By: Caroline Herbert, Will Frank, and Zain Omar, arts and culture reporters
This podcast discusses the recent “Just Stop Oil” protest in London at a performance of The Tempest. We then discussed the implications and consequences of art based protest and spoke with David Gammons, Assistant Professor of Directing, on his thoughts regarding protesting in the theater.
Julia Lagano, Wilbert Ramirez Garcia, Nyles Stone – Politics
Since President Trump’s return to office, a lot has happened affecting the U.S. both national and internationally. With trade wars on the rise and the administration at odds with higher education and D.E.I., this digest analyzes Trump’s first 100 days in office.
By Elizabeth Ann Miller, Evvy Fite and Madi Poole, health & wellness reporters.
Recently, on The Newsfeed podcast, we discussed the differences in diet within the U.S compared to other countries around the world. From the ingredients used in the food to the outside of food factors that we see worldwide, and the effects this may have on people and their daily lives. The group speaks on personal experience in and out of the country and knowledge learned from a Virginia Tech professor, Sean O’Keefe, from Canada.
By Sophia Gerni, Bethany Lenhardt, Bianca Campoverde, crime, safety, and justice reporters
In the 21st century, technology has advanced faster than ever before with the advent of the internet. Recently, AI has bared its teeth with unprecedented safety concerns, including with minors.
By Julia Lagano, Nyles Stone, and Wilbert Ramirez, Politics Reporters
The Newsfeed politics team reached out to and interviews Tristan Reeves, a senior and student activist at Virginia Tech, about his recent role at a march protesting the board of visitor’s decision to dissolve DEI at the University. Tristan offers insight into what the board’s decision means for the future of students at Virginia Tech.
By Evvy Fite, Elizabeth Ann Miller and Madi Poole, health & wellness reporters.
Recently in the United States there has been a movement to ban artificial food colorings, in particular Red 40. Following the January 2025 ban on Red Dye No. 3 from food and ingested drugs, people have been speculating on whether more food dye bans are on the horizon. Sean O’Keefe, a Virginia Tech professor in the Food Science & Technology department, shared his thoughts on the bans and the health implications of food coloring.
By: Kyndall Hanson, Elizabeth Hill, & Janae Neely – education reporters
Many rural school districts utilize federal funding to support initiatives and resources to support underserved and low-income student populations. Recent federal actions have called for the closure of the Department of Education, reducing the staffing of the department and its role in supporting public education on the national level. Charles Lowery, associate professor of educational leadership in the School of Education at Virginia Tech, discusses the potential impact of the closure on local schools, students, and educators.
By Evan Hull, Alana Powell, and Gracie Gosier – environment, climate, and sustainability reporters
In Floyd, a growing company continues to innovate specially produced charcoal with extensive environmental benefits. SWVA BioChar manufactures carbon chips and powders with a variety of applications.
General manager, Jeff Wade, discussed the company’s products, goals and environmental mission with the News Feed.
By Sophia Gerni, Bianca Campoverde and Bethany Lenhardt, crime, safety and justice reporters
The tragic loss of Autumn Bushman, a 10-year-old girl from Roanoke, VA, who died by suicide due to bullying, is a reminder of the urgent need for early intervention and consistent support systems for young children. Addressing behavioral and development needs early promotes empathy, resilience and long-term success. A proactive approach by caregivers and educators can significantly reduce future social and emotional challenges.
By: Zain Omar, Will Frank, and Caroline Herbert, art & culture reporters
Virginia Tech’s Hokie Designer club is putting together a one-of-a-kind fashion show. On April 11th, the group is displaying a free fashion show showcasing adoptable pets alongside their models in custom clothing meant to represent the warmth of a future forever home. Finding a way to celebrate the designers’ work and utilize it for a greater cause, everyone is welcome to enjoy the show for free.
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