October News Bytes
By • October 7, 2025 0 663
GU Holds Steady in U.S. News Ranking
On Sept. 24, U.S. News and World Report released its 2026 Best Colleges list, ranking Georgetown University as the 24th best college in America. GU tied with Emory University for the second consecutive year. The publication once again — 15 years running — crowned Princeton as the nation’s top college. The update comes on the heels of Georgetown’s fall from 13th to 17th in Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges ranking.
Georgetown Law Report Flags DNA Collection
Georgetown Law’s Center on Privacy & Technology published a report titled “Raiding the (U.S. Citizen) Genome” on Sept. 23. The report revealed that, between 2020 and 2024, the Department of Homeland Security collected DNA from an estimated 2,000 detained U.S. citizens. Though they were not necessarily arrested for, charged with or convicted of crimes, these individuals had their genetic information uploaded to the FBI’s national policing database, CODIS. Federal law does not authorize DHS to extract DNA from U.S. citizens under these circumstances, notes the report.
Tombs’ Cover Charge Sparks Student Boycott
When storied Georgetown restaurant and bar the Tombs, 1226 36th St. NW, introduced a $5 cover charge in early September, students pushed back with a swift boycott. From penning a petition that garnered over 700 signatures to creating an Instagram account chronicling the saga, the protest had a clear goal: to leave the Tombs as lifeless as its name. On Sept. 16, the charge was dropped, scant weeks ahead of GU’s 100th annual homecoming celebration, set for Oct. 3 and 4.
Thompson Boat Center Looks Worse for Wear
Since opening in 1961, this Potomac-perched boathouse has become home to over a dozen D.C. rowing teams at the high school, college and club level. But in recent years, the Thompson Boat Center has exhibited signs of substantial deterioration. From troubles with running water to a seawall that’s nosediving into the river, the building is desperately in need of repairs. According to the Washington Post, the National Park Service is fully aware of the facility’s worsening condition and is “actively pursuing a solution” that would not entail a complete reconstruction.
Ghosts of Georgetown Tour Uncorks the Boos
DC by Foot is offering a family-friendly Ghosts of Georgetown walking tour for those looking to get into the Halloween spirit. Despite the company’s url being freetoursbyfoot.com, the 90-minute tour — which explores the neighborhood’s spookiest spots, from historic haunted houses to the uber-creepy Exorcist Steps — isn’t free; tickets start at $39. The tours set off from the Old Stone House, 3051 M St. NW.
