On Dec. 17, ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter ’85 and Monday Night Football director Artie Kempner ’77 returned to Kennedy High School for Alumni Day on Dec. 17. During a panel led by the school’s student government, the two shared stories from their time as Cougars, reflected on how their education helped shape their futures, and discussed the career paths that led them to the top of sports media. 

The school also welcomed back several Class of 2025 graduates, who shared their college and career paths with current underclassmen, offering insight and inspiration for what lies ahead. 

Schefter noted that he thinks internships are a critical part of the education process. 

“Volunteer at a paper department, team, or station,” he said, recounting his own college newspaper experience at the University of Michigan. “Do whatever you can to get into the door. It’s all about what you make of the experience while you are there. It’s up to you to go make things happen and seek out opportunities.” 

Kempner recalled inspirational English teachers during his tenure at Kennedy in the late 1970s, while Schefter mentioned an eighth-grade teacher, Mr. Flannery, who left a lasting impression on him.  

“Reading and writing will guide you in every field you want to go into,”  Schefter said. “Those skills are invaluable.” 

“That and finding a balance,” added Kempner. “Watch people around you, too, and really listen to them.” 

Emily Kesler, senior and president of the Kennedy student government, expressed gratitude for the visit and noted that their sentiments resonated with her and peers. 

“It was awesome to have them come back because they didn’t really know what they wanted to do originally,” she said. “They really had to climb, which a lot of us don’t realize while we are in high school. You kind of just have to trust the process and keep watching other people or learning new things about yourself and others.” 

Both Schefter and Kempner were inducted into Kennedy’s Hall of Fame in 2012, and their visit highlighted the power of staying connected to the Cougar community.  

Dr. Gary Morganstern, co-president of the Kennedy Alumni Association, introduced the pair. 

“Your relationship with Kennedy should not end when you toss your caps in June,” he addressed the crowd of students. “We are a community that lasts a lifetime. It is a powerful way to network and support the next generation of students.”