Behind the mic: Rowan On, Episode 4 with Derek Jones

In Episode 4 of Rowan On, host Karen Holloway sits down with Derek Jones—longtime station manager of the award-winning Rowan Radio 89.7 WGLS‑FM, who many may recognize as the voice guiding Rowan graduates across the stage each year at Commencement. In this episode, the conversation traces a career rooted in sports, storytelling and deep dedication to students.

Jones describes growing up immersed in Philadelphia sports, captivated not just by the games but by the broadcasters who brought them to life. As a Rowan undergraduate, he shifted from an initial stint with Rowan Television Network toward the radio station, where he found mentors, opportunity and a sense of home. From early‑morning music programs to sports play‑by‑play, he learned the craft by doing. And stuck around to help new students do the same.

Today, Rowan Radio serves students across majors, offering hands‑on experience in sports broadcasting, music programming and an expanding world of podcasting. Students call Rowan athletics as well as minor‑league baseball and G‑League basketball, gaining access to experiences Jones calls “light‑years beyond” what existed when he was a student.

Jones also pulls back the curtain on the profession: the nerves, preparation and pressure of getting every detail right—especially when athletes can hear you in real time. (Something he has experienced while calling a bowling match.) But above all, he says, the reward is watching students grow into confident communicators and leaders.

Audiences can listen through Spotify, Apple and other podcast platforms or watch each episode on YouTube.