Perseverantia: Fitchburg State University Podcast Network

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Darrian Fearon (COMM '28) and Jacob Stevens (GAME '28) Talk Shop

Mon, 18 May 2026 17:00:00 -0400

Want a chance to listen in on the next future millionaire game designer?

In this episode of Five With A Falcon, Darrian Fearon (COMM '28) is joined by student and aspiring game designer, Jacob Stevens (GAME '28), to talk about his future goals in the game industry and what’s led him to where he is today.

This episode was produced, hosted, and edited by Darrian Fearon. Darrian is a Communications Media major with a concentration in film/video production and a particular career interest in post-production editing.

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Episode transcript here.

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This episode was produced in COMM 2015 Podcasting during Spring 2026.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Philosophy Prof. Brad Bannon from Athens to Assassin's Creed

Fri, 01 May 2026 15:00:00 -0400

Dr. Brad Bannon has been inspiring Fitchburg State students to join them on a Philosophical Quest year after year since 2015. In this episode of Five With a Falcon, one of their philosophy students, Jacob Tawa (COMM '28), talks to Prof. Bannon about how they connect with Fitchburg State students from all disciplines in the study of the human person and the world around us, as well as their journey as an adjunct faculty member teaching courses in the Humanities, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Sustainability Studies.

This episode was produced, hosted, and edited by Jacob Tawa. Jacob is a Communications Media major with a concentration in film/video production; he is also a member of the improv club.

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Episode transcript here.

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This episode was produced in COMM 2015 Podcasting during Spring 2026.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Game Design Prof. Andres Gonzalez, from Game Industry to the Classroom

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with Falcon, Cyrus Mullen (GAME '26) talks with Prof. Andres Gonzalez, a visiting Game Design professor at Fitchburg State University with nearly 20 years of experience in the gaming industry. Transitioning from industry veteran to first-time educator, Andres shares what it’s like to step into the classroom and translate real-world experience into meaningful lessons for students.

Produced by Cyrus Mullen and Filipe Agostinho (GAME '26). Edited and mixed by Filipe.

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Episode transcript here.

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This episode was produced in COMM 2015 Podcasting during Spring 2026.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: The Trailblazing Women of Fitchburg State (and the Buildings that Remember Them)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

In this pilot episode of FROM THE ARCHIVES, join Fitchburg State University librarians Renée Fratantonio, Asher Jackson, and Olivia Rossetti in a conversation about the real women behind the names of the buildings across campus: Conlon, Russell, and Palmer. Using records from the Fitchburg State University Archives and Special Collections, the librarians will share the lives and legacies of these incredible women.

Additional material for all three individuals was drawn from the student newspaper collection, the Saxifrage yearbooks, and the student and faculty card files available in the University Archives.

Episode citations and additional resources can be found at the series citations page, linked here.

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Episode transcript here.

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Episode produced by Renee Fratantonio in collaboration with Perseverantia; research by Asher Jackson and Olivia Rossetti. Episode edited by Sabrina Lewis (COMM '28), a film and video production student and Perseverantia staff member. Sound Design and mix by the Perseverantia team.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: A Journey into the Time Capsule with Rugg Ruggiero (COMM '27)

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

In this special episode, Andrew "Rugg" Ruggiero (COMM '27) takes us into his home away from home: The Time Capsule, a second-hand store located in Cranston, Rhode Island.

The Time Capsule specializes in selling a wide variety of comic, music, and video game related memorabilia. Over the years the store has developed a following of local collectors, who are always looking for something new in stock. Even if you aren’t looking for anything in particular, The Time Capsule has a way of making sure you don’t leave empty handed.

Special thanks to the owners and customers who made this project possible! ,

Rugg is a film/video production student and Communications Media major at Fitchburg State University. He produced, recorded, and edited this episode.

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Episode Transcript can be found here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... Prof. J Flynn Talks Shop with Internationally Renowned Photographer Atom Moore (COMM '05)

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the CATCHING UP WITH... series, Professor J Flynn catches up with Atom Moore (COMM ’05), to talk about about what it takes to become an internationally renowned watch photographer and artist. Beginning with his time in the Fitchburg State photography department to becoming a master of his craft working around the world for prestigious companies, Atom and J discuss the merger of craft with one's fascination -- and the crucial role pursuing his interests with his camera and lens led to his professional success.

In a New York Times profile about Atom's work, Tadashi Shibuya, the vice president of the Casio USA Timepiece Division, lauded Atom's artistry: “In the realm of watch photography, Atom’s lens goes beyond mere documentation....transforming timepieces into art through his innovative, unique and creative perspective.”

Atom Moore's macro photography has been featured in several critically acclaimed gallery exhibitions -- including Second Nature, which was part of the Alumni Artist series in the Sanders Gallery on the Fitchburg State campus in 2025.

Follow Atom on Instagram and check out his work at www.atommoore.com.

The Gallery exhibition and campus visits were made possible by the generous support of The Clementi Family Lecture Fund -- and the organizational support and enthusiasm of Tanya Hoos Crowley (MS '21) of the Alumni office.

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This conversation was recorded in April 2025, before a live audience in the Hammond Lounge. The discussion has been edited for brevity.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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This episode was produced by Adam Fournier (COMM '25). Adam is the creator of the CATCHING UP WITH... series and a newly minted graduate of the Film/Video Production program in the Communications Media Department. We thank Adam for his hard work and dedication to the mission of the Perseverantia podcast network. Best wishes, Adam! We will miss you but you have a wonderful road ahead!

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: Stories from Greece (Adventures from Study Abroad in Athens)

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this special episode, Skye Goba (COMM '26) catches up with fellow Communications Media student filmmakers Annie Hart (COMM '27) and Cassie Israelson (COMM '26) about their time together studying abroad in Greece. They share stories of navigating Athens, finding an outdoor trampoline park just when they needed one, stumbling upon a killer DJ set at a private party, and meeting a Athenian named Jimmy and his dog Lucky -- as well as revisiting inside jokes and other moments of silliness and connection that international travel brings.

Episode transcript can be found here.

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About the Trip:

Students from across Fitchburg State traveled to Athens in June 2024 as students in Dr. JJ Sylvia’s course Rhetoric in Greece and Professor Kevin McCarthy’s course, Through the Lens: Athens, a travelogue filmmaking course. Guided by an incredible itinerary curated by the Office of International Education and Prof. Sylvia, the students traveled to Athens and the island of Rhodes, took in the Acropolis and Plato's Academy, museums, restaurants, and even the home of the Oracle at Delphi. All the while receiving on-site lectures by Dr. Sylvia about the origins of rhetoric in Ancient Greece and creating documentary travelogues.

Professor Sylvia and Professor McCarthy will be leading another trip to Athens in Summer 2026, and enrollment to this and other faculty led trips is currently open.

For more information about study abroad at Fitchburg State:

https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/undergraduate-academics/study-abroad/faculty-led-study-abroad-programs

Links to the travelogue films they created following the trip:

Skye's: https://tinyurl.com/4c2za4eb

Annie's: https://tinyurl.com/2kr9nyx2

Cassie's: https://tinyurl.com/yzspzdcj

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This episode was recorded in March 2025. Skye Goba produced and edited the episode. Skye is a staff producer for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIELD NOTES: College Athletics and Inside the Recruiting Process

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this debut episode of Field Notes, The Point's sports editor, Nola Patty, talks with a member of the Fitchburg State University Men's Ice Hockey team, junior Nick Millhorn, about the college recruiting process and the different experiences athletes can have. As a member of the Men's Ice Hockey team, Nick describes his experience during the college recruitment process and shares his tips on how to stand out to coaches while also staying true to your style of play.

Episode transcript can be found here.

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Field Notes is an affiliate of The Point, Fitchburg State's student-run newspaper. The series was created by Nola Patty as part of the Fall 2025 College Newspaper Production course (ENGL 3830), led by Prof. Wafa Unus. The episode was produced by Nola Patty and staff from Perseverantia. Post-production editing and mixing by Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: From China to Fitchburg State

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In recognition of International Education Week, Gabriel Rivera (HIST '26) speaks to international student and citizen of China, Andrew, about spending the Spring 2025 semester on the Fitchburg State University campus. In this wide-ranging conversation, Andrew shares how he found his way from a city of 10 million to Fitchburg, why speaking a foreign language helps him assume new identities (depending on the language), and how Coca-Cola became his favorite American "food." They both share how international education opportunities have provided them with a pathway to better understanding the world, as well as themselves.

International Education Week (Nov 17-Nov 21) is a time to recognize the importance of global learning, cross-cultural exchange, and the international community that enriches Fitchburg State. For more information about international education and study abroad programs at Fitchburg State, visit their websites:

www.fitchburgstate.edu/student-support/international-education

www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/undergraduate-academics/study-abroad

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This episode was produced and hosted by Gabriel Rivera, as part of the Spring 2025 Podcasting course. This episode was originally conceived as part of a series Gabriel developed called Falcons Abroad. The talk was recorded in April 2025. Special thanks -- and fare thee wells -- to Andrew for sharing his story.

Episode transcript can be found here.

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It was mixed and mastered by staff from Perseverantia and edited for time.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

VETERAN'S DAY SPECIAL EPISODE: Writing Home to Fitchburg

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0500

In this special release to honor our veterans, members of the Fitchburg community share a kaleidoscope of Fitchburg’s World War II experiences -- pulled directly from letters and writings saved in the archives of the Fitchburg Historical Society and Fitchburg State University.

In addition to hearing from different perspectives on the war, the episode includes a deep dive into the letters written of Michael Vincent Addorisio, a Fitchburg resident who died serving in the Philippines in 1944.

Recorded at the Fitchburg Historical Society (FHS) on November 7, 2024, each of the readings is preceded by historical context provided by Susan Navarre, the Executive Director of FHS, and Dr. Teresa Fava Thomas, Professor of History at Fitchburg State University.

The event was co-sponsored by the Fitchburg Historical Society, the Fitchburg State University Library Archives, the Center for Italian Culture, and the Fitchburg Community Read.

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Special thanks to Susan Navarre, the Executive Director of the Fitchburg Historical Society; Jacalyn Kremer, the Dean of the Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library on the Fitchburg State campus; Asher Jackson; Jessie Olson, Prof. Teresa Fava Thomas; and Rose Ann Addorisio and Concetta Ayles, Michael Addorisio's nieces.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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The episode was produced by Perseverantia, the Fitchburg State Podcast Network in conjunction with the Fitchburg Historical Society and the Fitchburg Community Read.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: Red Shaydez' Red Shaydez Day

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500

“Red Shaydez’ Red Shaydez Day” features a talk between Fitchburg State’s own Toni Magras (COMM ‘25) and Fitchburg State alumna, hip-hop recording artist, educator, and cultural architect Red Shaydez (COMM ‘14). In this episode, Red dives into her roots, her inspirations, her journey as an artist at Fitchburg State, her favorite hip hop artist(s), and more! To mark Red’s return, Fitchburg State declared May 6th, 2025 Red Shaydez Day on campus.

The interview was recorded live on May 6th, 2025 in Hammond Hall’s Falcon Hub as part of the Classroom Stories series. Hosted by Toni, with an introduction from Professor of Economics, History, and Political Science, Prof. Katherine Jewell, the conversation grew out of a section of the course HIST 1500, United States 1877-present; students in the class assisted with event preparation.

Red’s “Buy All the Land Up (Radio Edit)” was used with permission of the artist. (Thanks, Red!) Check out the music video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdIiBl3kM3o .

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Red Shaydez’s music and work can be found here:

https://redshaydez.bandcamp.com/music

https://www.instagram.com/redshaydez1

RedShaydez.com

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Show transcript can be found here.

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This episode was directed and produced by Prof. Katherine Jewell in collaboration with the team from Perseverantia, Fitchburg State University's Podcast Network. Adam Fournier (COMM '25) & James Hofmann (COMM ‘28) edited and mixed the episode.

Episode recording by Adam, James and Prof. Kevin McCarthy of the Communications Media department.

Promotion and marketing by Rachel Nicolas (COMM '27).

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About the Classroom Stories series:

Students come to Fitchburg State University for academic enrichment and the innovative pedagogy offered in its classrooms. Classroom Stories feature the work of students and learning communities and the exciting explorations in the content of the many disciplines available for study at the university.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Persistence of Underground Music in Fitchburg - Daniel Somers

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 23:00:00 -0400

In the final episode of the Fitchburg Your Story series, Daniel Somers explores Persistence of Underground Music in Fitchburg through the city's and Fitchburg State's storied history as a punk rock and underground music way station.

Underground music of all genres has been present throughout the past several decades -- with Fitchburg State hosting storied acts from the indie/punk scene like Fugazi, The Breeders, Melvins, and Quick Sand. Fitchburg State's radio station, WXPL (93.3 FM) has also played a role in hosting underground music acts like Horsejumper of Love, Debt of Love, Prince Daddy and the Hyena, Origami Angel, and Pile.

Daniel explores some contextual history of the underground music in Fitchburg, along with some other connections that go beyond the Burg's borders -- as well as the state of music in Fitchburg presently and the evolution of WXPL on campus.

Daniel is a junior English Studies major with a concentration in Literature and a minor in History.

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Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

"Saxifrage" is the Fitchburg Your Story theme music. Music by Prof. Robin Dinda, Text by Prof. DeMisty Bellinger-Delfeld. Performed by Fitchburg State University Choirs with Alanna Rantala (piano) and Prof. Jonathan Harvey (conductor).

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Keep Calm and Drop the Rum - Leanna Cox

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 18:00:00 -0400

Keep Calm and Drop the Rum takes us on a buzzy dive into a fascinating -- and a little wild -- chapter of Fitchburg's temperance history.

Leanna Cox wrote and narrated this story. Leanna is a sophomore Political Science major in the department of Economics, History, and Political Science -- with a concentration in American Government/Law at Fitchburg State.

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Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: World Languages Bridging Communities

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400

"World Languages Bridging Communities" highlights a community-based effort led by Fitchburg State’s Spanish Program in partnership with the Falcon Academy.

In this episode, Fitchburg State students reflect on how their Spanish skills came alive as they taught a medical Spanish lesson to local eighth graders, bridging classroom learning with real-world community needs. Their stories illustrate not only how language education fosters connection, cultural awareness, and community collaboration, but also how it offers students a meaningful rite of passage—an opportunity to stand before their community as leaders and educators, using their knowledge to make a tangible impact.

This special release has been timed with the nationwide celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Between September 15 through October 15, the university celebrates the contributions and influence of the Hispanic community to our history and culture through a series of entertaining and informative events

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For more information on the Medical Spanish Certificate program, visit:

https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/programs/medical-spanish-certificate

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Show transcript can be found here.

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This episode was directed and produced by Prof. Karina Bautista, of the Humanities Department, in collaboration with the team from Perseverantia, Fitchburg State University's Podcast Network. Adam Fournier (COMM '25) edited and mixed the episode. Field and interview recording by Adam and Prof. Kevin McCarthy of the Communications Media department.

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The following Fitchburg State students participated in the production of this episode:

Madison Faneuf – Biology
Melody Farell – Communications Media/Film
Nathan Lagerstedt – Communications Media/Game Design
Juan Sambrano – Exercise and Sports Science
Valerie Rodríguez – Criminal Justice
Jacob Walker – Criminal Justice
Arturo Zuniga – Construction Management

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Echoes of the Past - Samuel Monteiro

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0400

Echoes of the Past is a storytelling deep dive into downtown Fitchburg's historic theater, all brought to life with sound and heart. It’s about community, memory, and the places that shape us.

In this episode, Samuel Monteiro speaks of the investment the university has made to renovating the Theater Block (located at 707 Main St. in Fitchburg's downtown), which opened in 1929 to vaudeville acts -- and served as a three screen cinema until it closed in 1988.

Sam is a senior Criminal Justice major.

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Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Clover in the City - Michael Kelly

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Kelly talks about the many contributions made by Irish immigrants who moved to Fitchburg, creations made by Irish immigrants, the overall impact of the cultural heritage of Fitchburg -- as well as his own relationship to his Irishness.

Michael is a senior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management.

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Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: A City Reborn - Jordan Cummings

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 23:00:00 -0400

In A City Reborn, Jordan Cummings tells a tale of a city with a history of industrial strength and today, an inspiring tale of rebirth.

Jordan is a senior Communications Media major.

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Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the Fitchburg State University students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: "Clubmunity" through Writing Club

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Peter Elliott ('ENGL 26) is an English Studies major with a concentration in Professional Writing and a minor in Photography. He is a passionate evangelist for writing, as the President of the Writing Club.

Emily Puccia (COMM '26) is a Communications Media major with a concentration in Film & Video Production. She loves the adrenalin rush that comes from writing and pours her time into Writing Club as its Vice President.

Writing Club meets on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5pm in the Miller Hall oval. Peter and Emily talk to episode host Rob Aurillo (COMM '26) about their unique community where they strive to share their passion for writing in a safe, inclusive environment -- where you can freely write anything you want with the support of fellow scribes.

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To learn more about student organizations, stop by Rock the Block XXVII -- the university's annual clubs and organizations fair on Tuesday September 9 from 3:30-5pm on the main quad.

You can also visit the Office of Student Engagement or Falconnect.

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Marking the start of a new academic year, FalconCast returns with a special limited series called "Clubmunity," which explores some of the student-run organizations on the Fitchburg State University campus and how they contribute to a culture of community.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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This episode was developed and produced as part of a Spring 2025 class collaboration in Podcasting (COMM 2015).

Recorded in Spring 2025, this episode was produced by Emily Puccia and edited and mixed by fellow film/video major, Henry Christiansen. The original piece has been condensed for publishing, with additional editing by staff Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: "Clubmunity" through Billiards Club

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

FalconCast returns with a special limited series called "Clubmunity," which explores some of the student-run organizations on the Fitchburg State University campus and how they contribute to a culture of community.

In this episode, host Gabriel Rivera (HIST '25) talks the chalk with Billiards Club president Jonathan Rajotte (COMM '27). Curious about club life, monthly tournaments, and smart strategies to up your game? Chalk up your cue and tune in.

To learn more about student organizations, stop by Rock the Block XXVII -- the university's annual clubs and organizations fair on Tuesday September 9 from 3:30-5pm on the main quad.

You can also visit the Office of Student Engagement or Falconnect.

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Recorded in Spring 2025, this episode was produced by Dominic Iannaco, a senior majoring in Communications Media with a concentration in Film/Video Production. The episode was edited and mixed by fellow film/video major, Brooke Taylor.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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This episode was developed and produced as part of a class collaboration in Podcasting (COMM 2015).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: City of Service - Jamie LaValley

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, City of Service, Jamie LaValley tells the story of Fitchburg's Michael Addorizzi and his time in the Navy during World War II. It also connects this story to Fitchburg's heritage of service.

Jamie is a senior Engineering Technology major with a concentration in Manufacturing Engineering Technology. To research and produce this episode, he drew from the Michael Vincent Addorisio (Addorizzi) Family Collection at Fitchburg State University's Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library and archive. This special collection was donated to the university by the Addorisio family in 2022 in collaboration with the Center for Italian Culture. The story of the donation can be found here.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: America’s Most Colorful River - Julian Morley

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Julian Morley, a senior Environmental and Earth Sciences major at Fitchburg State, examines the modern history of the Nashua River, which bisects the North Central Massachusetts home of Fitchburg State University.

The Nashua River used to be one of America's most polluted waterways due to industry in Fitchburg using it for waste disposal. So how did it change? Julian shares a history of the Nashua and Marion Stoddart, the woman who started the cleanup over 50 years ago.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: She Spoke - Julia Grace Ducharme

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Julia Grace Ducharme, takes a look at the voices of Fitchburg State university's past women students, and why it is important (especially now more than ever) to keep their voices alive!

Julia is a senior English Studies major, with a concentration in Literature. Her essay won the "2025 You FIT Here! Fitchburg Your Story Best Overall Podcast Prize."

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This episode references the archives of the student-run newspaper on the Fitchburg State campus, The Point -- visit at https://fitchburgpoint.com/.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: What's in a Name? - Erisbel Alicea

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 20:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Erisbel Alicea, reflects on the names behind the buildings on Fitchburg State's campus, diving most deeply into the accomplishments of the namesake of the most central building on campus: Mr. James J. Hammond.

Erisbel is a junior Criminal Justice major, participating in the 4+1 police program.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: The Mystery of Our First Black Student - Erumosele Bridgeforth

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Sele Bridgeforth explores the mystery of who was the first African American to graduate from Fitchburg State University.

Sele is a sophomore Creative Arts Therapies major, with a concentration in Music.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Legacy of Perseverance - Dexter Brown

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Dexter Brown shares the stories of past Falcons from the Athletic Department's 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees. He reflects on the trials and tribulations they overcame playing sports at Fitchburg State -- and the legacies they leave behind and continue to make.

Dexter is a junior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management. He is also a member of the Fitchburg State football team.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Latin Talk - Angel Viruet

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Angel Viruet looks at the cultural heritage of Fitchburg, and the community of Fitchburg State University, with a particular focus on the Latinx community. Angel is a sophomore Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: From Chaos to Community - Mike Sauvageau

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Although college radio broadcasts may only reach a limited signal range, their influence on university campuses across the world is immeasurable. Perhaps no greater example can be found than Fitchburg State University's student-run radio station WXPL (91.3 FM and streamable online).

In this episode, Michael Sauvageau playfully discusses how WXPL has helped promote diversity and cultural awareness for multiple decades. Through the dedication of staff and students, Fitchburg State's radio station brings a more eclectic mix of music to the students at FSU and the community of greater Fitchburg, Massachusetts. This is how they do it!

Mike is a senior English Studies major, with a concentration in Literature. This essay won the "2025 You FIT Here! Fitchburg Your Story Best Delivery Podcast Prize."

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Voice of the First - Justin Conner

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0400

First Generation College Students (FGCS) are one of the most unrecognized group of students at a university. Many do not see the challenges they have to face as they go through the college search process and when they are finally here.

In this episode, Justin Conner explores the variety of challenges that FGCS have to face on a regular basis and how universities can help them. This will help not only Fitchburg State understand their population and how to help them, but colleges across the board.

Justin is a senior Interdisciplinary Studies major, with a minor in Business Administration. This essay won the "2025 You FIT Here! Fitchburg Your Story" Most Compelling Emphasis on Marginalized Communities Podcast Prize.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: More Than a Sunday - Jaleel Jackson

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we examine the diverse religious life outside of traditional Christianity with a particular emphasis on the voices, customs, and narratives influencing places like Fitchburg.

Written and narrated by Jaleel Jackson, a junior Business Administration major with a concentration in Management, "More Than a Sunday" is the next episode in the Fitchburg Your Story series.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: More Than a Game - Devin Lebron

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Football is culture. Football is identity. Football is a community.

In this podcast episode, Devin Lebron, a Fitchburg State University junior, talks about the role the game of football has played in his life -- and the challenge he faced in overcoming a severe injury on the field to find his way back to the game and himself.

Written and narrated by Devin Lebron, a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management, "More Than a Game" is the next episode in the Fitchburg Your Story series, which will be published throughout the month of August.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Education of Disability Services - Hannah Free

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0400

In this podcast episode, Hannah Free, a Fitchburg State University junior, talks about the adoption of disability services, looking at the the changes from Covid back to in person education and how as kids get older they continue to change.

Written and narrated by Hannah Free, a Business Administration major with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, "Education of Disability Services" is the next episode in the Fitchburg Your Story series, which will be published throughout the month.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Cultural Proficiency as Cultural Heritage - Hannah Hartman

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

"Cultural Proficiency as Cultural Heritage" delves into the implications that the community of Fitchburg State actually makes an effort to achieve the goals and beliefs of the University's cultural heritage. As a school known for its excellence in education, cultural proficiency is at the forefront of the University's success.

Written and narrated by Hannah Hartman, a dual enrollment high school student for the last two years, this is the next episode in the Fitchburg Your Story series, which will be published throughout the month.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Best of Both Worlds - Kensley Antoine

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

This episode shares a personal journey of cultural adoption, navigating the balance between Haitian heritage and life in the US as well as explores Fitchburg State's supports for diversity and inclusivity.

Written and narrated by Kensley Antoine, a Business Administration major with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, "Best of Both Worlds" is the next episode in a series called Fitchburg Your Story, which will be published throughout the month.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Fly Like a Falcon - Timothy Dewey

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

In “To Fly Like a Falcon," Timothy Dewey, a senior at Fitchburg State University, reflects on his college experiences and asks some questions on what it means to be a Falcon. Listen along as he talks about his personal experiences and research into the FSU student, how times have changed, and what he found to be important about his college experience.

Written and narrated by Timothy Dewey, a Math major with minors in Psychological Science and Middle and Secondary Education (5-12), this is the next episode in a series called Fitchburg Your Story, which will be published throughout the month.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG YOUR STORY: Finding Your Flock - Coean Blankenship

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0400

"Finding Your Flock" is about exploring cultural heritage and identity formation during the college years, using Fitchburg State University as a lens. Research, faculty interviews, and student experiences inform a deep dive into finding belonging and purpose, challenging the idea of college as just a temporary phase and advocating for active community engagement to build lasting connections.

Written and narrated by Coean Blankenship, a DMI major in the Communications Media department, this is the first in a series called Fitchburg Your Story.

Episodes in this series were produced and edited by the students in Professor Kisha Tracy's Storytelling and the Oral Tradition course (ENGL 2890) in the Spring 2025 semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Additional mixing and mastering by members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH…Communications Media Alumni Panel - Visions 2025 Part 2 (of 2)

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

This is part two of our special two-part episode featuring Fitchburg State graduates of the Communication Media Department sharing how they took their first steps into the professional world of communications, the importance of staying current to navigate technology and shifts in the workspace and being prepared to pivot in your career as part of the professional experience.

The annual Alumni Panel is a featured event of the 2025 Visions Exhibition, which showcases the best original work from the students in the Communications Media Department, including work from Game Design.

The 2025 Alumni Panel was hosted by the Chair of the Communications Media Department, Prof. Jeff Warmouth, and features the following Fitchburg State graduates:

Traci Bartlett (COMM ‘03, Theater), has done backup and stand-in work on shows like Fallout, Dexter, and Julia; and has acted in plays “Lord of the Flies” and “WIT” presented by City on a Hill Arts
Wylder Tallman (COMM ‘21, Film and Video), Senior Editor at Boston Digital Productions
Kris Camp (COMM ‘24, Game Design), CEO of Iconic Arts
Erica Titus (COMM ‘21, Public Relations, Social Media, and Advertising Production), Marketing Manager at Joshua Allen Design
Benjamin Borodawka (Class of ‘19, Graphic Design), Web Designer for Polen Capital

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Find out more about the Visions Exhibition and find previous accepted works here: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/visions. Part 1 of the 2025 talk can be found here.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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This episode was produced, edited, and mixed by Adam Fournier (COMM '25), a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH…Communications Media Alumni Panel - Visions 2025 Part 1 (of 2)

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400

CATCHING UP WITH…is an ongoing series where Fitchburg State alumni reflect on their time here on campus, celebrate their accomplishments and discuss how they got from here to where they are now.

This special two-part episode features the Alumni Panel of the 2025 Visions Exhibition, Fitchburg State University’s annual event that showcases the best original work from the students in the Communications Media Department.

The 2025 Alumni Panel was hosted by the Chair of the Communications Media Department, Prof. Jeff Warmouth, and features the following Fitchburg State graduates:

Traci Bartlett (COMM ‘03, Theater), has done backup and stand-in work on shows like Fallout, Dexter, and Julia; and has acted in plays “Lord of the Flies” and “WIT” presented by City on a Hill Arts.
Wylder Tallman (COMM ‘21, Film and Video), Senior Editor at Boston Digital Productions.
Kris Camp (COMM ‘24, Game Design), CEO of Iconic Arts.
Erica Titus (COMM ‘21, Graphic Design and Public Relations, Social Media, and Advertising Production), Marketing Manager at Joshua Allen Design.
Benjamin Borodawka (COMM ‘19, Graphic Design), Web Designer for Polen Capital.

During Part 1 of their talk, these esteemed alumni talk about their day-to-day lives in their respective lines of work, the different ways to build a professional network and how imperative it is for building a career in communications media, and special moments and memorable classes during their time as students, reflecting on how their time at Fitchburg State impacted their lives and careers and think about what they could have done differently if they were to do it all again.

Find out more about the Visions Exhibition and find previously accepted works here: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/visions.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Episodes from the 2024 Alumni Panel can be found here:

Part 1: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1981788/episodes/15854362

Part 2: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1981788/episodes/15894325

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This episode was produced, edited, and mixed by Adam Fournier (COMM '25), a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Annabella Valle, Theater & Film/Video Production (COMM '25)

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Annabella Valle (COMM ‘25) studied both Theater and Film and Video Production at Fitchburg State University as a Communications Media major. In this episode of FIVE WITH A FALCON, Annabella shares her passion for Fitchburg State’s theater program -- in particular the impact of Professors Mary Vreeland and Kelly Morgan on her professional and personal growth as an actor and filmmaker. She also makes the case for why every student would benefit from taking theater courses, as it helped her develop her own public speaking and time management skills. Annabella also reflects on how taking advantage of the university’s counseling services helped her grow as a person ready to take on life ahead.

This episode was originally recorded in July 2024. In the interim, Annabella portrayed Young Nicky in Tonia Magras' short film, "do you remember me?" which will be screened on Sunday June 22 at 2pm at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston as an official selection of the Roxbury International Film Festival.

We congratulate Annabella Valle in taking her walk across the stage at the 2025 graduation ceremony held in May.

Episode transcript can be found here.

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MacKenzie Calvao (COMM '25) produced the episode. Adam Fournier (COMM '25) edited and sound mixed the episode. Both are members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... President Donna Hodge Catches Up with Peter Reynolds (COMM '83)

Thu, 15 May 2025 23:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the CATCHING UP WITH... series, Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge catches up with Peter Reynolds (COMM ’83), as he talks about his journey from being a hungry Fitchburg State graphic design student in the Communications Media department to best-selling author, illustrator, and 2025 Commencement Speaker.

Peter Reynolds is an acclaimed author with over 40 million copies of his books in print worldwide, including The Dot, Ish, The North Star, and Be You. He has also collaborated as an illustrator on the Judy Moody series by Meghan McDonald.

He founded FableVision, an award-winning multi-media production studio based in Boston, whose mission is to inspire, teach, and move people to action through their animations, interactives, and game-based learning apps games – for clients as varied as PBS Kids, National Geographic, Smithsonian, Nickelodeon, and the Library of Congress. Audiyo-yo is a production division of FableVision Studios dedicated exclusively to creating entertaining, engaging, and inspiring audio content for children and families. He also runs Blue Bunny Book Store and Mocha Java Café in Dedham – where you might find him sitting at a table drawing.

Peter Reynolds is an advocate for the arts and encourages everyone to express their artistic potential, shining as a contagious light of creativity, inspiring children, adults, parents, people of all ages to embrace their creativity, which he believes has the power to change the world.

We'll be welcoming Peter Reynolds back home at Fitchburg State as the 2025 commencement speaker for the 2025 Undergraduate Graduation ceremony, taking place on May 17th. The commencement will be simulcast live on Fitchburg Access Television (FATV).

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This conversation was recorded in March 2025, before a live audience. The discussion has been edited for brevity. To watch the talk in full, check out the Fitchburg State University youtube channel.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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This episode was produced & sound mixed by Adam Fournier (COMM '25) and edited by James Hoffman (COMM '28); both are members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A (future) FALCON: Danny Schaffer (COMM '27), from Middlesex Community College to Fitchburg State University

Tue, 13 May 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of FIVE WITH A (future) FALCON, Emily Puccia (COMM '26) talks to Danny Schaffer (COMM '27) about his goals and aspirations as he makes the transition from Middlesex Community College to Fitchburg State University starting the Fall 2025 semester.

Danny completed his Associates Degree at Middlesex in film and video production -- and is now looking forward to continue building towards a career in film production by finishing his bachelor's degree as a Communications Media major in the film/video concentration as a Falcon.

Danny is an avid writer who is deeply invested in the world of filmmaking. As part of his network of collaborators at Middlesex (many of them Fitchburg State transferees), Danny’s been a part of projects such A Cold Night in Tartarus, The Lowell Mural Documentary, Sunday and Lonestar 3. Emily, Danny and friends are now collaborating on their own indie film studio, Renegade Studios, since 2023.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Episode produced, edited, and mixed by Emily Puccia (COMM '26) for the Spring 2025 Podcasting course (COMM 2015).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: Prof. Kisha Tracy, Harrod Lecturer, on Decolonizing the Study of Disability in the Middle Ages

Fri, 02 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Professor of English Studies Kisha Tracy, who holds a Ph.D. in Medieval Studies from the University of Connecticut, discusses her research shared in a recent Harrod Lecture, Fitchburg State’s longstanding faculty lecture series. Dr. Tracy explores decolonizing the study of disability in the Middle Ages -- and how that research fits more broadly within her work as a medievalist specializing in disability studies with a particular focus on mental health.

Read more about Prof. Tracy's lecture at the Burg Blog.

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Episode transcript found here.

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This episode was edited and mixed by James Hoffman (COMM '28), a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Nicole Salerno & Study Abroad at Fitchburg State University

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of FIVE WITH A FALCON, Gabriel Rivera (HIST '26) interviews Nicole Salerno. Nicole is the Assistant Director of Study Abroad in the International Education office at Fitchburg State and is passionate about helping students discover new academic opportunities abroad. Join us and listen to what Nicole has to say about her sense of belonging at Fitchburg State!

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Episode produced, edited, and mixed by Gabriel Rivera (HIST '26) for the Spring 2025 Podcasting course (COMM 2015).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Isaiah Manuel (COMM '25) from Fitchburg State to TD Garden and beyond

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of FIVE WITH A FALCON, Isaiah Manuel (COMM '25) details his journey at Fitchburg State as a student in the Film/Video Production program. From coming out of the pandemic as a shy and reserved person with no solid direction to becoming an active member in the Communications Media department and taking first place at a student media summit pitch contest, Isaiah reflects on his growth as a student and his ever-evolving skillset. Moreover, he talks about his video production internship at TD Garden, a recent 90-minute documentary he edited for Fitchburg Access Television (FATV), as well as his excitement about his graduation in May 2025.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Episode produced, edited, and mixed by Dominic Iannaco (COMM '26), for the Spring 2025 Podcasting course (COMM 2015).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: Juliana Ricci

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 21:00:00 -0400

To commemorate Women's History Month, we look to those who will one day make history.

When pursuing our dreams, we are often met with obstacles and conflicts that can lead us down the path of demotivation and loss of confidence. This is not the case with Juliana Ricci, a student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), majoring in aerospace engineering with a concentration in astronautical engineering.

Following her passion for space and rocketry, she finds herself being ridiculed for chasing her dream, predominantly because of her gender.

In this Special Episode, Juliana shares her story on how this passion flourished and what it is like being a woman in a male dominated field. Being faced with misogynistic comments and doubtful feedback from her peers, she uses that along with support from her family and friends to push herself forward.

A native of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, Juliana is an active member of the High Power Rocketry Club at WPI.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Lily Hay (COMM '26) produced, edited, and mixed this episode in Fall 2024 as part of the Audio Production course (COMM 3510). A Communications Media major with a concentration in film and video production, Lily is a filmmaker, sound recordist, and post production editor and sound designer -- and a staff producer for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: Say It Louder! A Progression in Hip Hop Aggression by Adam Fournier

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Today, we present one of the episodes produced in this winter's course on the Politics and Poetics of Hip-Hop offered by historian and Professor Katherine Jewell.

The assignment said:

"This assignment is your chance to advance your own interpretation of the evolution or application of the knowledge and insight developed this term. In a one-hour radio show, for which you will produce a script and a playlist and record for dissemination on WXPL, build a thematic engagement with an aspect of the course. Your playlist can take any theme you would like, but it should make specific reference to readings and ideas encountered this term, cited in the transcript. Take your listener on a musical journey through an aspect of hip-hop informed by its past."

Adam Fournier (COMM '25) wanted to explore hip hop songs that spoke about the struggles and misfortunes of the Everyman, how we the people view the powers above us and how we could, and should, overcome the adversity that they put us in. He also used this assignment to explore how the sound of hip hop evolved with these messages over time, how it starts to blend with different genres, progressing into heavier sounds to support the aggression and frustration of hip hop artists and the American people.

From classic hip hop tunes from the 80s and 90s paired with some of his favorites from the mid 2000s to as recent as the 2020s, Adam shows how the sound of more modern alternative hip hop shifts from its roots, but the messages still ring true for the modern era, modern audiences, and speak about modern issues.

Play it loud! Say it Louder!

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Say It Louder! was written and produced entirely by Adam Fournier, a co- production with WXPL (91.3 FM).

Show Credits:

In the show, he features:

Changes" by 2Pac
"What It's Like" by Everlast
"Renegades of Funk" by Afrika Bambaataa and The Soulsonic Force
"Rise" by Flobots
"C.R.E.A.M." by Wu Tang Clan
"American Dream" by Bryce Vine
"Bring the Noise" by Public Enemy and Anthrax
"World War Blues" by Spose
"Comfortably Numb" by Body Count

Episode Transcript here.

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About the Classroom Stories series:

Students come to Fitchburg State University for academic enrichment and the innovative pedagogy offered in its classrooms. Classroom Stories feature the work of students and learning communities and the exciting explorations in the content of the many disciplines available for study at the university.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: Women and Hip-Hop History by Toni Magras

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, in honor of Black History Month, we present one of the episodes produced in this winter's course on the Politics and Poetics of Hip-Hop offered by historian and Professor Katherine Jewell.

The assignment said:

Toni Magras (COMM '25) offered an engaging thematic interrogation of women in hip hop, including an interview with her daughter, Ashleigh (Lady Repo), who is also a musician and MC. Presented as a radio show for Fitchburg State's radio station, WXPL, the show combines musical reflection with an analysis of how women MCs advanced the art and expression of hip hop.

The Power Show was written and produced entirely by Toni Magras of Hull Bay Productions.

Show Credits:

In the show, she features extracts from:

PUSH-IT Salt-n-Pepa, Released in 1987, Producer: Hurby “Luv Bug” Azor
"Ladies First," Queen Latifah featuring Monie Love, Released in 1989
"Dance For Me," Queen Latifah, Released in 1989
"You Can’t Play With My Yo Yo" Yo-Yo, Released in 1991; Written by Yo-Yo, Ice Cube, James Brown, Charles Sherrell
"Make A Livin’" MC Lyte, Released in 2024
"I Wanna Be Down" Brandy featuring MC Lyte, Yo-Yo, Queen Latifah, Released in 1994
"Doo Wop (That Thing)" Lauren Hill, Released in 1998; Written and Produced by Lauren Hill
"Not Tonight (Ladies Night Remix)" Featuring Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliot, Da Brat, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Angela Martinez, Released 1997
"Moment 4 Life" Nicki Minaj, Released 2010
"They Know" Drama Queen, Released in 2012
"I'm a Boss" Drama Queen featuring Lady Repo, Released in 2012

Episode Transcript here.

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Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Elliot Zopatti, Technical Theater (COMM '24)

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode of FIVE WITH A FALCON, Elliot Zopatti (COMM ‘24) talks about studying Technical Theater (TETA) within the Communications Media department and being an active member of the campus community, including serving as a Residential Advisor (RA). He also talks about how Fitchburg State -- and, especially, his 20+ strong friend group -- helped him find his sense of belonging.

As a member of the Honors Program, Elliot describes how he stepped out of his comfort zone with his Honors thesis project to create a personal documentary called The Little Girl in the Photo is Me . The film was an official selection of Visions, the annual juried showcase of the best student work from the CommMedia department, and received an award for Best Film at the 2024 Undergraduate Research Conference.

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Episode transcript available here.

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Recorded in Spring 2024, this episode was produced by McKenzie Calvao and edited & sound mixed by Adam Fournier. Both are members of the Perseverantia staff, and film/video production students in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: Uncle Tommy

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We all experience the death of a loved one at some point in our lives. But how can it impact us when it occurs during adolescence? In this special release, Jeremy Allik (COMM '25) sits down with his mother, Marjorie Raskin to discuss the death of her brother Tommy, on November 30, 1977. Marjorie was 13 years old when her 16-year-old brother -- Jeremy's Uncle Tommy -- died.

Marjorie talks about their life growing up in Wayland, Massachusetts, fondly recalls memories of her brother, and reflects on her grieving process—which has now spanned over 45 years. Now a social worker, Marjorie expresses her brother's death as a significant influence on her career choice.

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Episode transcript can be found here.

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Jeremy Allik produced, edited, and mixed this episode in Spring 2024 as part of the Podcasting course (COMM 2015). A Communications Media major with a concentration in film and video production, Jeremy is a filmmaker and accomplished film editor -- with experience working in both narrative and documentary filmmaking.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP - Final Exam Week Edition

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0500

This week's round-up mixes things up with a special Exam Week Edition. Round-Up Host Nick Castillo talks to students on campus about how they get through finals week. From the quiet zen of a monk to maniacally listening to video game boss music, these half dozen Fitchburg State students all take different approaches to making it through finals.

This is the last episode of the Weekly Round-Up for the Fall 2024 semester. Perseverantia would like to thank Nick for creating and producing this semi-weekly podcast -- along with his other contributions as a reliable voice of many a show.

As Nick completes the last final exam week of his college career, we wish him all the best as he heads out on internship next semester.

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Episode transcript here.

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Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) studying in the Film/Video Production concentration. Nick is a member of the Perseverantia staff and a future professional voiceover artist.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Michael Burns (HIST ‘26) and Joshua Cronin (COMM ‘26) Talk about Student Politics and The Point

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500

Joining host Tori Kiolbasa ('25) on GTTP is Student Government Association (SGA) President Mike Burns (HIST ‘26) and Senator Josh Cronin (COMM '26). In addition to their service to student government, Mike is a columnist for The Point -- Fitchburg State University’s student-run newspaper -- and Josh hosts North Central News, a collaboration between The Point and Fitchburg Access Television (FATV).

In their conversation, they talk with Tori about working across campus on different SGA initiatives, while balancing their community-oriented one with their journalistic responsibilities.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point.

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This is the third season of Getting to the Point (GTTP), an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded in October 2024, it was produced by Tori Kiolbasa for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

Episode transcript can be found here.

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Mitchell Walsh (GAME+COMM '26) edited and mixed the episode for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... Buffy Cautela (COMM '22) catches up with Autumn Olson (COMM '20) - part two of two

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Welcome to CATCHING UP WITH ... where Fitchburg State students and recent graduates talk to Fitchburg State alumni, reflecting on their time here on campus, celebrating their accomplishments, and discussing how they got from here to where they are now.

In this special follow-up episode, Buffy Cautela (COMM ‘22) and Autumn Olson (COMM/HIST ‘20) catch up with each other one year after their first interview, which you can find in our previous episode.

They discuss Autumn’s recent projects in Los Angeles and Buffy’s experiences as a Production Assistant on film and television productions in Massachusetts -- and a gig as a substitute teacher -- and how those experiences led her to continue her education by enrolling in the MFA program at Columbia University in New York City, studying Screenwriting and Directing.

Buffy and Autumn also delve into the unpredictability of life and the importance of enjoying the human experience, embracing every opportunity you get and every interaction you face.

Episode transcript available here.

***

Episode produced, edited, and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a Film/Video Production student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP (Dec 1st thru Dec 7th)

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 22:00:00 -0500

Hosted by Nick Castillo, this week's round-up covers student-led events between December 1st through December 8th on the Fitchburg State University campus.

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

***

Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) studying in the Film/Video Production concentration. Nick is a member of the Perseverantia staff and a future professional voiceover artist.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Anna Gauvin, Engineer, Tour Guide, & Improv President (ENGT '25)

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0500

In this episode of FIVE WITH A FALCON, Anna Gauvin (ENGT ‘25) talks about her college career as an Engineering major and how it was affected by the COVID pandemic. Despite this setback, Anna shares her appreciation for the sense of belonging and community she found with being a Fitchburg State University campus tour guide and being a member of the Improv Club.

***

Episode transcript available here.

Recorded in May 2024, this episode was produced by McKenzie Calvao and edited & sound mixed by Adam Fournier. Both are members of the Perseverantia staff, and film/video production students in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... Buffy Cautela (COMM '22) catches up with Autumn Olson (COMM '20) - part one of two

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Buffy Cautela, a 2022 Film and Video and Theater graduate of the Communications Media Department, catches up with Autumn Olson, a 2020 graduate with a major in Film and Video and a second major in History.

Autumn is a screenwriter and novelist who stayed in Los Angeles following internship, working as a Production Assistant for Skydance Animation. They discuss Autumn's process in choosing Fitchburg State, her favorite classes while a student in her Film and History courses, and the film/video alumni's well-regarded reputation out in LA. She also shares tips on her approach to writing, networking, setting career goals, and finding a mentor.

Recorded in April 2023 -- just before the Writers and Actors strikes in the Summer of 2023 that disrupted her industry -- this discussion demanded a part two follow up! So join us again next week when Buffy and Autumn catch up again -- this time in August 2024.

Episode transcript available here.

***

Episode produced, edited, and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a Film/Video Production student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP (Study Abroad Edition, Nov 18th thru Nov 24th)

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 23:00:00 -0500

This week's round-up, hosted by Nick Castillo, features student-led events on the Fitchburg State University campus during the week of November 18th.

This episode includes an exclusive interview with Fitchburg State's Nicole Salerno. Nicole is the Assistant Director of International Education at Fitchburg State University. In this interview, she talks about upcoming programs that the International Education office is running, as well as deadlines and dates students should be aware of if considering Study Abroad. Nicole believes Study Abroad looks great on a resume and is very important to think about during your time at Fitchburg State.

For more information about Study Abroad programs led by Fitchburg State, contact the International Education office at inthelp@fitchburgstate.edu and follow them on Instagram @oieatfsu.

***

Want to know more about how to get involved on campus? Wanted to join a club but don't know when they meet? The Weekly Roundup is here for you!

Each week, a different set of clubs, meetings, and events is featured for students to think about! There may also be club leaders who will have the opportunity to speak about their events and promote!

This will be a weekly podcast, so help us help you. Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) and a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP (Nov 12 thru Nov 17)

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 23:00:00 -0500

This week's round-up, hosted by Nick Castillo, features student-led events on the Fitchburg State University campus during the week of Veteran's Day.

***

Want to know more about how to get involved on campus? Wanted to join a club but don't know when they meet? The Weekly Roundup is here for you!

Each week, a different set of clubs, meetings, and events is featured for students to think about! There may also be club leaders who will have the opportunity to speak about their events and promote!

This will be a weekly podcast, so help us help you. Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) and a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG SPEAKS: The Road Less Traveled - A Storytelling Event (part two of two)

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

This is the second of a special two part release.

Fitchburg Speaks showcases stories from members of the greater Fitchburg community. Faculty, Students, and Community members were invited to share stories on the themes of the paths less taken in life and the obstacles we overcome along the way.

This event was held at Fitchburg State University in April 2024, before a live audience in the Falcon Hub in the Hammond Campus Center.

Fitchburg Speaks was the culminating event from a year of programming inspired by the 2023 Community Read book, WHITE MOUNTAINS STATE, a memoir about hiking and summiting New Hampshire's 48 Highest peaks written by Keith Gentili, a 1993 Fitchburg State graduate.

Today, we'll hear four stories -- including stories of how

one man's perception that life's stumbling blocks are really stepping stones lead to a well lived in the world of writing, academia, and his community
a university professor's journey from Kenya to Fitchburg included a life lesson in finding "confetti moments" in even the smallest achievements
a writer and Fitchburg City Councilor reflections on and research into her Armenian heritage lead to a a recognition of Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the city of Fitchburg

and, lastly,

a passion for theater and reading lead a college student to appreciate how the stories we tell keep memories alive.

The Fitchburg Community Read is a collaboration between Fitchburg State University, local libraries, and the surrounding communities. For more information about the programming around the 2024 selection -- A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II by Sonia Purnell -- visit www.fitchburgcommunityread.com.

Thank you to this week's storytellers: Zachary Bos, Dr. Jescah Apamo-Gannon, Sally Cragin, and Julia Dufresne (ENGL '26).

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This production is a collaboration between the Fitchburg Community Read, Fitchburg State University and the English Studies department, and Perseverantia: the Fitchburg State Podcast Network.

Victoria Kiolbasa (COMM '25), a student in the Communications Media Department, recorded this event and produced this series.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG SPEAKS: The Road Less Traveled - A Storytelling Event (part one of two)

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This is the first of a special two part release.

Fitchburg Speaks showcases stories from members of the greater Fitchburg community. Faculty, Students, and Community members were invited to share stories on the themes of the paths less taken in life and the obstacles we overcome along the way.

This event was held at Fitchburg State University in April 2024, before a live audience in the Falcon Hub in the Hammond Campus Center.

Today, we'll hear four stories -- including

a Fitchburg State professor's unexpected takeaways from bucket list hikes on Vermont's Long Trail and California's Muir Trail.
a story about forgiveness and healing between a daughter and mother
the reflections of an educator and author who learned the power of persistence as the first female cadet at any military school in the United States

and, lastly,

another Fitchburg State professor's encounter with the kindness of strangers while hiking with a friend.

The Fitchburg Community Read is a collaboration between Fitchburg State University, local libraries, and the surrounding communities. For more information about the programming around the 2024 selection -- A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II by Sonia Purnell -- visit www.fitchburgcommunityread.com.

Thank you to this week's storytellers: Dr. Michael Hoberman, Jasmin Valentin (ENGL '25), Nancy Fillip, and Dr. Chris Picone.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This production is a collaboration between the Fitchburg Community Read, Fitchburg State University and the English Studies department, and Perseverantia: the Fitchburg State Podcast Network.

Victoria Kiolbasa (COMM '25), a student in the Communications Media Department, recorded this event and produced this series.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP (Halloween Edition, Oct 27 thru Nov 2)

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0400

HALLOWEEN EDITION:

This week's round-up, hosted by Nick Castillo, features student-led events on campus between Sunday October 27th and Saturday November 2nd.

Stay tuned for an interview with the Improv Club's president, Anna Gauvin! Learn more about the club, and their upcoming show on Tuesday!

***

Want to know more about how to get involved on campus? Wanted to join a club but don't know when they meet? The Weekly Roundup is here for you!

Each week, a different set of clubs, meetings, and events is featured for students to think about! There may also be club leaders who will have the opportunity to speak about their events and promote!

This will be a weekly podcast, so help us help you. Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) and a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Julia Grace Ducharme, English Studies and Secondary Education (ENGL '26)

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Julia Grace Ducharme (ENGL '26), talks about majoring in English secondary education, dealing with imposter syndrome as a first gen college student, and her involvement in campus activities like the Undergraduate Research Conference and SEAM, a club for future teachers.

***

Episode transcript available here.

Recorded in May 2024, this episode was produced and edited by McKenzie Calvao, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: America Since 1968 - Drew McKevitt on "Gun Country"

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This conversation emerges from Prof. Katherine Jewell’s class, America Since 1968, during the 2024 spring semester.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew C. McKevitt, history professor at Louisiana Tech University and author of Gun Country: Gun Capitalism, Culture and Control, published in November 2023, responds to questions and curiosities developed by students in the class, as well as answering a brief lightning round of questions asked directly by history major, Dylan Cosner, class of 2024.

He answers questions about his inspirations and processes of writing his book and explores the United States’ history and deep connection to guns and how they became a regular part of the modern era, discussing the country’s high supply and demand for firearms, the history of laws focused on gun control and safety, and how guns influenced pop culture.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP (Homecoming Weekend 2024 Edition) for October 14 through October 20

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 23:00:00 -0400

HOMECOMING WEEKEND EDITION:

This week's round-up, hosted by Nick Castillo, features student-led and Homecoming Weekend 2024 events on campus between October 14 and October 20.

***

Want to know more about how to get involved on campus? Wanted to join a club but don't know when they meet? The Weekly Roundup is here for you!

Each week, a different set of clubs, meetings, and events is featured for students to think about! There may also be club leaders who will have the opportunity to speak about their events and promote!

This will be a weekly podcast, so help us help you. Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) and a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... Visions 2024 Alumni Panel, Communications Media at Fitchburg State University (Part 2 of 2)

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

CATCHING UP WITH…is an ongoing series where Fitchburg State alumni reflect on their time here on campus, celebrate their accomplishments and discuss how they got from here to where they are now.

This is Part Two of our special two-part episode featuring Fitchburg State graduates Joe Aidonidis, Scott Kurland, Matthew Krol, Dan Daly, and Jasmine Cordeiro, who attended the Alumni Panel during the 2024 Visions Exhibition, which is part of the annual event that showcases the best original work from the students in the Communications Media department. (Part 1 was released on October 2.)

In this episode, our grads discuss the world of freelance work, the importance of building a professional network, and what it means to be a Fitchburg State graduate.

The 2024 Alumni Panel was held in April 2024. The event was hosted by Jeff Warmouth, the Chair of the Communications Media department and their guests:

Joe Aidonidis (COMM '12) Founder of Great Sky Media.
Scott Kurland (COMM '09) Executive Director of Leominster Access Television.
Matthew Krol (COMM '05) Showrunner and Co owner of Extra History and Extra Credits.
Dan Daly (THEA '09) Scenic Designer at Dan Daly Design.
Jasmine Cordeiro (COMM '19) Senior Graphic Designer and Production Manager for Jade Marketing.

Find out more about the Communications Media department's Visions Exhibition and find previous accepted works here: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/visions.

Episode transcript available here.

***

Episode produced and edited by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE WEEKLY ROUND-UP for October 6 through October 12

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0400

Want to know more about how to get involved on campus? Wanted to join a club but don't know when they meet? The Weekly Roundup is here for you!

This week's round-up (our pilot episode, hosted by Nick Castillo) features student-led events on campus between October 6 and October 12.

Each week, a different set of clubs, meetings, and events is featured for students to think about! There may also be club leaders who will have the opportunity to speak about their events and promote!

This will be a weekly podcast, so help us help you. Did we overlook anything? Would you like to be interviewed? Let us know (podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu), and we will be happy to oblige!

These events were directly sourced from FalConnect, if you have not logged into FalConnect with your Falcon Key, check out the many more events that are coming up!

Episode transcript here.

***

Produced, written, and edited by Nick Castillo, a Communications Media student (COMM '25) and a member of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ... Visions 2024 Alumni Panel at Fitchburg State University (Part 1 of 2)

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This special two-part episode features five Fitchburg State graduates who attended the Alumni Panel during the 2024 Visions Exhibition, an annual event that showcases the best original work from the students in the Communications Media department. The Alumni Panel invites Fitchburg State graduates back to campus to share their experiences and talk about their careers with students.

The 2024 Alumni Panel was held in April 2024. The event was hosted by Jeff Warmouth, the Chair of the Communications Media department, and features Fitchburg State Graduates:

Joe Aidonidis (COMM '12) Founder of Great Sky Media.
Scott Kurland (COMM '09) Executive Director of Leominster Access Television.
Matthew Krol (COMM '05) Showrunner and Co owner of Extra History and Extra Credits.
Dan Daly (THEA '09) Scenic Designer at Dan Daly Design.
Jasmine Cordeiro (COMM '19) Senior Graphic Designer and Production Manager for Jade Marketing.

In Part 1 of this special episode, they talk about their college experiences and how they transitioned into internships and their careers in the professional world, and give us a glimpse into their day-to-day lives.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Peter Elliott, Professional Writing and English Studies (ENGL '26)

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Peter Elliott (ENGL '26), talks about how his Professional Writing concentration and major in English Studies have been integral to his sense of belonging on campus -- while his liberal arts course have provided the perspectives he needs to grow as a writer. A junior from Petersham, MA, Peter's poetry has appeared in the Fitchburg State University literary journal, Route 2 . He's also an active member of the Writing Club on campus where he and fellow scribes commune over their written words.

***

Episode transcript available here.

Episode produced by McKenzie Calvao and edited by Adam Fournier. Both are members of the Perseverantia staff, and film/video production students in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Sydney Sartell, Early Childhood Education (EDUC '25)

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Sydney Sartell ('25) shares her experience at Fitchburg State University as an Early Childhood Education major. A personal challenge her first year set her back a semester but, with the help of her advisor, Prof. William Corteiza, and a close-knit group of friends, she got back on track. Sydney reflects on the growth she's experienced as she looks forward to her senior year. She also describes defying the dormitory odds and becoming legit best friends with her randomly selected first year roommate.

***

Episode transcript available here.

Episode produced by McKenzie Calvao and edited by Adam Fournier. Both are members of the Perseverantia staff, and film/video production students in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

SPECIAL EPISODE: Remembering Professor John Crawley

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this special episode, Perseverantia suggests a podcast that might have been. Business Administration Professor John Crawley had discussed doing a podcast series of the fun advice he gives student, meant to be a light-hearted interjection to our series.

But we never got that chance. John Crawley passed away May 1, 2024. As a result, we decided to ask for contributions of memories and recordings to make a small attempt to capture some of the many pieces of advice and meaningful moments he had with students.

This episode compiles some of those contributions, both containing Professor Crawley’s voice and readings of memories submitted by students and colleagues.

In his memory, the John Crawley Scholarship has been established at Fitchburg State University to continue his legacy of giving back.

To donate, checks can be mailed to the Fitchburg State University Foundation – 160 Pearl Street Fitchburg, MA 01420 – with Dr. Crawley's name on the memo line of the check. Gifts can also be made online at: https://alumni.fitchburgstate.edu/g/john-crawley-scholarship.

Thank you to Sandra Ciccone, Ellen Hughes, and all those who contributed memories, artifacts, and recordings used to make this episode.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

Narration provided by Nick Castillo (COMM '25).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST (Bonus): Vincent Colavita (GAME '24) is LEAVING THE NEST

Sat, 18 May 2024 03:00:00 -0400

In this bonus episode of FalconCast, "Leaving the Nest, " Nikki Mctoggart (COMM '24) speaks to graduating Fitchburg State University seniors. Nikki and her guest explore what it feels like to take that next step, their hopes and their regrets (if they have any). They look back on their time at Fitchburg State University and reflect on who they are now.

In this episode, Nikki, a Communications Media Major with a double concentration in Film and Video Production and Public Relations, Social Media, and Advertising Production (PRSA), talks to Vincent Colavita (GAME '24), a Game Design student who is graduating on May 18, 2024.

Both of them share their mixed feelings about leaving the nest, about the state of the gaming industry and job market, the importance of staying connected to the Fitchburg State alumni network, and navigating the exciting unknowns that await.

In addition to looking for work as a game designer, Vincent continues to compose music freelance for indie developers.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was produced by Nikki McToggart and edited and sound mixed by Tori Kiolbasa (COMM '25). Both are members of the Perseverantia staff.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Captain Cookie & Life on the Men's Ice Hockey Team at Fitchburg State

Thu, 16 May 2024 22:00:00 -0400

In the Season 2 finale of FalconCast, Jeremy Allik (COMM '25) talked to Oliver "Cookie" Cookson (BSAD '25), a captain of Fitchburg State University's Men's Ice Hockey team. Cookie discusses his journey as a student-athlete, the appeal of the daily grind of the hockey season -- while looking ahead to next season's team and hopes for success. Says Cookie, "A lot of the stuff that you know translate to a good life you can find in a good athlete and a good teammate. So as a leader, that's what I try to strive for."

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was produced by Jeremy Allik and Adam Nedelka (DMI '27). It was edited by Drew Tremarche (GAME '25) and Dante Melo (GAME '25) -- and sound mixed by Gio Colon (COMM '25) .

FalconCast Season 2 was produced by members of the Spring 2024 Podcasting class in the Communications Media department at Fitchburg State University. A special shout out to Stephen Hattler (GAME '24) who wrote show notes and did transcriptions for Season 2 episodes -- and Season 2 's lead producers, Tori Kiolbasa (COMM '25) and Gio Colon .

FalconCast show art by Nate McKenna (COMM '23).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Improv(atron) at Fitchburg State

Wed, 15 May 2024 22:00:00 -0400

In this episode of FalconCast, Fredo Robinson (COMM '26) sat down with the past, present and future presidents of Improvatron (Fitchburg State's Improv Club): Nick Castillo (COMM '25) and Anna Gauvin (Engineering Technology '25). Nick and Anna highlight the welcoming nature of improv and offer advice for potential members, showcasing how leadership roles within the club can cultivate lifelong friendships, self-confidence, and loads of laughs.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was produced by Tori Kiolbasa (COMM '25). It was edited by Drew Tremarche (GAME '25) and Dante Melo (GAME '25) -- and sound mixed by Gio Colon (COMM '25) . Additional audio recorded at the last Improvatron performance of the academic year in April 2024 by Tori Kiolbasa.

FalconCast Season 2 was produced by members of the Spring 2024 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Student Veterans and the Veterans’s Center at Fitchburg State

Tue, 14 May 2024 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode of FalconCast, Dave Gambone (COMM '25) sat down with Shanna Sallah in April 2024 to explore her work supporting student veterans on Fitchburg State's campus. Shanna, who oversees the Veterans Center alongside her role at the Office of Student Affairs, discusses the veteran's work-study program and the personal connection that makes this work so meaningful. The Veteran's Center is a vital space on campus, fostering camaraderie among veterans, with monthly meet and greets and other activities. "This is the place for the veterans, this place is yours."

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was produced by David Gambone and Jaden Blake (COMM '27) ; edited by Drew Tremarche (GAME '25) and Dante Melo (GAME '25); and sound mixed by Gio Colon (COMM '25) . FalconCast Season 2 was produced by members of the Spring 2024 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Life as a Soccer Player at Fitchburg State

Thu, 09 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Join us on FalconCast as Jeremy Allik (COMM '25) chats with Zoe Christostomides (BSAD, minor Journalism '26), the rising junior captain of the Fitchburg State University women's soccer team, editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, The Point, and aspiring broadcast journalist.

Zoe's story takes us on a journey from her high school soccer days, where she was a "little fish in a huge pond," to finding her place as a collegiate athlete and leader. She opens up about the personal growth she's experienced, the pressures of competing for a starting position, the excitement for the upcoming season, and women's sports in general.

If you're pondering whether to join college sports or immerse yourself in extracurriculars, let this conversation be your nudge to embrace opportunities that can shape your future. Take advantage of the special insight into the small school community at Fitchburg State, where close-knit connections enrich the college experience in unexpected, meaningful ways.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was produced by Adam Nedelka (DMI '27) and edited by Drew Tremarche (Game Design '25) and Dante Melo (GAME '25). Sound mixed by Gio Colon (COMM '25) . FalconCast Season 2 was produced by members of the Spring 2024 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Season 2 Teaser

Wed, 08 May 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Season 2 of FalconCast, produced by the Spring 2024 Podcasting class in the Communications Media department at Fitchburg State University.

Over the next week, your hosts, Jeremy Allik, Fredo Robinson, and Dave Gambone will dive into the extracurriculars and campus involvement that Fitchburg State University offers by talking to the students invested in community, personal growth, and what it means to be a part of something bigger than yourself.

Transcript can be found here.

***

Trailer edited and mixed by Jaden Blake (COMM '27). Episode produced by Gio Colon (COMM '25) and Dave Gambone (COMM '25), and members of the Podcasting class.

Show art by Nate McKenna (COMM '23).

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Derek Tirrell, Film/Video Production (COMM '25)

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Derek Tirrell ('25) talks with fellow Communications Media major McKenzie Calvao ('25) about finding his passion within the film/video production program, and the sense of place and community he’s nurtured while working on campus as a student tour guide and Student Orientation leader. Derek also plugs an upcoming short film he’s producing with Ally Thompson and Ania MacIndewar and other students in his Advanced Cinema Production course during in the Spring 2024 semester called Dream Girl.

***

Episode transcript available here.

Episode produced and edited by McKenzie Calvao, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Brian Rosenwald on Talk Radio's America

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, students interrogated the rise of Rush Limbaugh’s career and his success in conversation with media regulations and political transformations. They discuss Rosenwald’s book,Talk Radio’s America: How an Industry Took Over a Political Party That Took Over the United States.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Matthew Delmont on Why Busing Failed

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, students raised questions regarding busing, with a focus on Boston, and how media enters this story that often focuses on policy and urban history. They discuss Delmont’s book, Why Busing Failed: Race, Media, and the National Resistance to School Desegregation (University of California Press, 2016).

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Matthew Pressman on the Liberal Values that Shaped the News

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Pressman explores the evolution of journalism’s core values, business practices, and how the news and politics intertwine. On Press won the History Book Award from the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) and the PROSE Award from the Association of American Publishers. As he discusses in this episode, Pressman’s next book will explore the history of the New York Daily News.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Heather Hendershot on When the News Broke

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Making History Today, produced by the History program at Fitchburg State University, connects the classroom to historians working in their fields. In these conversations, students discuss works assigned in class and develop questions for the authors, which are then posed in these episodes.

The first series of conversations emerges from Prof. Katherine Jewell's graduate course in Fitchburg State's online Master's program in History in summer 2023 on Media and U.S. Politics.

In this episode, students engage with Dr. Heather Hendershot, Professor of Communication Studies at Northwestern University, and her book, When the News Broke: Chicago 1968, and the Polarizing of America (Chicago UP, 2022), which received an award from the Pattis Family Foundation, from the Newberry Library, was praised in the New York Review of Books, and in February 2023 was chosen as a Best Book by the New Yorker.

Hendershot is an expert on American film, television, and political culture. Her work explores the dynamics existing between media and politics in the 1960s-70s, including mainstream network news and conservative and right-wing media. She also explores Hollywood productions from the 1950s through the 1970s, and is currently pursuing a new book focusing on Nashville.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Allison Perlman on Public Interests

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Making History Today, produced by the History program at Fitchburg State University, connects the classroom to historians working in their fields. In these conversations, students discuss works assigned in class and develop questions for the authors, which are then posed in these episodes.

The first series of conversations emerges from Prof. Katherine Jewell's graduate course in Fitchburg State's online Master's program in History in summer 2023 on Media and U.S. Politics.

In this episode, students engage with Dr. Allison Perlman at the University of California Irvine and her book, Public Interests: Media Advocacy and Struggles Over US Television (Rutgers UP, 2016).

Allison Perlman is an associate professor in the departments of history and film and media studies at UC Irvine. Her research examines the intersections between television history, American social movements, and broadcasting policy. Her publications include articles in Critical Studies in Media Communication, Feminist Media Studies, Television and New Media, Journal of Popular Film and Television, Cinema Journal, and Communication, Culture and Critique.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

MAKING HISTORY TODAY: Media and U.S. Politics - Kathryn Cramer Brownell on Showbiz Politics

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Showbiz Politics: Hollywood in American Political Life, (University of North Carolina Press, 2014) explores the institutionalization of Hollywood in American politics. This book traces the key personal relationships, institutions, and government policies that established the foundation for a celebrity political culture and made entertainment a central feature of American politics.

Her second book, released just after the conclusion of the graduate course, 24/7 Politics: Cable Television and the Fragmenting of America from Watergate to Fox News, (Princeton University Press, 2023), explores the political battle over cable television from the 1960s through today, excavating how the American political process became tethered to the business interests of a corporate cable television industry.

She also serves as Senior Editor for the Made By History column at TIME Magazine: https://time.com/author/made-by-history/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

***

This episode was edited and sound mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff and a student in the Communications Media department.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: Heart of Europe Study Abroad Reflections (2023)

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Classroom Stories, students from Professor Josh Spero's Spring 2023 study abroad class, The Heart of Europe reflect on their experiences traveling from Amsterdam to Poland, encountering historical sites, German university students, visiting Auschwitz, and seeing European residents confront the realities of the Russian war in Ukraine.

Find out more about Fitchburg State's Study Abroad programs and other classes in the Economics, History, and Political Science Department.

Episode Transcript here.

***
About the Classroom Stories series:

Students come to Fitchburg State University for academic enrichment and the innovative pedagogy offered in its classrooms. Classroom Stories feature the work of students and learning communities and the exciting explorations in the content of the many disciplines available for study at the university.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Honors Students Explore Afro/Africanfuturism at Library Literature Fair

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

The Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library hosted poster presentations of Honors student work on November 29, 2023 at a literature fair entitled "A Journey into What's Possible: An Exploration of Afro/Africanfuturism." The event and reception was the culmination of a semester long student exploration of Afro/Africanfuturism in Dr. Kisha Tracy's Honors Seminar in Literature course (HON 2100).

In this episode of Getting to the Point, Tonia Magras speaks to the Judges' Choice Award winner, Autumn Garceu (junior, ECON), and Visitors' Choice Award winner, Julia Arena (junior, EXSS), about their experiences in Dr. Tracy's course, their participation in the literature fair, and how the film Black Panther (2018) served as the gateway to the rich novels, novellas, and short stories that make up the genres of Afro/Africanfuturism and Africanjujuism.

Tonia Magras also spoke to Lori Steckervetz, Outreach Librarian for Student Success and one of the judges for the literature fair, about planning the event and plans for future displays of student work.

(Portions of this conversation were condensed for time.)

Matt Baier (COMM '24) edited and mixed this episode for Perseverantia.

Episode transcript can be found here.

Getting to the Point (GTTP) is an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded on December 12, 2023, it was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Prof. Laura Garofoli Awarded Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Dr. Laura Garofoli of the Psychological Science department received the 2023 Manuel Carballo Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service at a State House ceremony on November 8, 2023. A few weeks ago, she sat in studio with host Zoe Chrisostomides ('26) to talk about the prospect of meeting Governor Healey, the work she and her colleagues have done to develop the First Year Experience (FYE) program on campus, and how her students inspire her every day.

Professor Garofoli is being recognized at the state level for her exceptional contributions to Fitchburg State and its students, including service and leadership to academic departments and her role in the development of our First-Year Experience Seminar. The Governor’s Award winners are selected from the statewide recipients of the Commonwealth’s Performance Recognition Awards.

Episode transcript can be found here.

This is the inaugural episode of Season 2 of Getting to the Point (GTTP), an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded on October 14, 2023, it was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Shellee Brevard (COMM '26), from DC to Fitchburg

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Shellee Brevard (COMM '26), a sophomore screenwriter, joins host Zoe Chrisostomides ('26) on GTTP to talk about Shellee's experiences as a first-year student at Fitchburg State University. Hailing from Washington DC, Shellee offers her advice on navigating campus life, the benefits of an awesome college Math professor, discovering her love for film through Spike Lee's Crooklyn, exploring her own creative voice, and her dreams of making screenwriting her career.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

This is Episode 4 of the pilot season of Getting to the Point (GTTP), an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded in May 2023, it was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

Matt Baier (COMM '24) edited and mixed the episode for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Stephen Wells (ENGL '24), a Nontraditional Student with an Inspirational Story

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Stephen Wells will graduate from Fitchburg State University in December 2024, with a degree in English Studies and a concentration in Professional Writing. He's just like any other soon-to-be graduate, except that he has eight grandkids and started on his journey towards his degree 52 years ago. Being a "non-traditional" student has its challenges (mainly technology!) but the joy of learning remains alive and well for Mr. Wells.

During this interview with Getting to the Point's Zoe Chrisostomides, Stephen talks about his experiences in the classroom and his support system of teachers, classmates, and family. It can be daunting returning to the classroom. But, his advice if you're holding off on finishing your degree? "Don't wait. Do it."

Stephen Wells was a featured storyteller in FITCHBURG SPEAKS: Stories About What Made Us Who We Are, talking about how learning to read was the greatest accomplishment of his life.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

This is Episode 3 of the pilot season of Getting to the Point (GTTP), an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded in May 2023. It was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

Matt Baier (COMM '24) edited and mixed the episode for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: Darcy Lally (COMM '24) and Stargaze Studios

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Joining host Zoe Chrisostomides ('26) on GTTP is Darcy Lally (COMM '24), a senior filmmaker who recently started a film production company -- Stargaze Studios -- with her friends and collaborators in the film/video concentration within the Communications Media department. Darcy's 2022 film Subtle Signs screened at Visions 2023, while the Stargaze team's new film Will-O'-The-Wisp (directed and written by Emily Gelinas) will be completed this Fall.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

This is Episode 2 of the pilot season of Getting to the Point (GTTP), an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper. Recorded in May 2023. It was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

Matt Baier (COMM '24) edited and mixed the episode for Perseverantia.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: (Pilot): Student Athletes Mental Health

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0400

This is the pilot episode of Getting to the Point, an affiliate podcast of The Point, the Fitchburg State student newspaper.

You may think that competing on a college level is exciting -- and it most definitely is. But what are the consequences to competing at this level? What happens to the athletes on the road to competition? What are their challenges and what support do student athletes have when it comes to the issue of mental health?

Joining host Zoe Chrisostomides ('26) on GTTP is Spenser Powell, a former student athlete who just happens to play the same sport as Zoe, soccer.

This episode was recorded in April 2023. It was produced by Toni Magras for the College Newspaper Production course taught by Prof. Wafa Unus.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

GETTING TO THE POINT: (Teaser): Introducing a new Podcast Series

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Getting to the Point, the college newspaper’s news podcast, where we dive deep into the stories that matter most to our campus community. And give you a behind the scenes look into the pieces that make it into your campus newspaper, The Point.

From campus events and student achievements to critical topics like social justice, sustainability and technology advancements. Our podcast covers a broad range of subjects relevant to our diverse community and the issues shaping our college experience.

In each episode will feature an exclusive interview with the prominent figures, faculty experts and fellow students who are making a difference on campus and beyond. We'll ask the tough questions and dive into the details to provide you with the insight you need to form your own opinions.

But this podcast isn't just a one way street. We want to hear from you, our listeners.

Your feedback, questions and story ideas are crucial to shaping the content we produce. Reach out to us through our website or social media platforms. Join us every week as we embark on this exciting journey of discovery, understanding and engagement. Together, let's Get to the Point.

If you're interested in working on the podcast, register for College Newspaper Production (ENGL 3830) or contact The Point at https://fitchburgpoint.com/contact-us/.

Episode transcript can be found here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CATCHING UP WITH ...Mike Grasela (‘13), Communications Media, Film/Video Production

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

CATCHING UP WITH … is an ongoing series where Fitchburg State students talk to Fitchburg State alumni, reflecting on their time here on campus, celebrating their accomplishments and discussing how they got from here to where they are now.

In today's inaugural episode of this series, Adam Fournier, a current Communications Media major, focusing on film and video production, talks to Mike Grasela, a 2013 graduate of the Film and Video Production program, about their shared passion for all things video editing as well as Mike's time at Fitchburg State.

Adam and Mike discuss how Mike took the skills he developed in the classroom to the filmmaking industry beyond, the possibility of pursuing a filmmaking career while staying in Massachusetts, and how Mike started his own successful post-production business based right in Boston – Minutemen Post – and the steps and sacrifices he had to take to get to where he is now.

This series is produced, edited, and mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff.

If you have a suggestion for a student and alumnus that would be a good fit for the CATCHING UP WITH... series, please contact us at podcasts@fitchurgstate.edu.

Episode transcript available here.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Jessica Garcia, IDIS Major

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Jessica Garcia discusses being a “non-traditional” student at Fitchburg State, balancing her educational goals, work, and dedication to working with youth in her community with her ministry. Her story of finding her purpose in education, working with Dr. Jessica Robey, has led her to pursue an Interdisciplinary Studies degree that will help her in work, community life, and ministry. Hear about her experiences in online classses, learning as a multilingual student, and accomplishments as she progresses toward her goals.

Episode transcript available here.

Episode edited and mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Karla Taveras Guerra ('23), Graphic Design and International Studies

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Karla Taveras Guerra ('23) joins us a day and a half before her graduation to talk about what she's learned about herself while studying Graphic Design and International Studies, how her personality differs when speaking English and Spanish, and how she found a sense of belonging while at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Episode edited and mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

CLASSROOM STORIES: School Counselors Reflect

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Classroom Stories, students from Professor Megan Krell’s graduate class, Practicum in School Counseling, in Spring 2023 reflect on what they learned about being a school counselor. Plus, Professor Krell provides some insight into the evolution of the term and the role these educational professionals play.

Find out more about Fitchburg State's MS in School Counseling as well as other Graduate Degrees in Human Services -- at the Behavioral Sciences department website.

Episode Transcript here.

***
About the Classroom Stories series:

Students come to Fitchburg State University for academic enrichment and the innovative pedagogy offered in its classrooms. Classroom Stories feature the work of students and learning communities and the exciting explorations in the content of the many disciplines available for study at the university.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE EMPTY CAMPUS: 5. Back to School

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In THE EMPTY CAMPUS, students in the Spring 2022 Honors Seminar in History gathered thirty-six oral histories about the Fitchburg State community’s experience of the Covid 19 pandemic. They turned their research into this podcast to begin the process of reflecting on these events. Episode 5: Back to Campus is the final installment in this series.

In Episode 5, students, staff, and administrators reflect on their experiences with Covid-19 policies with the return to campus in Fall 2020 and as the community looks to the endemic stage of the pandemic.

Find out more about The Empty Campus project at the Fitchburg State University Archives.

This episode was first recorded in Spring 2022. The five-part series was remastered for Perseverantia, in Spring 2023 by Matt Baier, a student in the Communications Media department and member of the Perseverantia staff.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Jin Oakes ('24), History Major with a Professional Writing & Political Science Minor

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Jin Oakes ('24), a transfer student, shares the journey that took them to a Fitchburg State major in History with a double minor in Professional Writing & Political Science), how the campus library provides a sense of belonging and community among the stacks, and how their studies have inspired a passion for research.

Episode transcript available here.

Episode edited and mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE EMPTY CAMPUS: 4. Extracurriculars

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In THE EMPTY CAMPUS, students in the Spring 2022 Honors Seminar in History gathered thirty-six oral histories about the Fitchburg State community’s experience of the Covid 19 pandemic. They turned their research into this podcast to begin the process of reflecting on these events. Episode 4: Extracurriculars is the next installment in this series.

In Episode 4, we explore how student life continued even with the shift to remote and Covid-19 protocols, including campus culture, student activities, organizations, and athletics.

Find out more about the Empty Campus project at the Fitchburg State University Archives.

This episode was first recorded in Spring 2022. The five-part series was remastered for Perseverantia, in Spring 2023 by Matt Baier, a student in the Communications Media department and member of the Perseverantia staff.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Tim Lwanga ('23, Psychology)

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Tim Lwanga, a 2023 Fitchburg State University graduate hailing from Medford, MA, talks about the transformative experience of the last four years and how he has come to value what's most important in life -- helping others. A major in Psychological Science, Tim is currently on the path to graduate school and becoming a mental health counselor.

Episode transcript available here.

Episode edited and mixed by Adam Fournier, a member of the Perseverantia staff, and a film/video production student in the Communications Media department.

***

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE EMPTY CAMPUS: 3. The Essentials

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In THE EMPTY CAMPUS, students in the spring 2022 Honors Seminar in History gathered thirty-six oral histories about the Fitchburg State community’s experience of the Covid 19 pandemic. They turned their research into this podcast to begin the process of reflecting on these events. Episode 3: The Essentials is the next installment in this series.

When the Fitchburg State campus went silent in March 2020, it remained so for months to come. But its emptiness belied the continued pace of work and change. I n Episode 3, Fitchburg State administrators, staff, faculty, and students reflect on the difficult decisions made during the pandemic all while feeling isolated.

Find out more about the Empty Campus project at the Fitchburg State University Archives.

This episode was first recorded in Spring 2022. The five-part series was remastered for Perseverantia, in Spring 2023 by Matt Baier, a student in the Communications Media department and member of the Perseverantia staff.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE EMPTY CAMPUS: 2. College from Your Living Room

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In THE EMPTY CAMPUS, students in the spring 2022 Honors Seminar in History gathered thirty-six oral histories about the Fitchburg State community’s experience of the Covid 19 pandemic. They turned their research into this podcast to begin the process of reflecting on these events.

Episode 2: College from Your Living Room explores how members of the Fitchburg State community attempted to continue their studies, teaching, and work from home during the spring 2020 lockdown.

Find out more about the Empty Campus project at the Fitchburg State University Archives.

This episode was first recorded in Spring 2022. The five-part series was remastered for Perseverantia, in Spring 2023 by Matt Baier, a student in the Communications Media department and member of the Perseverantia staff.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

THE EMPTY CAMPUS: 1. Spring Break

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In THE EMPTY CAMPUS, students in the spring 2022 Honors Seminar in History gathered thirty-six oral histories about the Fitchburg State community’s experience of the Covid 19 pandemic. They turned their research into this podcast to begin the process of reflecting on these events.

Episode 1: Spring Break explores the moment when members of the Fitchburg State community found out about the university’s indefinite closure in March 2020.

Find out more about the Empty Campus project at the Fitchburg State University Archives.

This episode was first recorded in Spring 2022. The five-part series was remastered for Perseverantia, in Spring 2023 by Matt Baier, a student in the Communications Media department and member of the Perseverantia staff.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG SPEAKS: Stories About What Made Us Who We Are (Community Read, Part 2 of 2)

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Recorded in front of a live audience at Fitchburg State University on April 6th, 2023, Fitchburg Speaks: Stories about What Made Us Who We Are showcases stories from members of the greater Fitchburg community.

If you haven't checked out the first five storytellers from this episode, go back to your feed and listen (Perspectives, Ep 7, released June 26)!

Today, we hear four stories from Fitchburg State students, including a junior who tells us how his outlook on life changed profoundly thanks to the unexpected wisdom of a video game; the story of a 30-year veteran television and podcast producer whose try everything ethos and desire to teach prompted a return to school as a first year undergraduate; a second year education major whose life goal as a teacher is to create safe spaces for students who look like they do; and, the story of an English studies major who shares how learning to read was the greatest accomplishment of his life.

Nick Castillo, Communications Media / Film&Video Production (1:48)
Toni Magras, Communications Media / Film&Video Production (8:35)
Caitlin Moriarty, English Secondary Education (15:12)
Stephen Wells, English Studies/Professional Writing (20:22)

Fitchburg Speaks was the culminating event from a year of programming inspired by the 2022-23 Fitchburg Community Read book, Trevor Noah's memoir Born a Crime. This event was organized and sponsored by the Fitchburg Community Read Committee and its members.

Host: Elliot Zopatti
Recording engineers: Matt Baier and Adam Fournier

Episode transcript available here.

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Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FITCHBURG SPEAKS: Stories About What Made Us Who We Are (Community Read, Part 1 of 2)

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Recorded in front of a live audience at Fitchburg State University on April 6th, 2023, Fitchburg Speaks: Stories about What Made Us Who We Are showcases true stories from the complex and rich lives led by members of the greater Fitchburg community.

Sixteen storytellers took to the mic to generously share their stories about what made them who they are.

Today, we feature five of those stories about formative experiences living alone in the wilderness, the search for balance, overcoming adversity, finding comfort in being one's true self, and a love story spanning 57 years, a peace corps deployment, and three strikes.

Dr. Steven Edwards, Fitchburg State Professor (2:54)
Yer Yang, Communications Media / Graphic Design (8:08)
Nadia Turovskiy, Rhythmic Gymnast, Dual Enrollment, Bolton MA (13:06)
Elliot Zopatti, Communications Media / Technical Theater (17:18)
Arthur E. Young, Peace Corps 1961 (21:34)

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Silver Lining

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

On today’s final episode of season 1 of FalconCast, our host Nikki interviews three Fitchburg State University film production students to gain a better understanding of the Communications Media film/video production concentration and their capstone Advanced Cinema Production class.

Director / Writer Sean-Michael Hibbert, Director of Photography Joey DiTavi, and actor Dave Appolon talk about the dedication that is necessary to create their film Silver Lining.

Thanks for listening to FalconCast!

This episode was produced by Nikki McToggart, Nate McKenna, and Keyloni Jackson as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FIVE WITH A FALCON: Paulina from WXPL

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Five with a Falcon, Paulina Torres, a class of 2023 graduate with a major in Geographic Science and Technology, talks about how her time spinning records on WXPL campus radio has helped her connect with fellow students and to her Mexican heritage, what it's been like to navigate college as a first generation student, and how her ideal DJ playlist features artists that meld both modern alternative music with traditional Latin American sounds (including two of her current favorite cumbia artists).

Tune in to Fitchburg State's WXPL through TuneIn -- or via 91.3 FM on your radio dial when in the Fitchburg area.

Episode transcript available here.

Perspectives is an ongoing series of Perseverantia -- featuring the voices and stories of the campus community, including alumni interviews; conversations with students, faculty, and staff; and features events. The goal of Perspectives is to allow for in-depth exploration of the experiences and issues on the minds of those teaching, learning, and working at Fitchburg State University.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: My Non-Biological Brother

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode of FalconCast, Ryan Gallagher hands the mic over to his non-biological brother and fellow Class of 2023 graduate, Armando Libier. Studying Technical Theater in the Communications Media department, Armando has been an active member of the Fitchburg State University community – serving as treasurer forthe Sigma Pi fraternity, building manager, tour guide, and freshman orientation leader. Armando talks about his experience in Greek Life on campus and serving as a mentor to his non-biological brothers and incoming first year students.

Thanks for listening to FalconCast!

This episode was produced by Ryan Gallagher and Dalicia Rodriguez as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

PERSEWERANTIA? What's in a Name

Fri, 26 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400

What is the deal with the network name? How exactly do you pronounce it?

This episode explores the persnickety pronunciation of the network name -- which is also Fitchburg State University's motto.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Clubs & Comradery

Fri, 26 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode of the FalconCast, our hosts Alexander Maggio and Logan Corrado interview Fitchburg State University student Dylan Mercier (he/him) and find out how to make college life easier by participating in the multitude of clubs and organizations offered on the Fitchburg State campus. Dyan gives us a look into what made him interested in joining these clubs and the upside of participating in campus life.

Dylan is a freshman at Fitchburg State University majoring in Biology with a health sciences concentration. When not in class or studying, Dylan has found comradery in the Biology Club, the Smash Bros Club, and the Pokemon Club.

Thank you for listening to the FalconCast!

This episode was produced by Logan Corrado and Alexander Maggio as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Becoming a Falcon

Fri, 19 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode of FalconCast, our host Egan Wolford speaks with three Fitchburg State University student-athletes who share their unique journey through sports, academics, and life to becoming a Falcon at Fitchburg State. Matt, Cole, and Julia offer insights into how they deal with "the pressure" of their sport, what it's like to chase their dreams while maintaining love for their sport, and what it's like to be a Falcon student-athlete.

Matt Aguirre (he/him) is a Junior football player for Fitchburg State University. Hailing all the way from Texas, he is a major motivator on the football team. Julia Gauvin (she/her) is a Sophomore softball player for Fitchburg State University. She never thought she would play in college and now she leads the dominant Falcons softball team. Cole Archambeault (he/him) is a Junior and one of the captains of the Fitchburg State University hockey team. Cole grew up in the neighboring town of Lunenburg, MA and always felt like he might become a Falcon.

Thanks for Listening to FalconCast!

This episode was produced by JJ Catalano, Alan Tadiello, and Egan Wolford, as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: Building Blocks

Tue, 16 May 2023 14:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode of FalconCast, our hosts Max Eisenhaure and Matthew Baier interview Fitchburg State University student Marcus Phan and find out about the Building Manager job at FSU. From his daily duties to kicking people out, and improving himself, Marcus gives us a look into what it means to be a Building Manager.

Marcus Phan (He/Him) is a junior student at Fitchburg State University studying film and on his way to breaking into the industry. Currently, he works as a Building Manager at Hammond Hall, the campus epicenter for student activity.

Thanks for listening to FalconCast!

This episode was produced by Matt Baier, Max Eisenhaure, and Jackson Texeira as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FALCONCAST: RA Caitlin

Thu, 11 May 2023 18:00:00 -0400

On today’s episode of FalconCast, our hosts Nick Castillo and McKenzie Calvao interview Fitchburg State University student and Resident Assistant (RA), Caitlin Moriarty, and find out what it means to work as a undergraduate RA. From difficulties with always being on the clock to the unique connections between the RA’s, Caitlin gives us a look into how she manages her lifestyle between school and work above it all.

Caitlin Moriarty (She/They) is a sophomore student at Fitchburg State studying education and on her way to becoming a teacher. Currently, she works as a Resident Assistant for the Aubuchon Residence Hall and is soon to be the Assistant Resident Director of the building. When not at work, she enjoys hanging out with friends, watching movies, and spending time with her dog, Karma.

For more information on being an RA or housing at Fitchburg State, visit their website or contact housing directly at housing@fitchburgstate.edu.

Thanks for listening to FalconCast!

This episode was produced by McKenzie Calvao and Nick Castillo as a part of the Spring 2023 Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.

FalconCast: Season 1 Teaser

Thu, 11 May 2023 18:00:00 -0400

Matt Baier and Nikki McToggart introduce the inaugural season of FalconCast, a podcast that picks the brains of students at Fitchburg State University to explore their advice, adventures, and anxieties.

FalconCast was created, developed & produced during the spring semester 2023 by students in the Podcasting class at Fitchburg State University. It is the inaugural series in season one of Perseverantia, Fitchburg State’s Podcast Network.

The FalconCast series producers are Matt Baier and Nikki McToggart. Series Artwork by Nate McKenna. Music supervision and Sound Mastering by Ryan Gallagher. Transcriptions supervised and edited by McKenzie Calvao. Episode Notes edited by Egan Wolford.

Season 1 Episode Producers include students from the Communications Media department:

McKenzie Calvao & Nick Castillo (“RA Caitlin”)
Matt Baier, Max Eisenhaure, & Jackson Texeira (“Building Blocks”)
JJ Catalano, Alan Tadiello, & Egan Wolford (“Becoming a Falcon”)
Logan Corrado & Alexander Maggio (“Clubs & Comradery”)
Ryan Gallagher & Dalicia Rodriguez (“My Non Biological Brother”)
Keyloni Jackson, Nate McKenna, & Nikki McToggart (“Silver Lining”)

Prof. Kevin McCarthy is the Podcasting course instructor and one of the executive producers of Perseverantia. Questions or comments? An idea for Season 2 of FalconCast or the Perseverantia network? Please reach out.

Episode transcript available here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia. Join us for programming updates on Instagram. Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.