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Articles by Lorraine Castaneda
Canvas goes down after Amazon shutdown nationwide
On Monday, Oct. 20, Amazon Web Services (AWS) experienced an outage that affected several services, including Canvas. The outage lasted from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m., involving teachers and students. According to the Associate Director of the Service Center, Krew Tran, the outage was caused by an issue with Amazon’s Domain Name System (DNS).
A romantic period with social media
In high school, I learned about the different periods of literature in Spanish, which I guess also applies to English literature. One that really caught my attention was the Romantic period. It was a time when everything was romanticized, but what stood out to me the most was how emotion was valued over reason. The movement celebrated imagination, emotion and intuition more than the logic and reason of the Enlightenment, making love a central theme for emotional expression (Britannica, 2019).
Students roast s'mores and trauma
Around 50 students gathered at Smith Hall’s fire pit on Sept. 9 for “Burn Your Trauma.” The CAPE (Campus Advocacy, Prevention, and Education) project peer educators invited students to roast s’mores, connect with CAPE peer educators and let go of their challenges by tossing written reflections into the fire.
COVID invades students' health
This past week, Director of Health and Wellness Andreea Baker reported an increase in cases of COVID-19 on campus. According to Nurse Jody Yank, over 50 cases have been reported since the start of the semester. The most common symptoms reported were sore throats, nasal congestion, body aches, fevers and nausea and vomiting. According to Yank, even off-campus commuters have reported cases. “We’re handling it well, we’re busy—one day I saw 37 people,” Yank said.
"Hamilton" character stands out on rewatch
Recently, I rewatched “Hamilton,” but this time I paid more attention to Eliza. The first time I watched it, I didn’t really pay attention to the theme; I just liked the songs. But this time, I really got to experience the whole story and understand it. Eliza has definitely become my favorite character in the whole musical. After she finds out Hamilton cheated on her, she sings “Burn.” I already loved that song, but understanding the context has now made me love it even more.
Heads up! TEZ hosts dodgeball tournament
On Aug. 28, Tau Sigma Zeta (TEZ) Fraternity hosted its second event of the year, a water balloon dodgeball tournament. It was held on Frees’ patio. Fraternity members hosted this event for the first time this year, and according to Roberto Cordova, a member of the fraternity, it will definitely be coming back in the spring.
ODK recognizes mentors who made an impact
On April 29, Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), the national leadership honor society on campus, hosted its annual Mentor Celebration, an event designed to highlight the importance of mentorship in the academic and personal journeys of student leaders at the university. Each spring, ODK members are invited to select one or two mentors who have played a significant role in their growth and development.
Missing my dog back home
Photos by Lorraine Castaneda | The Doane Owl Lorraine and her dog Ginger celebrate her 16th birthday with a cake and party with her dog friends. I miss my dog. My 16-year-old dog, Ginger, is unfortunately back at home. Usually when we’re getting close to finals or towards the end of the semester, I start missing home. But my dog? I miss her all the time. Every time I see a dog walking on campus or even Georgie, cuz he kind of looks like her, I remember Ginger.
STUCO recognizes leaders at Doane Student Leadership Awards
On Sunday, May 4, Perry Dining Hall held the 2025 Student Leadership Awards, celebrating the dedication, creativity, and service of Doane’s student body. President Roger Hughes opened the evening with a welcome that set the tone for an event “designed to recognize the countless ways our students lead, serve, and inspire,” President Hughes said.
Coffee Shop Series goes international
On Tuesday, April 22, the Student Programming Board (SPB) hosted a Coffee Shop Series event featuring a beaded bracelet-making night and a performance by flamenco guitar stylist, composer and teacher Daniel Martinez. Martinez, originally from Iquitos, Peru, is a renowned musician and instructor at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. He came to the United States at the age of 23, having already graduated from college in Peru with a degree in accounting. “I never majored in music.
Chicago trip makes break special for Palá
Each spring semester, Doane celebrates Easter by giving days off to students. This year, it was from Wednesday, April 16, to Sunday, April 20, giving students a pause on the academic calendar. Easter itself is one of the main religious festivities, commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This break not only honors a centuries‑old tradition but also provides an opportunity to rest before finals.
Don't wait to reach out to people you care about
They say you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone, but why is it that absence is what makes us appreciate the people we had? Recently, a childhood friend from back home passed away. It’s not like we spoke every day, but for several years, she was a part of my daily group of friends. Of course, life happens and we grow apart, but she was always present in my mind.
STUCO hosts another successful Stop Day
On April 10, Student Congress (STUCO) held the long-awaited Stop Day. There was a series of activities scheduled for students throughout the day. Events kicked off bright and early with STUCO members waking up students with air horns and speakers with loud music at 7 a.m., letting everyone know it was Stop Day. All meals were available in the dining hall on the usual weekday schedule.
Senior Brooklyn Mercurio opens exhibition in Rall Gallery
Photos by Elenna Koenig | The Doane Owl Students viewing Brooklyn Mercurio’s show, which features some of her art. Her senior capstone project was inspired by horror movies and teenage angst. It will be available from April 7 to April 25. On April 7, senior art major Brooklyn Mercurio held her senior capstone project exhibition reception in Rall Gallery.
A rant about Sex and the City's carrie
A couple of weeks ago, I finished watching “Sex and the City.” I also no longer have Netflix because my parents own the account and are over 3,000 miles away. So, due to boredom, I will be discussing why I really dislike Carrie Bradshaw. For some context, Carrie is the main character of the show. It is supposed to be about four friends: Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte, living in their 30s in New York City.
Students express concerns about availability of Lakeside products
Recently, students have noticed that the Lakeside Coffee shop often lacks many ingredients. Most students have early classes and choose Starbucks as an option for an on-the-go breakfast or for coffee, but are unable to get most things. “It is usually an option for breakfast when I have early classes, but it does not have a lot of stuff now,” sophomore Julio Ávila said.
Surprise performance by Zach Bryan on Stop Day
Note: This story is a joke created by Owl writers to celebrate April Fools’ Day. All individuals mentioned in the story have given their consent to appear. Country music sensation Zach Bryan is coming to Doane for a special performance. The chart-topping singer-songwriter will be making a surprise appearance as part of the Stop Day festivities.
Dine:09 hosts comedy show with multiple performers
On March 29, the Student Programming Board (SPB), Residence Life, and the Health and Wellness program collaborated to host a Dine:09 comedy showcase. The event was held at Lakeside, starting at 9 p.m. Attendees also enjoyed a meal featuring chicken strips and mashed potatoes. Six Omaha-based comedians were invited to perform, each receiving a designated time slot. The lineup featured Cameron Longsdon, a Nebraska comedian with over 2.5 million followers on social media.
A friendly reminder to be clean and shower
Some people smell horrible. Like, actually, I’ve had to endure standing next to some people that definitely haven’t showered for three weeks, AT LEAST. During the winter, tons of people would either not shower or shower at night, and I know this for a fact due to the dorm bathrooms being cleaner than ever. Now that it is getting warmer, the bathrooms are nasty again. I have a theory: the people who don’t shower are the ones who, when they do shower they absolutely destroy the bathroom.
Phi Sigs host grilled cheese night for students
On March 20, Phi Sigma Tau hosted a Grilled Cheese and Soup event in the basement of Brodie Hall from 7 to 9 p.m. Attendees had the option to enjoy a classic grilled cheese sandwich with a side of soup for just $5, or they could opt for just the sandwich for $3. For those who couldn’t make it to the event in person, a delivery option was available for an additional $2, bringing the comfort food straight to students’ doors.
Bad Bunny album evokes thoughts of home
On Jan. 5, Puerto Rican rapper Benito Martínez, better known by his stage name “Bad Bunny,” released his most recent album titled Debí tirar más fotos, or Dtmf (I Should’ve Taken More Pictures). Ever since, I’ve been listening to it nonstop. The whole album is amazing—it is probably one of my favorite albums, honestly. The main song of the album, which shares the album’s title, caught my attention.
Alpha Omega fraternity hosts late-night pancake breakfast
The men of Alpha Omega Fraternity hosted a late-night breakfast. The event took place on March 5, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Brodie Hall Kitchen. Students and faculty were encouraged to stop by and enjoy a hearty meal, with the fraternity offering an $8.00 pancake plate that includes three pancakes, two eggs, and two pieces of bacon. Guests could also add chocolate chips to their pancakes at no extra cost. A variety of beverages were also available for just $1.00 more.
Home will always feel like home
Lorraine shares her experience returning home to Panama At the beginning of last semester, I was homesick most of the time. Every time I noticed something different from what I expected in the U.S. like the high costs of food, the cultural differences, etc. I would think: “If I were home, this wouldn’t be this way.” “This would be easier if I were home.” But at the same time, I was scared that nothing would be the same when I got back.
Doane prepares students for AI use
As artificial intelligence (AI) tools become more accessible, Doane University students and faculty are grappling with how to use them ethically and effectively in academics and beyond. Today, AI can be applied across nearly every subject, raising questions about its role in education. Writing Center Director and English professor Jeremy Caldwell, along with Programming and Cyber Security instructor Alec Engebretson, is currently teaching a class on AI.
Peephole thief ransacks doors
On Feb. 9, a total of 45 peepholes were stolen from three campus buildings, with 39 of them taken from Sheldon Hall with some taken from Frees Hall as well. The incidents were first reported in the morning, but as community advisors (CAs) began checking other buildings, they discovered the thefts had occurred across multiple locations. The individual(s) responsible for the vandalism have not yet been identified. Since the removal of peepholes violates the Crete Student Handbook (Sec.
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Student director starts filming
“It’s a big story about friendship, mental health, and the importance of both self-care and caring for others,” said senior Gavin Strauss about his upcoming film project. Strauss is the writer and director of the film, which is set to begin production in February and wrap by mid-to-late March 2025. Strauss is a senior majoring in Media Communications with a double minor in film production and graphic design at Doane University. This upcoming film is his senior capstone project.
Glow Casino gets glowing review
On Jan. 24 the Student Programming Board (SPB) presented a Glow Casino Night in Arts & Ed 236/238. Kicking off at 9 p.m. sharp, the event featured over $1,500 in prizes including TVs, speakers and AirPods. The event consisted of over 10 casino and Minute-To-Win-It games. Throughout the night, students got to enjoy free snacks and refreshments with glowing decorations. The Casino night is an annual event hosted by SPB.
Red Zone Awareness Day: Sparking Dialogue and Advocacy on Campus
Last week, Greek Council hosted “Red Zone Awareness.” The “Red Zone” is the period between the start of the academic year and Thanksgiving break — a time when students are at the highest risk for sexual assault. Inspired by the urgency of this issue, a member of the Greek Council collaborated with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) division to host the Red Zone Awareness Day aimed at educating and empowering students.
The Wildwoods come to Doane
On Nov. 12, the Student Programming Board (SPB) hosted “Painting with a Twist”, a night full of painting and music. Starting at 7:00 p.m. at Lakeside, the students gathered to pick tote bags and paint them. The event even included a performance by Wildwoods. Painting with a twist has been a recurring event throughout the years, but this year, tote bags were the main activity.
Pets make your life much better
Imagine coming home after a long, stressful day and being greeted by a wagging tail or a comforting purr. The relationships humans share with their pets go beyond just companionship. For many, pets are sources of comfort, joy, and loyalty, playing a crucial role in mental health. Studies show that companion animals can reduce depression and loneliness, especially in isolated environments.
DEI team welcomes new member
On Oct. 7 the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team welcomed a new member, Suzanne Mealer. Mealer will be the new equity Compliance Officer for Title IX, and her office will be located on the lower level of Perry Campus center. Mealer has held several roles within healthcare and community service throughout her career. Her main focus has been on improving the accommodations and inclusion for the underrepresented communities.
Honors recital showcases talents
On Oct. 22, the Doane University Music Department held its annual Honors Recital at 7:00 p.m. in Heckman Auditorium, highlighting the hard work and skill of the participating music students across various performing arts groups. This event celebrated the students’ achievements and showcased the depth of talent within the department.
STUCO places focus on future events
The latest Student Congress (STUCO) meetings were held on Sept. 25 and Oct. 2 in the Perry Board Room. STUCO members have been dedicated to resolving cafeteria concerns and planning for future activities such as Stop Day, Student Appreciation Dinner or SAD, a possible student Reserve account and even activities for election week. Regarding the various concerns, STUCO’s committees have addressed the issues.
City vs. country living
Would you rather live in the city or the country? Is living in the city a convenient or an unhealthy lifestyle? What really makes the city better than the country, or what makes the country better than the city? “Living comfortably means being able to cover basic needs and afford extras without straining your budget,” according to an article by U.S. News.
Stuco minutes: new caf and den
On Sept. 18, the Student Congress held a meeting in Perry’s boardroom to address student concerns, provide campus updates and continue discussions from the previous week’s meeting. The meeting began at 7:30 p.m., concluding at 8:18 p.m. The meeting opened on a note of gratitude, with the Student Congress extending heartfelt thanks to several campus organizations for their recent contributions to student life.
STUCO voices student concerns
On Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m., Student Congress held their latest meeting about diverse topics regarding student well-being. The meeting was held in Perry’s board room, focusing on several key issues, including a request for funding, dining services improvements and future initiatives to enhance campus life. The Student Congress consists of three main committees: the Outreach Committee, the Programming Committee and the Food Committee.
Student Wellness holds health fair
On Sept. 10, Student Wellness held a wellness fair for Doane students. The fair was held in the Perry Campus Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All on-campus health resources as well as off-campus services were available to students. Family Health Services, Nebraska AIDS Project, Crete Area Medical Center, Omega Chiropractic, Precision Dental, Crete Family Dental and Hope Crisis Center were all a part of the fair. There were 13 vendors present for the fair as well as about 50 students.
Moderation key to video game habit
Video games can be defined as an interactive form of digital entertainment played on various devices like computers, consoles or cellphones. The story begins way back in the 1940s when Alan Turing invented an AI-informed chess game, according to an article by Concept Ventures. Since then, video games have become increasingly popular, especially in recent years. They are not only a form of entertainment but also a means of communication.
Women's Soccer gains a victory
On Sept. 7, the Doane women’s soccer team earned a well-deserved victory of 5-0 against McPherson College. Doane had a strong offensive showing with clear improvements in passing, communication and scoring while also playing cohesive team defense that prevented McPherson from gaining possessions. Going into the match, the Tigers’ main objective was to maintain possession of the ball while constantly pressuring the opponent’s defense and scoring as many goals as possible.
Doane's Europe expedition - Doaneline
Recently, it was announced that a group of Doane students will be visiting Europe next May. This project offers students an opportunity to learn about other cultures and places outside the classroom. They’ll get to explore and experience a completely different part of the world. Some of the goals of trips like this are to learn about different lifestyles, customs and the people who live within them, as well as to allow students to compare their own culture with what they experience abroad.
Virtual IDs advancing residence halls
As part of Doane’s effort to improve the residence halls, automatic locks are being installed in every dorm. Hansen has already seen the benefits of said improvements and Frees and Sheldon are currently in the process of this change. According to Hansen Hall residents, who have been living with these advancements this semester, it is definitely an upgrade. Now that all the suites have their own NFC IDs, it is not necessary to carry a key around.
Panama being the place to be
I am a Panamanian international student, and ever since I arrived at Doane, which has been a great experience, I can’t help but notice that many people genuinely don’t know where Panama is or much about it other than the name and the fact that it is a country. I believe Panama has a lot to offer, even though it’s a small place. Many people tend to overlook it because of its size, but Panama is actually one of the most developed countries in Latin America.
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