Southern Connecticut State University to Honor Alumnus Rob Parker During Homecoming Game
NEW HAVEN, CT — Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) will pay tribute to one of its own during the Homecoming game on October 4. Alumnus and renowned national sports analyst Rob Parker will be recognized through the dedication of the Jess Dow Field press box in his honor at halftime. This moment not only marks an important milestone for Parker but also serves to inspire current students at SCSU and beyond.
Honoring a Legacy in Sports Journalism
Terrance Jones, the Director of Athletics and Recreation at SCSU, expressed a sense of pride in honoring Parker. “Rob Parker’s contributions to the field of sports journalism are a testament to the impact of our alumni,” he said. The dedication of the press box is a celebration of Parker’s remarkable career, a gesture of gratitude for his generosity, and a source of motivation for students looking to carve their own paths in similar fields.
A Journey from Student to Sports Icon
For Parker, this honor represents a full-circle moment. His journey in journalism began at Southern, where he honed his skills as a writer for the university’s school newspaper, The Southern News. Graduating in 1986, he transitioned from writing for educational publications to becoming a formidable sports columnist. Parker’s career evolved into broadcast journalism, and in 2023, his achievements were recognized with an induction into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame.
Reflecting on his journey, Parker shared, “This is a testament to what can happen when you follow your dreams.” He emphasizes that his story serves as inspiration for young Black men, illustrating that one can rise from humble beginnings to achieve great heights in a competitive field like sports journalism.
A Trailblazer in Media
Parker’s nearly four-decade career encompasses work with major media outlets such as The NY Daily News, ESPN, Fox Sports Radio, and the MLB Network. Among his notable accomplishments is his historic role as the first Black sports columnist at the Detroit Free Press in 1993. In 2021, he took another significant step by launching MLBbro.com, a platform dedicated to covering Black and Brown players in Major League Baseball.
His time at Southern wasn’t just about academic learning; it was also about practical experience. Parker interned at the New Haven Register, WTNH, and WELI radio, laying a solid foundation for the illustrious career that followed. Above all, he treasures his role as a mentor, having guided nearly 100 young media members, and serves as an associate professor in sports journalism at the University of Southern California.
Gratitude for Roots and Recognition
Parker expressed deep appreciation for the educational groundwork that SCSU laid for him. In 2008, he was honored with the Outstanding Journalism Alumni Award, recognizing his contributions to the field and his alma mater. “It’s an absolute honor to have my name on Southern’s press box. I hope this will inspire others to excel and do what most think can’t be done,” he stated.
His connection to Southern Connecticut State University remains strong. His involvement with the university spans decades; in 1988, he was featured alongside fellow alumni in a TV ad for Southern titled Four Years That Last A Lifetime. Just two years after graduation, he established the Rob Parker Award, recognizing a standout sportswriter from The Southern News. His consistent visits to campus serve as a genuine effort to engage and inspire the next generation of journalists.
About Southern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University stands as a beacon of academic excellence, community engagement, and social justice. Established in 1893 and located in the heart of New Haven, SCSU is dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment that propels students toward becoming responsible global citizens. The university prides itself on its world-class faculty and diverse student population, encouraging collaborative research and initiatives that tackle pressing societal issues. SCSU remains committed to preparing students to be critical thinkers and agents of social change, aiming to create a more just and equitable world.
With the upcoming dedication of the press box, Rob Parker’s journey from a Southern student to a celebrated sports journalist serves not only as a personal milestone but as a source of inspiration for all who aim to break barriers and chase their dreams.