Introducing 1818: A Saint Louis University Alumni Podcast
Some aspects of Saint Louis University have become legend and lore. Others have stayed hidden, until now. Welcome to 1818: A Saint Louis University Alumni Podcast, where more than 200 years of SLU history come to life through unforgettable memories, surprising moments, and voices that shaped the institution we know today.
Over eight episodes this season, co-hosts Meg Connolly (A&S '90, Grad' 92) and Tony Minor (A&S' 03) will guide listeners through SLU's past — uncovering stories that deserve to be told.
With guests including NASA's Gene Kranz, the St. Louis Jesuits' Fr. Roc O'Connor
and Billikens from across the decades, we'll explore:
and Billikens from across the decades, we'll explore:
- The facts behind the infamous St. Louis exorcism that inspired a Hollywood film
- Our rich Jesuit heritage
- The untold ways SLU has influenced the St. Louis community
- How SLU's iconic Billiken mascot got its start
And much more
Whether you're a proud alum, a current Billiken, an interested St. Louisan, or simply love a great story, subscribe now to 1818: A Saint Louis University Alumni Podcast and discover the background that made SLU what it is today.
Find us at slu.edu or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Creators and Guests
Host
Meg Connolly
Meg Connolly (A&S ‘90, GRAD ‘92) is a two-time Saint Louis University graduate who has been a member of the alumni and development teams for over 30 years. Her favorite Billiken memories include SLU’s 200th celebration under the Gateway Arch, men’s basketball and women’s soccer NCAA tournament pregames, and getting married in the St. Francis Xavier College Church. Connolly is fortunate to have engaged with so many wonderful graduates and friends of the University from across the country — alumni who literally change the world in ways only Billikens can. She is thrilled to share more SLU conversations and stories through the 1818 podcast.
Host
Tony Minor
Tony Minor (A&S ‘03) is a longtime leader in alumni and donor engagement at Saint Louis University, where he currently serves as an assistant vice president. During his 20-plus years in higher ed advancement, he’s led teams across alumni engagement, annual giving, stewardship, marketing and events — all with the goal of building stronger connections between SLU and its community of graduates and supporters. Minor got his start in the Office of the President and has grown his career entirely at SLU. He’s a proud Billiken, holding degrees in English and communications, and is passionate about ensuring SLU’s alumni feel connected.
Producer
Megan Favignano Mansouri
Megan Favignano-Mansouri is the digital content specialist for Saint Louis University's development communications team. Her passion is storytelling and uplifting the voices of the community. Megan is an award-winning storyteller with a decade of experience working in journalism, public relations, and marketing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with certificates in Environmental Journalism and Leadership from Webster University. In her free time, Megan enjoys watercolor, family game nights, walks with her two dogs and exploring St. Louis with her husband.
