In episode eight of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis celebrates Community College Month by showcasing the incredible impact of Joliet Junior College (JJC) and its alumni. Featuring special guests Dr. Judy Mitchell, the ninth president emeritus of JJC, and Dr. Paige Niehaus, president of the Dale Mabry Campus of Hillsborough Community College, this episode delves into their inspirational journeys. Dr. Mitchell and Dr. Niehaus discuss their career paths, starting from nontraditional beginnings to become leaders in community college education. 

They emphasize the importance of accessibility, support, and the unique opportunities community colleges provide. Both guests share stories about their experiences at JJC, the challenges of leadership, and their dedication to fostering a supportive and empathetic campus environment. They also offer valuable advice to prospective students about following their passions and the benefits of attending a community college. The episode underscores the sense of family and community that institutions like JJC and Hillsborough Community College foster among their students and staff.

In episode seven of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis sits down with Ken Guldenbecker, Joliet Junior College (JJC) alumnus and current Development Director for United Way of Will County. Ken and Jen first met back in 2023 as students in the community leadership school with the Joliet Chamber of Commerce, leading to a long-standing relationship enriched by their mutual ties to JJC. Ken highlights his journey from Minooka High School, to his indecision on a college major, which culminated in an impactful stint at JJC. After discussing his academic challenges and triumphs, Ken elaborates on his key role at United Way and extensive community involvement.

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Ken's continued passion for music, specifically his ongoing participation in the JJC community band. This segment underscores the band’s local cultural significance, diverse member base of students and alumni, and its beautiful performances. Wrapping up, Ken shares valuable advice on community and academic involvement, urging current and prospective students to stay engaged and seize diverse opportunities. Tune in to discover how Ken’s commitment to community service and education continues to shape his rewarding career and personal life.

In episode six of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis celebrates the milestone of six months on air with a special guest, Andy Chlebana, a JJC alum, Culinary Professor, and Certified Master Pastry Chef. Andy shares his journey from working in the culinary field at age 16, following his brother to JJC, to finding his passion for baking and pastry. Andy discusses his extensive experience in competitions, including the prestigious Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie in Lyon, France, where he served as team captain. 

The conversation delves into the grueling nature of culinary competitions and what it takes to become a Certified Master Pastry Chef, a certification obtained by only eleven chefs in the country. Despite numerous accolades, Andy's passion for teaching at JJC shines through. He explains his role in the college's culinary program, the importance of real-world experiences for students, and his dedication to fostering student growth. The podcast also covers events like the Wandering Feast, a highly anticipated culinary showcase and fundraiser. 

Andy emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in students' lives and the multitude of opportunities available at JJC. The episode concludes with Andy offering valuable advice for new JJC students, encouraging them to take full advantage of all the college's offerings.

In this episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis welcomes John Williams, a popular radio host on WGN Radio in Chicago. John shares his journey from Minooka Community High School to Joliet Junior College (JJC) and beyond. He reminisces about his time at JJC, his participation in various sports, writing for the Wordeater, and his father’s role as a counselor at the college. John also discusses his career path, from his early days at WSPY in Plano and WMBD in Peoria to his long-standing presence at WGN Radio. They explore the unique aspects of hosting a talk show, including the preparation involved and the importance of presenting balanced views. John and Jen also reflect on the significance of college experiences and offer advice to prospective JJC students. The episode concludes with a fun segment sharing their 'bright side' moments.

In episode four of the Roots and Branches: JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis welcomes JJC alumni Damon Zunich and Michelle Xydakis to discuss their journeys and entrepreneurial ventures in the wine industry. Damon, co-owner of Bishop's Hill Winery in Joliet, Illinois, and Michelle, owner of Montage Wine Bar and Spirits in Morris, Illinois, share their unique paths from their time at Joliet Junior College to becoming successful business owners. They discuss the importance of community, the challenges and joys of running their businesses, and their continued ties with JJC. The episode also highlights upcoming events at their establishments for the holiday season and provides insights into starting a business with the resources offered by JJC's Entrepreneur Business Center.

Join host Jen Davis in this compelling episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, featuring guests Esli Ramos, a JJC alum and current student at Lewis University, and Adam Wouk, the Director of Disability Services at JJC. The episode delves into the significance of Disability Awareness Month, with Adam detailing the comprehensive services and accommodations his office provides to support students with disabilities. Esli shares her personal journey navigating JJC as a visually impaired student and her pivotal role in reviving the Disability Awareness Club during the pandemic. 

The conversation highlights JJC’s initiatives to enhance accessibility, such as innovative programs like the After 22 program and social skills development groups. The episode also announces the upcoming fundraising event, 'An Accessible Night Under the Stars,' with proceeds supporting disability services. Throughout the discussion, Jen, Esli, and Adam emphasize overcoming persistent stigma, fostering inclusive environments, and the importance of continued advocacy and support for students with disabilities. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on the strides being made in disability awareness and the call to action for ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive education for all.

In this episode, host Jen Davis welcomes Caitlin Lee, Planetarium Outreach Coordinator, and Christine Veverka, Foundation and Stewardship Assistant, both alumnae of Joliet Junior College (JJC). The conversation explores their unique roles at JJC and their journeys as students and educators. 

Caitlin shares her experiences as a full-time student and her recent accomplishments with the planetarium, including innovative shows beyond astronomy, such as anatomy and marine biology. Christine reflects on her time at JJC, her decision to stay close to family, and her teaching career. The discussion also delves into JJC's efforts to preserve historical structures like the Cronin Schoolhouse and its importance to the community. Both guests emphasize the value of field trips and the lasting impact they can have on future 'wolves', sharing personal anecdotes and offering advice for current and future students. 

The episode underscores the significance of maintaining JJC’s traditions and the vital role of alumni and community support in sustaining educational resources like the planetarium and schoolhouse.

Welcome to the first episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast! Hosted by Jen Davis, this inaugural episode features three distinguished JJC alumni faculty: Alisha Brennon, Assistant Professor of Orthotics and Prosthetics; Joe Limon, Associate Professor and Department Chair of the Technical Department; and Tammy Miller, Professor of Agriculture, Horticulture, and Veterinary Technology.

Guests discuss their unique journeys to JJC, their career paths, and their deep commitment to their students and the wider community. The guests also share valuable advice for current and prospective students, alongside personal anecdotes that illustrate the significance of mentorship, resilience, and community engagement in their careers.

Tune in to discover how JJC shapes both educators and students, making it a special place of learning and growth.

Welcome to the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, a show that delves into the rich history and vibrant community of Joliet Junior College, the nation's first community college. Join us as we celebrate over a century of educational excellence and connect with generations of JJC alumni.

The series is hosted by Jen Davis, Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager at JJC, who will guide you on this journey. Each episode, she will sit down with different alumni to uncover their most cherished memories, hear their inspiring tales, and gather their hard-earned wisdom for future wolves.

Hit the subscribe button to be the first to know when each episode is available and join us in diving into the roots of our history and branching out into the stories that define us.

For more information about JJC Foundation events, ways to give, or how to get involved, visit jjc.edu/alumni.