President Hanycz Makes First Trip to Madison Square Garden for Big East Tournament
Mar 9, 2022
Xavier fans have flocked to New York City this week to support their Musketeers in the men's basketball Big East Tournament. Among them is arguably Xavier's biggest fan: University President Colleen Hanycz. See what President Hanycz had to say about her first time in Madison Square Garden, her interactions with fans, and the importance of this trip as the world continues rebounding from the pandemic.
Being your first time traveling with the men’s basketball team for the Big East Tournament, could you describe your experience so far?
"Well, I can tell you, I've been to New York a lot of times, but never with the excitement that I'm feeling this afternoon to be here in this incredibly historic place, and to be able to celebrate with Xavier."
What sort of fan interaction have you had here?
"Of course, I’m wearing Xavier swag everywhere, and people have been quick to stop me and say hello and wish us well. I've also been able to have lots of conversations with our players and with our coaches. It’s just a really exciting time to be here."
It’s always exhilarating for teams and fans alike to play in what many consider the basketball mecca of Madison Square Garden – what has your experience at MSG been like?
"I have never been to Madison Square Garden before, so that, for me, is part of the excitement of it as well, being my first time in this historic arena."
How would you describe the significance of this trip given the challenges Xavier, and the entire world, have faced during these past two years?
"So much has changed because of COVID, and while there's no doubt that we've all suffered and the world has suffered, Xavier is a school that has been a bright light in all of this. They have been a national exemplar for how to support our students and one another through a really difficult time, and as someone who's watched from afar and now from close up, it's just been so inspiring, and I’m just delighted to be here with everyone."