National Geographic or Holy Cross?
In a series of unexpected developments, the satire organisation, The Eggplant, has made headlines after purchasing InfoWars, the controversial website owned by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones. Meanwhile, closer to home, Holy Cross University has found itself at the centre of a different kind of controversy.
Recent events have seen Mack Hughes '25, the Chief Eggplant Editor, become the subject of a photographic campaign by Holy Cross's content creators. The students' activities during the warmer weather have been the focus, and Mack Hughes '25 has been unexpectedly photographed multiple times, most notably after leaving Stein, moments after taking a poli-sci exam, and on the Dinand steps, despite her being visibly upset.
These photographs have sparked a debate, with some students viewing the practice as an intrusion of privacy, while others appreciate the transparency and realness it conveys about university life. The comparison of Mack Hughes '25 to a depraved zoo animal due to the photographic harassment underscores the discomfort felt by some students.
However, it's important to note that marketing teams at universities like Holy Cross often capture photos of students during various campus events and moments, including those that might be emotionally intense or stressful. The goal is to create relatable, human-focused content that resonates with prospective students and strengthens the institution’s brand authenticity and connection. Such photos and stories may be shared on social media or promotional materials to highlight the resilience, support systems, or camaraderie among students during challenging periods, which can appeal to the values of prospective students and families.
The Eggplant, known for defending only the truth, has shown interest in capitalistic ventures, having bought the news section in a recent auction. The Instagram account of Holy Cross has been active and popular recently, with a reel of the Hozier song trend posted on the Holy Cross website. Additionally, the crispy buffalo chicken sandwich has returned to Holy Cross Dining, bringing a sense of normalcy to campus life.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Holy Cross University will navigate this sensitive issue, balancing transparency with sensitivity to student privacy and comfort.
The photographic campaign led by Holy Cross University's content creators has stirred controversy, particularly with regards to Mack Hughes '25, who has been unexpectedly photographed in various emotional and stressful situations on campus. This practice, some argue, blur the lines of student privacy.
On a different note, The Eggplant, a satire organization, has ventured into the realm of capitalism, purchasing the news section of a popular auction. Meanwhile, Holy Cross University has been successful in promoting its campus lifestyle through engaging content on social media. For instance, their Instagram account has been popular, featuring a trending reel, and the return of the crispy buffalo chicken sandwich to dining halls adds a sense of normalcy.
As for education, Holy Cross remains dedicated to fostering personal growth and academic success. Simultaneously, it's crucial for the institution to address privacy concerns and ensure a balance between transparency and respect for student comfort.
In addition to these events, the university also offers resources for self-development and education, focusing on a rounded lifestlyle, including home-and-garden and lifestyle sections.