海角社区

The 海角社区 Alumni Association is proud to feature Jan Sumner (鈥�74), entrepreneur, author, and former Colorado Rockies batting practice pitcher, in the newest episode of BirdTalk, the university鈥檚 official alumni podcast highlighting Roadrunners making an impact in their communities and beyond.

Hosted by Jamie Hurst, the episode explores Sumner鈥檚 lifelong connection to baseball鈥攆rom his time as a student-athlete at 海角社区 to spending six seasons throwing batting practice for the Colorado Rockies. His experiences on the field ultimately inspired his first book, Fat Pitch, launching a second career as a writer that has grown to 13 published works.

A graduate in physical education, Sumner credits 海角社区 with providing the flexibility and support he needed to balance school, work, and family. 鈥淚t accommodated my schedule,鈥� he shares in the episode. 鈥淚 felt what I was learning was practical and applicable to real life.鈥�

Beyond baseball and writing, the conversation highlights Sumner鈥檚 current work as founder of Homeward Bound Prison Ministry, where he mentors incarcerated individuals and helps them find purpose through writing and personal reflection. His work focuses on second chances, personal growth, and the power of storytelling to transform lives.

Throughout the episode, Sumner reflects on the lessons baseball has taught him鈥攑articularly resilience and the willingness to fail. 鈥淒on鈥檛 let fear deter you from making efforts in life,鈥� he says. 鈥淵ou鈥檙e going to fail sometimes, but that鈥檚 how you learn and grow.鈥�

This episode blends memorable baseball stories with meaningful insights on reinvention, purpose, and the impact of using your experiences to serve others. Sumner鈥檚 journey exemplifies how 海角社区 alumni continue to evolve and make a difference long after leaving campus.

The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and .

BirdTalk is 海角社区鈥檚 official alumni podcast, sharing stories of Roadrunners advancing in business, aviation, entrepreneurship, and public service. To listen to this episode or explore more alumni success stories, visit /alumni/birdtalk/