Chatting with Chemeketa

Connecting Communities Through Education and the Arts

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos explore two important ways Chemeketa strengthens its communities. First, Laura Leon-Cipriano, Director of the Polk Center, shares how the center connects students with educational opportunities, resources, grants, and community support close to home. Then, Stephen Munshaw, Chemeketa's Auditorium and Event Planner and Director of Theatre Under the Stars, joins student performers Tek Paris and Daniela Chavez for a behind-the-scenes look at bringing Mean Girls to the stage, the power of community collaboration, and how the arts create meaningful connections both on campus and beyond.

Growing Leaders, Building Community

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos explore how leadership and community go hand in hand. BAS in Leadership and Management Instructor Marg Yaroslaski shares updates on Chemeketa's program and how it's helping students advance their careers and expand their impact. Then, Associate Vice President of Culture and Community Vivi Caleffi Prichard highlights upcoming events, initiatives, and opportunities that strengthen connections and foster a sense of belonging across the district. Tune in for a conversation about growth, engagement, and the people who make Chemeketa a vibrant community.

STEM, Startups, and Strengthening Communities

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and cohost Les Wielgos highlight the many ways Chemeketa Community College inspires innovation and strengthens communities. In the first half of the show, Life Sciences Instructor Jennifer Schramm discusses the upcoming STEM Showcase and STEM Fair, sharing how these events engage students and families in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics experiences that spark curiosity and encourage future careers in STEM fields. In the second half of the program, Matt Geiger, Director of Chemeketa's Center for Business & Industry and Small Business Development Center, explains the resources, training, and support available to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region, helping local businesses launch, grow, and thrive. Together, these conversations showcase Chemeketa's commitment to fostering discovery, opportunity, and economic vitality across the communities it serves.

Real Skills, Real Support, Real Success

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, we sit down with Nol Cobb from Chemeketa’s Apprenticeship and Trades program to talk about how students can step directly into high-demand careers while earning a paycheck and college credit at the same time. It's a practical, hands-on approach that helps students build a future without taking on debt.
Then, we turn to the support systems that help students stay on track once they arrive. Yesica Navarro from the Student Success Center shares how orientation, guidance, and connection make all the difference in helping students reach their goals.
From first steps to long-term success, this episode highlights how Chemeketa supports students every step of the way.
 

Growing What Matters: Horticulture and the Art of Communication

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, we’re talking about growth in every sense of the word.
In the first half, we head into the greenhouse with Havi Cagle to explore Chemeketa’s Horticulture program. From plant sales and harvest boxes to internships, orchard work, and real-world job placement, you’ll discover how students turn soil, seeds, and science into thriving careers.
Then we shift gears to the power of communication with Josie Wood from the Communications program. Think it’s just public speaking? Think again. From teamwork and critical thinking to intercultural skills and persuasive messaging, learn why communication is one of the most in-demand skills employers are looking for, and why nearly every student takes at least one class.
Whether you’re interested in growing plants, growing confidence, or growing your career, this episode has something for you.

How Scholarships and Pharmacy Tech Programs Change Lives

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, listeners learn how Chemeketa supports student success through both financial access and career-focused education.
In the first half of the show, President Jessica Howard and host Les Wielgos are joined by Marie Hulett, Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement, for a conversation about Chemeketa scholarships and the impact they have on students’ lives. Marie shares details about upcoming scholarship applications, how financial support helps students persist and succeed, and the meaningful ways donors can make a difference—whether by establishing new scholarships or contributing to existing ones.
In the second half, the focus shifts to health care careers as Corey Clark, instructor in Chemeketa’s Pharmacy Technician program, discusses the vital role pharmacy technicians play in patient care and how Chemeketa prepares students for this fast-paced, in-demand field through hands-on training and real-world preparation.
Together, the episode highlights how generosity, opportunity, and practical education come together to open doors for students and strengthen the community Chemeketa serves.

Behind the Scenes at Chemeketa: Workforce Pathways and Community Events

How does Chemeketa connect people to opportunity and bring the community together? In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos explore the work happening behind the scenes to support students, employers, and the broader community.
In the first half of the show, they’re joined by Nick Recktenwald, Dean of Academic Development and Workforce Programs and Partnerships, for a conversation about workforce partnerships, academic development, and how Chemeketa supports learners at every stage, from building foundational skills to preparing for careers and long-term success.
In the second half, Elizabeth Facanha, Manager of Event and Food Services, shares how Chemeketa creates welcoming, well-run events and opens campus spaces to the community, from open houses and performances to conferences, celebrations, and more.
This episode highlights how thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and dedicated people help Chemeketa prepare individuals for what’s next while creating spaces where the community can come together.

Building Skills and Creating Second Chances

This week, on Chatting with Chemeketa, we’re spotlighting two powerful ways Chemeketa helps people move forward.
First, Matt Geiger from the Center for Business & Industry shares how Chemeketa partners with employers to strengthen our regional workforce through customized training and professional development.
Then, Katie Dwyer, Director of Prison Education and Adult Re-entry, joins us to talk about how education creates real second chances — supporting individuals during incarceration and as they transition back into the community.
Two conversations. One mission: opportunity through education.

Building Skills, Building Safety: Two Sides of Chemeketa Excellence

The newest episode of Chatting with Chemeketa brings listeners into two areas that shape everyday life at the college: robotics and campus safety.
First, Chuck Sekafetz, instructor in Electronics, Robotics & Applied Technologies, shares how his students learn to solve problems using real-world technology. From automation to hands-on projects, Chuck explains how the program prepares students for high-demand careers.
Next, John McIlvain, Chemeketa’s Director of Emergency & Risk Management, talks about what it takes to keep our campus prepared and protected. He offers insight into planning, prevention, and the behind-the-scenes work that supports a safe learning environment.
It’s an engaging, informative episode that highlights the people who help make Chemeketa strong, innovative, and ready for the future.

From Blueprints to Budgets

Ever wonder how you can start your engineering degree right here at Chemeketa — or how to make college more affordable? This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos talk with Engineering Instructor Halston Tuss and Financial Aid Director Rob Hoffman about hands-on learning, transfer pathways, and how to find scholarships and grants that make higher education accessible for everyone.