
Who's that Star with Lisa Alexander
74 episodes — Page 1 of 2
Hustle & Heart Will Set You Apart: Shannon Dunivon

Ep 74Pat Sievert: Pathways, Punchlines, and Perseverance
On this episode, host Lisa Alexander is joined in studio by Pat Sievert, to chat and share his journey to Lansing Community College. From teaching History, to advising students, and even stand-up comedy, Pat's strident service to help others makes him a bright Star in the LCC constellation.

Ep 73Jason Brittain: Turning Goals Into Gains
This episode dives into purpose, grit, and the power of having someone in your corner. Lisa Alexander chats with Jason Brittain, an Academic Success Coach at Lansing Community College, about how his background in social work and higher education, shapes the way he supports students. Jason shares why real relationships, not just checklists and deadlines, make the biggest difference when facing challenges, lifting others up, and chasing goals with heart.Website: Meet the Academic Success Coach Team

Ep 72Dr. Dale Dan: Meditation, Empowerment, and Love
Dr. Dale Dan, the Chief Diversity Officer at Lansing Community College, shares her profound journey towards fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging within educational environments. Throughout our conversation, she emphasizes the significance of love as the foundation for cultivating a supportive community. Dale reflects on her extensive experience across various sectors, spanning over 53 countries, and highlights the transformative power of education. We delve into her mission to empower individuals, ensuring they feel valued and cherished. Join us as we explore her inspiring vision for LCC and beyond.Website: Office of Empowerment

Ep 71DeMarquis Battle: Faith, Family, and Financial Aid
In this episode of "Who's That Star?", we delve into the remarkable journey of DeMarquis Battle, a distinguished figure at Lansing Community College, where he serves as a financial aid advisor and an adjunct professor. With an extensive background in higher education spanning over 17 years, DeMarcus is committed to empowering individuals to unearth their true potential and navigate the complexities of their educational journeys. Join us as we uncover the multifaceted life of DeMarquis Battle, a beacon of inspiration within the LCC community.Website: LCC Financial Aid Office

Ep 70Sofia Estrada Ferreira: Opportunities, Kiddos, and Chuck E. Cheese
The central focus of this episode revolves around the impactful contributions of Sofia Estrada Ferreira, who serves as the Perkins Special Populations Coordinator at Lansing Community College. Sofia's professional journey is characterized by her commitment to assisting students who belong to various special populations, including those who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or are first-generation college attendees. Her extensive background in social work has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate complex systems and provide essential resources for these vulnerable individuals. Throughout our discussion, we delve into her motivations, her dedication to community engagement, and the profound influence of her upbringing in Lansing on her professional endeavors. We conclude by reflecting on the importance of fostering change within educational environments and the enduring value of knowledge as a source of empowerment.

Ep 69Liz Fischer: Careers, Kids, and Cliff Diving
The episode features an delightful chat with Liz Fisher, a career advising specialist at Lansing Community College, who shares her journey from Minneapolis to Michigan and her passion for guiding students in their career paths. Liz emphasizes the significance of self-discovery in making informed career choices, advocating for a holistic approach that merges personal interests with professional aspirations. Throughout the conversation, we explore the vital role of career advising in helping individuals navigate the complexities of their career decisions, especially in an ever-evolving job market. There are so many options when finding a career paths and choices are a part of life, but sometimes we make questionable choices... like diving off of cliffs!

Ep 68A Star in Student Success: The Inspiring Journey of Adriana Carreon
Adriana Carreon, a distinguished academic success coach at Lansing Community College, epitomizes resilience and dedication in her journey from Mexico to the United States. With a profound commitment to supporting students in achieving their academic and personal goals, she shares her experiences as both a learner and a mentor. Adriana's illustrious background encompasses her work as a psychotherapist and her academic accomplishments, culminating in her current role where she passionately guides students through their educational endeavors. This episode delves into her remarkable journey, illustrating how her experiences have shaped her approach to student success. Join us as we explore the profound impact of her work and the invaluable lessons she has gleaned along the way.Website: Academic Success Coaches

Ep 67From Student to Star: Sarah Ortiz's Journey at Lansing Community College
Today's episode features Sarah Ortiz, a dedicated manager of enrollment support services at Lansing Community College, who shares her inspiring journey and passion for helping students navigate their academic paths. With a background in professional communications and a commitment to pursuing her master's degree in clinical mental health, Sarah emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and the fulfillment she derives from transforming students' bad days into positive experiences. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the supportive environment at LCC and the impact of strong female leadership on her career. Sarah also discusses the significance of maintaining work-life balance and encourages open communication within her team to foster a healthy workplace. Join us as we explore her motivations, interests in horror films, and her aspirations to make a lasting difference in the lives of students at LCC.

Ep 66Meet Skylar Highsmith: The Librarian with a Passion for Pop Music and D&D
Today's guest on "Who's That Star?" is Skylar Highsmith, who works in student services at Lansing Community College and is pursuing a master's in library and information science. Originally from Kerrville, Texas, Skylar shares his journey from teaching to his current role, emphasizing his passion for education and the importance of accessibility to information. He discusses how he engages with students in the testing center, helping them succeed academically. Outside of work, Skylar is an avid gamer and pop music enthusiast, drawing connections between his interests and his professional aspirations. Join us as we explore Skylar's journey, his insights into library science, and his love for Dungeons and Dragons, showcasing the blend of creativity and education in his life.

Ep 65Chelsea Vann: From Cambodia to College
Today's episode features Chelsea Vann, an inspiring academic success coach at Lansing Community College, who shares her remarkable journey from Phnom Penh, Cambodia to the U.S. Chelsea discusses her experiences as an international student, her passion for helping others navigate their educational paths, and the importance of support systems in achieving success. With a strong background in tutoring and a commitment to empowering students, she emphasizes the transformative impact of the academic success coach program at LCC. Chelsea also reflects on her proud moments, including becoming a U.S. citizen, and the deep connections she has forged within the community. Website: LCC Academic Advising

Ep 64Navigating College Life: Insights from Larry Smith, LCC's Success Coach
Today's podcast features Larry Smith, an academic success coach at Lansing Community College, who shares his passion for helping students navigate their college experiences. With over 25 years in higher education, Larry emphasizes the importance of building trusting relationships to support students' academic and social goals. He discusses his journey from growing up in Detroit to coaching football and working at various colleges, highlighting his commitment to making students' transitions to college smoother. Larry believes that seeing students smile and succeed brings him immense joy and gratification, especially as he looks forward to celebrating their graduations. This conversation also touches on his personal life, including his love for fishing and spending time with his Labrador, showcasing the balance he maintains between work and home.

Ep 63Academic Adviser - Matt Boeve
Get to know Matt Boeve, the coach, social studies teacher, and now academic adviser.

Ep 62Success Coach Duane Portee - Travel, Food, Family
Get to know the wise man Duane Portee, LCC's own Success Coach. Take a closer look at what makes Duane happy and how retirement can't slow him down.

Ep 61Annescia Dillard: Center for teaching excellence
Get to know Annescia Dillard, who is a spreadsheet expert and advocate for public bus transportation.

Ep 60Jamilla Johnson: Experiential Learning Coordinator
Take a trip into the life of LCC's Experiential Learning Coordinator, Jamilla Johnson. In this conversation, you will get to know a little bit more about this new and up-and-coming LCC star.

Ep 59Lu Anne Cuthbert: 46 Years at LCC
She is a farmer and a singer with 46 years of LCC experience. Get to know the amazing Lu Anne Cuthbert on this episode of Who's That Star.Science Department

Ep 58Nicole Reinhart-Huberty: Program Improvement Manager
Today's episode features Nicole Rinehart-Huberty, a dedicated program improvement manager at Lansing Community College (LCC), who has a deep-rooted connection to the institution. Starting her journey as an international student, Nicole has transformed her experiences into a passion for helping others navigate their educational paths. She discusses her roles at LCC, emphasizing her commitment to promoting the West Campus programs and ensuring students are aware of the opportunities available to them.

Ep 57Laz Lane : Student Success Coach
On this episode, Lisa A. invites Student Success Coach Las Lane to join the show. They discuss the challenges of working during the pandemic and raising children simultaneously. Tune in for an exciting episode of Who's That Star? as they share their experiences and insights.

Ep 56Owoloa 'Lola' Olusile: Africa, Language & Fashion
Lisa A. welcomes Owoloa 'Lola' Olusile to Who's That Star. They chat about what Lola does at Lansing Community College, his experience in moving to the states, and (turn to the left) fashion (turn to the right).Instagram: Belucci By L.B.FTwitter: Belucci by L.B.FWebsite: LCC Center for Student Support

Ep 55Mark Kelland: Birds, Brains & Parliamentary Procedure
Lisa A. is joined by Mark Kelland on this episode of Who's That Star. Mark is does double duty at Lansing Community College as a Psychology Professor and as the college's Accreditation Liaison Officer. His interests are versatile and eclectic including a love for rules and regulations, research and he really loves birds!Website: Lansing Community College Psychology Program

Ep 54Martine Rife: Social Justice, Furry Friends & 6 Acres of Trees
On this episode of Who's that Star?, Lisa A. talks with Martine Rife. Martine is part of Lansing Community College's Writing Faculty. She's a lifelong resident of The Great Lakes State who loves teaching, enjoys reading, speaking up in the name of social justice, and she has a life goal of planting an entire forest!

Ep 53Betsy Burger: Family, Competition & Mouths
This episode's star, Betsy Burger, discusses what she does as LCC's Dean of Health & Human Services. She also talks with WTS host, Lisa A. about family, sports, and the future.Website: LCC Health & Human Services Division

Ep 52James Woolcock: Helping People, Careers Choices & Student Connection
Lisa A. is joined by LCC Student Employee Coordinator, James Woolcock. The two talk about his journey from the arts to education, what motivates him to work with students, and the rewards he finds in his job.Website: LCC Student Employment & Work-Study

Ep 51Sarah Garcia-Linz: Team Building, Books & Bowling
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. welcomes Sarah Garcia-Linz, Director for Lansing Community College's Success Coach Team. The two explore Sarah's role inside and outside of LCC, how 2020 brought on a love for books, and what she does to decompress when she has time off. Website: LCC Academic Success Coaching Team

Ep 50Monet Lewis: Guiding Students, Ice Cream & New York City
On this edition of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. is joined by one of the newest member of our LCC community, Monet Lewis, LCC Associate Dean of Academic & Career Pathways. As a transplant from New York, Monet talks about some of the differences between The Empire State and The Great Lakes State and the two also dive into her love of ice cream, astrology, what she does at LCC, and a whole lot more. Website: LCC Career & Employment Services

Ep 49Eva Menefee: Advising, Happiness & Heritage
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. is joined by one her colleagues and mentors from Lansing Community College's Advising Department, Eva Menefee. They discuss how a derailed educational path directed her towards becoming an advisor, the happiness she has found in helping students, and the importance of her Native American heritage.Website: LCC Academic Advising

Ep 48Dr. Toni Glasscoe: Family, Volunteering & Education with Heart
Lisa A. invites Dr. Toni Glasscoe into the studio for some conversation. Glasscoe is the Lansing Community College Associate Vice President of External Affairs, Development & K-12 Operations. She is well known around LCC for her enthusiasm, passion and inclusiveness, and you will certainly hear it in her voice during this episode of Who's That Star?.Website: LCC External Affairs & DevelopmentWebsite: LCC Foundation

Ep 47Luke Richards: Transfer Paths, Self Growth & Giving 100%
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A invites Luke Richards into the studio. As a part of Lansing Community College's Transfer Center, Luke is instrumental in guiding students who are working towards moving from LCC to universities. The two also hit on topics like favorite time of the year, family, and giving 100%.

Ep 46Cruz Villareal: Poetry, Poppers & Plenty of Fun
Lisa A. invites Cruz Villareal into Who's That Star? to talk about his role at Lansing Community College as Customer Relations Specialist in LCC's Learning Commons. The conversation also leads to Cruz's motivation behind becoming non-traditional college student, his love of gardening, poetry, poppers, and more!Website: LCC Learning CommonsWebsite: LCC Library & Learning Commons

Ep 45Larry Hook: Journalism, Pinball Machines & a Whole Lotta Baseball
In this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. gets the scoop on a guest who is literally an advisor to the Stars! Larry Hook is the Advisor for Lansing Community College's student newspaper, The Lookout. The two of them chat about how he approaches advising students, his family, and his many, many, many, many, many hobbies and collections! How many baseball cards did you say, Larry?!Website: The Lookout

Ep 44Dominique Vaughn: Student Success, Life Lessons & Being a Foodie
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. is joined by Dominique Vaughn, a Success Coach in Lansing Community College's Student Affairs Division. Dominique started as an LCC student and after leaving elsewhere, he decided to return. He talks about his LCC mentor, his love of traveling, and how 2020 brought to light his inner foodie.Website: LCC Academic Success Coaching

Ep 43Coach Mike Ingram: Family, Fishing & yeah... Basketball
Lisa A. invites Lansing Community College Head Basketball Coach Mike Ingram onto Who's That Star? to chat about coaching the Stars Basketball to victory for many years. Listen and learn about how he started at LCC, the love he has for family, and his enjoyment of fishing. We also find out about his hidden talent!Website: Stars Basketball

Ep 42Andrew George: Access, Cannons & Nintendo
Lisa A. is joined by Andy George on this episode of Who's That Star?. A lifelong resident of the Lansing area, Andy has been a Lansing Community College Star for over a decade. Currently Andy is an Access Consultant for LCC's Center for Student Access. Andy's passion for education really shines through in this conversation as the two of them chat about how Andy's department assists students with disabilities. Lisa and Andy also dive into being a historical interpreter, retro video games, and life philosophy. Website: LCC Center for Student Access

Ep 41Dr. Willie Davis: World Traveler, Educator and Learner
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. is joined by Lansing Community College Adjunct Sociology Instructor, Dr. Willie Davis. With over 40 years at LCC, being an educator is one of many passions for Dr. Davis, but you'll also hear about his work with the Lansing Sister City Program and how he started the All Around the African World Museum.Website: LCC Sociology ProgramWebsite: All Around the African World Museum

Ep 40Andrew Cosgrove: Cars, Veterans & Dear 'ol Dad
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. meets up with Andrew Cosgrove, Lansing Community College's Director of Veterans Affairs. Andrew talks about his experience as a veteran has led him to help our nation's service members, the genuine admiration he has for his father, and some of his many hobbies.Website: LCC Veterans Services

Ep 39Dr. Sally Welch: Students, Science and Family
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. shows some genuine appreciation and respect for Sally Welch, Lansing Community College Provost. Dr. Welch details her rich background as a professor, her inspiration for pursing science, how her role in education has given her the chance to visit some cool places, and her love for her family.Website: LCC Academic Affairs

Ep 38Seth Lee Murphy: Small Business, Little Things & Lots o' Hobbies
Lisa A. meets up with Seth Lee Murphy on this episode of Who's That Star?. Seth is an Intake Consultant for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Lansing Community College. They talk about what Seth does for SBDC, his appreciation for "the little things" in life, and he tries to whittle down a plethora of hobbies down to his favorite three... make that four.Website: Small Business Development Center

Ep 37Chantel Patton - Motorcycles, Horror Movies & "Escaping Stress"
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. meets someone fairly new to Lansing Community College, Chantel Patton. Chantel is the Adult Enrichment Coordinator for LCC Lifelong Learning and Lisa gets the inside scoop on what the staff of Lifelong Learning does, some things she's learned in life, and why she absolutely loves horror movies!Website: LCC Adult Enrichment

Ep 36LCC Trustee Edition: Angela L. Mathews
On this special edition of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. teams up with LCC President, Dr. Steve Robinson to talk with LCC Board of Trustee Member, Angela Matthews. We learn about how Trustee Mathews' desire to help the Lansing community as a whole led to her service as a board member. She also talks about when she first came to Lansing Community College as a student and what dynamic academic advisor assisted her during those early days. Take a listen, you will absolutely love Trustee Matthews' enthusiasm and passion. Website: LCC Board of Trustees

Ep 35Yuritzi Hernandez-Resendiz: Students, Soccer & Plant Mom
On this episode of Who's that Star? we have Yuritzi Hernandez-Resendiz. She is an LCC Enrollment Support specialist. Yuritzi has a vital role at the college assisting students with the "getting started" steps to college, as well as, providing guidance in financial aid. Like many at Lansing Community College, she wears various hats, so we also dive into her other duties. We also learn about how she came to the U.S., finding success, and her gradual slide into becoming a "plant mom".

Ep 34Paul Schwartz - Family, Air Force & Security
On this episode of Who's That Star?, Lisa A. talks with Paul Schwartz , Lansing Community College's Director of Information Security. Paul talks about his love for cyber security and his proactive approach to creating a knowledgable workforce at LCC. Paul also talks about his service in the Air Force, his passions, and how his family has become his number one priority.Website: Information Security at LCC

Ep 32LCC Trustee Edition: Ryan Buck
In this episode, President of Lansing Community College, Dr. Steve Robinson and LCC Academic Advisor, Lisa Alexander sit down to talk with board of trustee member Ryan Buck. On this special edition of Who's That Star?, Buck talks about the training he received to serve on LCC's board, he shares how his own college career pointed him towards a career in law, lastly, he discusses his goals for the board as chair. Oh, and he explains the great U.P. debate of whether ketchup or gravy belongs on a pasty!Website: LCC Board of Trustees

Ep 31Ronda Miller, an Advocate for Care, Kindness, and Understanding
On this episode of Who's That Star?, LCC Dean of Student Affairs chats with Lisa A. about her passion for creating student success, her caring approach to life, her enjoyment for baking, and the challenges she faced in her own educational path.Website: LCC Student Affairs Division

Ep 30LCC Trustee Edition: Samantha Vaive
In this episode Dr. Steve Robinson president of LCC, and LCC Academic Advisor, Lisa Alexander sit down to talk with board of trustee member Samantha Vaive. On this special edition of Who's That Star?, Vaive talks about why she wanted to serve on the LCC Board, her educational background and how that helps guide her work on the board. She also talks about a special initiative that the board started to assist students at LCC.Website: LCC Board of Trustees

Ep 29Adjunct Instructor to Dean: A Path to Success
On this episode of WTS, we have the opportunity to learn more about Andrea Hoagland, Lansing Community College's Dean of Arts and Sciences Division. The school of arts and sciences is the largest division at LCC, incorporating six departments and several different areas of studies under each department. Andrea discusses her journey from starting out as a computer programmer to becoming an adjunct professor and finally achieving her current role as the Dean of Arts and Sciences.Website: LCC Arts & Sciences Division

Ep 28Daryl Gaines - Security and Safety at LCC
Our guest on Who's that Star? is a New jersey native that is beginning his second career as Lansing Community College's Chief of Police. Daryl Gaines explains the goals he has for the security and safety of LCC's campus and chats about his life beyond the badge.Website: LCC Public Safety https://www.lcc.edu/safety/index.html

Ep 27Alyssa Andrews - Strategically Moving Forward
One of the newest members to the LCC family is Alyssa Andrews, Associate Dean of Strategic Enrollment. Alyssa explains what kept her motivated to succeed through life challenges and how she strategically planned her future for success. She also discusses plans for her many areas she supervises in student services.Website: LCC & Achieving the Dream

Ep 26Going From Business to Baseball - Steve Cutter
This episode's star is a west Michigan native who is new to Lansing Community College. Steve Cutter is the LCC Head Baseball Coach. Steve talks about what a day in the life of a head coach is like, what motivates him to keep following his passion, and trying to find balance. Take a listen to Steve and learn about him and LCC's baseball program. Website: LCC Athletics

Ep 25Doing What You Love a Second Time Around - Tamara McDiarmid
This episode's star is Tammy McDiarmid. She is the Faculty Lead for the Lansing Community College Corrections Program located at LCC's west campus. Lisa and Tammy discuss the criminal justice corrections program and the local corrections academy she started in 2017. She also talks about the transition from her past career as a jail officer to her current role as instructor. Learn about her role at the college and her interests when she's not working. Website: LCC Corrections Officer AcademyWebsite: LCC Health & Public Services Studies