Higher Education, Alumni Impact, & Active Listening | Ep.240: Janelle Rushton

This week, I chat with Janelle Rushton, Gift Officer at King's College to discuss the impact of higher education, the power of alumni connections, and the often-overlooked skill of active listening. Janelle shares her journey from being a phone-a-thon caller during her time as a student at Penn State to making a lasting difference in higher education and alumni engagement. We discuss the role of alumni in shaping universities, the changing landscape of higher ed, and why Penn State’s vast network remains a powerful force long after graduation. Plus, they dive into the lost art of listening—why it’s more than just hearing and how it can transform conversations and relationships. Whether you’re a student, an alum, a higher ed professional, or just someone looking to sharpen your communication skills, this episode has something for you!(00:00) Making an Impact Through Philanthropy(07:49) Penn State Alumni Nostalgia(19:55) Unexpected Connections(28:35) Building Connections Through Unexpected Paths(36:43) Penn State Alumni Engagement and Impact(53:27) Finding Home and Making an Impact(01:00:25) Improving Listening Skills Through Mindfulness(01:05:03) Active Listening(01:30:52) Connecting Through Social MediaThank you to our sponsors!Anthracite Pallet Solutions: New and used 48 x 40 wooden pallets. Visit anthracitepallet.comSweat Tent: Get $100 OFF your purchase with code OTS at Sweat TentCANN: Cannabis Infused Seltzer: Get 20% your first order with code OTS at CANN (Must be 21+)Riverside: Easily record high-quality virtual video podcasts with Riverside’s web & app-based remote recording platform. No credit card required. Get started on Riverside with a FREE 14-day Trial.DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission that helps us keep the mics on!Engage with us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or visit our website!