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'Cuse Conversations

'Cuse Conversations

By Syracuse University

Hosted by Syracuse University’s Internal Communications team, the ’Cuse Conversations podcast allows listeners to hear directly from Syracuse University's talented current students, decorated faculty members, dedicated staff members and accomplished alumni.
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How The Rising Popularity of Esports Led to Syracuse University’s Newest Degree Program

'Cuse ConversationsMay 16, 2023

00:00
59:55
How Three International Students Found Success and Community at Syracuse University

How Three International Students Found Success and Community at Syracuse University

When more than 5,500 international students begin their Syracuse University journeys, they face different challenges from their domestic counterparts. Besides leaving behind their families, their friends and everything they’ve ever known, for many international students, the first time they step foot on campus is often the day they arrive to embark on their Syracuse journeys. That was the case for Adya Parida ’25, who traveled nearly 7,700 miles from Ranchi, India to study computer science in the College of Engineering and Computer Science; Yajie (Lannie) Lan G’24, who ventured more than 7,300 miles from Chengdu, China to study architecture in the School of Architecture; and Angelica Molina G’25, who traveled more than 2,700 miles from Cali, Colombia to earn her master’s degree in public administration and international relations in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. These students discuss their respective journeys to Syracuse University, how they found success and a welcoming community on campus, their advice for fellow international students and how they plan on making a difference in their communities once they graduate.

Mar 29, 202439:13
How Imam Amir Durić Is Enhancing the Muslim Student Experience
Mar 12, 202437:27
Celebrating 50 Years of WJPZ with Jon "JAG" Gay '02
Mar 05, 202426:52
Champion of Free Speech and Journalism Margaret Talev Leads Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship

Champion of Free Speech and Journalism Margaret Talev Leads Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship

Margaret Talev covered American politics and the White House for 30 years, including working the campaign trail for presidential elections in 2008, 2012 and 2016 as a White House correspondent for Bloomberg News and McClatchy Newspapers. As Talev watched the events of Jan. 6, 2021, unfold, she wondered how thousands of her fellow citizens could stage a protest based on misinformation. In the aftermath, Talev wanted to focus her career efforts on the relationship between the news being produced and consumed by voters and how that impacted their views on democracy and governance. Talev was eventually hired to lead the Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship (IDJC), a joint effort of the Newhouse School and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Talev discusses the mission and vision for the IDJC, how distrust in election results and politicians is at an all-time high, the importance of voters becoming media literate, the role citizens can play in addressing issues facing our democracy and the challenges artificial intelligence poses.

Feb 27, 202439:58
Student Leaders Dylan France '24 and Andi-Rose Oates '26 Becoming Agents of Change Who Amplify Black Voices

Student Leaders Dylan France '24 and Andi-Rose Oates '26 Becoming Agents of Change Who Amplify Black Voices

Syracuse University has a proud and storied tradition of honoring Black History Month through a series of engaging and thought-provoking student-run programs, events and discussions occurring through March 3 on campus. Student leaders like Dylan France ’24 and Andrea-Rose Oates ’26 are among the many passionate and talented Black student leaders who have become agents of change for their peers during their time on campus. And France and Oates are committed to helping train a new generation of student leaders. On this “'Cuse Conversation,” France and Oates discuss what fueled their involvement as student leaders and how they hope to inspire other students to become agents of change, explore what their Black heritage and Black culture means to them, share how they found community on campus and offer up their highlights from the Black History Month celebrations.

Feb 16, 202438:42
What Makes Syracuse University A Premier Research Institution With Duncan Brown, Vice President for Research

What Makes Syracuse University A Premier Research Institution With Duncan Brown, Vice President for Research

Syracuse University has developed into an outstanding and accomplished research institution. As Syracuse's Vice President for Research, Duncan Brown supports and empowers Syracuse's internationally recognized creative and scholarly excellence, advancing centers and institutes that are global leaders in their fields. In this role, Brown oversees $157 million in internal and external research funding across the natural sciences, engineering, education, social sciences and law fields. Brown also leads the Office of Research and its component units, which serve as the backbone of the University’s research, scholarship and creative support enterprise. Collectively, these efforts help students and faculty expand their knowledge through innovation, creativity and discovery. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Brown shares his vision for the research enterprise at Syracuse University, explains what makes Syracuse a premier research institution, examines the impact the research being done by our faculty and students is having on campus and beyond, and reveals where his passion for research came from.

Jan 29, 202437:14
How Meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Influenced Rick Wright G'93 and Inspired His Broadcasting Career

How Meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Influenced Rick Wright G'93 and Inspired His Broadcasting Career

Roosevelt "Rick" Wright G'93 had a front-row seat as the Civil Rights movement took off across the American South in the late 1950s and early 1960s, participating in the sit-ins and demonstrations as a teenager in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. At the heart of the movement were the non-violent, civil disobedience teachings of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights leader who inspired Black citizens around the country to speak out and stand up for their rights. Wright had the pleasure of meeting and eating with Dr. King several times as a teenager, with King imparting many valuable life lessons on the impressionable Wright. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Wright recalls the powerful impact Dr. King made on him, shares how Dr. King utilized the radio to preach his non-violent message, and how Dr. King's oratorical prowess inspired his successful career as both a radio broadcaster and television, radio and film professor at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. Wright, who became the first Black communications professor at Newhouse, was the first faculty advisor for the student-run radio station WJPZ and served as an invaluable resource for the thousands of students who took one of his classes. He's the definition of "Major Market."

Jan 11, 202448:51
The Power of Being Native and the Strength of the Syracuse University Community With Lorna Rose ’11, G’21

The Power of Being Native and the Strength of the Syracuse University Community With Lorna Rose ’11, G’21

Despite growing up on Cayuga ancestral lands, one of the six nations that make up the Haudenosaunee Confederacy of Native Americans in New York, Lorna Rose ’11, G’21 never really identified with her Native heritage. She was raised Italian American and always thought of her Italian roots when it came to her cultural heritage. But that perspective changed with the sudden passing of her older sister in 2020. That loss led Rose to a spiritual reawakening, cultivating an affinity for both her Native culture and her Native heritage. From the depths of sadness, Rose immersed herself in her Cayuga culture, reacclimating and reacquainting herself with her Native roots while rediscovering pride in belonging to the Cayuga Nation, the People of the Great Swamp. As the University community celebrates Native Heritage Month, Rose discusses her spiritual reawakening, the pride she feels through her Native heritage and culture, how the Syracuse University community helped her overcome depression and mental health issues, and why she’s eternally proud to be a Syracuse University alumna.

Nov 27, 202334:01
Adrian Autry '94 Ready to Make His Mark as Next Men's Basketball Coach

Adrian Autry '94 Ready to Make His Mark as Next Men's Basketball Coach

Adrian Autry ’94 came to Syracuse University from New York City as a talented men’s basketball recruit, a McDonald’s All-American who etched his name in the school’s record books as a prolific passer and tremendous defender during his four years on campus. Following a successful playing career that included stints in Europe and across North and South America, Autry embarked on his second act: as a basketball coach. He learned from one of the best, serving as an assistant and associate coach for his mentor, Hall of Fame head coach Jim Boeheim '66, G'73, and in March, Autry was named the program's eighth head coach. Before the Orange open the season on Nov. 6, Autry discusses this exciting opportunity and why he’s ready to take over and make his mark on the program. Autry also reveals the lessons he's learned from Boeheim, why his team will be fast-paced on offense and tenacious on defense, recalls his favorite memories from his playing days, and shares why Syracuse has always felt like home.

Nov 06, 202328:02
Look Back. Act Forward. The Profound Impact of the Remembrance Scholars Cohort

Look Back. Act Forward. The Profound Impact of the Remembrance Scholars Cohort

"Look back. Act forward." Those words influence how Syracuse University's Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars honor and celebrate the lives of the people who were killed during the terrorist bombing of Pan Am Flight 103. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the bombing, which claimed the lives of 270 people, including 35 Syracuse students who were on their way home following a semester abroad. Each October, the University community comes together during Remembrance Week events and activities—planned by that year’s cohort of Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars—to memorialize the victims and further educate the campus community about terrorism. Three alumni—Julie Friend '92 and Hannah (Visnosky) Rafferty ’16 and Luke Rafferty ’16—reflect on the significant impact the Remembrance Scholars program had on them, share their stories of why they wanted to become Remembrance Scholars, and explain how they continue to honor the lives of the University students who died on the flight.

Oct 19, 202344:39
The BioInspired Institute's Growth Helps Fuel Student and Faculty Research

The BioInspired Institute's Growth Helps Fuel Student and Faculty Research

One of the most impactful and influential examples of how the University is leading the way in research excellence is the BioInspired Institute, an interdisciplinary institute whose members examine complex biological systems, developing and designing programmable smart materials to address global challenges in health, medicine and materials innovation. On this 'Cuse Conversation, James H. (Jay) Henderson, the new director of BioInspired, and Lisa Manning, the founding director, share how BioInspired embraces an interdisciplinary approach to research, discuss the importance of introducing students to research opportunities early in their academic careers and explain how BioInspired and Syracuse University are helping more women and students from underrepresented populations get involved in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. They also explore the Cluster Hires Initiative, preview the second annual BioInspired Symposium and explain how they became passionate about research.

Oct 11, 202340:59
Addressing Mental Wellness and Social Anxiety With Counseling Director Carrie Brown

Addressing Mental Wellness and Social Anxiety With Counseling Director Carrie Brown

Moving away from home and embarking on your Syracuse University journey can be a difficult time as students leave behind their families and friends and start a new chapter in their lives. On top of that, social anxiety among college students is at an all-time high. The mental health and well-being of Syracuse's students is a top priority for Carrie Brown, the Counseling Director at the Barnes Center at the Arch. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Brown addresses a topic that affects many of our students: social anxiety over making new friends and finding community on campus. Brown discusses the University's integrated health and wellness model for addressing mental health concerns, shares how the University focuses on a student's holistic development while remaining empathetic to their concerns, describes what sets Syracuse apart with its mental health resources, offers up tips for finding community and shares common mistakes students make when trying to make friends and develop their social circle.

Oct 05, 202341:43
The State of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility at Syracuse University With Mary Grace Almandrez

The State of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility at Syracuse University With Mary Grace Almandrez

In June, the Supreme Court decided to undo decades of judicial precedent by reversing rulings that allowed race-conscious admissions programs, preventing colleges like Syracuse University from considering race as one of many factors in deciding which qualified applicants are admitted. As the University’s vice president for diversity and inclusion, Mary Grace Almandrez was paying close attention to the rulings. While Almandrez was deeply disappointed by the rulings, she pointed to the University’s long track record of fostering an environment where all students feel welcomed and supported as proof that Syracuse University will not waver in its commitment to DEIA issues. Almandrez discusses the rulings and their impact on current and prospective students, shares how the University remains committed to being a national leader in DEIA efforts, and highlights what the campus community can expect from the inaugural D.E.I.A. Symposium on Oct. 3.

Sep 21, 202331:47
Raising Awareness While Battling Cancer: Danielle Koppenaal '17 Shares Her Story and Stories of Fellow Cancer Survivors
Sep 12, 202319:50
Carolina Panthers' Anish Shroff ’04 Hopes to Inspire Future Generations of South Asian Sportscasters

Carolina Panthers' Anish Shroff ’04 Hopes to Inspire Future Generations of South Asian Sportscasters

Anish Shroff ’04 is the only minority radio play-by-play voice of a National Football League (NFL) team, but the landscape is changing, and Shroff feels proud when he looks around the sportscasting landscape and sees a plethora of talented South Asian broadcasters working for ESPN, MLB Network, Fox Sports, TNT and other national media outlets. It's a stark contrast from when Shroff was watching sports and saw the field dominated by white men. Growing up, Shroff was a sports-crazed kid, an avid baseball player, rabid collector of sports trading cards and someone who read the Newark Star-Ledger sports section cover-to-cover. He always wanted to be a sports broadcaster, and thanks to parents who supported his dreams, Shroff has realized those childhood dreams. Shroff is entering his second season calling Carolina Panthers games on the team’s network of radio stations, and he’s also handled play-by-play duties for ESPN’s coverage of college football, college basketball, men’s lacrosse and baseball. Shroff discusses his path to the NFL, how he cultivated his voice as a broadcaster, why he feels future sportscasters should embrace reading and learning history to help hone their on-air skills, and how he’s forever thankful that his immigrant parents encouraged him to pursue his sportscasting dreams.

Sep 05, 202344:55
How Student Living Enhances Student Development With Steve Herndon

How Student Living Enhances Student Development With Steve Herndon

Living in a residence hall on North Campus or an apartment on South Campus is more than just a place to rest your head at night for students. They find friendships, build community and develop relationships that can sometimes last a lifetime. Residential learning impacts a student's holistic development, a place to learn, thrive and develop into leaders. Steve Herndon, the University’s new assistant vice president for student living, leads a team responsible for helping students find their community and realize their potential through their housing experiences. A respected leader in residential education, housing and student development, Herndon discusses how his team helps students reach their full potential, why Syracuse University was the perfect fit for the next chapter in his career and the profound role residential living plays on campus.

Aug 21, 202333:58
Welcome to the Orange Family! Previewing Syracuse Welcome With Carrie Grogan Abbott G'03

Welcome to the Orange Family! Previewing Syracuse Welcome With Carrie Grogan Abbott G'03

The Syracuse University family is expanding, as more than 4,000 first-year students will move into their residence halls during Syracuse Welcome, the University’s annual new student orientation program, running Aug. 24-27. Syracuse Welcome represents the first steps in a student’s Syracuse journey, and the week-long orientation is filled with programs designed to make new students and their family members feel at home through engaging academic and social events, including New Student Convocation, a key component of Syracuse Welcome. Carrie Grogan Abbott G'03 is the director of new student programs, and her team strives to help students feel a sense of belonging to the Syracuse University community from their first day on campus. Abbott shares why Syracuse Welcome is the perfect way to introduce new students to campus, reflects on the Goon Squad's pivotal role during move-in, and offers advice to ensure move-in runs smoothly.

Aug 14, 202333:23
Behind the Orange: Otto is Going Into the Mascot Hall of Fame!
Aug 07, 202340:14
Curiosity Helps Ryan Smith '92 Transition from Lawyer to Decorated ESPN Anchor and Television Reporter

Curiosity Helps Ryan Smith '92 Transition from Lawyer to Decorated ESPN Anchor and Television Reporter

Ryan Smith '92 anchors ESPN’s flagship "SportsCenter" program, and he's a Sports Emmy-winning host of ESPN’s "Outside the Lines" and "E60." Smith also serves as a legal analyst for ESPN and ABC News. But his path to journalism was unorthodox. After earning his political science degree from the Maxwell School, Smith went on to earn his law degree from Columbia Law School. A successful practicing lawyer, Smith didn't feel satisfied, so he pivoted to pursue a career in television. The bet paid off. Today, Smith combines his love of law with his passion for journalism. Smith discusses his unusual career path and the skillsets from being a lawyer that carry over to journalism. He shares why he's forever curious about the stories he tells, how he enjoys making complicated issues easy for the audience to understand, the important role Syracuse University played in his life, and the best piece of advice he ever received.

Jul 13, 202336:39
Zava! Meet Maximilian Osinski '06, the Breakout Star of Season 3 of ‘Ted Lasso’

Zava! Meet Maximilian Osinski '06, the Breakout Star of Season 3 of ‘Ted Lasso’

Back in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic caused worldwide angst and turmoil, a show debuted on Apple TV+ that emphasized the importance of hope and believing in yourself. “Ted Lasso,” which recently concluded its third season, has been a feel-good television hit from the first episode. Early in the third season, the show introduced a new character, Zava, who was never lacking in confidence and self-belief. While Zava’s bravado jumps off the screen, fans of the show might not know that the real-life actor who plays Zava is Maximilian Osinski ’06, who never played a minute of soccer in his life. On this “’Cuse Conversation,” Osinski, who earned a bachelor's degree in drama from the College of Visual and Performing Arts, discusses his breakout role on “Ted Lasso” and how he overcame his doubts about whether he could play the world’s greatest soccer player. Osinski shares why Syracuse University was his dream school, recalls his first role in a major motion picture: as former Orange football standout Gerhard Schwedes '60 in the Ernie Davis '62 biopic, "The Express," explores how being born in a refugee camp to immigrant parents inspired him to pursue his dreams and more.

Jun 13, 202340:05
Providing a Voice for the Systematically Suppressed With Erykah Pasha '24

Providing a Voice for the Systematically Suppressed With Erykah Pasha '24

From an early age, Erykah Pasha ’24 has been driven to provide a voice for those who have been systematically oppressed and suppressed in her hometown of Syracuse, and she always knew Syracuse University was where she wanted to study. Enrolling in the dual degree political science and sociology program in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences, Pasha credits the University for providing her with the resources and, more importantly, the opportunities to effect change. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Pasha, a Kessler Scholar and McNair Scholar, discusses her research, how she hopes to create change through this summer experience and how her time on campus helped her find her voice. As Pride Month is celebrated across the country, Pasha, who identifies as queer, shares how both the Intercultural Collective and the LGBTQ Resource Center play a pivotal role in her development as a campus leader and how the programs and engagement efforts offered through the LGBTQ Resource Center created a home-away-from-home atmosphere.

Jun 05, 202330:28
How The Rising Popularity of Esports Led to Syracuse University’s Newest Degree Program

How The Rising Popularity of Esports Led to Syracuse University’s Newest Degree Program

Electronic sports, or esports, has seen a remarkable spike in popularity over the years, with a recent study from Pew Research finding that 90% of teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 play video games. Seeking to both capitalize on the tremendous popularity of esports and continue to innovate, expand career options in emerging fields and deliver academic programs that meet its students’ needs, Syracuse University will soon begin offering a new, first-of-its-kind degree program focused on esports. The program taps into the rapidly growing, multibillion-dollar esports industry, serving as a continuation of the work already happening on campus. Jeff Rubin⁠, special advisor to the chancellor on esports and digital transformation, Olivia Stomski, professor of practice of television, radio and film and director of the Newhouse Sports Media Center, and Chris Hanson, associate professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences, were on the University-wide task force charged with conducting the benchmarking that led to the creation of the esports program. Rubin, Stomski and Hanson reveal why the time was right for Syracuse University to add an esports degree program, share how the new academic offering will position students for success once they graduate, explain the research that went into creating this program and discuss the rapid growth of esports on campus.

May 16, 202359:55
Pursuing What Fulfills You: Ruchatneet Printup’s ’23 Nontraditional Journey to a Film Degree

Pursuing What Fulfills You: Ruchatneet Printup’s ’23 Nontraditional Journey to a Film Degree

Instead of feeling pride over being the first member of his family to earn a college degree, Ruchatneet Printup '23 felt trapped in a dead-end job that lacked purpose, meaning and fulfillment after earning a biomedical computing degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in 1988. More than three decades later, after embarking on an unconventional path that took him from an office job in Philadelphia to serving his community as a non-profit advocate on the Tuscarora Reservation, Printup was driving a truck delivering the Buffalo News when he had a life-changing epiphany. As he meditated, he realized he needed to pursue his passions and return to school to earn a film degree. This week, Printup will graduate from Syracuse University's College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) with a film degree. One of 12 University Scholars, the highest undergraduate honor the University bestows, Printup has made the most of his second undergraduate experience. A Haudenosaunee Promise Scholar, Printup plans on using his degree to ensure more Native Americans' voices and stories are represented in film. Printup shares how he will make a difference as a film director, how the University's well-rounded course load made him a better storyteller, and why as soon as he walked into his first class at Syracuse he knew he was where he was meant to be. Printup, who says he had to venture outside of his comfort zone and become fearless while making the difficult adjustment of going back to college later in life, shares how he inspired his daughter, Gehnew, to follow his lead and pursue her dreams as a fashion design student in VPA.

May 09, 202337:57
Comparing Voter ID Laws in the US and UK With Gretchen Coleman '22

Comparing Voter ID Laws in the US and UK With Gretchen Coleman '22

The United Kingdom is about to hold the country’s first elections where voters are required to show ID when they vote. The reason behind the policy change is a growing mistrust in the election process, and the new laws closely follow those in the U.S. Gretchen Coleman '22, who is currently pursuing a master's degree in political science, democracy and elections at the University of Manchester, has researched voter ID laws in the U.S. Now, she’s shifting her focus to U.K. elections, thanks to a Fulbright postgraduate award. Coleman will analyze materials sent to voters informing them of the policy change to examine how well-informed voters were about the policy shift. Coleman’s findings will be used for a report on how the U.K. can improve its elections. Coleman stops by to discuss her research and how she became interested in politics and elections, compares voter ID laws in the U.S. with the U.K., addresses the growing concern in the U.S. over voters not trusting election results, and shares how she wants to use this research to make election laws less discriminatory and more representative.

Apr 24, 202328:42
Lessons for the Next Climate Disaster

Lessons for the Next Climate Disaster

Extreme weather events like hurricanes, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent in many places and more severe. These events can cause widespread damage and displacement, and they can be very difficult to recover from. On this episode, Elizabeth Carter, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, digs into her own research on disaster response and mitigation. She talks about how we plan, prepare for and think about the changing climate, and why environmental issues are often tied to humanitarian crisis.

Apr 19, 202320:50
Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2023

Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2023

April is a time for the Syracuse University community to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Community Coming Together: Strength in Unity," representing the University's diverse AAPI community uniting across our differences to demonstrate they are a strong voice that can face challenges together. It's an important and timely theme, especially following the challenges of the last three years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a troubling rise in anti-Asian hate crimes and bias incidents. On this student-centric 'Cuse Conversation, we hear from AAPI Planning Committee members MaryKate Keevins '24, who is studying television, radio and film in the Newhouse School and political science in the Maxwell School, and Lia Margolis ’23, a student in the School of Architecture. They discuss planning this year’s celebrations, why they wanted to get involved, what their cultural heritage means to them and how their time at Syracuse University helped them discover more about their identities.

Apr 04, 202333:14
Reconstructing the Lives and Genealogies of Enslaved People: Maxwell, iSchool Faculty Partner on Searchable Database

Reconstructing the Lives and Genealogies of Enslaved People: Maxwell, iSchool Faculty Partner on Searchable Database

Beginning as early as the 15th century, the lives of more than 12.5 million men, women and children of African descent were forever altered as they were forced into the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Wanting to capture the important details found in these registries, Tessa Murphy, associate history professor in the Maxwell School, collaborated with Michael Fudge, a professor of practice in the School of Information Studies, and student research assistants on a unique, interdisciplinary research project to create a publicly accessible, searchable database of more than 16,000 former enslaved people in St. Lucia in 1815. The project, "Slavery in the Age of Abolition," uses slave registries to reconstruct the life histories and genealogies of people enslaved on the expanding frontiers of the British Empire. Murphy and Fudge discuss how the project came to be, the arduous task of compiling their database, the challenges of digitally capturing historical records from more than 200 years ago, how this database can serve as a teaching tool for the descendants of these former slaves, and how the project provided students in both Maxwell and the iSchool with valuable real-life experience.

Mar 27, 202339:35
Hall of Fame Sportscaster Bob Costas '74 Reflects on Career, Baseball and His Love of Syracuse University

Hall of Fame Sportscaster Bob Costas '74 Reflects on Career, Baseball and His Love of Syracuse University

Bob Costas '74 grew up idolizing New York Yankees' Hall of Fame outfielder Mickey Mantle, and he loved listening to baseball on the radio. When he arrived at Syracuse University in the fall of 1970, Costas just wanted to one day land a radio play-by-play job in baseball. Little did Costas know he would one day wind up in Cooperstown as a Major League Baseball Hall of Famer alongside Mantle and his childhood heroes. Costas' broadcasting career has included winning 28 Emmy Awards, calling 12 Olympics, and covering multiple World Series, Super Bowls and NBA Finals. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Costas discusses his love for baseball and the new rules changes meant to speed up the pace of play, reveals which broadcasters inspired him, remembers thinking his career was doomed to fail after hearing his first sportscast, shares how WAER and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications helped him develop his voice and his style, and relives his most memorable sportscasting moments.

Mar 20, 202341:11
Law Student Brianna Sclafani Highlights the Work of the Community Review Board

Law Student Brianna Sclafani Highlights the Work of the Community Review Board

Brianna Sclafani L’23, G’23 is a 3L law student in Syracuse University’s College of Law, graduate student in the Maxwell School’s master of public administration program, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Global Rights and Organizations/Impunity Watch and chair of the University’s inaugural Community Review Board. The Community Review Board (CRB) was established in 2021 following an independent review of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) by former Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch and is responsible for providing oversight for key DPS functions that impact the University community. Growing up in Newtown, Connecticut, and attending Virginia Tech as an undergraduate, Sclafani’s life has been irrevocably influenced by the gun violence that has impacted her communities. Her decision to pursue a career in law and her ongoing commitment to public service and giving back were inspired by these events. Sclafani discusses her experience as a student in the J.D./M.P.A. joint degree program, the work of the CRB, and ways students, faculty and staff can get involved in its mission to improve transparency, accountability and community relations on campus.

Mar 08, 202324:36
Thomas Wilson '23 is Fulfilling His Dreams Thanks to InclusiveU

Thomas Wilson '23 is Fulfilling His Dreams Thanks to InclusiveU

Like most children, Thomas Wilson '23 grew up watching television. But his preferred shows weren't cartoons. Rather, he loved watching the local and national newscasts, dreaming of one day being a reporter. A senior studying broadcast and digital journalism in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and political science in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Wilson is now living out his dreams, thanks to Syracuse University and its InclusiveU program, which brings students of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities to campus to experience college life in a fully inclusive setting because of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education. Wilson recently was named one of this year's recipients of the Unsung Hero Award in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A news anchor on Citrus TV, Wilson is also the executive producer and creator of “Thomas on the Town”, a show where Wilson interviews University community members. He is a leader who inspires colleagues and community members to be better.

Mar 04, 202323:35
Reflecting on One Year Since Russia Invaded Ukraine

Reflecting on One Year Since Russia Invaded Ukraine

Feb. 24, 2023 marks one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Professor Sean McFate teaches classes at Syracuse University's Maxwell School and Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service. On this ‘Cuse Conversations podcast episode, McFate, one of Syracuse University's faculty experts on the war in Ukraine, discusses the anniversary of the war in Ukraine. McFate is one of the world’s leading experts on mercenaries, and he authored The New Rules of War: How America Can Win — Against Russia, China, and Other Threats. McFate also served as a paratrooper and officer in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division under Stan McChrystal and David Petraeus.

Feb 21, 202336:18
Transforming First-Year Students Into Leaders Through the WellsLink Program

Transforming First-Year Students Into Leaders Through the WellsLink Program

For the last 19 years, the WellsLink Leadership Program has transformed the lives of first-year students of color at Syracuse University through mentoring and a series of structured academic, social and cultural enrichment activities. Scholars like Josh Ortega '25 and Sophia Moore '25 achieve success and develop into leaders on campus through their time in WellsLink, a nationally-recognized leadership program. Ortega and Moore stop by to discuss how the program facilitated their transition from high school to college, how they honed their leadership and academic skills, how they thrived through hands-on peer mentoring, and why they are driven to make a positive impact in their communities through their experiences with WellsLink.

Feb 15, 202334:04
Super Bowl-Winning Head Coach Tom Coughlin '68, G'69 on Overcoming Adversity, Being Forever Orange

Super Bowl-Winning Head Coach Tom Coughlin '68, G'69 on Overcoming Adversity, Being Forever Orange

Tom Coughlin '68, G'69 is a two-time Super Bowl-winning head coach of the New York Giants who won 170 games during his NFL coaching career. A successful front office executive, Coughlin has a new book out, "A Giant Win," describing how, in Super Bowl 42, his Giants shocked the football world by knocking off Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in one of the greatest Super Bowls ever played. The book is a lesson in how to overcome adversity and how to respond when life hands you a setback. Coughlin, a three-year letter-winner on the football team under legendary Hall of Fame coach Ben Schwartzwalder, stops by to relive his coaching career, reminisce on those Super Bowl championships, and share why Syracuse University was his dream school. He gives his memories of playing alongside Orange football legends like Floyd Little '67, H'16 and Larry Csonka '68, explains why the No. 44 is the most special number at Syracuse, and discusses why he and his late wife, Judy, became passionate about helping families tackle childhood cancer through the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation.


Jan 31, 202337:36
National Champions! Catching Up With Men's Soccer Head Coach Ian McIntyre

National Champions! Catching Up With Men's Soccer Head Coach Ian McIntyre

Ian McIntyre took over the Syracuse University men’s soccer program in 2010, and the Orange won five matches combined over his first two years. But from the moment he assumed the role of head coach, McIntyre has been building up the program, and on Dec. 12, his team reached the pinnacle, claiming Syracuse's first national championship thanks to a thrilling win over Indiana University in penalty kicks. The dramatic performance in the championship of the College Cup was the perfect ending to the best season in school history, as the Orange claimed this year’s national championship, ACC postseason tournament title, and the ACC regular season division championship. McIntyre relives the night Syracuse was crowned champions of the collegiate soccer world, shares how his student-athletes and coaches celebrated their national title, recounts when he felt his team was capable of making a deep run in the postseason, discusses the vital role support from the campus community and alumni played in the team's postseason run, and more!

Jan 09, 202331:53
Lessons From Surviving a Heart Transplant With Author Emma Rothman '21
Dec 15, 202228:35
Training the Next Generation of Inclusive Education Teachers in New York City Through the Bridge to the City Program

Training the Next Generation of Inclusive Education Teachers in New York City Through the Bridge to the City Program

For the last 25 years, the School of Education has offered aspiring inclusive education teachers a unique opportunity to hone their skills as student teachers in New York City through the Bridge to the City program. It's an immersive, semester-long experience where student teachers are placed in partner schools in urban neighborhoods to learn under the watchful eye of cooperating teachers. Tom Bull, assistant teaching professor and director of field relations in the School of Education, directs the Bridge to the City program, while Abby Horton '19, a Bridge to the City alumna, landed her job teaching kindergarten and first grade at Midtown West School thanks in large part to her experiences with Bridge to the City. They discuss the program, how it helps train and prepare the next generation of inclusive education teachers, the valuable role the School of Education and Syracuse University have played in their lives, and more!  


Dec 13, 202231:59
Peppie Calvar Discusses Holidays at Hendricks, Spreading the Light of Music Around the World

Peppie Calvar Discusses Holidays at Hendricks, Spreading the Light of Music Around the World

For more than a decade, hundreds of talented students in the Setnor School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts entertain the Syracuse University community each December with live musical performances during Holidays at Hendricks. Jose "Peppie" Calvar is director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir and artistic director of Holidays at Hendricks, and he spends 18 months organizing each year's concert celebrations, which features two in-person concerts on Dec. 4 and a virtual concert performance on Dec. 11. Calvar stops by to discuss Holidays at Hendricks and what the student-led concerts mean to the University community, why Holidays at Hendricks is such a special celebration and what fans can expect from this year's performances. Calvar also shares the challenges of producing the first virtual Holidays at Hendricks during the COVID-19 pandemic, how he went from being an engineering student to pursuing a career in music and his passion for spreading choral music around the world through a series of international residencies.

Nov 22, 202230:35
No One Will Outwork Us: Get to Know New Women's Ice Hockey Coach Britni Smith

No One Will Outwork Us: Get to Know New Women's Ice Hockey Coach Britni Smith

As she looks to make her mark on the Syracuse University women's ice hockey team, Britni Smith, just the second head coach in program history, is relying on a key principle that helped the Orange soar to new heights in recent seasons: No one will outwork the Orange. Smith comes to Syracuse with a decorated resume, excelling as both a defenseman with St. Lawrence University and an accomplished assistant coach at Clarkson University and with Hockey Canada. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Smith discusses why she wanted to become the Orange's next head coach, how she relates to her student-athletes, how she created a team-first culture and what makes Syracuse University a special place. Smith also shares her coaching philosophy, why she's a talented recruiter, what it was like to earn her first win with the Orange and how she fell in love with hockey while playing on a homemade rink in her hometown of Port Perry, Ontario.

Nov 15, 202222:38
Diane Schenandoah ’11 Shares Indigenous Principles and Practices as Honwadiyenawa’sek (One Who Helps Them) at the Barnes Center

Diane Schenandoah ’11 Shares Indigenous Principles and Practices as Honwadiyenawa’sek (One Who Helps Them) at the Barnes Center

Diane Schenandoah ’11 joined the staff at Syracuse University last July as Honwadiyenawa’sek—the Haudenosaunee word for “one who helps them.” Firmly rooted in her Haudenosaunee heritage—her mother was a clan mother of Oneida Nation’s wolf clan; her father an Onondaga Nation chief—Schenandoah brings teachings of gratitude, faith, peace and inner resilience to students who meet with her. As Honwadiyenawa’sek, she offers a range of healing modalities, including energy work and acupressure, art therapy, dream interpretation, tuning forks, and ritualistic smudging with sage and tobacco, to help students find their center in today’s hectic world. On this ’Cuse Conversation, Shenandoah shares about her life growing up on Oneida Nation lands with her close-knit family; her spiritual principles and practices; her role as faithkeeper; her art and singing careers; and her experience at Syracuse since joining the team at the Barnes Center.

Nov 07, 202229:56
How Supporting the United Way Employee Giving Campaign Makes a Difference in Central New York

How Supporting the United Way Employee Giving Campaign Makes a Difference in Central New York

The United Way of Central New York has been making a difference by providing residents with access to essential resources for 100 years, and the Syracuse University community has supported the United Way through its employee giving campaign since 1972. The campaign kicked off on Oct. 14 and runs through Dec. 16. On this 'Cuse Conversation, Michael Frasciello, dean of the College of Professional Studies and one of the co-chairs of the University’s employee giving campaign, discusses how making a donation of any size is guaranteed to help someone in need in our community. Frasciello shares why it's important for University employees to give what they can to help their neighbors, spotlights some of the fun and creative ways employees are supporting this effort, and how all gifts benefit the Central New York community through more than 70 unique and impactful programs and projects offered by the United Way's 28 nonprofit partners.

Nov 02, 202219:58
The Power of Holistic Healing and Wellness With Therapist and Entrepreneur Rachel Johnson '17, G'19

The Power of Holistic Healing and Wellness With Therapist and Entrepreneur Rachel Johnson '17, G'19

In her work as a therapist, Rachel Johnson '17, G'19 knew she was making a difference in the lives of her patients. But she also realized her work wasn't impacting an often overlooked segment of the population when it comes to mental wellness and holistic health: Black people. So she founded Half Hood Half Holistic in her adopted hometown of Syracuse as a holistic wellness business that allows Black individuals, couples and families to have the space to heal and work on their mental, physical and spiritual health. The author of the "Self Love Workbook for Black Women," Johnson discusses what holistic health means to her, what healing looks like for Black people, why it's important to debunk the stigmas and stereotypes associated with mental health services, how she helps make holistic healing accessible for all who seek it, the important role holistic healing plays in helping communities heal from racial harm, and how a program called Say Yes to Education helped Johnson hone her skills at Syracuse University.

Oct 26, 202237:46
The Challenges of Eldercare and Caregiving With Sociologist Mindy Fried '72, G'75

The Challenges of Eldercare and Caregiving With Sociologist Mindy Fried '72, G'75

Mindy Fried ’72, G’75 is a sociologist, a teacher, an author and the creator, producer and host of “The Shape of Care” podcast. On the podcast, she tackles the topics of eldercare and caregiving in this country from a unique perspective—approaching her work through the lens of both her education as a sociologist and her experience a caregiver for her father before he passed away about a decade ago. Fried discusses her personal experience as a caregiver, the many issues facing caregivers and her connection to Syracuse University.

Oct 17, 202231:00
Mapping Syracuse University's Academic Future with Gretchen Ritter, Vice Chancellor and Provost, and Jamie Winders, Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs

Mapping Syracuse University's Academic Future with Gretchen Ritter, Vice Chancellor and Provost, and Jamie Winders, Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs

The Syracuse University campus community is embarking on an important five-year journey of self-discovery and self-improvement, revamping its Academic Strategic Plan (ASP) to position itself as a leading global institution that attracts the best students and accomplished faculty who are respected thought leaders. The goals are ambitious: creating an unsurpassed student experience that is guided and informed by extraordinary scholarship, research and discovery. The stakes are high: determining how Syracuse University can improve its academic excellence at every level while fostering a sense of welcome and belonging and ensuring the distinctive excellence, accessibility, and collective success for all members of the campus community. Gretchen Ritter, vice chancellor and provost and chief academic officer, and Jamie Winders associate provost for faculty affairs, discuss the University’s revamped Academic Strategic Plan, how it can set Syracuse University up for sustained success, why members of the campus community should get involved in deciding the future of the University, and how this ASP differs from other higher education institutions.

Oct 11, 202229:48
Diabetes Advocate, Author and Podcaster Stacey Simms ’93

Diabetes Advocate, Author and Podcaster Stacey Simms ’93

Stacey Simms ’93 is an award-winning podcaster and author who has been sharing stories, advice and news about diabetes on her Diabetes Connections podcast, through her blog and in two books: “The World’s Worst Diabetes Mom” and “Still the World’s Worst Diabetes Mom.” In this ’Cuse Conversation, she talks about her approach to raising a son with diabetes and how she’s found professional success as a trusted voice in this space. Stacey, who started her career in television news before moving to talk radio, also shares some strong thoughts about the business of broadcasting, including some pointed advice for young women in the industry, and talks about her experience at Syracuse University and the meaningful relationships she’s developed with the people during college.

Oct 06, 202237:42
Ashia Aubourg '18: Food Justice Advocate Helps Empower Communities Through Food

Ashia Aubourg '18: Food Justice Advocate Helps Empower Communities Through Food

Food was always at the epicenter of Ashia Aubourg's '18 life, and she dreamed of being a chef until an experience at an award-winning restaurant in Boston helped Aubourg realize an important lesson: not everyone has the same access to food. Aubourg started thinking about food inequality and food justice, and headed to Syracuse University to be one of the first students in Falk College's fledgling food studies program. Today, Aubourg serves as the lead of Asana's global culinary program, blending her love of food and communications with a drive to empower her community. Aubourg discusses food justice and food insecurity and how these issues affect millions of Americans, how food plays an important role when it comes to social justice, healing and culture, how she's helping to mobilize Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC)-owned businesses to help everyone gain access to healthy and nutritious food, and how her time at Syracuse University helped fuel her passions.


Sep 27, 202237:24
Get to Know Ethan Bair, Hillel at Syracuse University's New Rabbi

Get to Know Ethan Bair, Hillel at Syracuse University's New Rabbi

As a student at Oberlin College, Ethan Bair experienced such a meaningful connection with Hillel and with his rabbi that he was inspired to become a rabbi. Something about building community and teaching the ways of the Torah to college students resonated with Bair, who earlier this summer was named Hillel at Syracuse University's new rabbi and will serve as Jewish chaplain at Hendricks Chapel. An accomplished Jewish community leader, Rabbi Bair shares how he assists with the holistic development of Syracuse University's Jewish students, why he's passionate about forming meaningful connections and impactful relationships with the campus community, the importance of finding your joy and passion, and why being part of the multi-faith community at Hendricks Chapel is such a blessing.

Sep 22, 202225:32
Studying Human Behavior and Turning Policy Into Practice to Address Food Insecurity

Studying Human Behavior and Turning Policy Into Practice to Address Food Insecurity

The Office of Community Engagement is hosting Food Insecurity Awareness Week to raise awareness about food insecurity issues on the Syracuse University campus and in the city of Syracuse. On this 'Cuse Conversation, we spotlight the incredible, data-driven work being done on campus to address food insecurity and food justice. Colleen Heflin, associate dean, chair and professor in the Maxwell School’s Public Administration and International Affairs (PAIA) department, and Len Lopoo, a Maxwell PAIA professor and Director of the Maxwell X Lab, explain how the Maxwell School and the Maxwell X Lab partner with respected public policy leaders on campus to study human behavior, turning policy into practice to combat food insecurity and other issues affecting our citizens.

Sep 15, 202231:58
Behind the Curtain with Former WWE Head Writer Brian Gewirtz '95

Behind the Curtain with Former WWE Head Writer Brian Gewirtz '95

In his new book, "There’s Just One Problem… True Tales from the former, one-time, 7th most powerful person in WWE," Brian Gewirtz ’95 pulls back the curtain on professional wrestling by sharing “fascinating and hilarious” stories (those are Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s adjectives!) from his fifteen-year career with the WWE. Gewirtz describes how earning The Rock’s trust first led to a job in professional wrestling and later to a senior vice president role with The Rock’s production company. It should come as no surprise that there’s a lot of Orange that weaves through Gewirtz's story.

Sep 11, 202236:26
Get to Know Bakeer Ganesharatnam, New Women's Volleyball Coach

Get to Know Bakeer Ganesharatnam, New Women's Volleyball Coach

For the first time in more than a decade, the Syracuse University women’s volleyball program has a new head coach: Bakeer Ganesharatnam, the seventh women's volleyball coach in school history. Ganesharatnam boasts an impressive coaching resume and has a reputation for helping student-athletes achieve success on the court and in the classroom. Ganesharatnam discusses what made the position so appealing, why he was the right person to lead the Orange, how he'll use analytics to help his team get better, how he develops a positive team culture, and why his team enjoys a unique home-court advantage.

Aug 30, 202228:04
Keeping Campus Safe: Get to Know Chief Craig Stone

Keeping Campus Safe: Get to Know Chief Craig Stone

What does it take to keep 21,000-plus students safe on a thriving residential campus located in the heart of an urban area? On this ’Cuse Conversation, we go behind the scenes with Craig Stone, associate vice president and chief of Campus Safety and Emergency Management Services, who joined Syracuse University this past spring. Campus safety is a critical undertaking on any college campus, and Stone and his team work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to protect our community and ensure the University is a safe place to live, learn and work. Chief Stone discusses his new role and his background in campus safety and law enforcement; the priorities for his tenure as chief; how the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is engaging with community members this fall; common misconceptions about DPS; strategies for protecting yourself and your belongings on campus; and more.

Aug 25, 202226:33