When Violet P. ’27 learned that the Jamaica Under 20 Women’s National Lacrosse team was holding tryouts in January, she did not hesitate to sign up. Along with participating in the tryouts in Providence, Violet traveled to Washington, D.C., for a second round of selections. “A month later, I received the news that I was selected to be part of the team, and I was just really proud to have the opportunity to represent my grandmother's country of origin!” says Violet. “I am the youngest player on the team, and it is cool to be part of the team’s next generation. I get to play with teammates from all different life stages–some of whom are in college. It feels like a different world to me, and I am happy to play in a space where black women are represented.” Violet's first encounter with lacrosse in 7th grade was actually a surprise when her mother unexpectedly dropped her off at a Providence Youth Lacrosse practice. Although she hadn’t initially chosen to play the sport, she couldn't stop smiling after that first practice, which sparked a lasting passion for the game. You can read the full story on our website by clicking this link https://buff.ly/raipbfm. (fb)

We had a great time talking about Wheeler's Global Experiences Program on the latest episode of The This Week at Wheeler Podcast! Thanks to Global Experiences Program Coordinator Amy Bonnici P’26, P’28 for filling us in on the program's goals and recent destinations, which included a trip to Colombia that was focused on medicine, public health, and mental health, as well as a trip to Rome and Athens, where students explored the cities’ art, history, and culinary delights. Thanks as well to students Camila U. ’25 and Jasmine D. ’25 for telling us about their transformative experiences on the Colombia trip. You can listen to the podcast here: https://buff.ly/bcQ2Lqw. Our conversation with Ms. Bonnici, Camila, and Jasmine begins at 7:48. (fb)