The Energetic Emcee: Jared Gravely's Rise to Campus Stardom

Jared Gravely, a sports marketing major at St. Joseph's University, has become a campus celebrity for his energetic emceeing of the school's men's and women's basketball games. From his humble beginnings to his growing influence on campus, Gravely's story is one of passion, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to supporting his peers.

Captivating Crowds and Championing Student-Athletes

Embracing the Microphone: Jared's Unexpected Opportunity

Jared Gravely, affectionately known as "the Grizz," never expected to become the voice of St. Joe's athletics. It all started with a simple email from the assistant athletics director for marketing, Rachel Novotny, asking to meet with him. "I'm like, oh boy, I'm in trouble. They heard me chirping," Gravely recalled, fearing he had done something wrong. But to his surprise, the SJU Athletics staff saw his natural talent for energizing crowds and wanted to give him a chance to showcase his skills.

Expanding His Reach: From Basketball to Soccer

Gravely's emceeing duties quickly expanded beyond the basketball court. This year, the women's soccer team hired him to announce the starting lineup at their home games on Sweeney Field. His infectious enthusiasm and ability to hype up the crowd have made him a valuable asset to the athletic department, and he hopes to continue his involvement in campus sports even after graduation.

Embracing the Spotlight: Jared's Rise to Campus Celebrity

Gravely's friendly persona and his ability to "yap" have earned him a reputation as a campus celebrity. He's not just an emcee; he's a cheerleader, a motivator, and a true supporter of his fellow student-athletes. His infectious energy and genuine passion for the game have made him a beloved figure on campus, and he's not afraid to embrace the spotlight.

Mentorship and Inspiration: Jared's Idols and Role Models

Gravely's journey has been shaped by the guidance and inspiration of others. He looks up to his advisor, Stephanie Tryce, and one of his marketing professors, Dr. Morgan Bryant, as mentors who have helped him navigate the challenges of college life. But his biggest idol is none other than the legendary comedian, Eddie Murphy. "I see myself in him," Gravely says, drawing inspiration from Murphy's comedic prowess and ability to captivate audiences.

Giving Back: Jared's Commitment to Mentoring Youth

Gravely's passion for supporting his peers extends beyond the basketball court. He works as a camp counselor and coaches youth sports, driven by a desire to provide positive role models for the next generation. "I was glad to have a nice upbringing, I want kids to have the same positive role models," he explains, underscoring his commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.

Favorite Spots and Treasured Possessions: Jared's Campus Life

When asked about his favorite place on campus, Gravely surprises everyone by choosing Sweeney Field over the more obvious Campion Center. He also cherishes a special ring given to him by his mother when he was 15, a treasured possession that holds deep personal significance. Gravely's love for the performing arts is evident in his favorite class, Acting, where he gets to showcase his talents on stage.

Facing Challenges and Looking Ahead: Jared's Hopes and Worries

Despite his success, Gravely is not without his concerns. He worries about the lack of attendance at the women's basketball games, believing that both the men's and women's teams deserve equal support from the campus community. As he looks ahead to his final year, Gravely is determined to pull out all the stops, promising to have a few "tricks up his sleeve" to energize the crowds and rally behind his beloved Hawks.Jared Gravely's journey from a student with a knack for cheering to a campus celebrity is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a genuine desire to uplift and support his peers. His story serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us that with a little courage and a lot of heart, we can all find our own unique ways to make a difference on campus and beyond.