The People of Penn State
Welcome to the People of Penn State Podcast — the podcast from the Penn State Alumni Association that brings you the incredible stories of Nittany Lions making their mark on the world!
Each episode, a rotating cast of hosts sit down with Penn State alumni who are changing the game in business, science, sports, the arts, and beyond. You never know who you'll hear from next — but you do know it'll be a conversation worth tuning in for!
The People of Penn State
Episode 83 — Drawing A Laugh A Day, With Award-Winning Cartoonist Dave Blazek
Ever think it’s too late to start something new? Think again!
This week on The People of Penn State, we’re joined by Dave Blazek ('79), an award-winning cartoonist behind the syndicated comic "Loose Parts." Dave has drawn a cartoon a day for more than 25 years — but here’s the twist: he didn’t even learn to draw until he was 42!
"Loose Parts" is syndicated everywhere and appears daily in nearly 200 newspapers and websites in the United States and Canada. Dave also has produced nine books and his greeting cards appear in the USA, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.
We chat with Dave about his unexpected journey to becoming a nationally syndicated cartoonist, how his time at Penn State helped prepare him in ways he never anticipated, and why creativity and humor can play a powerful role in any career.
Connect with Dave on Facebook, Instagram, X and BlueSky.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kick Off Summer With We Are Weekend (June 20–21)
Registration is now open for this year's We Are Weekend!
"We Are Weekend" is an annual celebration, organized by the Penn State Alumni Association, that brings together Penn State alumni, students, and friends for a series of activities and events on the University Park campus.
Set for June 20-21, this is the perfect opportunity to bring your family and friends and kick off summer with a Blue & White celebration.
This year's We Are Weekend will feature an in-person agenda including a special event at The Arboretum at Penn State to commemorate the summer solstice, the Pioneer Induction Dinner for the Class of 1975, a silent disco, an ice cream social, campus tours, and much more.
