France Sloat and Greg Rust have told Xavier's stories for decades
Jul 28, 2020
This week, the Office of Marketing and Communications has celebrated the careers of two longtime storytellers — two Musketeers who have been staples on our campus for a combined 56 years.
France Sloat, Managing Editor, came to Xavier in 2001 after a storied journalism career at The Cincinnati Post. Why Xavier? Because she loved to tell stories, and she knew she could continue to do so here. During her 20-year career she was able to do just that, but she also earned a degree (a master’s in English), traveled to Italy with a theology class to study the life of St. Francis, and interviewed the likes of John Boehner, Pulitzer-winner Garry Wills, and four-star Gen. Michael X. Garrett, among others. “A good story told well is a compelling way to communicate the impact that Xavier can have on someone’s entire life,” she said. “My goal is to bring (the reader) the most interesting and well-written stories about our students, alumni, faculty and staff that showcase the great work being done at Xavier.” We think she did just that — for 20 solid years.
Greg Rust, Director for Photography, came to Xavier 36 years ago. It should surprise no one that he earned his college degree in Anthropology, as the topic comes up again and again in his work. Whether it was traveling to more than 10 foreign countries to document Xavier students and faculty as they promoted the University’s Mission, or chronicling Native American culture in the Western states, or even shooting pictures of victorious basketball locker room celebrations, photography was a way for Rust to make art and study people. “At times I feel I’m the campus historian, and other times I feel like I’m the campus paparazzi,” he quipped. But ultimately, he said he takes pride in Xavier’s Jesuit tradition, and he enjoys making people feel good through his pictures. “I feel that makes people proud of themselves,” he said.
We’re proud of both France and Greg. And they will certainly be missed.
But goodbyes are always difficult. So for now, let’s just say, “Until next time.”
Congrats on your retirement!
— Your friends in Marketing and Communications