Oswego State welcomed alumna Linda Cohn to campus Sunday for an open question and answer session with students.

Cohn graduated fromOswego in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree from the college of arts and communication. Since then, Cohn has pioneered the movement for for women and men within the field of sports journalism. She has received numerous acknowledgements and international professional recognition for her work in the field.

For the past 24 years, Cohn has served as a regular anchor and journalist on ESPN’s flagship program “SportsCenter” and keeps up with her passion for radio as well through her two side-endeavored radio programs. Cohn, although busy, still finds time to visit her alma mater and said she loves comingto campus.

“I’m looking for opportunities to come back here,” Cohn said. “This institution means so much to me. I want to make the students understand and believe that they have value and that they have something to give, even if they don’t know what that is yet.”

Cohn said she believes in the Q&A format, so when the event was being planned she knew what direction she wanted to take it.

“I love the Q&A forum,” Cohn said. “I’ve done tons of speeches where I’ve been up there talking, blah blah blah. Listen, I always picture myself out there in the audience, do I want to listen to someone going on and on about their personal life? No, I want to make it interactive and in a Q&A format, every moment is valuable.”

Knowing what works best for her is a trait Cohn has always possessed. She said she realized at a young age that pursuing media was her passion, subsequently piquing her interest in Oswego State.

Returning to campus these days and observing her impact, Cohn likes what she sees.

“I enjoy meeting new students and seeing renovations and giving snapshots of advice to anyone who will listen,” Cohn said. “I enjoy witnessing the changes to the university, along with the town of Oswego. I even have my own sub at the [Oswego] Sub Shop now.” 

While Cohn returns to Oswego primarily for the students, she recognizes the effect these talks have on her. Cohn said she enjoys freely sharing this information with others, but she still finds there are instances where she learns as much as those attending the event.

“The more I do these events, the more I know one thing for sure. I want to do more of them:” Cohn said. “I feel they go well, if I can send out a message that is delivered to at least one student, then I know this is working and I’m going to build on it.”

Cohn’s overall message remained the same.

“The students need to know that they can do the unthinkable,” Cohn said. “They need to know that they can accomplish things that no one might believe they can do. They need to know there are different paths to success, to always follow their passion and know that they are valued.” 

Cohn is quick to recognize Oswego State’s role in her journey.

“What was significant about SUNY Oswego is that it allowed me to get involved with extracurricular activities,” Cohn said. “The TV station, the radio station and most importantly my internship allowed me opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge while alsoadding to my resume.”