Passaic Today

At the recent commencement ceremony of Montclair State University, graduate Joseph Lepinski unveiled his secret identity as Rocky the Red Hawk, the school mascot. As his name was announced, Lepinski, also known online as "Jersey Joe," danced across the stage in the mascot's large yellow bird feet to receive his diploma from President Jonathan Koppell.

Lepinski was one of four graduating members of Team Rocky who revealed their secret identities during the ceremony. Vanessa Fingerlin, another graduate and member of Team Rocky, also wore the mascot's big yellow feet with her graduation gown. In the afternoon ceremony, Eliza Andrus and Aylin Alvarez-Santiago revealed their roles as Ricky, Rocky’s odd cousin, by wearing oversized sneakers.

"All four of these students have truly made their mark on the campus as members of Team Rocky," said Team Rocky Advisor Hannah Lindeblad ’13. "Some only have been on for a year, while others have been on since 2019. I am so proud of all of them and can’t wait to see what they do after they leave Montclair State University."

Lepinski graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Fingerlin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Foundations for Elementary Teachers. Their secret identities were revealed on social media platforms on May 10.

Associate Professor Kristin Scrabis-Fletcher described Lepinski as always being high energy in class and eager to participate. She noted that this energy helped him juggle both his social media and academic careers.

Fingerlin joined Team Rocky in 2019 but took a leave of absence during the 2020 pandemic. She credits Team Rocky with bringing her back to school. Her highlight was performing with Montclair cheerleaders at a national competition earlier this year.

Andrus graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and wore Ricky’s high-top sneakers with her commencement gown. She already has mascot and announcer jobs lined up. Alvarez-Santiago, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Television, served as Ricky, a handler, and the camera person for Rocky on the Streets.

The story was reported by Staff Writer Sylvia A. Martinez.