Please note that all podcast episodes were recorded and produced prior to July 31, 2025. The Office and Diversity and Inclusion has since closed.

Episode 15 of the lonely campus podcast focuses on Syracuse University staff Michael Mazzaroppi. Michael is an Access Coordinator in the Center for Disability Resources, as well as part-time faculty teaching American Sign Language (ASL) courses.  In this podcast, he opens up about his identity as a Deaf, openly gay male, as well as his journey to Syracuse University.  Michael grew up in Solvay, New York and then attended Gallaudet University, which is the only higher education institution that serves Deaf and hard of hearing students exclusively.  From there he worked professionally supporting Deaf and hard of hearing students in Japan and Manhattan   Michael opens up about his experiences in these various locations as well as periods of loneliness and isolation.  He also shares strategies he's used to remain active and connected with others.  We greatly appreciate Michael sharing his story so that others can gain insight from his experience.  Transcript available upon request.