Seattle Pacific University's Student Newspaper

The Falcon
Seattle Pacific University President Dr. Deana Porterfield smiles after her inauguration ceremony at the First Free Methodist Church on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, in Seattle.
Cutting back to come back
May 1, 2025
Portrait of Pope Francis by Conner DeCoursey in the lower lobby of Ashton Hall on April 23, 2025.
Mourning loss of historic Christian leader
April 25, 2025
Photo of Conner DeCoursey near Demaray Hall on April 23, 2025.
New majors raise concerns from students
April 17, 2025
Photo of The Barbell Brotherhood club founders Gideon Priest (far left), Emilio Tolomei (middle right), and Jack Wiebe (far right), and member William Davis (middle left) at the Royal Brougham Pavilion on Apr. 16, 2024 in Seattle.
A new club making waves
April 17, 2025
Skiers take the lift up to the peak at Whistler-Blackcomb on Nov. 30, 2024 in Whistler, BC, Canada.
Struggles getting to the slopes
April 10, 2025
A student grabs a pride scarf during an event on April 14, 2023, in Seattle.
Queer joy at SPU’s [Redacted] Fest
May 29, 2024
Dr. Kevin Neuhouser (left) points in support of a student speaker during a demonstration in Martin Square on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022, in Seattle. The demonstration was an announcement and commemoration of the lawsuit that students, faculty, and staff members brought against the Seattle Pacific University Board of Trustees.
SPU seems quiet after years of protest: why?
January 10, 2024
A pride flag can be seen next to a Seattle Pacific University Banner during a demonstration in Martin Square on Monday, Sept. 12, 2023 in Seattle. FILE PHOTO
First hearing for Seattle Pacific University V. Bob Ferguson
November 17, 2023
A flag in a window on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023.
End of the rainbow
September 27, 2023
End of Guillot v. Whitehead
End of Guillot v. Whitehead
July 31, 2023
Students Participate in a Genetics lab in Eaton Hall led by Dr. Tracie Delgado on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2023 in Seattle. FILE PHOTO
College continues after COVID-19
November 1, 2023
Students working early Friday morning in Dr. Cen's UFDN 1000 class on February 24th, 2023.
Reflecting on classes during COVID
March 1, 2023
Valerie masking as she heads for coffee. With illness on the rise, are more and more people masking again.
Recovery from the pandemic
January 18, 2023
COVID emergency no more
COVID emergency no more
October 26, 2022
A person checks in at the curative testing center at Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, Wash. Sept. 16, 2022.
Coronavirus in the new year
September 21, 2022
Clover at Shapadooah
SPU’s hit band is set to have an exciting summer
May 28, 2025
The Falcon’s Weekly Event Rundown (5/20 – 5/23)
The Falcon’s Weekly Event Rundown (5/20 – 5/23)
May 20, 2025
A poster advertising All Hall Ball
All Hall Ball closes out 2024-25 school year
May 15, 2025
Clover at a recent performance. The group will perform at Shapadooah.
Shapadooah: Sweet send-off
May 15, 2025
The Falcon’s Weekly Event Rundown (5/6 – 5/12)
The Falcon’s Weekly Event Rundown (5/6 – 5/12)
May 5, 2025
Future of SPU student government
Future of SPU student government
February 19, 2025
Jordan at Senate
Multiple public meetings detail plans for students experiencing cuts to their majors
December 10, 2024
President Deana Porterfield presents to Seattle Pacific University staff and faculty on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, in Seattle.
Fate of programs and faculty jobs uncertain as President Porterfield delivers speech to employees
November 22, 2024
Senior Justice Dean tosses a volleyball in Royal Brougham Pavilion's lower basketball court.
New look for intramurals
October 15, 2024
KSPU host Hadley Weathers queuing her favorite songs for her weekly segment "Hadley's Hard Day's Morning."
Tune in to be part of the excitement!
October 11, 2024
A steak Banh Mi from Curbside, photographed on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Seattle.
Long road to Curbside
May 1, 2025
Retreat Cafe's activated charcoal latte and Mayan bowl. (Gabrialla Cockerell)
Relaxed approach to mindful eating
May 4, 2022
Memos Mexican Restaurant, located in the University District, is a late night fast-food joint that offers a variety of burritos, tacos and other Mexican eats for a great price. (Gabrialla Cockerell)
Tacos for two
March 4, 2022
With a variety of creative tacos, including various vegan options, there is something for everyone at El Borracho. (Taylor VanLanduyt)
Plant-based flavor town
February 24, 2022
Tea Republik has a wide array of tea and pastry options for customers. (Taylor VanLanduyt)
More options than milk or sugar
February 18, 2022
Melanie Martinez performing on stage as her new character during the song 'Battle of the Larynx.'
Stepping through ‘Portals’ to new eras
June 19, 2023
Do the write thing
Do the write thing
June 2, 2023
Miguel Castellano on the floor, then L to R: Calder Shilling, Claire Marx, Kelly Karcher, and Tyler Matthew Campbell in Jeeves Takes a Bow at Taproot Theatre. Photo by Robert Wade. Miguel Castellano on the floor, then L to R: Calder Shilling, Claire Marx, Kelly Karcher, and Tyler Matthew Campbell in Jeeves Takes a Bow at Taproot Theatre.
Standing ovation for ‘Jeeves Takes a Bow’
June 2, 2023
Wednesday preforms at Neumos for a 21+ only concert.
Let us in!
May 26, 2023
People gather at Gas Works Park to enjoy the sun on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.
Adventure on every avenue
May 10, 2023
‘Folie à Deux’ falls flat
October 18, 2024
'The Primevals,' released 30 years after filming. (courtesy of SIFF)
When a yeti, alien and a grad student walk into a battle arena…
May 24, 2024
The Höss family in their lovingly tended garden nextdoor to Auschwitz in The Zone of Interest.
Happening in your own backyard
February 9, 2024
‘The Holdovers’ is Hollywood holiday magic
January 26, 2024
A large interactive poster advertising the opening night of Mean Girls at Regal Cinemas Meridian on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2023, in Seattle.
Making ‘Mean Girls’ fetch again
January 19, 2024
Professor Snedker teaching a 9 am Prisons and Corrections class in Demeray Hall.
Vocational journeys
May 26, 2023
Ava Van Jenson's promotional image for "Love is Blind" Season Four courtesy of Ava Van Jenson and Netflix.
Former SPU student finds way to reality television on Netflix’s ‘Love is Blind’
May 5, 2023
Candace Vance and Nathan Hedman in Black Coffee.
Accepting God’s call to theatre
February 24, 2023
Jesse Jorgensen
Adjusting to unknown worlds through travel
February 3, 2023
SPU student Cara Hiroyasu displays her jewelry business "All Things Utensils." (Gabrialla Cockerell)
Silverware is a student’s best friend
April 15, 2022
Crypto Catastrophe
Crypto Catastrophe
February 13, 2025
Tyranny of popular opinion
January 24, 2025
Unpromised tomorrow
January 24, 2025
Unhelpful, yet immovable
January 24, 2025
Free to use image from pexels.com
Controversial marketing at 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
November 15, 2024
Fresh start ahead for women’s volleyball
Fresh start ahead for women’s volleyball
May 28, 2025
Another visit to NCAAs
Another visit to NCAAs
May 28, 2025
Falcon duo finishes in top 10 at NCAAs
Falcon duo finishes in top 10 at NCAAs
May 27, 2025
Maya Ewing (left) hugs Annika Esvelt (right) during SPU's Senior Day celebration after the GNAC meet (Courtesy of SPU Athletics).
Esvelt, Ewing will race for national success in Colorado
May 22, 2025
Gold River once again
Gold River once again
May 21, 2025
Par for course
Par for course
April 16, 2025
Running up ranks
Running up ranks
April 9, 2025
Brains, brawn, bright future
Brains, brawn, bright future
March 5, 2025
Seattle Pacific Univeristy middle blocker Hannah Hair reacts after getting a kill during a match on September 23, 2023, in Seattle.
Change of a journey
December 3, 2024
Tacoma Defiance goalkeeper Lars Helleren looks on during a training session with the Seattle Sounders on Jan. 19, 2024 at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Wash. Helleren joined the Sounders organization after a five Seasons with the Falcons, Two with Ballard FC and a stint on Colorado Rapids II.
Pitch professional
May 14, 2024
Falcon duo finishes in top 10 at NCAAs
Falcon duo finishes in top 10 at NCAAs
May 27, 2025
Maya Ewing (left) hugs Annika Esvelt (right) during SPU's Senior Day celebration after the GNAC meet (Courtesy of SPU Athletics).
Esvelt, Ewing will race for national success in Colorado
May 22, 2025
Gold River once again
Gold River once again
May 21, 2025
Season Ends with Ws
Season Ends with Ws
May 14, 2025
The Seattle Pacific University rowing team cheers before taking the water for the Windermere Cup, Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Seattle.
Rough day on the water
May 7, 2025
(Last?) Lū-au
May 17, 2024
Courtesy of Seattle Pacific University Disabiliy Support Services
“You don’t notice it till you have to”
March 13, 2024
Seattle Pacific University forward Shaw Anderson (24) lays in the ball past a Northwest Nazarene player during the second half of a GNAC basketball game on Feb. 1, 2024, in Seattle.
Growing together, becoming more
February 29, 2024
Art and basketball
Art and basketball
February 6, 2024
Rae Perez speaks at a demonstration in front of Demaray Hall on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, in Seattle
Flags wave for Gaza at SPU
January 31, 2024
The Welcome Edition
The Welcome Edition
September 22, 2023
The Welcome Edition
The Welcome Edition
September 8, 2022
The Mind Edition
The Mind Edition
May 16, 2022
The Green Edition
The Green Edition
February 24, 2022
The Welcome Edition
The Welcome Edition
September 8, 2021
Naoshi Yonezawa is a third year majoring in Music Therapy
Creating a Home at SPU
March 1, 2024
Comfort and confidence after gender-affirming care
Comfort and confidence after gender-affirming care
November 15, 2023
Building connections through sports
Building connections through sports
November 14, 2023
Seattle's hidden gems
Seattle’s hidden gems
November 13, 2023
Rediscovering your roots after 18 years
Rediscovering your roots after 18 years
November 8, 2023
SPU's Season Recap with The Falcon
SPU’s Season Recap with The Falcon
September 14, 2023
Guantanamo Bay Exhibit - Opening Night
Guantanamo Bay Exhibit – Opening Night
November 21, 2022
Campus tradition returns: All Hall Ball is back
Campus tradition returns: All Hall Ball is back
May 24, 2022
Making the Mind Edition
Making the Mind Edition
May 8, 2022
A Day in the Life of a Student Athlete
A Day in the Life of a Student Athlete
April 25, 2022
Angela Ide has been the Opinions editor for The Falcon for the past year.
Farewell to The Falcon
March 11, 2021
Illustration by Mickey Flores-Nieves
Closeted life causing mental health concerns
February 25, 2021
Using the past, rewriting the future.
Excerpt of Spencer Vigil’s “Courage of Conviction”
February 20, 2021
Illustration by Gabrialla Cockerell
“Bimbo” is back
February 11, 2021
Illustration by Micky Flores-Nieves
Addressing the forgotten third-party
February 4, 2021
Seattle Pacific University's Student Newspaper

The Falcon
Seattle Pacific University's Student Newspaper

The Falcon
Rio Giancarlo

Rio Giancarlo, Editor-in-Chief

Rio is a senior visual communication major with a minor in journalism. After serving two years as the photo editor Rio was hired as editor-in-chief for his final year with The Falcon. An accomplished photojournalist Rio was accepted into the Eddie Adams XXXVII and does freelance photography for Getty Images, the AP, and other local outlets.  In his free time you can find him skiing, or wishing he was skiing. 

All content by Rio Giancarlo
Washington Huskies wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk (2) is defended by Arizona State Sun Devils defensive back Demetries Ford (4) as a pass from Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) falls incomplete during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, in Seattle. Washington won 15-7.

[Photo] Falcons to Dawgs

Callaghan Bluechel, Staff Writer
October 24, 2023
From left to right, Take Evans, Owen Moriarty, Jonas La Tour, Kyle Luttinen and Julian Mora huddle during a scrimmage against Bellevue College Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, in Seattle.

[Photo] Early season start

Uriah Aguon, Sports Editor
October 24, 2023
Professor Donna Isobel demonstrates a ballet technique during class in Royal Brougham Pavilion on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, in Seattle. Introduction to Ballet, taught by Professor Donna Isobel, is offered in the autumn and spring quarter and meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30-10:20 a.m.

[Photo] Beauty of ballet

Maya Ewing, Staff Writer
October 20, 2023
Fans stand for the The Star Spangled Banner before a volleyball match between the Central Washington Wildcats and the Seattle Pacific Falcons on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 in Seattle.

[Photo] Moving on from COVID culture

David Armour, Perspectives Editor
October 19, 2023
ASSP President Rayna Martin adresses senate members during ASSP Senate on Monday, Oct. 17, 2023 in the Ames Library.

[Photo] Working across university senate lines

Belle Privitera, Staff Writer
October 18, 2023
Janet Hauck (standing) facilitates an activity in the library classroom during library fest on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. The activity introduced students to the library databases so they can preform through research.

[Photo] ChatGPT at college questioned

Ella Beth Sessions, News Editor
October 18, 2023
OL Reign forward Megan Rapinoe (15) salutes the fans as she exits the pitch for one last time during the NWSL regular season at Lumen Field on Friday, Oct. 6, 2023, in Seattle. The OL Reign and Washington Spirit played to a scoreless draw in Rapinoe's last regular season home game before her retirement at the end of the season.

[Photo] Great player, great legacy

Callaghan Bluechel, Staff Writer
October 17, 2023
Assistant coach Luke Sandblom poses for a portrait during the Seattle Pacific Mens Soccer media day on Friday, Aug. 18, 2023.

[Photo] New coaches thrive

Sam Soltani, Staff Writer
October 17, 2023
Callaghan Buechel sits at a poker table at the spring First Friday Casino Night on Friday, March 31, 2023.

[Photo] Why I am not shy

Callaghan Bluechel, Staff Writer
September 21, 2023
Cameron Yriondo (center) waits for a pass during a training session at Interbay Stadium in Seattle, Wash., on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Starting with the reserves, Yriondo was able to work his way into the main squad scoring a goal against Olytown and playing a key role during the title run.

[Photo] Summer champions

Callaghan Bluechel, Staff Writer
September 19, 2023
Aubrey Rhoadarmer poses for a portrait with a Redbull on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023.

[Photo] Getting my wings

Aubrey Rhoadarmer, Editor-in-Chief
September 20, 2023
Seattle Pacific University midfielder Brady Fendrich (23) celebrates with forward Luis Zazueta (15) after scoring to against Antiguoko KE during the first half of a pre season soccer match on Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023, in San Sebastian, Spain. Seattle Pacific University won 2-0.

Falcons in Spain

Rio Giancarlo, Photo Editor
September 13, 2023
The new Seattle Pacific University Cross Country head coach Eric Hansen addresses his team on Wallace Field during their first practice of the 2023 Season on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023.

[Photo] Falcon athletics welcomes new staff

Uriah Aguon, Sports Editor
September 13, 2023
Martin Square is empty on the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, two days before students return to campus at Seattle Pacific University. With recent budget cuts many still wonder what campus life may look like this year.

[Photo] Budget cuts in motion

Ella Beth Sessions, News Editor
September 13, 2023
Students participate in an activity with their group at the 2023 Leadership Conference at Seattle Pacific University in Seattle, Wash., on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023.

[Photo] Quiet before the storm

Ella Beth Sessions, News Editor
September 13, 2023
Rio Giancarlo poses for a photo after an OL Reign game in 2022.

You do belong

Rio Giancarlo, Chief Photographer
May 25, 2023
42211603Rio

[Photo] Celebrating record stores’ biggest day

Emma Mathews, Staff Writer
April 28, 2023
SPU Womens Rowing head coach Caitlin McClain smiles after confirming a time during the Falcon Regatta on the ship canal on Saturday, April 1, 2023.

[Photo] A great coach is just a great coach

Emilia Bishop, staff writer
April 25, 2023
Solomon Wiltrell practices getting out of the blocks on Friday, March 17, 2023, the day before his first race back after being stabbed.

[Photo] Attitude of resilience

Callaghan Bluechel, staff writer
April 25, 2023
Colorado Rockies right fielder Kris Bryant (23) rounds third after hitting a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Colorado Rockies left fielder Jurickson Profar (29) heads to the dugout after warm-ups ahead of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford (3) throws to first during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners third baseman Eugenio Suarez (28) makes a throw to first during the first inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners left fielder Jarred Kelenic (10) hits a 2 run home run to center during the second inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners left fielder Jarred Kelenic (10) celebrates with Seattle Mariners first baseman Ty France (23) after hitting a home run during the second inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners left fielder Jarred Kelenic (10) fields a ball during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Tommy Milone (53) pitches during the third inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) runs to first after hitting a ball to center field during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) slides in to second base after hitting a RBI double during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners first baseman Ty France (23) hits a two RBI double during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford (3) high fives Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) in the dugout during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Austin Gomber (26) throws a pitch during the fourth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners third baseman Eugenio Suarez (28), Seattle Mariners first baseman Ty France (23) and Seattle Mariners first base coach Kristopher Negrón (45) meet at first base during a pitching change during a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Colorado Rockies designated hitter Charlie Blackmon (19) singles toto right field during the sixth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

From right to left Seattle Mariners catcher Tom Murphy (23), Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Trevor Gott (30) and Seattle Mariners first baseman Ty France (23) gather at the mound during a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Matt Brash (47) warms up before the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Colorado Rockies first baseman C.J. Cron (25) stares out onto the diamond during a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford (3) swings at the ball during the sixth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Paul Sewald (37) is checked for foreign substances before the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

[Photo] Ballpark falcons

April 18, 2023
Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Paul Sewald (37) throws a pitch during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners third baseman Eugenio Suarez (28) and Seattle Mariners first baseman Ty France (23) high five after a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Fans reach through the foul ball netting offering baseballs and cards for Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) to sign ahead of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Young fans open a gap in the foul ball netting and to try and get a signature from Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) ahead of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners right fielder Teoscar Hernandez (35) steps into the on deck circle ahead of his at bet during the third inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners right fielder Teoscar Hernandez (35) grabs spray adhesive for his bat during the third inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Seattle Mariners third base coach Manny Acta (14) watches the infield during the eighth inning of a baseball game Friday, April 14, 2023, in Seattle. The Mariners won 5-3.

Dr. Kevin Neuhouser washes the foot of Julia Flores during a foot washing ceremony at a day of silence demonstration outside of Demeray Hall on Friday, April 14, 2023.

[Photo] National Day of Silence - anything but silent

April 14, 2023
Students check in during orientation on September 9, 2023.

[Photo] Changes to orientation planning in motion

Antonio Nevarez, Staff Writer
April 12, 2023
Trace Evens (14) joined the falcons through the transfer portal earlier this year.

[Photo] College sports’ free agency

Emilia Bishop, staff writer
April 11, 2023
The Seattle Kraken skate to congratulate Seattle Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer (31) after an NHL hockey game Thursday, April 6, 2023, in Seattle. The Kraken won 4-2 clinching a playoff spot for the first time in franchise history.

[Photo] Coming back with a clinch

Uriah Aguon, staff writer
April 11, 2023
Reyna Martin, newly elected ASSP president, speaks at a September 11th demonstration in Martin Square protesting the hiring policies of the University.

[Photo] SPU senate election results

David Armour, Staff Writer
April 5, 2023
Freshman multi event specialist Hannah Chang throws the javelin, an outdoor only event, during the Ed Boitano Invitational at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington.

[Photo] Two seasons in one

Kyle Morrison, sports editor
April 4, 2023
Vanessa Aniteye crosses the finish line in a D2 leading 800 meter time of 2:08.74 at the UW invite on Jan. 27. 2023. That time would improve to 2:06.84 at the National Championships to win Aniteye a national title in the 800m.

[Photo] A fairy tale ending

Uriah Aguon, staff writer
March 16, 2023
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