged into a half-circle around a silver screen, providing the men with a safe space for vulnerability and support. As they retreated from the frigid 15 mph winds outside, guests helped themselves to an assortment of snacks and refreshments.
Shortly before the event attendees exchanged fist bumps, bro hugs and caught up on the Eagles Super Bowl victory parade.
Molique Wright, president of The Black Student Union, led the conversation with a slideshow covering topics ranging from the reality of Black men and their mental health, to what could be done to break the narrative of “the strong Black man.”
The discussion kicked off with an ice breaker that asked the men in attendance to share the last time they truly felt at peace and some insight into what was going on.
“I’ll get my coffee and take about 10 to 15 minutes to have some quiet time. Catch up on some things before I start my day. I think it’s important to always start the day with a peaceful moment that can carry you through the rest of your day,” said Timothy Mason Jr., Rowan University alum and collegiate advisor for Theta Psi.
Graduate of the class of 2007, Mason Jr. enrolled at the university in 1992. He attended until 1996, when he joined the workforce, but ultimately made the decision to return to school in 2005 to finish his degree.
Mason Jr. learned about the event through his position as Theta Psi’s Collegiate Advisor. Accompanied by his son Elisha Mason, a sophomore at Tempe Creek Regional High School in Gloucester Township, N.J. the father and son attended Tuesday’s event.
“I thought it was important to bring my son because since COVID, I think a lot of people in general, not just the younger generation, have been disconnected from having conversation around mental health,” said Mason Jr. “It was important for him to not only participate in the event but also to see me participate.”
This event wasn’t the first of its kind. Previous leaders of the Men of Color Alliance held a similar event when current president Johnathan Sutton was just getting involved with the club. Inspired by the male leaders, Sutton thought it was best to keep the flames lit of the torch that was passed on to him by hosting another mental health discussion event.
“It was important for us to keep it going on because, sometimes when you share your own story you can resonate with somebody in the room and that’s how you build a relationship. That’s how you can also bring that brotherhood to you as well,” said Sutton
According to the National Institute of Health, Black men across studies largely consisted of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorder, substance abuse, and psychiatric comorbidities. Rates of post-traumatic stress disorder ranged from 12-22%, while rates of depression ranged from 15-28%.
“It's incredibly important to have culturally competent therapists provide inclusivity, belonging, and safety. We aim to uphold this value at the Wellness Center. People from different cultural backgrounds bring their unique perspectives, experiences, and ways of coping with stress, and a therapist who understands and respects those differences can make a world of difference in the healing process,” said Gabriel Aquino, a mental health physician at Rowan’s Wellness Center. Aquino and other physicians at the wellness center have created an inclusion and belonging team that includes multiple subcommittees that seeks to address equitable and inclusive initiatives.
Apart from having participated in multiple DEI-related training, the Wellness Center collaborates often with the department of Social Justice and Belonging, as well as the wider Division of Inclusive Excellence, Community, and Belonging at Rowan to continually seek reform where it is needed and to establish tangible DEI related goals.
EVENT COVERAGE STORY:
Breaking The ‘Strong Black Man’ Narrative: Rowan’s Men of Color Alliance Hosts Mental Health Discussion
By: Michael Bautista
Rowan’s PRSSA Makes Connections at Speed Networking Event
By: Michael Bautista
Sophomore public relations major Alicia King shares a heartfelt discussion with Mia Nardone, a development strategist for Ed Snider Youth Hockey and Education at PRSSA’s Speed Networking Event on Wed. March 5 in the art gallery at 301 High Street. (Photographer: Michael Bautista)
Students across all majors gather together in the art gallery at 301 High Street for PRSSA’s Speed Networking Event on Wed. March 5. (Photographer: Michael Bautista)
Brenna Lamon, 22, a senior public relations and advertising major has her resume reviewed by Linda Polock, a public relations and advertising instructor at Rowan University during PRSSA’s Speed Networking Event on Wed. March 5. (Photographer: Michael Bautista)
Over 25 students with diverse majors met on Wednesday, March 5, for Rowan’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) speed networking event. Despite the downpour outside, they were dressed in their best and came armed with copies of their resumes and cover letters to be reviewed by the 11 business recruiters in attendance.
The annual networking event was held in the main lobby of the art gallery on 301 High Street. The event was coordinated and planned out months in advance by student members of PRSSA like Samatha Deeney, president of the student-run organization, and Patrick McCoy, vice president on the E-board who made the calls to recruiters in the public relations, communications, and advertising fields.
Chatter filled the space throughout the two-hour-long event that kicked off at 5:00 p.m. Attendees switched and swapped seats at the six tables located in the center of the room, each seeking to make the most of their five to six minute interval conversations. As the evening went on, a line began to form near the table of assorted snacks and refreshments that included Chick-fil-A.
“A lot of people have heard about how difficult and intimidating the job market is right now, especially for people who are graduating or people that are in the middle of their major. Like, ‘uh-oh is this the right thing for me?’ And aren’t sure. This event is to reassure students that this [public relations] is a great industry,” said Deeney.
The networking event usually sees 12 professionals attend the event to seek out and recruit Rowan University students. Last year’s event saw 50 attendees come out to Shpeen Hall located in Rowan’s Alumni Engagement Office.
The speed networking event aimed to have students meet with professionals, connect with them, get resume tips, and create a space where students could learn more about the job market and ask their questions. Students were able to meet with professionals from businesses such as Sweet Treats Communication, Virtua Health, and Trifecta Therapeutics.
“I came in a little nervous, however, we actually had the career fair earlier today. So I was already preparing for that, so I came back over here and piggybacked off. I had my resume reviewed by the Office of Career Advancements. I’ve always been a people person but I’ve never been to a networking event before so this would be my first one,” said Alicia King, a sophomore public relations major who said she found out about the event through ProfAgency as a member of the student-run club.
King carried a pink folder with copies of her resume. A particular sticker in the shape of a castle created a magical moment for her and Mia Nardone, a development strategist for Ed Snider Youth Hockey and Education.
“I’ve only talked to one person so far but she was amazing. I just love talking to people. It’s part of the PR major and I’m just a gabber. She saw the sticker on my folder and we actually found out that we both did the Disney College Program and we both worked in the same exact role and location. It’s so crazy,” said King, who wishes to recreate that same magic for others and return to work for Disney after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in public relations.
She not only walked away with a genuine connection and new LinkedIn contact, but she also received career advice from Paul Capelli, communication advisor and alum of Rowan’s class of 1986.
“One piece of advice that has stuck with me all these years was from one of my former professors at Rowan as part of a larger lecture of being dependable and being that person that people can rely on. I can see now how that has manifested itself in some many different ways. His message was to be that person many people can depend on, who delivers, and be the person who does what they say they are going to do. He summed it up like this, ‘when you borrow someone’s stapler give it back.’ I thought it was bizarre but what he was saying was people borrow things and don’t give them back. It sends this message on whether or not a person is dependable,” said Capelli.
In-Class Video Assignment
VIDEO STORY
MudHen Brewery Cinco De Mayo Celebration
By: Michael Bautista
Meet Isabel Canfield, a 20-year-old Social Media Marketer, as she takes us behind the scenes of how she successfully promoted the Cinco de Mayo Celebration at MudHen Brewery Company in Wildwood, N.J. From creative content to strategic social media campaigns, discover how Isabel brought the fiesta to life and boosted local buzz for the big event!
Eight International Students See Study Visas Revoked
By: Michael Bautista
Rowan University announced on April 9 that eight international students had their U.S. study visas revoked. The move is part of a nationwide trend under the Trump Administration’s immigration crackdown.
The announcement was made at University Assembled, a biannual event for the Rowan community where President Ali A. Houshmand and senior leadership provide updates on academic programs, research initiatives, enrollment trends and more.
Rowan currently has approximately 1,270 international students enrolled. The president himself, a former international student, addressed the Rowan community with an emotional statement at University Assembled, emphasizing the human toll of the visa revocations happening nationally.
“As an international student myself when I came to this great country, it breaks my heart to see any one of these [students] getting sent back to their country, because it’s almost like a death sentence to them,” said Houshmand. “All we can do is assure them that we are here, to the extent that we can, to help keep them safe. They come to get a good education and to change their lives.”
Houshmand also made it clear to the community that Rowan is not involved in or even aware of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions on campus and does not share sensitive information such as students’ names with immigration authorities.
“Let me tell you, these things are happening—on campuses. They come and take these students away, and we often don’t know why,” said Houshmand. “As a U.S. citizen now, let me tell you, I’m scared. My wife is scared. We’ve been citizens for 30 years and have not seen anything like this. But I want you to know that I feel it. I sense it. And everyone in this room values these students and wants to protect them—though some of it is beyond our control,” said Houshmand.
This comes weeks after international students were warned that their visa status could be at risk under the federal government’s “Catch and Revoke” initiative, which has already led to deportations and visa cancellations for non-citizens on the national scale engaging in online political speech, activism or interactions with groups deemed controversial by the government.
In an email sent out on March 10, Rowan’s International Center warned students about their digital footprint, including their social media posts, petitions they sign, and even online discussions, could be scrutinized by immigration authorities. The email advised students to be mindful of the potential risks and urged them to seek guidance before engaging in activities that could have unintended immigration consequences.
The warning came following reports of international students and faculty at other institutions facing sudden visa cancellations. Rumeysa Ozturk, 30, a Turkish national and doctoral student from Tufts University had just left her Somerville home on Monday, March 25, when six masked individuals from ICE detained and swept her off the streets in handcuffs.
Similarly, a week prior at Brown University, a 34-year-old professor named Dr. Rasha Alawieh was deported back to her home in Lebanon after just returning to the United States from a visit to her family back home. Meanwhile, Mahmoud Khalil, a grad student at Columbia University, had his student visa revoked for engaging in pro-Palestinian protests on campus the prior year.
“First of all, everybody has their own opinions on what’s going on and about the protests? I feel like you know we can be allowed to do this,” said Usha Dahal, 18-year-old, international student studying biological science from Nepal at Rowan University. “I felt so bad when I saw that email, I honestly was like why? Because If you want to do it [protesting] then let’s do it, why not?”
The associate provost for Rowan University’s International Education, Gokhan Alkanat, Ph.D, emphasized that unlike other institutions, Rowan is not restricting free speech but wants students to understand the potential risks.
“We do not want to tell students what to say or what not to say. We simply want them to be aware of the policies in place so they can make informed decisions,” said Alkanat.
Rowan’s International Center, located in Hawthorn Hall, is serving as a primary resource for the international students. The center seeks to offer clear guidance on visa compliance and legal protections for students. While no Rowan students have been impacted so far, Alkanat reassured them that the university’s role is to educate, not enforce.
“We are not the police, we are international educators. Our goal is to help students without unnecessary fear or confusion. Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to reach out to Rowan’s International Center for continued guidance and support,” said Alkanat.
Bill Freind, Ph.D, president of Rowan University’s Faculty Senate, expressed deep concern over the impact that visa revocations could have on the university’s diversity, reputation, and ability to attract top global talent.
“International students and international faculty are really a crucial part of American higher education, and this policy will make America poorer, dumber, and weaker,” said Freind. “Our international students are really scared…and I think it’s important that every university asks them how they’re doing and what we can do to make their lives less stressful.”
While the number of impact students at Rowan is currently small, Friend warned that fear of imprisonment or deportation could eventually lead to a dramatic decline in the enrollment of international students. Not just at Rowan, but nationwide. He noted that faculty members are angry over the lack of rationale behind the cancellations, especially given the sacrifices many students and their families have made to pursue an education in the U.S.
“The American dream is being yanked out from under them for no good reason,” said Freind. He confirmed that Rowan’s faculty leaders are in regular contact with other university officials and are working through the college’s strategic vision committee to assess ongoing challenges. Freind also notes that some students learned of their visa revocations only after noticing a change in their status with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), meaning they received no formal warning before potentially becoming targets for ICE enforcement.
Rowan Vice President for University Relations, Jose Cardona emphasized the university’s support for affected students and the institution’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive campus community.
“Rowan University deeply empathizes with the challenges faced by international students regarding visa and I-20 status issues. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing them meaningful support during this difficult time in their lives,” said Cardona.
Downtown Glassboro Redevelopment
Plans Discussed at Latest Council Meeting
By: Michael Bautista
The Glassboro Borough Council Meeting unveiled a major redevelopment plan at their monthly meeting on March 25 detailing a $1.7 million land sale that aims to bring 92 new homes and a 175-unit luxury apartment complex to the downtown area.
Local officials view their vision as a walkable, mixed-use district with apartment structures featuring rooftop decks, small gardens, and new restaurants, designed to attract long-term residents rather than Rowan students. The announcement was part of a broader discussion on tax increases, policing challenges, budget plans, and the overall future of the borough as Glassboro continues its ongoing efforts to reshape its downtown into a vibrant, main hub balancing both the Rowan University and Glassboro communities.
“We envision this downtown as a mix of those students and citizens, and we envision this as a very walkable downtown. When you park your car on the weekend, there should be restaurants for you, there should be bars for you,” said administrator Edward Malandro.
Apart from the discussion on the redevelopment plan, borough officials also introduced the 2025 municipal budget, highlighting the modest tax rate increase aimed at maintaining essential services for residents. While the budget includes a four-cent tax hike, the council members emphasized that water and sewage rates would remain unchanged. This would mark the second tax increase within the last seven years, a point that the current local governing body framed as a sign of fiscal responsibility and overall growth.
“We didn’t have to raise water and sewer rates this year, which is always great, and it’s a pretty solid budget that allows us to provide the services needed and keep the rates low,” said Karen Cosgrove, the municipal clerk for the borough of Glassboro.
Another highlight from the main Glassboro council meeting was the promotion of three officers from the Glassboro Police Department into new roles. Surrounded by their friends, family and loved ones, Officer Stephen Cavallaro was sworn in as Lieutenant, Officer Joseph Armata was sworn in as Sergeant, and Officer Brett Virnelson was sworn in as Corporal. Additionally, the Glassboro Police Department recognized the winners of the 2024 Supervisor of The Year and Officer of The Year awards, the honors going to Corporal Andrew Roberts and Patrol Officer Tim Cain respectively.
These promotions and presentations come at a time where council members like Malandro acknowledge that Glassboro is facing challenges in recruiting and retaining police officers. Local officials noted that filling the open positions has become increasingly difficult, with fewer applicants than in previous years.
“We actually struggle to get police officers these days. Nobody wants to be a police officer. I think the scrutiny on police officers today is so much that there’s a lot more to lose in some people’s opinions than there is to gain. The other problem, quite frankly, is working in a college town, it is extremely hard,” said Malandro.
Wellness Village Looks To Reimagine West Campus
By: Michael Bautista
Rowan University is proposing a first-of-its-kind, groundbreaking “wellness village” on the southern end of its West Campus, aiming to create a walkable, intergenerational community designed to promote healthy living, research and hands-on student training.
Dubbed the “RU Zone,” the project brings together Rowan’s academic mission with wellness principles by Blue Zones, regions where people commonly live past 100 and lead healthier lives than the global average.
The proposed development, championed by Rowan’s President Ali A. Houshmand, is still in the planning stages and hinges on approvals from local governments in Glassboro and Harrison Township. If given the green light, the university expects construction to begin in approximately 18 months.
Thomas Cavalieri, Ph.D, a geriatrician and chair on the project’s steering committee, says the village aims to improve public health, offer immersive learning for students and serve as a replicable national model for aging well.
“This isn’t just about housing. It’s about building a community where people move, eat well, feel a sense of belonging, and reduce stress, all things that have been proven to help people live longer, better lives,” said Dr. Cavalieri.
The proposed RU Zone would feature biking and walking trails, community gardens, plant-based food options, pet-friendly spaces, and programs like music and art therapy, yoga, and counseling. The village would also include townhouses, apartments, single-family homes, assisted living, and a hotel, all designed to support wellness across all stages of life.
A major anchor of the community would be the Rowan Wellness Community Center, which is being discussed amongst university officials. It is being envisioned as a main hub for nutrition education, art and music therapy, and community connection. Additionally, Rowan Medicine, Inspira Health and Fairmount Properties are key partners in the initiative, providing healthcare services and development expertise.
Another important factor being considered is diversity and inclusion. Dr. Kha’ Sadler, the Associate Provost for Wellness and Inclusivity at Rowan, emphasized that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) values are not an afterthought but central to the project.
“Diversity, equity, and inclusion isn’t something that’s being fitted into the proposed Wellness Village. It continues to be part of our identity and a core value of our institution,” said Dr. Sadler.
Dr. Sadler is one of the members serving on the project’s steering committees, as one of the four subcommittees shaping the village’s development. These include Clinical Wellness, Education & Training, Research, and Community & Alumni Outreach & Development. Recommendations from these subcommittees will be shared with senior administrators between July and August of this year.
The Clinical Wellness subcommittee, she explained, is currently looking into how to link residents to health and educational resources from both Rowan and Inspira Health Network. Other initiatives being considered include affordable housing options for low-income residents and subsidized public transit access to support equitable mobility.
“In our subcommittee, we’ve talked about helping families get to doctors’ appointments through things like NJ Transit or PATCO passes. We’re thinking about this community holistically,” said Dr. Sadler.
Dr. Sadler also added that the vision is intentionally intergenerational, with plans for students to engage with aging adults in a reciprocal learning environment.
“Diversity also includes age. Our students can improve the health outcomes of older adults, and vice versa,” said Dr. Sadler. “You can’t talk about health without considering the social determinants. Things like homelessness, transportation, and healthcare access. Cultural competence is not just important. It’s essential.”
Dr. Cavalieri also stressed that Rowan students from various programs, including social work, psychology, nursing, and medicine, will be directly involved through internships, clinical rotations, and research opportunities. The village is expected to create strong links between residents and Rowan’s mission to improve the human condition through education.
“This community will be unique in blending blue zone values with the holistic philosophy of osteopathic medicine, treating mind, body, and spirit,” said Dr. Cavalieri. “That’s what makes the RU Zone not just another development, but something new altogether.”
While university leaders stress that the wellness village is still a proposal, they are optimistic. A steering committee consisting of about 30 people, including faculty, administrators, alumni representatives, and developers, has already been formed to shape the village’s four core pillars, which include wellness programming, education, research, and community outreach.
“People will buy homes, businesses will pay rent, and the Wellness Institute may offer membership services,” said Dr. Cavalieri. “This isn’t meant to be a financial drain on the university. In fact, it may become a revenue-neutral or even revenue-positive initiative.”
Officials say the RU Zone represents a new frontier in the campus-community integration, one that could redefine how universities can contribute to public health. And for Rowan, it’s an opportunity to lead by example.
“We want to show the nation how to live better, age better, and build healthier communities,” said Dr. Cavalieri. “This is about shaping a future where education, healthcare, and community all thrive together.”
Tariffs: What They Are, and How They Affect Rowan Students
By: Michael Bautista
A scoop of ice cream doesn’t usually cost seven dollars, but for Rosa Salvaterria, a 21-year-old senior studying radio, television, and film (RTF) at Rowan University, that sticker shock is becoming all too common. As the price of everyday goods quietly creeps up, she and many other students at the college are feeling the economic squeeze in places they least expected.
“I’ve especially noticed food prices rising steadily. It’s been a little mind-boggling to see how much less a certain amount of money can get,” said Salvatierra. She’s not alone in noticing the shift.
Just a week ago President Trump sent the global stock market tumbling after declaring a 10 percent baseline tax on imports from all countries. While other countries have higher tariff rates such as the 145 percent rate imposed on China.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday morning China struck back with a 125 percent rate on all American goods sold within the country. This came along with an exemption on tariffs from Trump on products such as smartphones, laptops, and other electronics from his reciprocal tariffs.
As the U.S. intensifies its trade disputes, Rowan University students are grappling with the tangible effects of tariffs, the taxes on imported products from other countries on their daily expenses. From groceries to clothing, the financial strain is becoming increasingly evident.
A tariff is essentially taxes that are imposed on important products from across the world. These often lead to higher prices for consumers. They are often used to protect domestic industries by making foreign goods more expensive, thereby encouraging consumers to buy American-made products.
However when other countries respond with retaliatory tariffs, like China for example, then taxes on American goods in return, it can escalate into what is known as a trade war, therefore disrupting global markets and causing costs to rise across the board.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, U.S. tariffs have cost American households an average of $1,277 per year, an added burden not just felt globally, but by students already struggling to balance tight budgets.
“When things get a little tight you have to make sacrifices. You always have to be mindful of your budget, at the end of the day it’s about staying hopeful and being informed. If that means cutting back on a latte or a subscription, that’s what you’ll do. You have to adjust and keep your needs in mind. We have to be good stewards of what we have. Just be mindful and disciplined with your own budget,” said Jose Velez, associate director of financial aid at Rowan.
That mindset of mindful spending resonates with many students including Salvatierra, who’s felt the strain of rising costs in her day-to-day life.
Among them is Hanna Duran, 20, a writing arts major, who has also felt the sting at the checkout line. She explained that routine grocery runs have started to feel more like luxury spending. As a way to cut back on spending, Duran has whipped out the cutting board and frying pan to begin cooking at home in comparison to spending it at a restaurant.
”I feel like I go to the store and end up spending nearly $100 dollars on a couple of things. Food is essential, and it sucks how expensive it has gotten. It all adds up quickly,” said Duran.
For her these rising costs aren’t just inconvenient, they’re a threat to the delicate balance of student life.
“Adding money increases on top of that will make it even harder and stressful for [students] to support themselves,” said Duran.
While food costs weigh heavily on some students, others are noticing the economic strain in different areas of daily life. Daniel Terifay, 21, a radio, television, and film and sports communication and media major, pointed to the rising price of clothing as a key concern.
“I feel clothes have been the most impacted with a lot of imports coming from overseas,” said Terifay.
With fewer deals advertised from his preferred brands and rising prices, the impact has started to show up in his everyday wardrobe.
“Sales have been scarce, and dress clothes for interviews are more expensive now,” said Terifay.
Though these price hikes haven’t drastically altered his budget, Terifay has made significant changes by choosing to avoid U.S. companies to steer clear of tariffs.
But like others, Terifay is thinking long-term.
“I feel as though the cost of living will go up so much that it will be impossible to live off a salary less than $75 to $80k a year,” Terifay said. Terifay believes that the rise in the cost of living will only cause students to pay more for college since he predicts the demand will also rise for higher education.
That growing awareness of financial trade-offs is something Emily Klassen, 21, a writing arts and studio arts double major, knows all too well. She’s seen the impact not only in her grocery bill but in her art studio. As an artist, Klassen’s also watching supply costs spike.
“In my art community, a lot of people are being hit by their business supply costs spiking, since things like glass beads are imported,” Klassen said. She’s taking action by choosing to shop for local artists who hand-make their pieces. The cost of oil paints or canvases isn’t the only thing affected, her grocery store receipt has also seen a hit.
“I’ve also noticed baking supplies, stuff like spices or vanilla, are going up. Also things in the international aisle,” said Klassen.
While she understands why prices are rising, that doesn’t make the financial burden any lighter. Living on campus without a car, Klassen has to coordinate grocery trips, making her even more mindful of what and where she shops.
“It’s not just about only getting certain items any more. It’s figuring out the cheapest brand, being aware of whether or not I’m shopping from an ethical company. Money has power, and I’m realizing that a lot more now,” said Klassen.
While tariffs may be crafted in distant political chambers at the federal level, their effects are being felt in the checkout lines of Glassboro. And for many Rowan students, the cost isn’t just financial. It’s personal, and it’s shaping the world they’re preparing to enter.