Welcome to Cardinal Perspectives, a series featuring in-depth conversations with alumni, students, faculty, staff, and members of the extended Catholic University community.

Through personal stories and professional journeys, each conversation highlights the people who help shape Catholic University’s impact on campus, across the country, and around the world. Tune in for inspiring reflections on faith, service, leadership, and learning.

Our episodes explore stories of alumni building meaningful careers, faculty advancing new ideas, students preparing for lives of purpose, and University leaders strengthening the Cardinal community. Join us for Cardinal Perspectives, which offers a closer look at the experiences that define Catholic University.
 

Featured Episode
Cardinal Perspectives

June 16, 2026

Creating Connections Through the Black Alumni Network and Beyond with Robyn De Wees

In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Robyn De Wees, B.S.E. 1987, reflects on her Catholic University experience, leadership journey, and role as inaugural chair of the Black Alumni Network. She discusses mentorship, belonging, community building, and creating meaningful opportunities for alumni and students to connect, grow, and thrive together.

Robyn De Wees

Guest

Robyn De Wees

Founder of O Line Coaching & Consulting, Chair of the Black Alumni Network

Brain Kohler

Interviewer

Brain Kohler

Assistant Vice President, Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Previous Episodes
Cardinal Perspectives

June 12, 2026

A Gift from Thomas Jefferson with Robert Duckworth

A handwritten letter from Thomas Jefferson. A March on Washington. Twenty-six years serving justice. Robert "Bob" Duckworth, B.A. 1965, M.A. 1967 has lived at the crossroads of American history, and now he's sharing what it all means for democracy's future, and for the next generation called to serve.

Robert Duckworth

Guest

Robert Duckworth

Public Servant and Maryland Elected Official

Maryann Cusimano Love

Interviewer

Maryann Cusimano Love

Associate Professor of International Relations and Chair of the Politics Department

Cardinal Perspectives

June 01, 2026

Insights from Archbishop Salvatore "Rino" Fisichella

Hope, prayer, and evangelization remain at the heart of the Church’s mission. Archbishop Salvatore “Rino” Fisichella reflects on the transformative power of silence, the meaning of the Jubilee Year, the role of Catholic universities, the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence, and sharing the Gospel in a rapidly changing world.

Archbishop Salvatore “Rino” Fisichella

Guest

Archbishop Salvatore “Rino” Fisichella

Pro-prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization

Dennis Strach

Interviewer

Dennis Strach

Director of Diocesan Engagement

Cardinal Perspectives

May 15, 2026

Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month with Jennifer MitchellMayer

In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Jennifer MitchellMayer, B.A. 2000, reflects on her Catholic University journey, her calling to social work, and a career dedicated to trauma-informed care, equity, and systems-level change. She shares lessons on service, adaptability, networking, and supporting the next generation of social workers.

Jennifer MitchellMayer, B.A. 2000

Guest

Jennifer MitchellMayer, B.A. 2000

Experienced Leader in Social Work

Elena Forbes, B.M. 2011

Interviewer

Elena Forbes, B.M. 2011

Director of Advancement, School of Nursing and National Catholic School of Social Service

Cardinal Perspectives

May 07, 2026

How the Law and Business Schools Work Together to Empower Entrepreneurs

What does it take to turn an idea into a thriving venture? In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Brian Walsh, Alexander Hoffarth, and Joe Nazzaro discuss how the Columbus School of Law's Law and Entrepreneurship Program and the Busch School of Business' VentureLab collaborate to provide students with an integrated curriculum and prepare them to launch businesses, serve clients, and lead with purpose.

W. Brian Walsh, B.A. 1990

Guest

W. Brian Walsh, B.A. 1990

Entrepreneur-in-Residence

Alexander J. Hoffarth

Guest

Alexander J. Hoffarth

Visiting Assistant Professor of Law and Director of Law and Entrepreneurship Program

Joseph Nazzaro, B.S.B.A. 2023

Interviewer

Joseph Nazzaro, B.S.B.A. 2023

Third-Year Law Student at the Columbus School of Law

Cardinal Perspectives

April 23, 2026

Welcoming Brian Kohler as the Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Even years after graduation, Catholic University's campus can feel like a home away from home. In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Brian Kohler, B.A. 2001, shares about his return to Catholic University as assistant vice president for alumni engagement and annual giving, reflecting on community, connection, and the powerful role alumni play in Catholic University's future.

Brian Kohler, B.A. 2001

Guest

Brian Kohler, B.A. 2001

Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Kirsten Evans

Interviewer

Kirsten Evans

Associate Vice President for Strategic Partnerships, Church and International Engagement, & Advancement Communications

Cardinal Perspectives

March 05, 2026

Cardinal Perspectives: Peter Donley, Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach

Building a winning program takes more than talent. In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Peter Donley, head men's lacrosse coach, discusses team culture, alumni connections, recruiting, program growth, and his long-term vision for Catholic University Men's Lacrosse to compete on a national stage.

Peter Donley

Guest

Peter Donley

Head Coach, Men's Lacrosse

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

February 26, 2026

Cardinal Perspectives: Steve Rahn, Director of Cross Country and Track & Field

Success is built one race, one team, and one season at a time. In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Steve Rahn, director of Cross Country and Track & Field, discusses championship moments, team culture, recruiting, alumni support, and his vision for continued growth across Catholic University's running and track programs.

Steve Rahn

Guest

Steve Rahn

Director of Cross Country and Track & Field

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

February 26, 2026

Advancing Human Dignity Through the Immigration Law and Policy Initiative

Justice begins with protecting human dignity. Stacy Brustin, Ashley Feasley, and Stephanie Villalobos discuss Catholic Law's Immigration Law and Policy Initiative, its work in advancing research, advocacy, and education, and how students gain hands-on experience serving immigrant and refugee communities.

Stacy Brustin

Guest

Stacy Brustin

Director of the Immigration Law and Policy Initiative and Professor of Law Emerita

Ashley Feasley

Guest

Ashley Feasley

Legal Expert in Residence at the Immigration Law and Policy Initiative at the Columbus School of Law

Stephanie Villalobos

Interviewer

Stephanie Villalobos

Third-Year Law Student at the Columbus School of Law

Cardinal Perspectives

February 19, 2026

Cardinal Perspectives: Ed Dolan, Head Golf Coach

A championship culture is built through confidence, consistency, and accountability. Ed Dolan, head coach for women's and men's golf, reflects on historic conference titles, NCAA appearances, alumni connections, and the lessons golf teaches about adversity, humility, and leaving every place better than you found it.

Ed Dolan

Guest

Ed Dolan

Head Coach, Men's and Women's Golf

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

February 13, 2026

All About Parents Council with John and Cathy Robben

Parents help shape the Catholic University experience in meaningful ways. John and Cathy Robben reflect on their family's Cardinal journey, their work as Parents Council co-chairs, and how parents can support students, strengthen community, and stay connected while still allowing their children to grow independently.

Cathy Robben

Guest

Cathy Robben

Co-Chair of the Catholic University Parents Council

John Robben

Guest

John Robben

Co-Chair of the Catholic University Parents Council

Mary Rivas

Interviewer

Mary Rivas

Assistant Director, Leadership Annual Giving, Student Experience and Family Engagement

Cardinal Perspectives

February 12, 2026

Cardinal Perspectives: Sophie Maccarone, Head Softball Coach

Historic success starts with belief, culture, and a team-first mindset. Sophie Maccarone reflects on leading Catholic University Softball, the impact of the Diamond Project, growing alumni connections, and her vision for developing confident student-athletes who compete at a high level and carry valuable skills beyond the field.

Sophie Maccarone, B.B.A. 2021, M.S.B. 2022, M.S. 2023, M.B.A. 2025

Guest

Sophie Maccarone, B.B.A. 2021, M.S.B. 2022, M.S. 2023, M.B.A. 2025

Head Coach, Softball

Tyra Wilson

Interviewer

Tyra Wilson

Advancement Coordinator for the Department of Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

February 06, 2026

Cardinal Perspectives: Ross Natoli, Head Baseball Coach

With 41 seasons at Catholic University, Head Baseball Coach Ross Natoli isn't slowing down anytime soon. In this episode of Cardinal Perspectives, Coach Natoli discusses highlights from his career, his coaching philosophy, and what's in store for Catholic University Baseball.

Ross Natoli

Guest

Ross Natoli

Head Coach, Baseball

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

December 17, 2025

Giving Back to Catholic Football: Scott Amey, B.A. 1969

A legacy of grit, leadership, and generosity comes full circle. Scott Amey, Class of 1969, reflects on helping bring football back to Catholic University, building a successful career in federal contracting, and giving back through a $100,000 match supporting the Mulholland Locker Room Project for future Cardinal student-athletes.

Scott Amey, B.A. 1969

Guest

Scott Amey, B.A. 1969

Former Chairman at Amyx, Inc. (need to confirm)

Kevin Robinson

Interviewer

Kevin Robinson

Vice President for Athletics and Recreation

Cardinal Perspectives

November 24, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives: Executive Vice President of Catholic Charities USA, Brian Corbin, B.A. 1984

Faith, justice, and service have guided Brian Corbin's journey from Catholic University to Catholic Charities USA. He reflects on formative campus experiences, Catholic social teaching, food security, service to vulnerable communities, and the lasting connection between the University, Catholic Charities, and the call to be "an attorney for the poor."

Brian Corbin, B.A. 1984

Guest

Brian Corbin, B.A. 1984

Executive Vice President of Catholic Charities USA

Kirsten Evans

Interviewer

Kirsten Evans

Associate Vice President for Strategic Partnerships, Church and International Engagement, & Advancement Communications

Cardinal Perspectives

November 11, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives: Veterans Day Edition

Service to Church and nation comes together in this Veterans Day conversation. Mary Card Mina, Harvey Seegers, Maura Wenzel, and Scott Flesch reflect on military service, faith, leadership, teaching, mentorship, and how the University can continue supporting veterans, ROTC students, and military-connected Cardinals.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Harvey Seegers

Guest

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Harvey Seegers

Senior Associate Dean and Professor of Practice at the Busch School of Business

Retired Lieutenant Maura Wenze

Guest

Retired Lieutenant Maura Wenze

Assistant Clinical Professor at the Conway School of Nursing

Retired Major Scott Flesch

Guest

Retired Major Scott Flesch

Former President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Mary Card Mina

Interviewer

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Mary Card Mina

President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors

Cardinal Perspectives

October 14, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives with Senior Vice Provost for Research H. Joseph Yost, Dean J. Steven Brown, and Professor Hanseok Ko

Artificial intelligence is changing how we work, learn, and understand the world. H. Joseph Yost, J. Steven Brown, Hanseok Ko, and William Roth discuss Catholic University's expanding research enterprise, Carnegie R1 status, new AI programs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the University's distinctive approach to innovation rooted in ethics, faith, and human dignity.

H. Joseph Yost, Ph.D.

Guest

H. Joseph Yost, Ph.D.

Senior Vice Provost for Research

J. Steven Brown, Ph.D.

Guest

J. Steven Brown, Ph.D.

Interim Dean for the College of Engineering, Physics, and Computing

Hanseok Ko, Ph.D. 1992

Guest

Hanseok Ko, Ph.D. 1992

Professor Newton Bennett Endowed Chair of Engineering

William Roth

Interviewer

William Roth

Senior Associate Vice President for University Advancement

Cardinal Perspectives

September 30, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives With Head Men's Soccer Coach, Connor Keenan

A championship season begins with culture, connection, and "taking care of business." Connor Keenan, head men's soccer coach, reflects on returning to Catholic University, leading men's soccer through a Landmark Conference title and NCAA Tournament bid, building strong alumni and parent support, and developing student-athletes through competition, community, and the full Catholic University experience.

Connor Keenan

Guest

Connor Keenan

Head Coach, Men's Soccer

The Catholic University of America

Interviewer

The Catholic University of America

.

Cardinal Perspectives

September 23, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives with Dean Andrew Abela

Business can be a noble vocation when rooted in virtue, purpose, and service. Andrew Abela reflects on the growth of the Busch School of Business, AACSB accreditation, the launch of Catholic University's MBA program, character formation, sales program success, and preparing students to lead with faith in the business world.

Andrew Abela

Guest

Andrew Abela

Dean, Busch School of Business

Katie Garvey

Interviewer

Katie Garvey

Assistant Dean of Advancement for the Busch School of Business

Cardinal Perspectives

September 19, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives with President of the Alumni Association Mary Card Mina, B.A. 1993, J.D. 1996

Service has shaped Mary Card Mina's Catholic University journey, from student to Alumni Association president. She reflects on her double-Cardinal experience, military career, alumni leadership, Cardinal Ambassadors, Cardinals Around the Table, and the many ways graduates can reconnect, volunteer, mentor, and support the University's future.

Mary Card Mina, B.A. 1993, J.D. 1996

Guest

Mary Card Mina, B.A. 1993, J.D. 1996

President of the Alumni Association

Dan Curtin

Interviewer

Dan Curtin

Senior Associate Director, Career Development and Professional Networking

Cardinal Perspectives

September 11, 2025

In the Huddle with Coach Gut

Faith, resilience, and team have guided Coach Mike Gutelius through Catholic University as a player, alumnus, and head football coach. He reflects on building a football family, facing brain cancer with prayer and determination, the support of the Catholic University community, and his hopes for the program's future.

Mike Gutelius

Guest

Mike Gutelius

Head Coach, Football

Neil Donahue, B.A. 2016, M.S.M. 2021

Interviewer

Neil Donahue, B.A. 2016, M.S.M. 2021

Senior Director of Advancement for the Division of Athletics

Huey Bodger, B.A. 2023

Interviewer

Huey Bodger, B.A. 2023

Assistant Director, Affinity Programming

Cardinal Perspectives

September 11, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives with Rachel Palumbo, Women’s Field Hockey Coach

Strong programs are built through kindness, connection, and competitive spirit. Rachel Palumbo, head field hockey coach, reflects on Catholic University Field Hockey's NCAA Tournament run, team culture, alumni pride, family ties, leadership development, and the lasting lessons student-athletes carry from the field into their careers, relationships, and lives beyond college.

Rachel Palumbo

Guest

Rachel Palumbo

Head Coach, Field Hockey

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

September 11, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives – Casey Burford, Women’s Volleyball Coach

Momentum grows when athletes believe in each other and the culture around them. Casey Burford reflects on her first season leading Catholic University Volleyball, the program's first Landmark Conference Tournament win since 2013, building trust and consistency, supporting student-athletes as whole people, and reconnecting alumni with the team.

Casey Burford

Guest

Casey Burford

Head Coach, Volleyball

Tyra Wilson

Interviewer

Tyra Wilson

Advancement Coordinator for the Department of Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

September 09, 2025

Cardinal Perspectives – Casey Sommers, Women’s Soccer Coach

Confidence grows through competition, connection, and learning to lead through every challenge. Casey Sommers reflects on building Catholic University Women's Soccer, the impact of Carlini Field, alumni and family support, team culture, and empowering student-athletes to find their voice, pursue excellence, and carry those lessons beyond the field.

Casey Sommers

Guest

Casey Sommers

Head Coach, Women's Soccer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Interviewer

James Higgins, B.S.B.A. 2022

Assistant Director of Leadership Annual Giving for Athletics

Cardinal Perspectives

August 13, 2025

A Conversation with Juan Jones

Leadership grows through service, encounter, and a willingness to move the ball forward. University Trustee Juan Jones reflects on his family's connection to Catholic University, his work as a trustee, mentoring students, supporting the Diamond Project, and helping the University build a stronger future rooted in mission, community, and faith.

Juan C. Jones

Guest

Juan C. Jones

Executive Vice President of Global Support Renewals at Oracle University Trustee

Patrick Dwyer, B.S.B.A. 2007

Interviewer

Patrick Dwyer, B.S.B.A. 2007

Associate Vice President for University Advancement

Cardinal Perspectives

July 14, 2025

A Conversation with Dean Marie Nolan

Nursing excellence begins with skill, compassion, and a deep respect for human dignity. Dean Marie Nolan reflects on returning to lead the Conway School of Nursing, forming virtuous nurses, expanding programs and enrollment, advancing simulation-based learning, and preparing graduates to serve patients, families, and communities through God's healing work.

Marie Nolan, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N

Guest

Marie Nolan, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N

Dean, Conway School of Nursing

William Roth

Interviewer

William Roth

Senior Associate Vice President for University Advancement

Cardinal Perspectives

May 19, 2025

A Conversation with Sir James MacMillan

Sacred music can open the heart to beauty, faith, and encounter. Sir James MacMillan reflects on his journey as a composer, the spiritual power of music, the enduring importance of Gregorian chant, and how art can invite listeners into deeper reflection, worship, and connection with the divine.

Sir James MacMillan

Guest

Sir James MacMillan

Scottish composer

Dennis Strach

Interviewer

Dennis Strach

Director of Diocesan Engagement

Cardinal Perspectives

May 02, 2025

A Conversation with Alyssa Diaz: Pediatric Nurse and Children's Book Author

Compassion and creativity can make healthcare less intimidating for young patients. Alyssa Diaz, B.S.N. 2021, reflects on her Catholic University nursing experience, her work at Children's National Hospital, and writing Penny's Port, a children's book that helps families understand implanted ports with clarity, comfort, and confidence.

Alyssa Diaz, B.S.N. 2021

Guest

Alyssa Diaz, B.S.N. 2021

Author of Penny’s Port

Ann Vogel, B.M.E. 2020

Interviewer

Ann Vogel, B.M.E. 2020

Assistant Director, Young Alumni Engagement

Cardinal Perspectives

April 28, 2025

A Conversation with Bill McAdams Jr.: From Catholic University to Hollywood

From Catholic University athletics to Hollywood, Bill McAdams Jr. reflects on the discipline, faith, and persistence that shaped his career as an actor, writer, director, and producer. He shares how family, loss, forgiveness, and purpose inspired the movie God's Here and his commitment to creating meaningful, message-driven films.

Bill McAdams Jr., B.A.G.S. 1994

Guest

Bill McAdams Jr., B.A.G.S. 1994

Actor, Director, Writer, and Producer

Andrea Valladares

Interviewer

Andrea Valladares

Class of 2027, Business and Operations Management Major

March 14, 2025

A Conversation with Coach Sophie Maccarone: More Than Just A Game

Growth happens through persistence, confidence, and learning from failure. Sophie Maccarone reflects on her journey from Catholic University student-athlete to head softball coach, the rise of women's sports, building a competitive team culture, supporting young players, and helping student-athletes grow as whole people on and off the field.

Sophie Maccarone, B.B.A. 2021, M.S.B. 2022, M.S. 2023, M.B.A. 2025

Guest

Sophie Maccarone, B.B.A. 2021, M.S.B. 2022, M.S. 2023, M.B.A. 2025

Head Coach, Softball

Sharon “Cherie” Sabin

Interviewer

Sharon “Cherie” Sabin

Class of 2026, English Major

March 04, 2025

A Conversation with Dean Lewis: Insights, Vision and Future of the School of Philosophy

Philosophy invites students to ask life's deepest questions with faith, reason, and intellectual courage. Dean V. Bradley Lewis reflects on the School of Philosophy's legacy, ecclesiastical mission, Basselin Scholars Program, faculty community, and role in forming thinkers who can serve the Church, engage culture, and seek truth.

V. Bradley Lewis, Ph.D.

Guest

V. Bradley Lewis, Ph.D.

Dean, School of Philosophy

Dennis Strach

Interviewer

Dennis Strach

Director of Diocesan Engagement