Sunday, Feb 1, 2026

Students, faculty express concerns over icy walkways as VCU returns in-person

January 30, 2026

Andrew Kerley, Executive Editor Faculty from at least ten different VCU schools and departments cancelled class or moved to virtual learning on Thursday as the university reopened after a major snowstorm covered Richmond’s streets in ice.  VCU encouraged students to travel back to their hometowns ahead of the weekend snowstorm, and then asked them to return to campus on Thursday with caution.  “Parking lots, sidewalks and public spaces are largely clear of snow and ice on campus, but there may be varying travel conditions and potential icing due to freeze-thaw cycles on your commute,” the university stated on Wednesday.  Many side streets and walkways in neighborhoods around Richmond are still covered in ice. Clearing it has been mostly a losing battle, according to The Richmonder. City officials said their plows are largely ineffective against the giant sheets of ice.  Salt stops working to melt ice when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, as they have each night throughout the week. Virginia is also on winter storm watch again this weekend. “The university prioritizes safety and made the decision to open in-person based on current and expected conditions, and after consulting with many subject matter experts,” stated VCU Police spokesperson Jake Burns.

Departamento simplificado de Transportación, obras de seguridad toman forma en Richmond

January 28, 2026

Sal Orlando, Editor Adjunto de Noticias La Ciudad de Richmond creó un nuevo Departamento de Transportación (DOT en inglés) dentro del Departamento de Obras Públicas (DPW en inglés) en enero, respondiendo a un aumento en muertes peatonales relacionadas al tráfico este año nuevo. El DOT será la autoridad principal para la planificación, el diseño, el mantenimiento y la entrega de un sistema de transportación en Richmond, según el anuncio del alcalde Danny Avula. El director nuevamente asignado del DOT, Andy Boenau, dijo que integrarlo en el DPW permitirá a la ciudad a manejar emergencias grandes, simplificar conecciones entre los gerentes de proyectos en el DPW y su personal de apoyo, y dejar que el director del DPW tenga autoridad para gobernar el sistema de transporte terreno — Convirtiendo el DOT en un ‘sistema de apoyo’ incorporado. El nuevo departamento combinará la planificación e ingeniería de transporte con el contacto con la comunidad para mejorar la coordinación, según Boenau. “La tarea del DOT es continuar y acelerar la planificación y el diseño de una red de carreteras que provee acceso seguro para todas edades y capacidades,” dijo Boenau. La formación del departamento es parte de la estrategia “Visión Cero” de la

Renee Good shouldn’t have been the tipping point

January 28, 2026

Maritza Baptiste, Contributing Writer Every time the state kills someone, our reaction is tainted by racial bias — whether we realize it or not.  We watched as President Donald Trump increased the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in cities across the country. We watched as people were dragged out of their homes and thrown into detention camps. We watched as at least 32 people died in ICE custody in 2025.  The deaths of these individuals — most of whom were people of color —  passed through the news cycle with little to no coverage. Now the city of Minneapolis is in unrest over the killing of Renee Good, a white woman, at the hands of an ICE officer.  There were general protests against ICE across the country, but not like what we are seeing in Minneapolis. The cause has garnered national attention and outrage online. Politicians are rushing to either defend ICE or condemn “violent” protests.  The unrest has only been exacerbated further by the ruthless killing of Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE officers this past Saturday. We are witnessing the appointment of a new martyr in a cause that fights against authoritarian practices that

The Democratic Party is ruining its reputation with the trans community

January 21, 2026

Laurel Bowen, Contributing Writer The transgender community is under threat from both Republicans and Democrats — yet it hasn’t been painted as such. It is often the opinion of Democratic editorialists, voters and cisgender allies that transgender people simply must vote for the Democrats and they will be safe.  It is preached that if we don’t vote for them, the Republicans will annihilate us — they will rip away every right we have won. The truth of the matter, unfortunately, is not so. Even during Democratic presidencies such as the Biden administration, the Republican Party continued to attack us. In the midst of those attacks, the Democratic Party only became a bastion of indifference and hostility — both with the wholesale abandonment of efforts to protect transgender people and with some politicians even actively working against us. For example, Rep. Thomas Souzzi, D-New York, stated, “I don’t want to discriminate against anybody, but I don’t think biological boys should be playing in girls’ sports.”  The use of “biological boys” itself is an act of de-legitimization of trans women who do participate in these sports. It also erases the existence of transgender men by not acknowledging them. The transgender community does

With another on the way, here’s how students made the most of Richmond’s snowstorm

January 30, 2026

Lelia Contee, Contributing Writer  As a winter storm last weekend swept through Virginia, froze over Richmond’s streets and forced VCU to cancel in-person learning, many students found their schedules open and routines disrupted.  Some students embraced the sudden break to slow down and appreciate the little things. Aja Williams, a third-year painting and printmaking student, spent the snow day baking brownies with her sorority sister and watching “They Cloned Tyrone.” The snowy weekend was “a double edge sword,” as Williams put it. While it is important for her painting classes to be in-person, the break allowed her to slow down and consider her next steps, especially after a hectic start to the semester.  “With everything going on in the world right now, it was very nice to just slow down and enjoy the little things,” Aja Williams said.  Aja Williams hopes people stay safe during the harsh weather conditions and appreciate essential workers.  Allison Music, a first-year biology student, used some of her free time to catch up on schoolwork, chat with friends, spend time with her cat Takashi and read the bible.  “I’m really bad with change and stuff, so like the snow, it took me out of my

What influences Richmond’s influencers

January 28, 2026

Cora Perkins, Assistant Spectrum Editor  Richmond is bustling with vibrant, southern colors, cobblestone walkways, life around every corner and economic development — and with that development comes influencers. Folks from around Virginia and the rest of the country are flocking to the river city to create content about its delicious dishes and historic neighborhoods. They are making blogs, vlogs, real estate businesses and … giving away tiramisu in public parks. At least, one person is — Alex Na, also known as the “free tiramisu guy.”  Na — a “DMV transplant” in his own words — moved to Richmond about half a year ago and did not know anyone in the area. “I just had to kind of find my own path around here,” Na said. Na started his sweet empire with a simple TikTok, in which he offered up his leftover tiramisu to anyone who could meet him at the park. Now he is holding pop-ups, fundraisers and events galore.  “People can find friends, and people can find a sense of belonging in Richmond,” Na said. For Na, in a political climate where life feels “hopeless” between the buzz of what is being broadcast on the news, it is a

Men’s basketball fights back against Loyola after a slow start, wins 89-75

January 31, 2026

Assistant Sports Editor, Alexis Washington VCU men’s basketball entered its matchup against Loyola Chicago with a four-game winning streak on Friday night at the Siegel Center. The Rams came off a big win against cross town rival the University of Richmond on Tuesday, following a road victory against Davidson College on Jan. 24. VCU won the tip-off but immediately turned the ball over and remained scoreless for four minutes. Loyola came in hot with third-year center Miles Rubin driving the ball to the basket.  The Ramblers offense became untouchable going on an 8-0 run, forcing VCU to go into a time out. Third-year forward Michael Belle put up the first points for the Rams with a free throw. The Ramblers responded with an alleyoop dunk from Rubin. Both teams played at a fast, aggressive pace, trading baskets throughout the stretch. Rams second-year guard Terrence Hill Jr. shot a deep three and Ramblers answered back with a three of their own from third-year guard Justin Moore. In an effort to put more points on the board, VCU found its rhythm. Belle sparked the run with a three pointer off a turnover at the ten-minute mark.  The momentum continued as VCU fourth-year

Women’s basketball gets much needed home win against Fordham 69-58

January 28, 2026

Ben Martindale, Staff Writer VCU women’s basketball took the Siegel Center Wednesday as Richmond defrosts after a winter storm. Despite the icy conditions outside, the stands were scattered with a dedicated group of faithful Ram fans. After the game, VCU head coach Beth O’Boyle took the time to thank the fans who showed up to support the team. “Thank you for coming out on this snowy, icy day to support us,” O’Boyle said. “It always means so much to our players and we really appreciate it.” Fordham University won the tip, but VCU showed its heart early — taking a charge and forcing a turnover on the first possession of the game. Almost three minutes into the game both teams remained scoreless as they attempted to find a way past the other squads defense. Second-year guard Cyriah Griffin got VCU on the board first, hitting a ball fake that would have made former NBA guard Rajon Rondo proud, before spinning and finishing the layup. Griffin has been good for VCU all season, but has really stepped her play lately, scoring in double figures in three of her last four appearances. Second-year forward Katarina Knežević scored her first points of the

Men’s basketball scrapes out win against Spiders in Capital City Classic

January 28, 2026

Tyrese Perkins, Contributing Writer While Richmond was frozen over, VCU faced its crosstown archrival, the University of Richmond Spiders at the Siegel Center Tuesday night, marking the 33rd matchup between the two programs. VCU now holds a 24-9 lead all time. VCU built off its three-game winning streak and recent on-the-road win against the Davidson College Wildcats on Jan. 24. VCU won the tip-off and second-year guard Brandon Jennings scored the opening bucket. It was followed by a dunk from third-year forward Lazar Djokovic — starting the game 4-0. However, Richmond’s fifth-year guard AJ Lopez responded with a top-of-the-key three-pointer, silencing the crowd. Capitalizing off of the Spiders’ missed shots, the Rams’ redshirt fourth-year guard Jadrian Tracey knocked down back-to-back three-pointers. VCU gained a 12-5 lead just three minutes into the opening half. Richmond quickly responded with a 6-0 run as it scored around the rim. VCU second-year guard Terrence Hill Jr. scored a 17-footer.  On the next possession, Djokovic stole the ball from Richmond third-year forward Jaden Daughtry, and in the fast break he passed it to Hill, who threw up an alley-oop to third-year guard Tyrell Ward. The Rams stayed in the lead throughout the half. Djokovic scored

SCOUTING REPORT: VCU men’s basketball vs. Loyola Chicago

January 28, 2026

VCU men’s basketball will take on Atlantic 10 opponent Loyola University Chicago at the Siegel Center on Jan. 30 at 9 p.m.  The CT sports staff chose their notable players for the matchup.  VCU Alexis Washington, Assistant Sports Editor Michael Belle — Belle is what you call a versatile two-way player. He can not only score in the paint, but also impact the game defensively, using his size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. Standing at 6-foot-8-inches, this third-year forward continues to prove why he should remain on the court. Belle helped lead the Rams to victory against St. Joseph’s University on Jan. 19, recording a career-high of 20 points, three steals and tied his best with two blocks. He has been with the Rams all of his collegiate career and improves each year. He averages 7.4 points and 4.5 rebounds this season. If Loyola wants to climb up the ladder in the A-10 rankings and win, it must make Belle work for every touch and shut off his scoring lanes.   Saanvi Vootla, Contributing Writer Lazar Djokovic — Djokovic has quietly emerged as one of VCU’s most reliable and impactful frontcourt pieces, making him a key player to watch in

JAN. 28 RECAP: How every VCU team did this week

January 28, 2026

Daniel Pointer, Contributing Writer Women’s basketball vs. George Washington University  Second-year guard Cyriah Griffin scored a career-high 18 points, helping to deliver the Rams a tight 63-60 win. Griffin’s offensive game continues to look sharper every week, as she went 8-12 from the field including two three-pointers. The Rams will look to build on that momentum going into their next two Atlantic-10 games.  Women’s track & field The women’s team effort was led by strong performances from new and familiar faces alike. On the track, first-year Aubree Harris placed first overall in the 60 meter hurdles, beating the runner-up by a mere two milliseconds. In field events, first-year Melissa Carigusi and redshirt third-year Desiree Akaolisa tied for third place in the weight throw, both with throws recorded at 18.14 meters. Carigusi competed in just her third meet since being recruited overseas from Italy. First-year Destiny Ese had an impressive debut in the triple jump, where she placed third in her first competition. Men’s track & field Young talent was the name of the game for the men’s team, as multiple first-years made waves with their performances. In the 60m hurdles, first-year Presten Augustin clocked a blazing 8.03s and placed third

Students, faculty express concerns over icy walkways as VCU returns in-person

January 30, 2026

Andrew Kerley, Executive Editor Faculty from at least ten different VCU schools and departments cancelled class or moved to virtual learning on Thursday as the university reopened after a major snowstorm covered Richmond’s streets in ice.  VCU encouraged students to travel back to their hometowns ahead of the weekend snowstorm, and then asked them to return to campus on Thursday with caution.  “Parking lots, sidewalks and public spaces are largely clear of snow and ice on campus, but there may be varying travel conditions and potential icing due to freeze-thaw cycles on your commute,” the university stated on Wednesday.  Many side streets and walkways in neighborhoods around Richmond are still covered in ice. Clearing it has been mostly a losing battle, according to The Richmonder. City officials said their plows are largely ineffective against the giant sheets of ice.  Salt stops working to melt ice when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, as they have each night throughout the week. Virginia is also on winter storm watch again this weekend. “The university prioritizes safety and made the decision to open in-person based on current and expected conditions, and after consulting with many subject matter experts,” stated VCU Police spokesperson Jake Burns.

Departamento simplificado de Transportación, obras de seguridad toman forma en Richmond

January 28, 2026

Sal Orlando, Editor Adjunto de Noticias La Ciudad de Richmond creó un nuevo Departamento de Transportación (DOT en inglés) dentro del Departamento de Obras Públicas (DPW en inglés) en enero, respondiendo a un aumento en muertes peatonales relacionadas al tráfico este año nuevo. El DOT será la autoridad principal para la planificación, el diseño, el mantenimiento y la entrega de un sistema de transportación en Richmond, según el anuncio del alcalde Danny Avula. El director nuevamente asignado del DOT, Andy Boenau, dijo que integrarlo en el DPW permitirá a la ciudad a manejar emergencias grandes, simplificar conecciones entre los gerentes de proyectos en el DPW y su personal de apoyo, y dejar que el director del DPW tenga autoridad para gobernar el sistema de transporte terreno — Convirtiendo el DOT en un ‘sistema de apoyo’ incorporado. El nuevo departamento combinará la planificación e ingeniería de transporte con el contacto con la comunidad para mejorar la coordinación, según Boenau. “La tarea del DOT es continuar y acelerar la planificación y el diseño de una red de carreteras que provee acceso seguro para todas edades y capacidades,” dijo Boenau. La formación del departamento es parte de la estrategia “Visión Cero” de la

Opinion

Renee Good shouldn’t have been the tipping point

January 28, 2026

Maritza Baptiste, Contributing Writer Every time the state kills someone, our reaction is tainted by racial bias — whether we realize it or not.  We watched as President Donald Trump increased the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in cities across the country. We watched as people were dragged out of their homes and thrown into detention camps. We watched as at least 32 people died in ICE custody in 2025.  The deaths of these individuals — most of whom were people of color —  passed through the news cycle with little to no coverage. Now the city of Minneapolis is in unrest over the killing of Renee Good, a white woman, at the hands of an ICE officer.  There were general protests against ICE across the country, but not like what we are seeing in Minneapolis. The cause has garnered national attention and outrage online. Politicians are rushing to either defend ICE or condemn “violent” protests.  The unrest has only been exacerbated further by the ruthless killing of Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE officers this past Saturday. We are witnessing the appointment of a new martyr in a cause that fights against authoritarian practices that

The Democratic Party is ruining its reputation with the trans community

January 21, 2026

Laurel Bowen, Contributing Writer The transgender community is under threat from both Republicans and Democrats — yet it hasn’t been painted as such. It is often the opinion of Democratic editorialists, voters and cisgender allies that transgender people simply must vote for the Democrats and they will be safe.  It is preached that if we don’t vote for them, the Republicans will annihilate us — they will rip away every right we have won. The truth of the matter, unfortunately, is not so. Even during Democratic presidencies such as the Biden administration, the Republican Party continued to attack us. In the midst of those attacks, the Democratic Party only became a bastion of indifference and hostility — both with the wholesale abandonment of efforts to protect transgender people and with some politicians even actively working against us. For example, Rep. Thomas Souzzi, D-New York, stated, “I don’t want to discriminate against anybody, but I don’t think biological boys should be playing in girls’ sports.”  The use of “biological boys” itself is an act of de-legitimization of trans women who do participate in these sports. It also erases the existence of transgender men by not acknowledging them. The transgender community does

The Rundown

Spectrum

With another on the way, here’s how students made the most of Richmond’s snowstorm

January 30, 2026

Lelia Contee, Contributing Writer  As a winter storm last weekend swept through Virginia, froze over Richmond’s streets and forced VCU to cancel in-person learning, many students found their schedules open and routines disrupted.  Some students embraced the sudden break to slow down and appreciate the little things. Aja Williams, a third-year painting and printmaking student, spent the snow day baking brownies with her sorority sister and watching “They Cloned Tyrone.” The snowy weekend was “a double edge sword,” as Williams put it. While it is important for her painting classes to be in-person, the break allowed her to slow down and consider her next steps, especially after a hectic start to the semester.  “With everything going on in the world right now, it was very nice to just slow down and enjoy the little things,” Aja Williams said.  Aja Williams hopes people stay safe during the harsh weather conditions and appreciate essential workers.  Allison Music, a first-year biology student, used some of her free time to catch up on schoolwork, chat with friends, spend time with her cat Takashi and read the bible.  “I’m really bad with change and stuff, so like the snow, it took me out of my

What influences Richmond’s influencers

January 28, 2026

Cora Perkins, Assistant Spectrum Editor  Richmond is bustling with vibrant, southern colors, cobblestone walkways, life around every corner and economic development — and with that development comes influencers. Folks from around Virginia and the rest of the country are flocking to the river city to create content about its delicious dishes and historic neighborhoods. They are making blogs, vlogs, real estate businesses and … giving away tiramisu in public parks. At least, one person is — Alex Na, also known as the “free tiramisu guy.”  Na — a “DMV transplant” in his own words — moved to Richmond about half a year ago and did not know anyone in the area. “I just had to kind of find my own path around here,” Na said. Na started his sweet empire with a simple TikTok, in which he offered up his leftover tiramisu to anyone who could meet him at the park. Now he is holding pop-ups, fundraisers and events galore.  “People can find friends, and people can find a sense of belonging in Richmond,” Na said. For Na, in a political climate where life feels “hopeless” between the buzz of what is being broadcast on the news, it is a

Sports

Men’s basketball fights back against Loyola after a slow start, wins 89-75

January 31, 2026

Assistant Sports Editor, Alexis Washington VCU men’s basketball entered its matchup against Loyola Chicago with a four-game winning streak on Friday night at the Siegel Center. The Rams came off a big win against cross town rival the University of Richmond on Tuesday, following a road victory against Davidson College on Jan. 24. VCU won the tip-off but immediately turned the ball over and remained scoreless for four minutes. Loyola came in hot with third-year center Miles Rubin driving the ball to the basket.  The Ramblers offense became untouchable going on an 8-0 run, forcing VCU to go into a time out. Third-year forward Michael Belle put up the first points for the Rams with a free throw. The Ramblers responded with an alleyoop dunk from Rubin. Both teams played at a fast, aggressive pace, trading baskets throughout the stretch. Rams second-year guard Terrence Hill Jr. shot a deep three and Ramblers answered back with a three of their own from third-year guard Justin Moore. In an effort to put more points on the board, VCU found its rhythm. Belle sparked the run with a three pointer off a turnover at the ten-minute mark.  The momentum continued as VCU fourth-year

Women’s basketball gets much needed home win against Fordham 69-58

January 28, 2026

Ben Martindale, Staff Writer VCU women’s basketball took the Siegel Center Wednesday as Richmond defrosts after a winter storm. Despite the icy conditions outside, the stands were scattered with a dedicated group of faithful Ram fans. After the game, VCU head coach Beth O’Boyle took the time to thank the fans who showed up to support the team. “Thank you for coming out on this snowy, icy day to support us,” O’Boyle said. “It always means so much to our players and we really appreciate it.” Fordham University won the tip, but VCU showed its heart early — taking a charge and forcing a turnover on the first possession of the game. Almost three minutes into the game both teams remained scoreless as they attempted to find a way past the other squads defense. Second-year guard Cyriah Griffin got VCU on the board first, hitting a ball fake that would have made former NBA guard Rajon Rondo proud, before spinning and finishing the layup. Griffin has been good for VCU all season, but has really stepped her play lately, scoring in double figures in three of her last four appearances. Second-year forward Katarina Knežević scored her first points of the

Men’s basketball scrapes out win against Spiders in Capital City Classic

January 28, 2026

Tyrese Perkins, Contributing Writer While Richmond was frozen over, VCU faced its crosstown archrival, the University of Richmond Spiders at the Siegel Center Tuesday night, marking the 33rd matchup between the two programs. VCU now holds a 24-9 lead all time. VCU built off its three-game winning streak and recent on-the-road win against the Davidson College Wildcats on Jan. 24. VCU won the tip-off and second-year guard Brandon Jennings scored the opening bucket. It was followed by a dunk from third-year forward Lazar Djokovic — starting the game 4-0. However, Richmond’s fifth-year guard AJ Lopez responded with a top-of-the-key three-pointer, silencing the crowd. Capitalizing off of the Spiders’ missed shots, the Rams’ redshirt fourth-year guard Jadrian Tracey knocked down back-to-back three-pointers. VCU gained a 12-5 lead just three minutes into the opening half. Richmond quickly responded with a 6-0 run as it scored around the rim. VCU second-year guard Terrence Hill Jr. scored a 17-footer.  On the next possession, Djokovic stole the ball from Richmond third-year forward Jaden Daughtry, and in the fast break he passed it to Hill, who threw up an alley-oop to third-year guard Tyrell Ward. The Rams stayed in the lead throughout the half. Djokovic scored

SCOUTING REPORT: VCU men’s basketball vs. Loyola Chicago

January 28, 2026

VCU men’s basketball will take on Atlantic 10 opponent Loyola University Chicago at the Siegel Center on Jan. 30 at 9 p.m.  The CT sports staff chose their notable players for the matchup.  VCU Alexis Washington, Assistant Sports Editor Michael Belle — Belle is what you call a versatile two-way player. He can not only score in the paint, but also impact the game defensively, using his size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. Standing at 6-foot-8-inches, this third-year forward continues to prove why he should remain on the court. Belle helped lead the Rams to victory against St. Joseph’s University on Jan. 19, recording a career-high of 20 points, three steals and tied his best with two blocks. He has been with the Rams all of his collegiate career and improves each year. He averages 7.4 points and 4.5 rebounds this season. If Loyola wants to climb up the ladder in the A-10 rankings and win, it must make Belle work for every touch and shut off his scoring lanes.   Saanvi Vootla, Contributing Writer Lazar Djokovic — Djokovic has quietly emerged as one of VCU’s most reliable and impactful frontcourt pieces, making him a key player to watch in

JAN. 28 RECAP: How every VCU team did this week

January 28, 2026

Daniel Pointer, Contributing Writer Women’s basketball vs. George Washington University  Second-year guard Cyriah Griffin scored a career-high 18 points, helping to deliver the Rams a tight 63-60 win. Griffin’s offensive game continues to look sharper every week, as she went 8-12 from the field including two three-pointers. The Rams will look to build on that momentum going into their next two Atlantic-10 games.  Women’s track & field The women’s team effort was led by strong performances from new and familiar faces alike. On the track, first-year Aubree Harris placed first overall in the 60 meter hurdles, beating the runner-up by a mere two milliseconds. In field events, first-year Melissa Carigusi and redshirt third-year Desiree Akaolisa tied for third place in the weight throw, both with throws recorded at 18.14 meters. Carigusi competed in just her third meet since being recruited overseas from Italy. First-year Destiny Ese had an impressive debut in the triple jump, where she placed third in her first competition. Men’s track & field Young talent was the name of the game for the men’s team, as multiple first-years made waves with their performances. In the 60m hurdles, first-year Presten Augustin clocked a blazing 8.03s and placed third

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