Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast

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.

Igniting Futures: A JJC Alum’s Role in Fire Science and Community Impact

In this episode of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis brings National Fire Prevention Month into focus with an interview featuring Craig Mateski, a dedicated firefighter, paramedic, and fire science instructor. Mateski shares his 30+ year career journey, starting from his early days at Juliet Junior College (JJC) to his recent roles as a fire commissioner for Morris, Illinois, and a fire science instructor. He reflects on the crucial role JJC played in shaping his career and underscores the importance of hard work and persistence for aspiring firefighters. Craig also discusses his teaching experience at Grundy Area Vocational Center, where he inspires future firefighters.The conversation navigates through the challenges and rewards of a fire service career and emphasizes the growth and opportunities provided by JJC’s fire science program. Mateski's story is also highlighted in the upcoming Fall 2025 Connections Magazine. This insightful episode is a testament to dedication, lifelong learning, and giving back to the community.

Care, Compassion & Community: Inside JJC’s Vet Tech Program

In the premiere episode of season two of the JJC Alumni podcast, host Jen Davis welcomes alumna Abby Panozzo, program director for the Veterinary Medical Technology program at JJC and a devoted animal lover. The episode explores Abby's own journey from a JJC student to a seasoned veterinary technician and educator. Abby shares memorable experiences from her time at JJC, her transition from clinical practice to teaching, and her commitment to mental health advocacy in the veterinary field. Additionally, the episode highlights the significance of community support in enhancing educational and animal care programs at JJC, including initiatives like the VTNE Fund and the Vinny B. Motika Memorial Scholarship. The episode concludes with advice for new students and information on how to sponsor or adopt animals from the JJC program.