By Daniel Marlow, Jennie Scala

BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA (April 11, 2025)

This year’s Ladies First A cappella group comes to a close as the seniors say goodbye in their spring show at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater in downtown Bloomington. At the same time, the underclassmen look for new members and upcoming songs to play for performances to come.

In their most recent show, they took the stage to loud cheers and applause from the fans in the stands who had flowers and other gifts in hand, prepared to see their loved ones and congratulate them on a job well done.

Seniors Katie Gits, Leah Mani, and Katy Reilly are about to take stage for their last show in their college careers with Indiana University’s ladies only a capella group. They told me they weren’t nervous since they had done this so many times throughout their careers.

Ladies First has been around for 26 years, dating back to the 1990s. They have been performing at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater since then and even made a trip to the 2012 Super Bowl with Madonna and CeeLo Green. “In the past four years, Ladies First has really grown and evolved musically,” said Business Director Leah Mani. “There is so much growth in the technicality of their arrangements, Ladies First has hit their peak right now.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

The growth she mentions is huge for her success in the upcoming release of their newest album: “This new album is different sonically from our previous albums and have grown so much from In Full Bloom.”

An acapella group is more than just about singing; there is so much more that goes into making it work to perfection, like time management, working in a group, and finding out how to blend with each other.

“It has defined our college experience, my friendships, and my roommates, and a sisterhood,” said Leah Mani. This community for Leah and other girls within this group has found their community and lifelong friendships that will last a lifetime.

For Leah Mani, the a capella group was also another way for her to advance her career. As the business director, she learned how to manage money, book venues, and budget to help with her advancements in Indiana University Kelley School of Business and the real world.

 

 

 

For her senior solo, she chose the song “Erase Me” by Lizzy McAlpine and has had this song chosen since her sophomore year when she started thinking about it

Ladies First rehearses 3 times a week, equaling about 10-11 hours of rehearsal time to prepare for their next show. Katie Gits was chosen to be the music director by the last music director instead of being elected so it meant something a little different to her and she couldn’t say no.

Katie and Leah both mentioned how much the group has transformed from their origins in the 1990s, and this year especially, “Their arrangements have gotten harder because of the type of group they are, and they have a member that is in Indiana University Jacobs School of Music who can put the arrangements together.”

Katie tries to partner newer members with older members to create a mentorship within the program and lead them through the breakout rehearsals.

 

 

 

 

Katie Gits joined the group as a quiet person with more of her focus on school and trying to do a much as she could and then realized how much of a future she has within the program and how it can also help her in her career by showing what she can be as a leader.

Katie Gits when talking about the group mentions “Because it’s a small group you automatically become best friends.” She also mentions, “It’s going to be hard to say goodbye to them because we spend so much time and do so many things together, and I’m going to miss the little moments.”

Katie Gits talked about “how she is going to miss the little things they did like their food trips and study sessions because that’s when they had the most fun with no responsibilities to worry about.”

 

Seniors Katie Gits and Leah Mani share their experiences from the last four years of being with Ladies First

More  Than Music

Media Contacts
Jordan Porter
Taylor Gibson
Declan  Mcmahon

BLOOMINGTON, Indiana (Apr. 3, 2025) — Jadon Perkins is a 22 year old senior at Indiana University studying Liberal Arts and Music Performance. Since his early childhood, he has grown a massive love not just for music but actually getting up on stage and performing as well. 

Music has been a massive part of Jadon’s life, stemming from Wes Montgomery.  John Leslie Montgomery, nicknamed “Wes”, was an American jazz guitarist born in the great state of Indiana. He had a very unique way of playing the guitar and performance due to the way he plucked the strings with the side of his thumb as well as the wide range of his singing voice. Unfortunately, Wes passed away in 1968. However, his legacy lives on through performers just like Jadon. Jadon grew up surrounded by music because of people in his life, like his uncle, that shared the joy of music with him. When reflecting on him, Jadon shared that his uncle taught him “that you can live off of music, you don’t have to have a [traditional] job if you don’t want to, it’s possible to live off music.” Having this belief instilled into Jadon at such a young age gave him the confidence and guidance that he needed to follow his dream and choose his true path in life. 

As early as third and fourth grade, Jadon talked about performing at talent shows and in the choir. In choir, he was given solos that motivated him to shine brighter and brighter on stage. These opportunities planted a seed that grew into the love of performance that Jadon continues to nourish today. Jadon tells a story about when he was ten years old and performed at Lucas Oil Stadium for a preseason game played by the Indianapolis Colts against the Green Bay Packers. Jadon recalls the day by saying “it was my first time really on the big stage, so… I was about 10, 11 years old? I was scared because everyone was saying come on up, but I didn’t want to. However, I went up there and sang.” He then talks about how after that one performance, he knew he was hooked. His life’s purpose is to sing for people and share with them intense emotions and unforgettable experiences. Seeing that look and joy in people’s eyes is so rewarding for Jadon but also performing is a way for Jadon to be “his truest form of himself.” Jadon when talking shows his empathetic side as well for performance because nobody knows what people are going through. It is because of this that he wants to give his best performance every time. Jadon is able to to ensure that he is remembered for not only his performance but his message as well. 

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, we attended one of Jadon’s performances as a member of the IU soul revue for the Lincoln Jazz Orchestra. The IU soul revue is the only ensemble that you can receive college credit. This ensemble was built for the purpose of preserving black music. The performance absolutely blew us away, Jordan and the rest of the performers were incredible. They created a very unique and entertaining sound and everyone in the audience was loving it. When we asked Jordan how it feels to perform, he briefly talked about how he almost blacks out and lets the music and performance take over so not even he knows what type of dance moves he will use. He draws from performers like Bruno Mars and talks about how one day he wants to be as big as him. Seeing the joy and overwhelming emotion that Jadon displayed throughout this performance really brings it all together to how music and performance are so much bigger than simply attending an event. It’s about the stories, the passion, the message and so many more special ingredients that go into it. 

Jadon Perkins recounts on the significance of music and performance to him. Luther Allison, a musician that attended the performance, shares his thoughts on hard work as a performer.

Jadon Perkins, the 22 year old student from IU, don’t be surprised if you hear this name again performing at a stadium just like his inspiration Bruno mars, or leaving a massive cultural impact just like Wes Montgomery. One thing is for certain this Indiana native is destined for big things.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Exploring Indiana University Women’s Club Volleyball: Madi Graves and Lally Coleman Share Team Insights

Media Contacts
Olivia Weiss
Jordan Shane
Archie Messinger

BLOOMINGTON, Indiana (March 28, 2025) — Shining through the suffocating heat of the gym is the sound of volleyballs slapping off hands and the overall intensity that resonates in every corner. The sounds dominate the gym as players like Madi Graves and Lally Coleman move through every serve, their focus unwavering. In front of us, the view isn’t just practice—it’s where camaraderie and competition merge into a powerful force.

There was not a single second where you couldn’t hear a volleyball slap off a hand or hit the floor. Not a single moment when the obnoxious yellow of the gym wasn’t screaming in your eyes. Every serve mattered as Madi and Lally demonstrated leadership skills, setting an example for the less experienced players.

The Women’s Club Volleyball team at IU offers a unique balance of competition and social connection. It allows students to compete while maintaining a flexible schedule. The team is perfect for students looking for a rewarding university experience since it lets members create close bonds with only two weekly practices and three tournaments each semester.

That does not mean these athletes aren’t on their A game, however.

Madi Graves, one of the most experienced players, brings a wealth of knowledge to the court.

Madi’s parents played volleyball in high school, and her brothers play at the University of Pepperdine in Malibu. Her journey began in 7th grade when she played recreationally and gradually began toward competitive play in high school and club volleyball. “Volleyball just means a lot to my family; it always has.” She stated.

The practice felt like it ended as quickly as it sprung. The team only had two huddles and spent the whole time running through their maneuvers. Madi’s background in the sport, combined with the unique flexibility of the club team, makes it the perfect fit for her. “If it’s something you want to be a part of, it’s not something that requires complete dedication.” Madi notes. “It’s very lowkey.”

The key to the team’s success is the structure of the association. “When I decided to come to a big school and not pursue a Divison 1 career in athletics I wanted to just maybe tryout for the club volleyball team and just meet a couple new people…” Madi explains. “The number one benefit for me has been the people I’ve met. I met three of my closest friends through this team.”

While Mally’s journey was a smooth offshoot from her history in the sport, Lally Coleman found her own path through unexpected plans.

For Lally Coleman, a sophomore from Chicago, honing her volleyball skills has meant less to her than building the friendships that she has with the team. Initially, Lally was not too interested in trying out. “I was convinced to go try out just a couple of hours before I actually went to the gym, and I hadn’t touched a volleyball in a year,” she smiles. “I thought it would be a fun night of just getting some reps in after not playing for a while, but I ended up making the team—and I’m so grateful for all of the friendships that I made in the past two years.”

The friendships she’s formed have been the highlight of her experience. “It’s been such a great vibe.”

“I think Indiana has put in a great system to support the club teams,” Lally says. “I think we’re in the top 5 of all the club teams, so we get to pick a good early gym time and we get a decent budget.”

Outside of practice, the team hosts events like hotroom yoga and food pantry service, raising awareness for IU’s club sports.

Lally is grateful for the tools and assistance IU offers its club teams. “We compete for allocation points every semester.” The club also takes part in other service activities that promote support and fundraising for its initiatives.

The team is now preparing for the ultimate challenge: nationals in Phoenix, which explains the quick and intense practice session. “I’m so excited to compete at nationals with the team. We’re traveling with the men’s team, too, and we’re hoping to get some wins this year,” says Lally. Though the team didn’t travel to nationals last year, they are ready to face tougher competition and build on their momentum.

For Madi and Lally, the Women’s Club Volleyball team has been more than just an athletic outlet. It is an avenue for one’s passion to be shared amongst friends. As Madi reflects, “Such a unique opportunity that I wouldn’t have a chance to have if I didn’t try out that one day.”

Madi and Lally talk in depth about their experience on the Women’s Club Volleyball Team.

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Sidelines & Study Guides: How IU Cheerleaders Make It Work

By:
Ava Thompson
Ava Lavigna
Dash Glasberg

BLOOMINGTON, IN (April 3, 2025).

The All-Girl Indiana University Cheerleading team is more than just a high energy presence on the sidelines. They’re dedicated student athletes who balance busy academic schedules with the physical and mental demands of their sport. With intense training, travel commitments, and the pressure to perform at the highest level, these young women demonstrate the discipline, teamwork, and resilience that defines true athletes. Their story shines a light on what it really means to wear an IU uniform,  not just in the stadium, but in the classroom and beyond. The All-Girl team has 36 athletes who have built a legacy of excellence both on and off the mat. They compete at the UCA College Nationals held every January in Orlando, Florida. The team has claimed six national championships; a demonstration to their dedication, skill, and relentless drive to succeed. Each year, they train for months leading up to this competition, proudly representing Indiana University on a national stage and continuing to raise the bar for college cheerleading.

Balancing school and cheerleading is no easy task, but the members of the All-Girl team have learned how to manage it all with discipline. They have practices, workouts, games, and competitions filling their schedules, staying on top of academics takes serious planning. The team practices three times a week, lifts twice a week, and regularly cheers at both football and basketball games,  all while juggling full course loads. And when most students are relaxing during Thanksgiving and winter break, these athletes are training harder than ever, practicing twice a day, every day, to prepare for nationals. Sam, a fifth year on the team, shared her strategy for success: “Do your assignments as soon as you get them. Make a list at the beginning of every week outlining all of your practices and all your work assignments.” Her advice reflects the mindset of the entire squad; staying organized, being proactive, and making sure their responsibilities as students are never overlooked, no matter how busy the season gets.

Despite their demanding schedules, the All-Girl team continues to excel academically, proving that they’re just as committed in the classroom as they are on the mat. The program boasts an impressive average GPA of 3.3, with nine athletes earning a perfect 4.0, a true reflection of their hard work and determination. The team is made up of students pursuing challenging majors, including many in the Kelley School of Business, the School of Nursing, the Media School, and the School of Education. Their ability to balance their academic paths with the physical and time demands of cheerleading showcases the dedication and resilience that defines them not just as athletes, but as outstanding students.

While the All-Girl team finds success both athletically and academically, it doesn’t come without its challenges. One of the biggest struggles for these cheerleaders is time management. Trying to balance classes, practices, workouts, games, and a social life can be overwhelming. Addisyn, an incoming freshman shared her experience: “My biggest struggle is definitely time management. There’s a lot that goes into it to make yourself the best you can be out there for your sport and school.” Learning how to stay ahead of deadlines, prioritize rest, and maintaining a healthy routine is an ongoing process for many cheerleaders, especially as they adjust to the demands of college life and a competitive cheer program. Still, their commitment to both sides of the student athlete experience helps them push through the tough moments and continue to strive for excellence.

Outside of cheer and school, the All-Girl team is like a family, especially for those who are from out of state. With all the time spent together at football and basketball games, traveling for games and competitions, and hanging out outside of practice, they form amazing friendships outside of their sport. The shared experiences and support they offer each other create a sense of community, making IU feel more like home for those far from their families.

As the school year comes to an end, the cheerleaders begin preparing for one of the most important moments of the season, tryouts for next year’s team. Even returning members must earn their spot again, which means putting in extra work. Many attend the IU cheer clinics, go in to stunt outside of practices, and staying involved in the cheer community to maintain a strong presence. It’s all about showing dedication, improvement, and the right attitude to make a lasting impression during tryouts.

https://youtu.be/HfXEJlNnoGk

By Gracie Helfrich, Makenna King and Sayje Jaffe 

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (April 3, 2025).

Indiana University constantly sees thousands of students make their way through undergrad tracks. Students enroll, take classes, switch majors, find internships, and graduate (sooner or later). Indiana University sees this pattern time and time again. It is more than common. 

Contrary to this pattern, something less than common can be found within Freshman Matt Trzaskus; that something is passion. “My passion for performance started when I was really young. I really liked Star Wars and I wanted to be a Jedi. And I figured out very quickly that Jedi aren’t real, but actors are.” Trzaskus said.

This passion for performance is also seen in Freshman Jaxon Brown. Brown is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree of fine arts, focusing in cinematic arts at Indiana University. Yet, Brown’s passion for performance has faced obstacles. 

“I definitely prefer performing, but I don’t really give many chances to. So, I’m like behind the scenes.” Brown said. He hopes to have more opportunities in the future.

This interest in performance is something Brown also discovered at a young age, similar to Trzaskus. “I think 13 [years old] was the first time that I watched a film where I was like, I want to do that.” Brown said. The film discussed here was Back to the Future. 

Yet, Trzaskus discovered his love for theater at an even younger age. He recalls third grade to be the year where his interest began, encouraging him to join school-lead theatre groups. He states, “I started really doing it [theater] in middle school and I’m still doing it [theater], which is kind of surprising to me, but it’s just as exciting.” 

Trzaskus is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree of arts focusing in theater drama and english at Indiana University. He is a member of Boy in the Bubble Comedy Group, who most recently produced the show Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind; additionally, Trzaskus is currently performing in a production of Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegrut. 

As he pursues a double major while simultaneously devoting himself to multiple productions at once, time management has become an ongoing struggle. “It is a constant uphill battle with time,” said Trzaskus. 

“I’ll really admit I undertake a lot of things because like my mom told me that if you always say yes, you won’t ever miss an opportunity,” explained Trzaskus, “However, I’ve learned very quickly that eventually you do have to start saying no.” 

This endeavor with time management is a hardship that not only Trzaskus has faced in his pursuit of theater education, but it is also something Brown experiences, where, “I think there are little moments when I release something [film] and I’m like, ‘oh, this is great.’ But then it’s like, for me, it’s immediately on to the next. So, I don’t really sit in it that often. So I guess it’s like the little moments of doing so,” said Brown. 

This struggle is something that Trzaskus has met with motivation found in theater itself. “It’s [theater] a huge time commitment. You’re like at the end of your you’re like, I’m done. Like I maybe never want to do a show again. And then everyone walks out to you and tells you what the show meant to them or what this work you’ve created; I write as well, what it meant to them and if it made them feel something, whether that was ‘Oh my gosh, that was so funny’ or ‘Oh my gosh, you made me cry’ or ‘That was shocking’”, said Trzaskus, “Like the rawness of human reaction is something that only arts can, like, pull out in the way that they do. And each time you get that experience, whether it’s someone laughing at your joke or crying at your line delivery, it’s like for me, it’s like addicting.” 

Brown finds his motivation through career aspirations. “I want to make it [performance] a career.” Brown said.

In conjunction with finding motivation through career aspirations, Brown also finds motivation within those who inspire him. Brown is inspired by musician, artist and comedian, Donald Glover. 

“He [Donald Glover] does whatever he wants, really. And I want to be able to do that creatively and still make money, you know.” Brown said.

Both Trzaskus and Brown are students who stand out within the pattern of students who enroll, take classes, switch majors, find internships, and graduate (sooner or later). They stand out because of their passion for performance, and their constant diligence.

Matt Trzaskus guides viewers through his  theater journey to showcase the dedication it takes for success. He acts in the play, “Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind”, and hopes to share his talent with the world. 

By: Mary Majeski, Brendan Brown and Jack Reilly

BLOOMINGTON, IN (April. 3, 2025)- There is more to the Indiana Women’s Club Lacrosse team than just winning games or scoring goals on the field. It’s all about the community that these close-knit athletes have created, and the amount of support on and off the field they show each other. The group thrives on a supportive environment where players support one another and celebrate every accomplishment. No matter how small, from team workouts to tournament road trips and making memories they are there for each other. The IU Women’s Club Lacrosse team has created an atmosphere that goes far beyond the game itself through respect, hard work, and a shared passion for lacrosse, which shows how being a part of a team is more than just winning. 

“The lacrosse team has just been an unbelievably welcoming place” says sophomore player Ella Duvdevani. “Since the moment I joined the team, every single girl whether they were trying out or were already on the team wanted to talk to you, wanted to get to know you, and everyone was genuinely interested in your story and about your life.”

For many players the Indiana Women’s Club lacrosse team has been  a second family, an escape from everyday challenges and a high school sport that continues to be loved years later. continuum of the sport they loved playing in high school. No matter what level skills one has, the team welcomes them with open arms. Sophomore player Leena Campagna stated, “I remember being a scared little freshman walking to tryouts from my dorm, and I remember seeing the field and being so intimidated because I saw older girls. Looking back on it now, it was extremely hilarious that I was even scared in the first place because those seniors are nothing short of amazing girls that are always welcoming and caring ever since the first time I stepped foot on the field.”

 

The culture of the team is based on that sense of togetherness. The upperclassmen take pride in bringing  new players under their wing in order to create an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of skill level, has a role on the team .

The Indiana Women’s Club Lacrosse Team harps on  the importance of having fun while still maintaining a competitive edge. Energy-filled practices and tournament road trips turn into great  memories for players on and off the field. Through the relationships created on the team players are finding themselves growing as people. Ella Duvdevani stated “I love all the friendships I have made and just learned a lot more about myself and learned how to manage my time when being on a team because you really need to be there for them, and they also rely on you to show you and show out.” 

“I also learned a lot of resilience and it has taught me a lot about myself personally. Growing up and having them through college as an escape from real life. I can go, play, have fun and have a great time and leave worries behind.”

The team provides many players with an opportunity to escape everyday stress and obligations.  Around their teammates they are able to decompress and concentrate on what they love. Players gain life skills like time management, teamwork, and perseverance in addition to their on-field abilities through the gift of  enjoyment and commitment that this game offers. 

Beyond the game, the team’s bonds provide a solid support network that supports  athletes in overcoming college obstacles.

Leena Campagna touches upon these obstacles more in her interview. She stated “We do not get the best time slot, and this past winter I was practicing until eleven thirty at night and wouldn’t get home until midnight.” The duality of being an athlete in college is truly shown through these girls as their athletics have them balancing their coursework, social wellbeing and personal well being. The team manages to work together despite their hectic schedules, supporting one another on and off the field.

The Indiana Women’s Club Lacrosse team is committed to creating a friendly atmosphere where players may succeed on and off the field as it grows in the next few years. The team demonstrates that lacrosse is more than just a game—it’s a family—through work, perseverance, and camaraderie. Teammates, Ella Duvdevani and Leena Campagna, embody what it means to be more than just athletes, as are the other members of the IU Women’s Club Lacrosse team. They are friends, leaders, and students who help each other through every setback and victory. Their commitment to the game and to one another has created a culture that goes well beyond the lacrosse field. The team’s foundation of inclusivity, resiliency, and unwavering  support is growing along with it, which is evidence of the strength of collaboration and the relationships that result from it.