Chieko Dunham '25 has taken the stage during dozens of performances for the Knox Jazz department as the lead vocalist. As a senior who just wrapped her final Rootabaga Jazz festival, we spoke with her about the impact of music on her time at the College, her love of English, and her plans moving forward.

In year two of this mini-series, Jaylen returned to the show to update us on his second year at Knox. He shared stories of getting used to campus life, an exciting study abroad opportunity in Japan, and his plans as he moves into year three. For those who haven't yet listened to episode one, we highly recommend you check it out before listening to part two.

Green Oaks is a major asset to the Knox community, and at the helm of this amazing space is Watson Bartlett Professor of Biology and Conservation Stuart Allison. Allison helped the College design a major renovation to Green Oaks, including remodeling Schurr Hall and a brand new teaching facility. He spoke with us about the process and why this incredible space keeps him returning.

Ilir Emini '16 has built a notable career in football since leaving Galesburg. After setting records as a wide receiver at Knox, he transitioned into coaching, following Lovie Smith from the University of Illinois to the Houston Texans, working with a fellow Knox football alum at Wofford, and now back in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers. He spoke with us about his time as a Prairie Fire athlete and his journey to coaching at the highest level of the sport he loves.

Among Knox's immersive term experiences, Rep Term stands as a cornerstone. Smith V. Brand Distinguished Professor of Theatre and Chair of Arts Administration Liz Carlin Metz and Professor of Theatre Craig Choma ’93 are starting work with their students on Rep Term 20, a major milestone in their storied careers. They spoke with us about the history of this amazing program and the significance of Rep Term for so many Knox students.

Alondra Damian ’25 and Tina Hope, director of campus sustainability initiatives, joined us to discuss the ongoing sustainability initiatives at Knox. With more opportunities for students and the wider community to participate every year, going green continues to be a key element of the Knox experience.

Knox College Vice President for Enrollment Nathan Ament is already hard at work recruiting for next year. His team worked hard to bring in a record-breaking Class of 2028, bolstering Knox's future. He spoke with us about the changes made to the College's admissions process and the special qualities that help showcase Knox to the world.

Coach Harley Knosher is nothing short of a Knox College legend. From having the Knosher Bowl named in his honor, to the installation of his bust outside the E. & L. Andrew Fitness Center, Coach is known around the community as a truly one-of-a-kind person. He chatted with us about his storied career and his long dedication to purple and gold.

For the season two finale, Elvith Santoyo-McNaught '13 has made a name for herself in Galesburg as a thriving entrepreneur. An alumnus of not only Knox but of the Gale Scholars program, she spoke with us today about her locally-focused career and the benefits of sticking to your roots.

In this new mini-series, we spoke with Jaylen Carwell ’27 about his first year at Knox, the admissions process and onboarding at the College, and his goals as a student. Each year, we'll follow up with Jaylen to document the process through all four years of his education.