The Oswego Alumni Podcast

Oswego Alumni Podcast Marty Currid '01

From SUNY Oswego to the FDNY, Marty’s story is one of leadership, resilience, humor, and heart. In the newest episode of the Oswego Alumni Podcast, Marty Currid, Class of 2001, reflects on his journey from student life at Oswego to serving as an FDNY Battalion Chief in New York City. Along the way, he shares unforgettable stories from the firehouse, lessons learned through decades of public service, and the experiences that shaped both his career and his life. He also opens up about family, coaching, community, and the inspiring legacy of his late wife Danielle through a scholarship foundation that continues to help young women pursue higher education. This conversation is funny, emotional, inspiring, and a wonderful example of the impact Oswego alumni continue to make in their communities every day. 🎧 Listen now and celebrate another incredible Oswego alumni story! 👉 Subscribe for more Oswego alumni stories 👉 Have a guest idea? Reach out at alumni@oswego.edu #OswegoAlumniPodcast #SUNYOswego #OswegoState #AlumniStories

🎙️ Oswego Alumni Podcast | Rita Torsney-Sullivan ’09 & Pat Baker ’08

Valentine’s Day may be over… but this Oswego love story was simply too good not to share. 💚💛 In this episode of the Oswego Alumni Podcast, host Dee Perkins sits down with husband-and-wife alumni Rita Torsney-Sullivan ’09 and Pat Baker ’08 — educators, parents, entrepreneurs, and proud Oswego graduates whose paths nearly didn’t cross at all. From a chance meeting in a residence hall watching hockey, to an awkward first date at the unforgettable movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," to navigating long-distance dating, career pivots, opening a video game business together, and eventually growing their family through adoption — Rita and Pat’s journey is full of resilience, humor, and heart. In this conversation, they share: ❤️ How they met at Oswego (and almost didn’t go out that night) 🎓 Their Oswego experiences — from Johnson Hall connections to studying abroad 🎮 Launching Gizmos Video Games & Wrestling in North Syracuse 📍 Moving between Syracuse, Virginia, Orlando, Staten Island — and back again 👨‍👩‍👦 Becoming parents to their son Orion and navigating life as special needs parents 🏫 Careers in education and alumni engagement 💬 Why communication and adaptability have been key to their success as a couple Their story reflects what it truly means to be Oswego alumni — building community, embracing change, supporting one another, and never giving up. 👉 Subscribe for more Oswego alumni stories 👉 Have a guest idea? Reach out at alumni@oswego.edu #OswegoAlumniPodcast #SUNYOswego #OswegoState #AlumniStories #LoveStory #Adoption #SpecialEducation #HigherEd

Oswego Alumni Podcast Sandra Michaca ’12

In this episode, we’re joined by Sandra Michaca ’12, founder of The Michaca Law Firm, where she specializes in immigration law—one of the most complex and consequential areas of legal practice today. Sandra reflects on her Oswego journey, from arriving on campus drawn by Lake Ontario, to diving into leadership through ALANA, the Student Association Supreme Court, and multiple student organizations. She shares how those experiences built her confidence, sharpened her public speaking, and prepared her to advocate for clients navigating high-stakes immigration processes. Sandra also discusses what inspired her to pursue law at just 14 years old, the realities of practicing immigration law in a rapidly changing environment, and why she believes a single consultation can change a life. If you’re a current student or early-career professional, Sandra’s message is a strong one: get experience early, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. #OswegoAlumniPodcast #SUNYOswego #OswegoState #Alumni #Leadership #ImmigrationLaw #HigherEd

Lou Borrelli Class of 1977

Lou Borrelli Class of 1977 has been at the forefront of media, cable, and connectivity for more than four decades — helping build Marcus Cable, shaping broadband strategy at AOL, leading NEP Broadcasting for events like the Super Bowl, Oscars, Grammys, and Monday Night Football, and now serving as CEO of the National Content & Technology Cooperative, representing more than 700 operators across the country. In this episode, Lou shares with us an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation about: * His early days at WOCR, working alongside a young Al Roker * How SUNY Oswego gave him the confidence and hands-on training to launch a career in media * The evolution of cable from community antenna TV to today’s broadband-driven world * Behind-the-scenes stories from the biggest live events on television * His two battles with cancer — and how surviving them changed his perspective * His love of sailing, leadership lessons, and the Oswego spirit * His newest act of generosity: a $150,000 matching gift to establish the Fritz Messere Dean’s Suite in Hewitt Hall Lou’s story is one of resilience, innovation, gratitude, and giving back to the community that shaped him. Listen now to hear how one Oswego alum helped transform an entire industry — and continues to uplift the next generation. Donate to the Fritz's Naming Suite: https://alumni.oswego.edu/fritz [https://alumni.oswego.edu/fritz]

Oswego Alumni Podcast with Lex Barker (2003)

🎙️ New Episode: Meet Lex Barker '03 - From Lakers Student-Athlete to Great Lakes Project Manager From Lakers track athlete to managing an $82 million breakwater repair on the very waterfront where he went to college—Lex Barker's journey is one of unexpected turns, alumni connections, and coming full circle. In this episode, Lex '03 shares how a double major in Business Administration and Economics led him to nearly 20 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he manages massive infrastructure projects across the Great Lakes—from Toledo to Massena. We dive into:• How an Oswego alum opened the door to his first EPA internship in DC• What it's like being a civilian project manager working alongside military leadership• The science and logistics behind dredging harbors and repairing century-old breakwaters• Why storms on Lake Ontario required 20-ton armor stones to protect Oswego Harbor• That time he conducted a site inspection on a Coast Guard vessel in 35-degree weather• The value of adding that "extra" major that ended up defining his career path• Coach Tim Boyce's mentorship in helping him grow as a student-athlete and young adult Whether you're a recent grad wondering where your degree will take you, or an alum curious about the paths other Lakers have taken, Lex's story reminds us that staying curious, building relationships, and being open to unexpected opportunities can lead to a career you never imagined—right back where it all started. 🎧 Find more episodes here: https://alumni.oswego.edu/s/1552/bp18/interior.aspx?sid=1552&gid=1&pgid=4178 #OSWEGOAlumni #LakersForLife #AlumniPodcast #SUNYOswego #CareerSuccess #AlumniNetwork #GreatLakes