Bear Tracks - The Official Podcast of Butler Community College

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Gianna Scott, a 2008 graduate of Butler Community College and a small business owner. Gianna shares her journey from struggling with academics and dropping out of WSU to thriving as a small business owner in Butler County. She discusses the pivotal role Butler Community College played in reigniting her passion for learning and her transition from working at Cargill to starting her own photography and printing business, Flamingo Inc. Despite challenges, including changing career paths and dealing with economic downturns, Gianna emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, mentorship, and lifelong learning. She also highlights how Butler’s supportive community and flexible learning environment helped her succeed. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of perseverance and the pursuit of passion.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs talks with 2010 Butler graduate Rachelle Clift. Rachelle shares her educational journey from being initially hesitant about attending Butler Community College to falling in love with its campus and community. She discusses her involvement in various campus activities such as the dance team and marketing club, and how these experiences shaped her career path. Rachelle also delves into her current roles with Andover Life and the Andover Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the supportive environment Butler provided. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of Butler's comprehensive approach to education, as praised by Dr. Tamara Daniel, and Rachelle's continued advocacy for the college.

Links:

AndoverLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087605274625

AndoverLife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andoverlife/

Andover Chamber of Commerce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andoverchamberofcommerce/

Andover Chamber of Commerce Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andover_chamber/

Andover Chamber of Commerce LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andover-area-chamber-commerce/

Andover Chamber Podcast: Andover Amplified on most streaming platforms.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs delves into Butler’s exceptional arts programs with special guest Valerie Haring, Dean of the Arts, Digital Media, and Communications Division. Valerie shares her extensive 34-year journey at Butler, from student to faculty member and eventually, to her current role as dean. She highlights the remarkable faculty's professional achievements, the tight-knit community within the arts division, and the legacy of the late Lynn Havel, former chair of the art department. Hearing also discusses ArtTober, a month-long celebration of arts at Butler, featuring performances, exhibitions, and collaborations with local high schools. The episode underscores the unique opportunities and supportive environment Butler Community College offers its students, encouraging prospective students to explore its programs.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Butler graduate and filmmaker Micah Streeter. Micah shares his journey from growing up in Kansas to pursuing his passion for filmmaking, inspired by early experiences and family connections to higher education. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing high school, community college, and his filmmaking endeavors. Micah reflects on his creative process, the importance of critical thinking nurtured at Butler, and how community colleges like Butler have shaped his career. He also offers insights into his professional projects and the unexpected joys of logistical planning in film production. Follow Micah's work through his online platforms as he continues to make strides in the film industry.

In the season two premiere of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes the new president of Butler Community College, Dr. Tamara Daniel. Dr. Daniel shares her extensive background in higher education, her journey to Butler, and her vision for the future of the college. She discusses her strategies for improving student retention and completion rates, fostering internal relationships, and enhancing workforce development. Dr. Daniel emphasizes the importance of staying data-driven, the value of institutional culture, and the need for strong community partnerships. The episode concludes with Dr. Daniel expressing her excitement for the new academic year and her commitment to maintaining Butler's timeless values while driving innovation.

Bear Tracks is back!

In Season 2, we’re once again taking you around the world and across campus to share the voices and stories that make Butler Community College such a remarkable place. From inspiring students and dedicated faculty to accomplished alumni and proud community members, each episode celebrates the people who shape Butler’s past, present, and future.

We’re kicking off the new season in a big way — with a conversation with Butler’s new president, Dr. Tamara Daniel. And that’s just the beginning. As we look ahead to Butler’s Centennial in the 2026–2027 academic year, our stories will continue to shine a spotlight on the connections, achievements, and moments that define the Butler experience.

Tune in, subscribe, and be part of the conversation. Your story matters — and we can’t wait to tell it.

Share your story: [email protected]

In the final episode of season one of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Ronald Rozzell, the archivist at Butler Community College and her co-chair on the Centennial committee. They discuss Butler's upcoming centennial celebration, set for 2026-2027, and Rozzell's role in cataloging the college's history. Ronald shares insights on some of the most interesting items in the archives, the distinction between a historian and an archivist, and the ways in which Butler's history will be showcased during the centennial. The episode concludes with a call for alumni and the community to share their stories, memorabilia, and experiences to contribute to the celebration.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Matt Jacobs, a Butler alumnus and award-winning broadcaster. Matt shares his long-standing connection with Butler, from childhood memories of his father's graduation to his current role as an influential figure in the college's media and athletic departments. They discuss his journey through Butler, including his transformative experiences in journalism and broadcasting. Matt reveals how his initiatives, such as BCTV and the Jacobs Fund for Athletic Excellence, have profoundly impacted students, providing them with unique opportunities and preparing them for successful careers. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of dedication, growth, and community involvement.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes former Butler Community College student and graduate Hannah Bargas. Hannah shares her journey starting as a high school senior torn between a four-year university and community college, ultimately choosing Butler for its affordability and robust campus life. She discusses her experiences in the sports journalism program, working closely with influential figures like Mike Swan and Kelly Snedden, and how Butler's hands-on opportunities gave her a significant advantage over her peers.

After a successful stint in journalism and an early career in marketing, Hannah took a leap of faith to start her own marketing agency, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship to establish multiple successful businesses. Reflecting on her time at Butler, Hannah emphasizes the value of community college, the importance of building a portfolio, and offers inspiring advice for current students. Now, Hannah continues to explore new ventures, including developing an innovative app. Her story is one of determination, confidence, and the transformative impact of Butler Community College on her life and career.

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs interviews Dr. Barry Robinson, the new Vice President of Academics at Butler Community College, who joined the institution in August 2024. Dr. Robinson discusses his background in clinical neurovirology and his transition to higher education, the supportive family atmosphere at Butler, and his vision and goals for the academic programs at the college. He also shares a touching story from his teaching career and talks about the challenges facing community colleges and how Butler is addressing them. The interview highlights the college's commitment to student success and the positive experiences Dr. Robinson has already had with both students and the community.