In this episode, we talk with our Director of Radiography, Chris Eckenrod, about the endless opportunities in radiography. She shares her route from the clinical world to higher education, what it takes to be a successful radiographer, and what she loves most about the program at Penn College. We learn about the differences between radiology and radiography, explore the role physics plays in the process, discuss program outcomes, and consider the wide ranging opportunities awaiting graduates of this associate-degree program. Chris isn't all work and no play. She also tells us what she enjoys doing in her free time including a fun conversation about taking her cats camping!

We couldn't have timed this one better! Instructor Kendra Tomassacci sat down with us to discuss Engineering Design Technology—the latest Penn College program to receive ABET accreditation. When we spoke, the news wasn't finalized yet so we didn’t mention it in the recording. However, we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this accreditation and what it means for our students and graduates. We hope you enjoy learning about Kendra’s field as much as we did. It’s amazing how a single discipline can influence the development of nearly every product we use on the daily!

Mentions in this Episode

• Penn College Engineering Design Technology Program
• ABET Accreditation
• SolidWorks
• AutoCAD
• Inventor
• Creo
• Fusion 360
• Baja SAE

As we kick off the first week of classes at Penn College, we're thrilled to share a conversation with Kaysey Beury, Coordinator of Success Solutions at the Michael J. Hudock, Sr. Center for Academic Excellence. Fortunately, we caught up with her before the semester began—because we’re certain she’s incredibly busy connecting with new students. Go Kaysey!

If you're unsure about the support systems available to our students, this conversation is for you. Did you know that nearly half of our student population are first-generation college students or the first in their families to pursue a bachelor's degree? Kaysey is a passionate advocate for first-gen students—and for all students. In this inspiring discussion, she shares her own higher education journey and how it fuels her commitment to student success and her daily work at Penn College.

Thanks for listening!

Mentions in this Episode

• Michael J. Hudock, Sr. Center for Academic Excellence
• Lasada Pippen
• Penn College Tutoring Services
• Dr. Tanya Berfield
• First Gen Students
• First Year Experience (FYE)
• School of Business, Arts & Sciences (BAS)
• Leadership Lycoming
• Master Gardeners
• Bellefonte READS
• James V. Brown Library
• Penn College Forestry
• Lycoming Engines
• PMF Industries
• First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania
• Penn College Forestry

In this special summer edition of the Tomorrow Makers podcast, we’re featuring the second of two episodes of WildCast, the new podcast from Penn College Wildcat Athletics. Host Matt Blymier chats with scholar-athletes of the year, Walt Heiser and Kayleigh Miller.

Listen to all Wildcast episodes at pctwildcats.com/wildcast.

In this episode, we’re featuring the first of two episodes of Penn College Wildcat Athletics' new podcast, aptly named WildCast. This one features players of the year Livingston Cross and Megan Kurian. If you listened to our episode with Women’s Soccer Coach Ian Scheller—season 3, episode 9—you might recall his story about how Megan dissects bananas before eating them on the tour bus. Megan gives the inside scoop here.

Listen to all WildCast episodes at pctwildcats.com/wildcast.

Meet Chuck Crews, our assistant director of secondary partnerships. In this episode, we talk about the value of early experiences including dual enrollment and how those opportunities pave the way for future students to earn credits before their first semester.

As a first-generation college graduate, Chuck knows firsthand the challenges students face when stepping into higher education. Now, he’s on a mission to create seamless transitions from high school to college, ensuring that the next generation of learners is equipped for the future.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the impact of dual enrollment, career and technical education, and the key partnerships that make college more accessible. Plus, we’ll get Chuck’s insights on what students, educators, and employers can do today to build the workforce of tomorrow.

When a number of students asked to have their instructor on the podcast, we had to say, “yes!” On this episode, we meet Rick Crossen, information technology faculty, and learn about the endless ways he embraces the Penn College community and is motivated to enhance the student experience. We chat about everything from his approach to instruction to the importance of his role in governance to his interest in AI to his lifechanging car accident and lofty goal of running 1,000 miles in 2025. Join us as we get to know a rising star who's inspired to make his mark on campus and dream big!

myVoice – An online form for Penn College students, faculty, and staff to suggest an issue to be discussed by Governance

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Giordano, former ROTC Bald Eagle Battalion Commander and construction management student, to explore the intersection of leadership, discipline, and hands-on learning. Michael talks through his decision to pursue ROTC, the challenges and rewards of balancing military training with academics, and how his experiences in both fields are shaping him into a future leader. He also highlights the unique perks of being in ROTC at Penn College including generous scholarships and life-long military benefits like reduced lift tickets at his favorite ski resorts. Tune in to hear Michael’s story and discover what it takes to lead with purpose—both in the field and in the classroom!

She's on a mission to restore a 1971 Land Rover to factory condition. And she's given herself less than a year to do it. Possible? Those who know Automotive Restoration student Sarah Crabtree, will say 'yes' without hesitation.

After law school didn't go her way, Sarah changed course and came to Penn College. Following her passion for restoring Land Rovers, she crafted a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity to complete a senior project that will take her exactly where she wants to go.

Buckle your seat belts and step on the gas for an inspiring conversation with the woman on a mission.

Check out the Penn College News story featuring Sarah for photos of her work in progress and of her in action at the Rebelle Rally in 2022.

The electrical programs at Penn College are some of the first to fill in the fall. The more we spoke with Assistant Professor, Eric Anstadt, the easier it was to come up with countless reasons why. From the innovative curricula to the brand-new lab spaces, there's a lot to love about electrical at Penn College. On top of that, Eric brings a true passion for his work that's ever present in our conversation. We cover his unusual path to Penn College, both as a student and later as an instructor, his industry experience, and his one-of-a-kind Klein Tools collection. We hope you're as captivated by Eric's story as we were and make sure to check out his story "Collectors Item" published in Penn College Magazine.