Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast

The Perfect Ingredients: A JJC Alum’s Recipe for Career Success

In this episode of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis sits down with Javier Reyes, culinary arts purchasing specialist and adjunct instructor, to share his inspiring journey from Mexico to Joliet in pursuit of a culinary education that grew into a thriving career at JJC. Javier talks about becoming the student commencement speaker, stepping into a purchasing role that expanded into full‑time work supporting seven chefs across 11 kitchens, and earning recognition as the 2025 Adjunct of the Year. He also recounts his experiences on Butterball’s Turkey Talk‑Line, including appearances on Good Morning America and in a New York Times video filmed at JJC. The episode highlights campus events like Wandering Feast and Empty Bowls, and Javier closes with simple but powerful advice for students: stay open to opportunities—you never know where they’ll lead.

Embracing Discomfort: A JJC Alum’s Story of Growth and Self-Discovery

In this episode of the JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis speaks with Noah Kraulidis, Employer Relations Manager at National Louis University in Chicago. A proud JJC alum, Noah shares his journey from JJC to Illinois State University, emphasizing the critical role community college played in setting the foundation for his career. Noah, along with his wife, also a JJC alum, navigated their educational paths together, offering an inspiring story of support, growth, and self-discovery. Noah highlights the importance of taking risks and choosing discomfort to achieve personal and professional growth. Currently working in career services, Noah discusses how his varied experiences have culminated in a role he finds deeply rewarding. This episode is a testament to the enduring impact of a JJC education and the value of mentors and community connections in shaping successful careers.

New Year, New Leadership: JJC Alum Ushers in the Foundation's Next Chapter

In this special New Year episode of the JJC Alumni Podcast, we celebrate the start of 2026 with significant news for the JJC Foundation. After 25 years of dedicated service, Kristi Mulvey has retired, and Amanda Quinn, a JJC alum and long-time team member, steps in as the new executive director. Amanda shares her personal journey, from her college days at JJC to her professional growth within the foundation.Listeners gain insights into the foundation's achievements under Kristi’s leadership, growing from $6 million to over $50 million, and the exciting future ahead. Amanda emphasizes the importance of scholarships, which have dramatically increased, awarding over $1 million in the fall semester alone. The episode underscores the collaborative spirit within the foundation and the critical role of community support, highlighting the opportunities for students to explore and get involved and the impact of both large and small donations. Join us as we embark on this new chapter, continuing to support and enrich the JJC community.

When Generosity Comes Full Circle: How a JJC Alum Turned Dreams into a Legacy

In this special holiday episode, host Jen Davis sits down with JJC alum and current technical analyst at JJC, Zach Hamidi. Zach shares his inspirational journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a scholarship recipient at JJC. Highlighting his involvement in various extracurricular activities and his exceptional academic achievements, Zach discusses how the support from JJC and its donors shaped his life. Now a generous donor himself, Zach talks about his motivation to give back and his professional growth within the institution. This heartwarming story illustrates how generosity can come full circle.

Insainly Fit & Incredibly Driven: A Joliet Chef’s Rise to Fame and Success

In this episode of the JJC Alumni Podcast, Jen Davis interviews Arron Sain, a JJC alum, fitness coach, and chef who has been making headlines. Arron shares his nostalgic connection to his hometown of Joliet and his educational journey at JJC, where he was mentored by renowned chefs. Arron recounts how his early interest in cooking blossomed into a successful career, leading him to appear on the Food Network show "Supermarket Stakeout." Additionally, he discusses his commitment to community wellness through his company, Insanely Fit Meals, and his new smoothie shop. Throughout, Arron emphasizes the importance of hard work, staying true to one’s roots, and cooking with love. Listen in for a heartwarming journey full of passion and dedication.