The People of Penn State

Episode 106–All Roads Lead Back to Penn State with Cade Miller

In this episode, we talk with Cade Miller ’24 Com, Associate Director of Admissions at Shepherd University.Cade reflects on how his Penn State experience and involvement across campus shaped his path, how those experiences led him to his current role in higher education, and how he brings storytelling and student engagement into his work. Plus, hear how a podcast project turned into an unforgettable experience with a particularly stubborn dairy cow named Barbara Jean.Listen to the podcasts Cade mentions in the episode:Franco's Immaculate LegacyEast Palestine: One Year LaterInside AppalachiaRead the Penn Stater magazine's feature on Cade & Barbara JeanFor more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com

Episode 105–Science, Style, and Entrepreneurship with Katie Collins

In this episode, we talk with Katie Collins ’00 HHD, co-founder of both ECM Therapeutics, a regenerative medicine company, and Abigail Collins, a collegiate apparel brand.Katie reflects on how her Penn State experience and time as a student athlete shaped her path, what it takes to build mission-driven companies, and how she continues to leverage the Penn State alumni network to stay connected to the University and fellow Nittany Lions.Check out the Penn State line at abigailcollins.comFor more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com

Episode 104–Prepare with Cher with Cheryl Nelson

In this episode, we talk with Emmy-nominated meteorologist Cheryl Nelson, ’02 EMS, about her journey from Penn State to national broadcast news and beyond.Cheryl shares why she almost didn’t choose Penn State (but is grateful she did!), how her connection to the University only deepened after graduation, and what shaped her career in broadcast meteorology. We also discuss what inspired her to launch Prepare with Cher, LLC, where her mission is to help communities stay safe before, during, and after extreme weather.For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com

Episode 103–A Story for Every Voice with Kennedy White

On this episode, we’re joined by Kennedy White ’23 Com, who has always known she wanted to use her voice to make a difference. Now a gift officer at Penn State, Kennedy combines her passion for communication with purpose-driven work every day. She also recently became a published author with her first children’s book, "I Am Who I Am." Kennedy shares her journey at Penn State and why she chose to stay after graduation, the inspiration behind her storytelling, and why believing in yourself can change everything. Plus, she offers a sneak peek at the next book she’s working on!Purchase your copy of "I Am Who I Am."For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com

Episode 102–Where Creativity Meets Community with Kassie Hilgert '97

On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we’re joined by Kassie Hilgert ’97 Com, President and CEO of ArtsQuest, one of Pennsylvania’s largest nonprofit arts organizations. Kassie shares her unique journey to Penn State and reflects on how her time there helped shape her confidence, leadership style, and sense of purpose. She also talks about building a career rooted in creativity, community, and impact, and how those early Penn State experiences became the foundation for where she is today.Learn more about ArtsQuest here.For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com