When Neal Hodges walked into his first communication classes at Cleveland State University last fall, he wasn’t sure what to expect. At 60 years old, stepping into COM 324 and 424 alongside students mostly in their late teens and early twenties felt like entering a different world.

"When I walked into communication classes 324 and 424 for the first time in September, I didn't know what to expect. Six decades of life behind me, a room full of classmates aged 18 to 20-something in front of me. But what I discovered was something unexpected, something unique, something beautiful—a family I didn't know I would find."

Hodges is no stranger to making an impact. For more than three decades, he has championed community and health initiatives across Cleveland, tackling issues such as social determinants of health, fatherhood, and personal growth through arts, education, and sports. His work has touched countless lives, but this time, the experience was personal.

By enrolling in CSU’s Broadcast Minor, Hodges added a new chapter to his story—learning to create broadcast-style content and sharing a classroom with a generation raised on digital media. For him, it wasn’t just about mastering new skills; it was about connection, curiosity, and proving that learning never stops.

Learn more: https://youtu.be/r8NyAiXdRTE