For the first episode of "Hello, SRU," retired administrator and SRU alumnus Bob Watson, '70, walks listeners through the history of The Rock. Watson is the author of "Slippery Rock University: The Legend Behind the Name," a 460-page book published in 2011 that chronicled the history the University.

Justin Brown, ’11, developed a diversity training program when he was a Slippery Rock University student. He now leads a nationally recognized diversity awareness program and is the author of “Ugh!?! Not Another Diversity Book.” Hear his story, why diversity is important and how he “rocked” a Super Bowl TV ad.

Johnny Phommachanh, a 2021 SRU grad, shares how leaving a googly-eyed rock on campus last spring attracted a lot of eyeballs on social media and TV, leading to a local resurgence of the pet rock craze.

SRU President Bill Behre makes his first appearance on the podcast to share his thoughts on the new academic year, the return of a fully in-person campus, vaccinations and lessons learned since the start of the pandemic.

Anthony Jones, SRU’s new chief diversity officer, talks about his career journey, explains the purpose of DEIB programming, and talks about the importance of having a diverse campus community at The Rock.

Austin Schoppe, ’23, who, for most of his time as an SRU student, lived a secret life as Rocky, the University’s mascot. Now, he’s able to talk about what it was it like to wear the suit, develop the personality of a cartoonish lion, and follow the mascot code.

Mary Jo Ross, Slippery Rock University associate professor of hospitality and tourism management, talks about how the restaurant industry has been affected by the pandemic. Learn how Ross, who worked decades as an event producer in Orlando, Florida, plans to turn Slippery Rock into a Magic Kingdom for her students.

Roxanne Dunn, a 2020 SRU graduate and former pole vaulter, was paralyzed following a car accident just months after graduating. Find out how her rehab and recovery are going and how she remains positive – and realistic – about her life’s circumstances. Also, follow her journey on Instagram (@nicole.roxanne_) and TikTok (@nicole.rox).

Professional ultrarunner Patrick Reagan ’10 checks in following his recent induction into the SRU Athletics Hall of Fame to share his journey from The Rock to becoming one of the top long-distance runners in the U.S., having placed third at the 100-kilometer World Championships and reaching the U.S. Olympic trials in the marathon.

Dave Wolfe, a 2013 SRU graduate with degrees in sport management and communication, talks about his job as corporate partnership sales manager for the Orlando City SC Major League Soccer club and the network of Rock alumni working in the Sunshine State.