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Today is National Unplugging Day—Here’s why you should join in

Jarrod Houseknecht
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Today is National Unplugging Day—Here’s why you should join in

National Day of Unplugging, a holiday created to bring awareness to the hold that technology has on the everyday person, is next Friday, March 5. A holiday you may not have heard of, participants in this annual tradition bathe in a digital detox for 24 hours– no cell phones, no laptops…just mindfulness.

The holiday originates from a Jewish nonprofit called ‘Reboot,’ an organization that started in New York City but is rapidly growing in cities across the country. If you’re thinking, “I’m not Jewish,” don’t worry. The holiday is for everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.

In recent years, the event has had hundreds of thousands of participants nationwide, and it is looking to be a major hit again this year. According to the celebration’s website, it aims to help participants “start living a different life: connect with the people in your street, neighborhood and city, have an uninterrupted meal or read a book to your child.”

Audrey Cleary, a University of Miami licensed clinical psychologist, spoke with The Miami Hurricane about why putting your phone down for a bit to focus on the world around you might not sound as bad as you think.

“Mindfulness can be as simple as becoming aware of what is around you– experiencing the sounds, sensations and your senses as a whole,” she explained. “You can deliberately become mindful in the moment with effort, but in general, focusing on one thing helps. Also, focus on gratitude and appreciation. Take time to focus on what you’re appreciative for. It can improve your happiness and overall well being.”

Cleary also spoke about the negative side effects of cell phone overuse, often seen in college students across the nation.

“Cell phone usage can be too much when it starts causing problems in your life. The distraction from academics it brings, and conflict in relationships. Not being present with the people around you can be a sign,” she said. “Social media can also bring on negative comparisons to other people. You don’t want to compare yourself to the negative, edited versions of someone else.”

According to Cleary, the benefits of unplugging can be monumental. Breaking the habit of always having to check your cell phone over and over again for notifications can be a positive experience. Yes, technology has provided many benefits into everyday life, but no one should want to feel locked down by their cell phone.

“It can be healthful to not have to focus on your cell phone and other technology. Kicking away that demand on your attention can help a person get reconnected with their natural environment. Getting aware of your emotional experiences can make the urge of your cell phone less powerful. Even just being present and aware of the negative emotions in your mind like sadness or anxiety can help you feel better about them since you know they are there.”

She continued to list the specific benefits of unplugging, saying that the awareness and physical contact with other people around you to be especially powerful. She says that when you are face to face with a person, your communication can often feel way more authentic. According to Cleary, an improved sleep schedule is another benefit worth mentioning.

Psychologists and researchers have begun identifying disorders that exist when individuals are unable to go lengths of time without their cell phone. One such disorder, known as ‘phone separation anxiety,’ is a struggle that many students deal with every day.

This disorder may sound funny or peculiar, but according to Cleary, it is not a joke. It is defined as “a sense of fear and panic when separated from a mobile phone and the overwhelming fear of anxiety coming from the inability to immediately respond to a notification or have your device in your hand.”

“If having immediate contact with your cell phone is something you’ve learned to depend on, it’s definitely real,” she explained. “If students are feeling anxious about not having their cell phone, it’s important to really think about why. Identify what the fear is, and challenge your fears associated with the phone.”

She listed several questions that students who think they may have this disorder might want to consider in order to try and cure their separation anxiety.

“What do you think you’re missing out on? Do you feel like you’ll really miss out on those things? Are the consequences really as bad as you think they are?”

Whatever the case is, she assured that phone separation anxiety does not have to be permanent. It can be overcome with a little cognitive work.

So, whether you unplug or plug in, make sure to think again about your technology habits. While 24 hours away from a cell phone may not immediately cure problems, everyone has to start somewhere.

Featured image from flickr.com.

Sebastian the Ibis among 5 honored in Mascot Hall of Fame in 2025

Katie Karlson
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Sebastian the Ibis among 5 honored in Mascot Hall of Fame in 2025

Sebastian the Ibis made mascot history on Tuesday morning, joining the Mascot Hall of Fame Class of 2025 on Good Morning America. UM’s iconic ibis is one of five professional and collegiate mascots recognized this year and one of 33 that have been inducted since 2005. 

Sebastian also appeared on the 2020 and 2024 MHOF ballots but did not surpass the 60% of votes required for induction. 

This year, more than 125,000 people voted for their favorite mascot during May’s two-week voting period. The MHOF Executive Committee also casted a vote weighing six times that of the public vote.  

Mercer Peakes, a rising junior studying finance, is surprised that Sebastian was not honored sooner in his career.

“It took them way too long to recognize Sebastian,” Peakes said. “He is one of the most iconic mascots in college athletics. I am happy that he beat out many other big names in the mascot world, such as the Oregon Duck and Big Al for the honor.”  

According to the MHOF website, the initiative aims “to recognize and honor the best of the best mascot characters and programs in existence.”

To qualify for nomination, a mascot must be 10 years old and leave an impact in sports and in their community. 

Caitlyn Freitas, a rising senior studying political science, is excited about Sebastian’s flight to the hall of fame.

“UM has such a unique atmosphere that is hard to encapsulate, but Sebastian represents it perfectly. He commands crowds and always gets us excited about the game,” Freitas said. “It’s incredible that such an important part of our school is being recognized in this way.”

Sebastian’s flair and “C-A-N-E-S” spelling performance have remained constant since his debut in 1956. With his recent engagement to Gigi the Ibis in the Bahamas, Sebastian has been ruffling feathers on the sidelines and on social media, helping secure his spot in the MHOF. 

As Sebastian soars to new levels of fame, fans can continue spotting him at games and around campus, including his regular stops at Lake Osceola for high-fives.

UM students stuck in Israel amid escalating Iran conflict

Daniella Krasney
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UM students stuck in Israel amid escalating Iran conflict

22 University of Miami students are awaiting evacuation in Israel due to rising tensions between Iran and the Jewish state. 

Participants were three weeks into an Onward Birthright Israel program, an eight-week internship in Tel Aviv. Students were relocated to a more secure location on Saturday, June 14, after escalating strikes between Israeli and Iranian forces. 

“The University of Miami was notified on June 13 that approximately two dozen University students are currently in Israel, participating in educational programs, including Birthright and Onward Israel, that are not sponsored by or operated by the University,” the University of Miami said in a statement. “However, the University immediately engaged with campus partners, including Hillel, and state officials to ensure that safe travel for our students back to the United States has been secured.”

All flights arriving and departing Israel are cancelled indefinitely. Students are scheduled to board a boat from Israel to Cyprus later this week where they will be flown back to the U.S. Participants have not received information regarding their return flights.

“This process could take a number of days, but you will be supported throughout the journey,” Birthright Israel Onward said in an email to participants and families. “What stands foremost in our minds is bringing you home safely — and we’re doing everything possible to ensure that.” 

This is a developing story.

America does not want a king, thousands protest in South Florida

Elena Fallow
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America does not want a king, thousands protest in South Florida

Thousands of people across South Florida and Miami-Dade County took to the streets to participate in the “No Kings Day” protest on Saturday. However, Millions more people participated in more than 2,000 protests across the country.

The No Kings protests on Saturday directly followed the protests against the Trump administration’s immigration policies and actions, particularly those in Los Angeles. Organizers planned the mass No Kings protest to fall on President Donald Trump’s birthday parade and the Army’s 250th anniversary. 

The name “No Kings Day” comes from Trump’s Truth Social post celebrating his attempt to end congestion pricing in New York City.

Trump’s post read, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!”

There were 70 official protests across Florida. Protesters in Miami gathered around the Torch of Friendship on Biscayne Blvd. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. On Miami Beach, protesters gathered at  Pride Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.. 

Approximately 2000 people took part in the protest around the Torch of Friendship.

For rising UM sophomore Ariana Glaser, Trump’s post is one of the many reasons why she decided to join the protest in her home state of New York. 

“I think Donald Trump feeds off of weakness – he feeds off of making civilians feel powerless,” she said. “But by going to these protests and using our voices, we take some of that power back.”

Glaser is not the only one who feels strongly about the Trump administration’s actions. She was joined by about 200 other people in Patchogue, N.Y. despite the rain. Although each sign was different, the message was the same.

“Everyone there was united by love for our country and what we believe it once was, what it still could be,” Glaser said. “It was all just people standing together in the face of fascism.”

While Glaser was joined by people from all walks of life such as teachers, retirees and veterans, there was a notable lack of young people at her protest and many others across the nation. 

“I’d say there were a fair few (young people), even a couple of really young kids,” Glaser said. “There were definitely more older people though.”

Despite this, Glaser is relieved that the older generation is still taking a stand. 

The Patchogue protesters and others across the country protested peacefully. Some organizers even coordinated with law enforcement to ensure a safe and peaceful demonstration.

Before the No Kings protests, multiple police departments across South Florida issued ground rules for what would and would not be tolerated from protesters. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also reminded citizens of the state’s law against riots. 

This is an extension of Florida’s “stand your ground” law. This justifies civilians using force, but not deadly force, when they or their property is threatened.

Gov. DeSantis said “If you drive off and you hit one of these people, that’s their fault for impinging on you. You don’t have to sit there and just be a sitting duck and let the mob grab you out of your car and drag you through the streets. You have a right to defend yourself in Florida.”

This intense effort to ensure that the organized protests would be safe and peaceful is in response to the recent anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles. 

Most protests, including those held in South Florida, remained peaceful.

Trump has made no comment regarding the protests other than not feeling like a king in the days leading up to his birthday and the protests. However, he has promised to expand the immigration crackdown in Democratic-led cities since the protests.

Miami crowns a National Champion at the Track and Field Championships

Shea Mcdonald
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Miami crowns a National Champion at the Track and Field Championships

DII National Champion, a two-time ACC Champion, and the Hurricanes javelin record holder, Devoux Deysel can add DI National Champion to his list of accomplishments on his resume. This weekend in Eugene, Oregon, the senior took home the national title and, along with that, a few other firsts. He’s the first ever to win the javelin title both at the DI and DII level, the first Hurricane to claim outdoor NCAA gold since Davian Clarke did so in 1996, and the first ACC representative to take the javelin title since 2006. He led the way for the ‘Canes in a weekend where several other members cemented themselves as All-Americans. 

Deysel has consistently topped the men’s field in the javelin, a trend he’s set since arriving from Angelo State two years ago. In those two years he’s shattered Miami’s records during the outdoor season. In his first-ever meet as a Hurricane, he topped a 25-year-old record set by Hurricanes Hall of Famer Ed Reed in 1999. From there he made his way to an ACC Championship gold and then an NCAA bronze. 

But Deysel was not satisfied and came through his senior season with a vengeance. Gold’s in all his regular season appearances; he continued to push his record further. Another ACC gold followed up by a solid performance at the East Trials set him up for another chance at claiming that NCAA gold. 

It didn’t take long for Deysel to make his statement on the national level. On his first throw the javelin hit the mark at 81.75 m, and no one would come close to competing. Two meters (about 9 feet) better than anyone in the competition, Deysel ended his senior season at the top of the podium with a gold medal around his neck. 

Deysel wasn’t the only Hurricane to take home some personal glory. On Friday the ‘Canes took home two second-team All-American nods in the discus and the high jump. Desmond Coleman represented Miami in the discus and earned his first career All-American nod. After fouling on his first attempt and landing at the mark of 56.04, Coleman’s final throw landed at the 58.58 m mark, his second best throw of the season. This launched him up the leaderboards and into the 11th spot to earn his All-American spot. 

Kennedy Sauder later that day followed him up, earning his third career All-American nod. Landing his first attempt at 2.10 meters, Sauder would earn a second team nod as well. 

The women rounded out the success for the ‘Canes with some big performances that came together on Saturday. Earlier in the evening Christina Warren took to the triple jump, and on her second jump she landed at the 13.03 m mark, good for second team recognition.

On the track, Miami had two more big appearances to end their weekend. Junior Sanaa Hebron pulled double time again for Miami as she ran in both the 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay, helping Miami qualify for the finals in both. In the hurdles she placed fourth overall and second in her heat at 55.73 to qualify for finals, where she earned first-team All-American recognition. At 55.46 seconds, she placed fourth, just 0.26 short of third place.

With the relay women, she was joined by Serena Tate, Gabriella Grissom, and Alyssa Robinson. The group during the semis earned a finals spot after posting the fifth-fastest time in school history at 3:28.61, the sixth-best in the qualifying round, and ended eighth in the finals Saturday.

It was a long year for the Hurricanes, both through their indoor and outdoor seasons. With several All-American nods, ACC Championship victories, and crowning a national champion, this Hurricane’s squad is continuing to get better. The clock for next year is already ticking, and with several big-name Hurricanes heading into their senior seasons, next year could be another big one for the ‘Canes.

Nkosi Muse’s journey to a PhD and Publication Prize

Emil Salgado Vazquez
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Nkosi Muse’s journey to a PhD and Publication Prize

In this special summer exclusive interview for Catch Up Canes, Sophia interviews recent PhD graduate, Nkosi Muse, from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science, about his outstanding publication on heat hazards, which won him the Annual Best Student Publication Prize.

Prefer a different platform? We’ve got you covered.

Listen on Spotify

Diane and Jerry Cook establish the Cook Endowed Presidential Impact Fund at UM

Mel Tenkoff
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Diane and Jerry Cook establish the Cook Endowed Presidential Impact Fund at UM

Diane and Gerald “Jerry” Cook made a multimillion-dollar commitment to the University of Miami through their estate plans, establishing the Cook Endowed Presidential Impact Fund. 

The unrestricted fund will support high-priority initiatives on the Coral Gables Campus, allowing future generations to benefit from the same sense of community and purpose that Diane found during her 30-year career at the U. 

“I wanted to support the University in perpetuity, and this enabled me to do that,” Diane said. “I cut my teeth on endowment management – advising existing endowments and determining the best way to use our resources – so I understood just how valuable this money could be.” 

Diane’s insight into how beneficial this money could be to the University of Miami comes from her distinguished career at UM, where she served as vice president, treasurer and secretary to the Board of Trustees. Although she spent the majority of her career in the Sunshine State, Diane did not begin her education in the South. 

Long before she became a University of Miami executive and champion of innovation, Diane was a high school student in South Bend, Ind., dreaming of attending Notre Dame. However, the university was not admitting women in the late 1960s. So, she chose Purdue University, her father’s alma mater, where she met the love of her life and aspiring aviation student, Jerry Cook.

“Our roommates were dating,” she said. “So I got to know Jerry over bridge games, since my roommate was eager to learn.”

She graduated in 1972 with top honors and a business degree. The following year, Diane and Jerry got married and soon after the wedding they moved to Florida for Jerry’s career in the airline industry. 

Her connection to the city started to grow in 1978, when Jerry’s colleague from Air Florida welcomed the couple to the city with a dinner party. 

At the party, Diane met faculty members from what is now known as the Miami Herbert Business School. The faculty quickly recognized her intellect and encouraged her to pursue an MBA.

She completed her degree in 1980 and, by then, was working as a financial analyst in the University of Miami treasurer’s office. 

“It was a good fit,” Diane said. “I had a great boss in Steve Ashman, hard challenges I could handle, everything just clicked. I also learned how important it is to have a village around you.” 

Her tight knit community at UM quickly became a second home while helping her recover from Hurricane Andrew’s destruction in 1992. 

“My husband was out of town at the time, so I was alone because of Hurricane Andrew,” Diane said. “The University showed me a lot of care and concern, offering handymen to board up my windows and giving me a cell phone to manage in the aftermath.”

She did not hesitate to help her community as well, even while she was recovering from the aftermath of the hurricane. 

“I remember offering my home to a colleague who lost everything. I said, ‘Bring your wife, bring your dog, bring your parrot; my house is yours.’” 

She earned a reputation for precision, dependability and pushing boundaries with innovation. 

“I pitched new ideas to the board, memorized every fact and figure for my presentations, I oversaw all financial transactions, I fought for innovative retirement plan changes,” she said. “It eventually became the hallmark of my professional reputation — what I promised, I delivered.” 

Diane received numerous honors over the years, including the May A. Brunson Award for helping women embrace computer technology, the President’s Medal for meritorious service and induction into the Iron Arrow Society, the University’s highest honor. 

Jerry passed away on Sept. 4, 2024 with Diane at his side. He was a passionate innovator and a devoted family man, often describing himself as “the guy who fixes problems.”

In light of his death, the Cook family’s estate plan outlines that the Cook Endowed Presidential Impact Fund will be distributed to the University of Miami. Estate plans are designed for people to outline how they wish for their assets to be divided. These plans are useful in life and also ensure that the person’s wishes are carried out upon death.

Diane retired from UM in 2010, but her commitment to the institution continues through her donation. For Diane, this gift reflects a life shaped by service and community. 

“Retirement has been a novel experience for me: I get a great night’s sleep every day; I hadn’t done that in years,” she said. “Life is good.”

Former ’Cane ROTC member Lance Kreitzer reflects on his time at UM

Tracy Ramos
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Former ’Cane ROTC member Lance Kreitzer reflects on his time at UM

Lance Kreitzer’s five years at the University came to an end when he graduated last month. The meteorology major and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadet said he was excited to graduate but was even more excited for his commissioning ceremony on May 10.

“I’m looking forward to graduating because it’s something I’ve been working toward for five years,” Kreitzer said. “I couldn’t be commissioned without earning my degree, but I’m looking forward to my commissioning more because I’ll be starting the career I’ve dreamed of having since middle school.”

Kreitzer will leave for his first base assignment in June as a weather officer at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. He waited 10 months to find out he got his dream job in his desired location.

Lance Kreitzer (far right) and his fellow classmates at Homestead Air Reserve Base for a KC-135 incentive flight, on April 10, 2024. // Credit: Courtesy of Lance Kreitzer

Raised in St. Petersburg, Fla., Kreitzer discovered his passion for meteorology when he was 10 years old by watching the reality television show “Hurricane Hunters.” The show, produced by The Weather Channel, follows the Air Force Reserve Squadron based in Biloxi, Miss., as they fly through hurricanes to gather meteorological data. Kreitzer said the crew inspired him to pursue that career.

“Watching the crew fly through hurricanes and remain cool as clams stuck out to me,” Kreitzer said. “They did it to learn how to better protect people. I really wanted to do that.”

When he was 12, Kreitzer joined the Civil Air Patrol, a non-profit organization that serves as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. There, he learned how to march and other Air Force customs. Kreitzer volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol for nine years and said the experience prepared him for UM’s Air Force ROTC program.

When Kreitzer first began his college search, he narrowed his focus to Florida institutions that had both a meteorology program and an Air Force ROTC program. Florida State University and UM were his top choices. He said his family influenced his decision.

“UF and FSU are longtime rivals,” Kreitzer said, referring to University of Florida and Florida State University. “Many of my relatives went to UF, so their distaste for FSU helped sway my decision.”

In addition to his family, Kreitzer’s tours of the Coral Gables campus and Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science made him choose UM.

“Seeing how nice the facilities were and meeting staff who were excited about me joining the program sealed the deal for me,” he said. “Plus, it’s fitting that I’d be a Miami Hurricane since I was fascinated with hurricanes as a kid.”

In fall 2020, Kreitzer started as a meteorology and marine science double major. He said transitioning from high school to college was harder than he expected. His sophomore year, Kreitzer dropped his marine science major, leading him to stay at UM for a fifth year.

“That was really discouraging for me, but God always has a plan,” Kreitzer said. “Looking back, I’m glad I stayed an extra year because this year I’ve grown the most as a person and leader.”

Kreitzer has held several positions in the ROTC program. He served as a finance officer, weather officer and wellness officer. This year, he served as a flight commander to 10 cadets. Additionally, he woke up at 4:30 a.m. twice a week for physical training sessions. Kreitzer said balancing his duties with his course load was challenging but worth it.

Lance Kreitzer posing in front of the American flag for his official headshot. // Credit: Courtesy of Lance Kreitzer

“I got to network with weatherpersons and explore the Air Force,” Kreitzer said. “Last spring, I went on an incentive flight out of the Homestead Air Force Base. I watched jets do aerial refueling under me while I was in a Boeing KC-135. I’m really glad to be a part of this.”

As Kreitzer reflected on his time at UM, he had some parting words for the cadets.

“People ask, ‘how can you be an officer if you’re scared of things?’” Kretizer said. “My grandparents have a fridge magnet with a John Wayne quote that says, ‘Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.’ There were times I thought I wouldn’t graduate. I was scared, but I kept going until the job was done, and now I crossed the finish line.”

Ruben Rabasa knows the perfect day in Miami

Samantha Rodriguez
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Ruben Rabasa knows the perfect day in Miami

“Are you a homosexual?” That was the first thing comedian Ruben Rabasa heard when he arrived in America. “Are you a communist?” was next. He had a pretty rough welcome. Rabasa wants people to have a better one on their next summer trip to Miami.

“In 1980, I came back [to Miami] because that’s where my people are,” Rabasa said. “I love the water, the water in New York and California was too cold, so Miami was great.”

Learn Rabasa’s tips for an unforgettable (and safe) time in the 305. You don’t want to make the same mistakes he did. Trust me.

“In Cuba, I almost got hit by a shark,” Rabasa said. “ I like to swim out.”

First, see the renowned Cuban jokester before you land. He has airplane flicks that will bring Miami to your cramped seat like “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and “Thelma.” But you need to download some of his best work before you take off.

Tim Robinson’s Netflix series “I Think You Should Leave” showed Rabasa to the world as Focus Group Man #1. His character’s obsession with a small, stinky car that has a wheel which stays in the car instead of flying out made Robinson the straight man for once. 

Seeing Focus Group Man #1 can get you prepared for Miami natives. Finding a Focus Group Man #1 at South Beach is easy. Taking him to a great Cuban restaurant is harder. Especially if you don’t know your French like Rabasa.

“When you hear the name of the Cuban restaurant, ‘Versailles,’ I thought it was French,” Rabasa said. “Then I went to another one that said ‘Romeu,’ I thought it was Italian, it’s Cuban food.”

Easy mistake. But there’s no joke when it comes to their ropa vieja and pollo a la plancha. Their ventanita is Rabasa’s window into his home. Now, he’s working to move that window into theaters.

He’s taking his one-man show that premiered in 2022 at GableStage, “Rubenology: The Making of an American Legend,” to the next level. Rabasa is building a crew to adapt a different comedy script, “They Fall in Love With the Moon,” that further expands on the immigrant experience of diving into a new world.

With Coral Gables fans young and old rushing to their seats for “Rubenology,” Rabasea knows Miamians will feel seen in. He works to make “They Fall in Love With the Moon” another reminder about why cities like Miami are one of a kind.

Stay up-to-date on Rabasa’s projects and laugh out loud sketches to see the most of the sunny city. He makes them speak to every heart and language.

“No matter what you do, you can always translate everything,” Rabasa said.

Enjoy Miami and experience everything, Rabasa-style.

Miami baseball falls just shy of return to Omaha, defeated 3-2 by Louisville

Sebastian Font
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Miami baseball falls just shy of return to Omaha, defeated 3-2 by Louisville

As Louisville storms the field after clinching their sixth Men’s College World Series appearance, Miami sits in a state of two worlds after a 3-2 loss in game three. On the one hand, they were playing with house money, a team that was not expected to even make it past the regional round. On the other, an internal belief that the standard at Miami is Omaha, a belief it was their job to uphold said standard.

It was a typical winner-take-all affair, with both sides trading blows and unwilling to kneel to the other. 

With only one run separating the dueling ACC sides, it came down to a seventh inning RBI single by Louisville by Eddie King Jr. that fell just past the outstretched arm of Miami’s center fielder Mikey Torres.

Just like in the regional decider which sent Miami to supers, graduate transfer Reese Lumpkin got the start for the Hurricanes. And once again Lumpkin did his job, shutting down the Louisville lineup through the first time of the lineup and limiting damage through his second, only allowing two runs through four and two-thirds innings.

Lumpkin was matched up against freshman Ethan Eberle, a lefty who battles far beyond his years, and the pair coasted through the opening two innings, consistently generating weak contact as they worked through the lineup.

That was until freshman Mikey Torres provided a spark at the bottom of the lineup, lacing a single to center in the top of the third as Miami looked to strike first. And with two strikes and two outs, Max Galvin came through, launching a two-run homer down the right field line, sending the Hurricane faithful into a frenzy with a 2-0 lead.

But just like in Saturday’s game, this Louisville team always finds a way to comeback.

The Cards’ threatened in the third with runners at the corners, but Lumpkin was able to escape the jam by striking out the red-hot Jake Munroe. However the ’Canes were not as lucky in the fourth as Louisville tied it up with some quality small ball. It began with Garret Pike laying down a beautiful bunt down the third base line before being driven in with an RBI double by Zion Rose, before Rose himself was driven in with a fielder’s choice.

Lumpkin’s day was done, exiting for lefty Rob Evans who was able to escape the inning still tied at 2-2.

With a tie ballgame heading into the fifth, the game essentially reset into a five-inning shootout, with the winner headed to the College World Series. 

But with the momentum on the UL side, they threatened again in the fifth. Starting with a single by leadoff Lucas Moore, Louisville had an immediate threat to score with Moore’s top of the line speed. Evans was able to get the following out, but head coach J.D. Arteaga opted to bring in “Fireman” Will Smith to get out of the inning.

Smith’s outing didn’t begin as hoped for Arteaga with back-to-back walks being issued, but in typical “Fireman” Smith fashion he promptly got out of the inning with a strikeout and groundout, rallying the dugout as he charged off the mound.

Momentum now on Miami’s side, the ’Canes had energy going into the sixth as Galvin led off with a single that knocked Eberle out of the game. Now entered Jake Shweitzer who was able to get the opening out of Daniel Cuvet. But two walks followed and loaded the bases for Renzo Gonzalez. Yet even with a rattled pitcher, Gonzalez made the ill-advised decision to swing on a 2-0 count and grounded into an inning-ending double play.

Both pitchers settled in their second innings of work as Smith struck out the side in the bottom of the sixth and Shweitzer threw a scoreless inning himself to start the seventh.

But despite Smith’s uncanny ability to escape jams, he wasn’t able to escape the seventh unscathed. After a two out single by Munroe, a wild pitch allowed him to advance to second, 90 feet that would become crucial as he would score on a single by Eddie King Jr., taking a 3-2 lead with two innings to play.

The Hurricanes mustered up a fight in the ninth as they threatened to tie the game, but as the fly ball hit the glove of Moore’s glove in center, Miami’s season came to a close.

A season of highs and lows, from being 15-15 to winning five straight ACC series to ending the season 1-6 and being run-ruled in the opening round of the ACC tournament to winning the Hattiesburg regional to make Miami’s first super regional appearance since 2016. This team fought, this team battled, but most importantly this team embodied what it meant to be a Miami Hurricane.

Miami defeats Louisville 9-6 in pivotal Game 2, one win from Omaha

Zach Cohen
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Miami defeats Louisville 9-6 in pivotal Game 2, one win from Omaha

After an underwhelming and disappointing Game 1 of the NCAA Super Regional, falling 8-1, Miami’s backs were against the wall. It was either win and play for a shot at Omaha, or lose and go home. On Super Saturday, the Hurricanes answered in front of a full-capacity crowd at Jim Patterson Stadium, winning 9-6.

Miami, holding a 6-5 lead in the bottom of the eighth, looked for some insurance runs. With runners at first and second and one out, sophomore Daniel Cuvet dug in to the right-handed batter’s box. On a 1-0 pitch, Cuvet crushed a ball over the left-field wall and into the lawn seating, taking a 9-5 lead.

Going back to the fourth, the ’Canes put up an important four-spot in the run column. The game went from a score of 5-1 to 5-5. The bottom of the order came through, Sophomore Jake Kulikowski, making a start as the designated hitter, singled up the middle to score Derek Williams from second base. Kulikowski’s two-hit performance showed why he should be penciled into the lineup more frequently.

Staying in the fourth, freshman Michael Torres hitting in the nine-hole and junior Jake Ogden at leadoff had phenomenal performances. Torres singled to center, advancing Kulikowski to third to put runners at the corners with two outs. Ogden went on to hit a three-run blast to left field. Torres and Ogden racked up three hits each.

Louisville’s early offense came from quality at-bats, but it also wasn’t junior Griffin Hugus’s best performance on the bump. In Hattiesburg, Hugus threw a complete game but could not bring the heat to Kentucky. He went a mere three innings, giving up five and allowing four runs.

Miami scored one run in both the second and seventh innings.

In relief, Miami (35-26, 15-14 ACC) head coach J.D. Arteaga used Rob Evans, Carson Fischer, and Brian Walters. Evans only lasted two-thirds of an inning, but Fischer picked up the bullpen by going 3.1 innings. In his 10-out appearance, he only gave up one run and hit while striking out three. 

Walters was called on to get the six-out save. After smooth sailing in the eighth, he ran into choppy waters while closing out the game in the ninth. He gave up a double and a single, allowing a Cardinal to score, and moved the score to 9-6. Cuvet’s three-run blast turned out to be ever so important. Walters was able to get out of the jam and close the door on Louisville (39-22, 15-15 ACC).

Miami takes the field Sunday at noon, just nine innings from Omaha — and their first College World Series trip since 2016.

Super Regional setback: Miami drops opening game 8-1 in a commanding loss to Louisville

Sebastian Font
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Super Regional setback: Miami drops opening game 8-1 in a commanding loss to Louisville

In their first Super Regional since 2016, the Miami Hurricanes stood two wins away from Omaha with only the Louisville Cardinals standing in their way. 

And while the Hurricanes hoped to get one step closer to their goal, they were surely kept in place as Louisville took a commanding 8-1 win in the opener.

Louisville was dominant on both sides of the ball with Patrick Forbes going five and two-thirds innings with nine strikeouts while the offense took charge with plenty of hard hits across the diamond, spearheaded by third baseman Jake Munroe’s two homer day.

Freshman A.J Ciscar got the start for the opening game for the Hurricanes, looking to recreate his opening start versus Alabama in the regional round, but struggled to execute with poorly placed pitches and a costly error as he only went two and a third innings giving up six earned runs.

After a quiet first inning, Miami threatened in the second after back-to-back walks followed by a HBP loaded the bases for UM. Forbes was really struggling for the Cards, but was able to escape the jam with back-to-back strikeouts to energize the Louisville dugout.

The Cardinals proceeded to ride said momentum with a pair of homers from Garret Pike and Munroe to take an early 2-0 lead. Ciscar was able to escape the inning, but a plethora of barrels indicated the Louisville lineup were seeing him well.

UM loaded up the bases again in the third, hoping to not squander the opportunity for the second inning in a row. The ’Canes were able to plate one via a Renzo Gonzalez sac fly, but were unable to truly seize the opportunity once again as Forbes worked out of the inning.

In a recurring theme of loaded bases, Louisville responded with a bases loaded situation of their own. And with one out the Hurricanes were gifted a life line with a double play opportunity grounded to Ciscar.

But he was unable to complete the play as he launched the ball past Tanner Smith at home which resulted in no outs being secured and two runs scored on the play. Furthermore, the baseball gods added onto the pain as the next batter in Munroe launched his second homer of the day to left field, a three run shot which gave Louisville a commanding 7-1 lead and ended Ciscar’s day prematurely.

With plenty of insurance for him to work with, Forbes began to coast through the next two innings despite his high pitch count, while redshirt sophomore Jake Dorn entered the game for the ’Canes.

Like in the Southern Miss blowout, Dorn was able to provide some key innings in a blowout game to save other bullpen arms, only allowing one run on a sac fly.

The sixth saw pitching changes for both teams as Miami was finally able to knock Forbes out of the game for righty Brennyn Cutts, but failed to capitalize on him through his appearance. Senior Jackson Cleveland came in to replace Dorn which further strengthened the pattern from the Southern Miss game last Sunday, effectively working through the UL lineup for two innings.

With both teams seeming content with turning the page to tomorrow, the pair coasted through the remaining innings as the score remained 8-1 through nine.

Louisville now sits one win away from going to Omaha as Miami needs to bounce back and win two in a row to make their Omaha return.

Even with the lopsided loss, there were some bright spots for the Hurricanes. If Ciscar was able to make the routine play, the third inning would’ve been over right then and there, erasing five of Louisville’s runs. Moreover, on the offensive side the ’Canes left 12 runners on base with only six hits on the day with Max Galvin accounting for three of them. And while it’s all what-ifs, the score line could’ve easily been flipped the other way.

With the best of three format of the super regionals, thankfully Miami will get an opportunity to right those wrongs tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. ET as they look to keep their season alive.

State Department pauses interviews for international student visas

Elena Fallow
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State Department pauses interviews for international student visas

The State Department announced that it is temporarily suspending student and exchange visas. This announcement comes four days after a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration’s attempt to prevent Harvard from enrolling international students.

Secretary of State Macro Rubio issued an order to United States embassies and consulates  , telling consulate officers to scrutinize certain applicants’ social media and to refer them to the fraud prevention unit.

While visa applicants have been asked to list their social media accounts on applications since 2019, the focus on scrutinizing applicants’ social media accounts follows the recent outrage over Israel’s war in Gaza.

According to the State Department, the suspension was part of the “dynamic” scheduling process to interview for those visas. According to the State Department, interview timelines are based on the up-to-date information immigration officers need for a proper review of the applicant.

Barbara Valentin, a former Citizen and Immigration Services Officer, shared her thoughts on the temporary suspension. 

“I have mixed feelings about it because there are students that come to the states to study, and it’s not coming out of our pockets,” Valentin said. “There are so many students around the world who do not have the opportunity that they could have here. That’s why they come.”

However, Valentin also believes that privilege comes with responsibility and accountability.

“We are giving you the privilege, because it is a privilege, to come into the United States to study. However, you came here to study, so study. Don’t get into it. You have a voice, yes and you can talk about [political issues] amongst your friends, but putting it on social media for the whole world to see can get you in trouble.”

Some international students see the suspension of interviews as more than a responsibility to uphold. 

“I am sad that this is happening because I have friends and family that are going to and want to study in the states,” said an anonymous international student at the University of Miami. 

“Now they might not have the same opportunity I have.” 

The State Department’s order to further scrutinize social media activity has also left this student on edge.

“I also feel like I am walking on eggshells all the time, especially with what I do on my personal social media account,” the student said. “Even though I have my visa I don’t want to risk losing it.”

As for senior Derby Peck, an American resident and global studies major, she believes the temporary halt of interviews could negatively impact the United States’ global relationships. 

“Exchange programs and international students are a way to strengthen our diplomatic ties and promote cross-cultural relationships between the U.S. and other nations,” Peck said. “Removing international students’ opportunity to study at our universities defeats the core purpose of our education, sharing knowledge and learning from each other.”

The Trump administration has made no other attempts to restrict an institution’s ability to enroll international students, yet the pause on interviews and additional requirements raises questions about the future of international and exchange students in the United States.

While it is unknown when interviews will resume, the State Department has told embassies and  consulates to conduct additional vetting of any applicant who wants to visit Harvard for any reason. 

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