MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s Honors College has launched a new podcast series, “Honors Spotlight,” designed to amplify the voices, projects and perspectives of its students, alumni, and faculty.
Hosted by Honors College strategic communications specialist Robin Lee, the podcast offers an engaging platform for storytelling that spans disciplines, continents and lived experiences.
“Our students are doing extraordinary things—researching, traveling, creating, and leading in ways that deserve to be heard,” said Lee. “‘Honors Spotlight’ is another way of celebrating that impact and inviting the broader community into the conversation.”
“The podcast reflects the heart of our college — curiosity, creativity and a commitment to excellence,” said Honors College Dean John Vile. “It’s a wonderful way to showcase the remarkable journeys our students and alumni are taking, both here at MTSU and around the world.”
The debut episode features Honors student and award-winning pianist Colman Connolly, an audio production and data science double major, who shares how he used artificial intelligence to restore and reimagine the early 20th century recordings of legendary Irish fiddler Michael Coleman. The episode explores Connolly’s musical upbringing, his creative process, and the cultural significance of preserving Irish heritage through sound.
The podcast’s intro music was composed by Honors student and music major Elloise Layus, whose original piece sets the tone for a series rooted in creativity and collaboration.
Future episodes will feature a wide range of Honors voices and experiences, including:
• Ariel Nicastro (physics) and Taylor Tims (anthropology) are discussing their study abroad adventures in Europe and Asia.
• Honors alumnus John Tate (video and film production) reflects on his time teaching in Japan through the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program, better known as the JET Program.
• A “Get to Know Our Advisors” episode with Laura Clippard, Emilee Buckmeyer, and Judy Albakry offering insights into Honors advising and student support.
“Honors Spotlight” is available now, with new episodes released regularly throughout the semester.
The first episode premiered Aug. 26. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and YouTube. Learn more and subscribe at honors.mtsu.edu/honors-spotlight-podcast. Join the conversation and discover the extraordinary experiences that define Honors life at MTSU.
— Robin E. Lee (Robin.E.Lee@mtsu.edu)
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