Student host speaks out

Matt Comely

Move over Leno. Watch out Letterman. Senior Anthony D’Aleo is in the hot seat and he’s bringing a new, fresh attitude to televisions across Cabrini’s campus.

As host of “Outspoken,” a college student-oriented variety show based on campus, D’Aleo is helping to set the pace for the start-up of the new addition to the campus’ media, as well as adding imperative experience to his resume. This future sports broadcaster, originating from Cape May, N.J., is currently in the process of selling his talent to local small-market news networks within the Allentown and Reading areas, and also in southern Florida.

His cool, relaxed personality played a major role in his approach while auditioning for “Outspoken.” “I just went in there like I didn’t have a care in the world,” D’Aleo said. “I figured ‘If I don’t get it, oh well. If I do, then cool.'”

“Outspoken” is produced as part of the video practicum within the English and communications department. Although D’Aleo is hosting the show for recreation, the rest of the crew will receive grades for their work on the show. “I don’t want to let them down since it’s their grade,” he said. “It’s their class. I’m just the puppet.”

His presence in the video studio is not one of awkwardness, according to junior Matt Cornely, a co-producer for the show. “Anthony has adjusted very quickly, and has learned fast that we are not only here to learn and get credit for this class, but to have fun doing it.”

D’Aleo has quickly adapted to this work ethic. His concerns appear to be with producing a good show, while still having fun in the process. “I was nervous in the beginning because I was kind of thrown into it, but now I’m a lot more prepared,” he said prior to the taping of Cabrini’s version of “Celebrity Jeopardy.”

Rapidly becoming a local celebrity due to posters plastered across campus bearing a half-smiling D’Aleo with an assuring thumbs-up, his modesty serves as a balance for his new-found stardom. “I’ve been getting a lot of stuff from my friends about it. I guess it’s fun having people know who I am.”

“Anthony’s personality is great. He is charismatic and approachable, and is well-known throughout the school,” Cornely said. “Casting next year will be tough as Anthony will be a tough act to follow, but we are confident that someone will step up to the challenge.”