The StarZone Podcast

On this episode, guest Jamilia Johnson is in studio to discuss Lansing Community College’s TRIO Student Support Services program, which provides comprehensive support designed to help eligible students successfully graduate or transfer. As the program's new director, Jamilia explores how the program offers financial literacy, career and academic advising, tutoring, transfer experiences, cultural enrichment, leadership development, and individualized progress check-ins. Beyond practical assistance, TRIO emphasizes self-advocacy and the importance of maintaining authenticity while developing the skills needed to navigate college and professional environments.

Resources & Links:

Website: TRIO Student Support Services

On this episode, host Patty Spagnuolo sits down with Carol Wolfinger, LCC’s Director of Emergency Management, about how LCC prepares for emergencies. They discuss planning, training, teamwork, and the importance of building strong relationships with first responders, as well as community partners, so LCC can respond quickly when disaster strikes.

Resources & Links:

The Star: Meet LCC Emergency Managers

Website: Emergency Management at LCC

Instagram: What is emergency management?

Website: National Emergency Management Awareness Month

Website: MSP Newsroom

Patty Spagnuolo talks with Dr. Toni Glasscoe and Michelle Strauss, as they discuss the critical importance of fostering a neurodivergent-friendly campus at Lansing Community College. The guests share insights on the evolution of community support for neurodiverse individuals and highlight innovative programs designed to enhance college access and success. This episode serves as a vital resource for understanding and promoting awareness of neurodiversity within educational settings.

Patty Spagnuolo sits down with Bill Brandt and Scott Skowronek to talk about the Capital City Old Car Club Car Show and how it helps support Lansing Community College’s Automotive Tech Scholarship. The event brings together classic car fans, students, and the community for a fun day of amazing vehicles, food, and connection. Join the fun on May 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at LCC’s West Campus and help support future automotive technicians.

Mentioned This Episode:

Event Info: 2026 Old Car Show & Fundraiser

Website: Capitol City Old Car Club

This episode explores the LCC College Connect Program, as host Patty Spagnuolo sits down with Toni Glasscoe and Alhassane Sako to discuss how it supports students transitioning into higher education. Designed for GED holders and recent high school graduates, the four-week program offers practical skill building in reading, writing, and math, along with personalized guidance.

Mentioned This Episode

Website: College Connect Program

This episode highlights the Changemaker Center at Lansing Community College, a space created to honor and celebrate the contributions of African Americans in the local community. Host Patty Spagnuolo speaks is joined in studio by Layne Ingram, to chat about the center’s origins and its interactive exhibits that showcase the history and impact of influential Lansing change makers. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving Lansing's history and LCC's enduring mission to keep the community connected to that legacy, which stands as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.

Mentioned This Episode

Website: The Changemakers Center

On this episode, host Patty Patty Spagnuolo welcomes Allison Snyder from the LCC Technical Careers Division, to explore Tech Forward: Men of Color 2026. The event promotes greater diversity in technology by offering career exploration and hands-on experiences in fields like welding, drone operation, automotive technology, and much more. Open to all ages, the event connects attendees with industry professionals and faculty while encouraging community support to help close workforce gaps.

Event Details

8:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026

LCC West Campus, Conference Rooms - 5708 Cornerstone Dr., Lansing, MI 48917

This is a free event, open to the public. Registration required; space is limited.

Website: Event Registration

Website: Tech Forward - Men of Color 2026

The podcast episode explores the upcoming Program and Career Showcase at Lansing Community College, scheduled for March 25 from 4–6 PM at the West Campus, where departments will present programs and connect with prospective and current students. Admissions team member Taylor Vaught explains that the event is primarily designed for high school students exploring their academic and career options, while also welcoming current students and families to engage with faculty, interactive exhibits, and demonstrations that highlight the real-world applications of LCC’s more than 200 degrees and certificates.

Event Information: Program and Career Showcase

On this episode, host Patty Spagnuolo sit's down to chat with Graham Burke and Becca Sowa about the upcoming Job Internship and Transfer Fair at Lansing Community College. This unique event brings together employers and transfer institutions, providing community members and students with invaluable opportunities for networking. Attendees can explore various career paths, engage with potential employers, and enhance their professional skills. The fair is open to the public, encouraging all to attend and participate.

Event Information

The 2026 Job and Internship Fair will be held 2-5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at LCC's Downtown Campus.

Website: Job & Internship Fair

This episode is dedicated to the upcoming Big STEAM event, that is taking place Saturday, February 21st, inside LCC's Arts & Sciences Building. Designed specifically for students in grades 7 through 12, this initiative aims to foster engagement with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through interactive activities and demonstrations. Guests Kirsten Wright and Luanne Cuthbert, both educators at Lansing Community College, discuss the event's significance and its evolution alongside Steam Fest. This Big STEAM event is free and open to the public.

Website: Big STEAM

Event details

11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at the LCC Downtown Campus, Arts and Sciences Building (maps and parking information provided upon registration.)

Questions? Contact Kirsten Wright at 517-483-1092 or [email protected].