Campus Conversations: The Shawnee Community College Podcast

This week on Campus Conversations, it’s another edition of Saints Unleashed, featuring Shawnee Community College baseball sophomores Maguire Clark and Ryan Will.We dive into what brought them to SCC, their experiences as student-athletes, and how their time as Saints has helped shape what comes next. From the dugout to the classroom, it’s a great conversation about growth, opportunity, and chasing the next level.

The Campus Conversations Podcast goes Saints Unleashed as SCC Executive Director of Public Information and Marketing Kevin Hunsperger sits down with Head Baseball Coach Matt White.In this episode, Coach White discusses his first season leading the Saints, highlights some players making an impact, and reflects on the unique challenge of playing every game on the road this year after tornado damage to the team’s home field.It’s a behind-the-scenes look at Saints baseball and the program's resilience during a challenging season.Follow @ShawneeSaintsBB on X and Instagram.

On this episode of Campus Conversations, Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor sits down with Lynne Chambers, attorney and Executive Director of Legacy Training, Inc.Their conversation takes a thoughtful look at equity and equality in southern Illinois, what those terms truly mean, where progress has been made, and where more work is needed. Lynne shares insights from her legal background and leadership experience, while Dr. Taylor reflects on the role higher education plays in advocacy, access, and community impact.Together, they explore leadership rooted in service, the importance of courageous conversations, and how individuals and institutions alike can help create more inclusive, equitable communities.

Campus Conversations: The Shawnee Community College Podcast returns this week with another installment in President Dr. Tim Taylor’s ongoing series of conversations with K–12 leaders across the region.In this episode, Dr. Taylor is joined by Jonathan Green, Superintendent of Goreville Community Schools, for a thoughtful discussion on strengthening collaboration between K–12 education and higher education. The conversation explores shared challenges, partnership opportunities, and how institutions like Shawnee Community College and local school districts can work together to better support students, families, and the workforce pipeline.From dual credit and career pathways to preparing students for life beyond high school, this episode highlights the importance of alignment, communication, and community-focused leadership in southern Illinois education.

This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we’re unleashing the Saints' spirit with Head Volleyball Coach Mark Mizell. Coach Mizell sits down with Executive Director of Public Information and Marketing Kevin Hunsperger to discuss his passion for the game, the growth of Saints Volleyball, and how he’s cultivating a culture of teamwork, discipline, and drive both on and off the court. From memorable moments on the floor to his vision for the program's future, you won’t want to miss this energetic and inspiring conversation.Visit our website to stay up-to-date! Don't forget to subscribe.

We are launching a new series on the Campus Conversations Podcast. Beyond the Bench with Coach Sparks focuses on deeper stories, student-athlete lives, and coaches' insights, hosted by Athletic Director & Head Men's Basketball Coach John Sparks. Beyond the Bench is the official podcast of Shawnee Community College Athletics, featuring entertaining and engaging interviews with Saints past and present. It provides listeners with exclusive insight into what makes Shawnee Community College a hidden gem within JUCO athletics. In the first episode, Coach Sparks previews the upcoming men's basketball season. Check out our website for more details about Shawnee Community College Athletics.

In this episode of Campus Conversations at Shawnee Community College, Executive Director of Public Information & Marketing Kevin Hunsperger sits down with Saints Athletic Director John Sparks to preview the upcoming athletic seasons. From the fast-paced action of men’s and women’s basketball to the energy of volleyball, and the diamond excitement of softball and baseball, we cover what fans, students, and the community can expect this year.Hear how SCC athletes are preparing to compete, the culture being built around teamwork and excellence, and how the Saints continue to represent the College with pride. It’s all part of our spirit of Saints Unleashed, where talent, determination, and community come together.

College President Dr. Tim Taylor sits down with Cobden Unit District #17 Superintendent Edwin Shoemate for a thoughtful conversation about education, leadership, and community.Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing today’s students, the value of higher education, and how partnerships between local schools and SCC help create pathways to success. From life lessons to the unique connection between Cobden and Shawnee College, Dr. Taylor and Superintendent Shoemate share insights on what it takes to support students not only in the classroom but in life.Whether you’re an educator, student, or community member, this episode offers a meaningful look at collaboration, growth, and the future of education in southern Illinois.

The conversation continues with Dr. Landon Sommer, Superintendent of Century School District 100, and SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor. Together, they explore Dr. Sommer’s educational journey, the expanding partnership between Century Schools and SCC, and their shared vision for the future of teaching and learning in the region. From college readiness to career pathways and community engagement, it’s a heartfelt and insightful conversation about what’s possible when we work together to empower students at every level.Tune in for thoughtful discussion, shared experiences, and a few laughs along the way. Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or community member, this episode will leave you feeling inspired about the road ahead.If you have questions or comments, email [email protected].

In this episode of Campus Conversations, we’re joined by Dr. Landon Sommer, Superintendent of Century School District #100.He and SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor delve into Dr. Sommer’s journey in education, the expanding partnership between Century Schools and SCC, and their shared vision for the future of teaching and learning in the region. From college readiness to career pathways and community engagement, it’s a heartfelt and insightful conversation about what’s possible when we work together to empower students at every level.Tune in for thoughtful discussion, shared experiences, and a few laughs along the way. Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or community member, this episode will leave you feeling inspired about the road ahead.

Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor does many things in the communities our college serves. One of those responsibilities is being a mentor in the Union County CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities).This year, Dr. Taylor is working with Lucas Salazar. He's a senior at Anna-Jonesboro High School and created his own business called Puffiez Freeze Dried Candy. Dr. Taylor and Lucas chat on this week's podcast about CEO, life as a high school senior, and what the future holds. Thanks for listening. If you have questions or suggestions for future podcasts, email [email protected].

The conversation with ⁠Illinois State Senator Dale Fowler⁠ continues on this episode of Campus Conversations. Sen. Fowler represents the 59th District, which includes Shawnee Community College.The Senator joined SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor to answer 20(ish) questions. In this episode, the conversation focuses on Senator Fowler's relationship with Shawnee College, his plans for the future, and why community colleges are so crucial to economic development. Thanks for listening, and let us know if you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes. Visit us ⁠online here⁠!

On this episode of Campus Conversations, we're talking with Lynne Chambers, one of the Lens of Truth Documentary Film Festival organizers, which will be held at Shawnee Community College on Saturday, March 22.Local documentary filmmakers Sandra Pfeifer and Dan Johnson are also joining the conversation. They share more about their films that will be featured at the festival and their journey to becoming filmmakers. The Illinois Humanities Foreground Rural Initiative Southern Hub Partner presents this free event, which showcases nonfiction films that inform, inspire, and entertain audiences. Through real-life stories, it highlights diverse perspectives while shedding light on critical, underreported issues.The festival features various documentaries covering social issues, politics, art, human rights, and culture. Local filmmakers will engage with audiences, discussing their films and the broader themes they explore. Beyond entertainment, the festival fosters critical discussions, community connections, and more profound reflections on storytelling and social discourse.SCHEDULENoon: Screening 'I, Too, Dream American and Footprints in the Sky' 1:00 p.m.: Break1:15 p.m.: Screening 'On the Battlefield'2:00 p.m.: 'Walk with Me: The Story of Judge Damon J. Keith' '4:00 p.m.: Screening 'The Adventures of Robert Russell's Blues', 'Juneteenth - A Long Walk to Freedom', and 'Against All the Odds: A Story of Courage, Community, and Spirit in East St. Louis, Illinois' 6:00 p.m.: Artist Reception Register online today!

We have a special guest on this week's Campus Conversations Podcast. Illinois State Senator Dale Fowler represents the 59th District, which includes Shawnee Community College.The Senator joined SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor to answer 20(ish) questions. This is part one of that conversation, which includes much discussion on Dreamscape Learn Immersive Learning. Thanks for listening, and let us know if you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes. Visit us online here!

As we continue the vital conversation about Dreamscape Learn Immersion Learning, we invite you to share your thoughts, questions, and perspectives on this initiative.  Our Board of Trustees encourages this dialogue and values the insights of those who shape our students’ learning experiences daily.This initiative is about more than just adopting new technology – transforming student learning, enhancing the College’s reputation in our community, and unlocking future funding opportunities that could support various initiatives beyond immersive learning.  The Board is considering Dreamscape Learn because:Impact on Student Learning – Preliminary data suggests that students enrolled in DSL-enabled courses earned, on average, 1.5 grade levels higher than students who took the same courses without the DSL component. Additionally, research suggests immersive learning increases student engagement and retention, making complex concepts more accessible and interactive.Equity & Access – Early research also indicates that students from underserved, low-income, and minority populations attained the same level of academic performance as other populations, potentially leveling the playing field and creating greater opportunities for student success across all demographics.Shaping Perception – Investing in cutting-edge educational experiences can strengthen our reputation as an innovative institution and help attract students who seek hands-on, high-tech learning environments.Opening Doors for Fundraising – This initiative may serve as a catalyst for new funding opportunities, enabling us to expand our vision beyond immersive learning and invest in additional resources for students and faculty, including the new student spaces, classrooms, labs, buildings, and athletic facilities identified in our Facility Master Plan. To ensure everyone has access to the latest information and a place to share feedback directly with the Board, we’ve created a dedicated webpage: Immersive Learning at Shawnee Community CollegeOn this page, you’ll find:Investing in the Future (FAQ document) – Answers to common questions about Immersion Learning and Dreamscape Learn (DSL)Plan for the Immersive Learning Center of Excellence – A roadmap detailing how the College has an opportunity to establish a Statewide Immersive Learning Center of Excellence, which will house DSL technology, as well as other VR and technology-driven platforms.YouTube Videos & Weblinks – Provides a deeper look at DSL and immersive learning for those new to the concept.  Also provides some perspectives and information from those already using the technology.Online Feedback Form – A place to submit your thoughts directly to the Board. We will collect your input until March 14 at the close of business. All online form submissions will be collected and presented to the Board without edit. If you would like to share your thoughts in person, you will also be able to speak directly to the Board at the March 20 regular board meeting.

Campus Conversations is getting a spin-off show! Welcome to the pilot episode of Saints Unleashed.Shawnee Community College Student Payton Shoemaker will interview fellow students for the podcast and create fun content for the SCC TikTok, Facebook, X, and Instagram pages.So subscribe to Campus Conversations, and you'll get those podcasts and the new Saints Unleashed series.As always, we welcome your thoughts. Email [email protected].

In this episode, SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor sits down with a special guest, Goreville USD #1 Superintendent Dr. Steve Webb! With decades of experience as a dedicated school leader and as a longtime friend of Shawnee Community College, Dr. Webb brings incredible insights to the table. As he prepares for retirement in just a few months, Dr. Webb shares his vision for the future of education, the vital connection between K-12 schools and higher education, and some parting wisdom from his extraordinary career. Do you have any questions or ideas? We want to hear from YOU! Email us at [email protected]. Ready to take the next step in your education? Visit our website today and explore everything SCC has to offer!

The Shawnee Community College Volleyball team has undergone quite a transformation. The 2024 season saw the time pick up nine wins, compared to zero over the past several years. This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we hear from Coach Mark Mizell and players Regan Eigenrauch and Payton Shoemaker. Have a question for us? Email [email protected].

Bernie's Place is the food pantry at Shawnee Community College and serves ALL students on all our campuses. In November, SCC is participating in the Feed the Need Food Drive. Donations can be made at any campus or via our Amazon Wish List. The drive ends on November 30, but we always accept items to help our students. Shop here. Learn more about the Saints Foundation.

Tarzan the Musical is coming to Shawnee Community College. This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we're hearing from three of the performers in this year's musical. Abby Frizzell (Ape ensemble ), Kyle Gentry (Kerchak), and Natalie Woods (Kala) spent some time with us, talking about their experiences before Tarzan and what it's like putting this show together. Join us on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, November 7-9 at Shawnee Community College. Tickets can be purchased online right here or at the door.

On this episode of Campus Conversations, we’re exploring Shawnee Community College’s LGBTQ+ Club. Join us as we sit down with club officers Elena Hammer and Aaron McMahan to explore how the club fosters inclusivity, acceptance, and pride on campus.  Discover the inspiring ways they’re building community, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, and creating a safe space for all students to be their authentic selves.  Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this episode offers insights and inspiration on how to make college life more inclusive for everyone. To get involved with the club, contact Donna Price at 618-634-3322 or email [email protected]. 

This time on the Campus Conversations Podcast, SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor sits down with Joppa-Maple Grove USD #38 Superintendent Dr. Greg Goins. Dr. Goins is an alum of Shawnee College and recently moved back to the region. Learn about his goals for Joppa-Maple Grove and how the relationship with SCC will be essential to that future.  Let us know what's on your mind! Email [email protected]. Interested in classes? Visit our website now!

A new volleyball season is underway at Shawnee Community College, and on this episode of Campus Conversations, you'll hear from freshman player Regan Eigenrauch. She shares with us what got her to SCC and her plans for the future. If you have any questions or topic ideas for future shows, please email us ([email protected]). 

This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we are chatting with Blake Goforth, the career services coordinator at Shawnee Community College.  Whether you're looking for career advice, advice on what path to follow in college, help to build a resume, or aren't sure what you want to do with your life, Blake is here to help. You can visit the Career Services website or contact Blake by calling 618-634-3337 or emailing [email protected].

This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, Vice President of Student Affairs Jeff McGoy will discuss fall recruitment and the services Shawnee Community College offers students and the public.  We have several upcoming events, and we want you to be a part of them! Monday, Aug. 5 - Enrollment Extravaganza at the Massac County Extension Center (4:00 to 6:00 p.m.) Tuesday, Aug. 6 - Enrollment Extravaganza at the Alexander County Extension Center (10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) Wednesday, Aug. 7 - Enrollment Extravaganza at the Union County Extension Center (10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) OTA Ribbon Cutting at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 10 - Student Success Saturday on our Main campus in Ullin (9:00 a.m. to Noon) If you have questions, call us today at 618-634-3200 or visit our website. 

It's a little quiet right now at Shawnee Community College as the summer semester moves forward. However, behind the scenes, we are bustling with activity. On this episode of Campus Conversations, we want you to meet Student Ambassador Kaylynn Harris. She shares more about her experiences at SCC and what's next for her. We also remind you that the fall semester starts on Monday, August 12. If you haven't registered, there's still time. Visit our website here or call 618-634-3200. Student Success Saturday is just around the corner as well, on August 10 on our Main campus in Ullin.

Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor has discussed the College's strategic planning and how it fits in with the changes in higher education in several podcasts. In this episode, we tie up all the loose ends of those conversations, as the reimagining of higher education continues to evolve. We always welcome your questions and feedback. Please email [email protected] today!

Shawnee Community College is proud to work with a dozen high schools in our district to develop Dual Credit courses that provide students with knowledge and skills through academic and CTE courses, preparing them for lifelong learning. The Dual Credit program at SCC is not just a course, it's a collaborative partnership with all 12 local high schools. This partnership enables high school students to begin earning college credit while simultaneously earning high school credit within their own high school environment. We value your role in this partnership and appreciate your support. You can learn more about it on our website or by asking the high school counselor in your district. As always, someone can answer questions on our Main campus. Just call 618-634-3200. Intersession Summer 2024 (May 20-31) ENG-0112-95 English Composition II HLT-0111-95 Health PHI-0218-95 Introduction to Ethics and Values SPC-0210-95 Interpersonal Communication  Visit shawneecc.edu or call 618-634-3200 for details.

On this episode of the Campus Conversations Podcast, we hear from SCC student Janyia Williams. Janyia, who graduated last year with an Associate's degree, has now embarked on a new chapter of her educational journey. She has returned to Shawnee Community College, not just as a student, but as a participant in the Highway Construction Careers Training Program and our basic electricity program, showcasing her continuous thirst for knowledge and growth. Janyia also played basketball here briefly and is building a brand on social media. Check out the TrenchStarr Brand on Instagram. Let us know if you have questions or comments by emailing us today!

We recently discussed how the film industry has influenced all walks of life, including higher education. That conversation continues this week but with the newspaper industry. Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor looks ahead to what the future holds for higher education and SCC. Our other episodes in this series can be found here. Adaptive Change Shawnee Reimagined Music Industry Film Industry We would love to hear your thoughts on the subject. Email ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ to weigh in!

Two women's basketball players join us this week on the Campus Conversations Podcast. Ava Stephens and Haylie Oliver share their thoughts on the season, coming together as a brand new team, and what their futures hold. Let us know what's on your mind. Email today! And if you're interested in enrolling at Shawnee Community College, visit our website.

It's a new Campus Conversations Podcast. This week, Anna-Jonesboro High School senior Tysen Tripp joins us. Tysen is part of the Union County CEO Program, and SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor mentors him. Tysen shares his experiences and why he plans to come to Shawnee Community College in the fall. You can learn more about Tysen's business, Union Print, here.

The Total Solar Eclipse will reach our region on Monday, April 8. This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, SCC Astronomy Instructor Craig Bradley shares some tips on what to do on Eclipse Day. You can also join us for the Skywatch Party! Totality hits at 1:59 p.m. that day. We have classes scheduled, but we encourage everyone to step outside and watch the Eclipse! More Eclipse information can be found here. If you have questions, email us at [email protected]. 

This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we chat with Shawnee Community College Women's Basketball Player Jaiden 'Petey' Foster.  She discusses her experiences as a two-sport athlete at SCC (she started as a softball player), and what the future holds for her. Email us your comments or questions to [email protected].

On this episode of the Campus Conversations Podcast, we hear from two women's basketball players. A'coria Phillips and T'yonna Burris share their experiences in high school and what it's like to play basketball at the college level. If you have questions or comments, let us know—email [email protected].

This week, we continue our talks with Shawnee Community College student-athletes.  Hear from volleyball player Jayla Wiggins and men's basketball player Linkin Lockhart. Let us know what's on your mind by emailing [email protected]. Remember to subscribe and leave a review!

We hear from some Shawnee Community College baseball players on this week's Campus Conversations Podcast. Delvon Yates and Colin Club are here to talk about life as college athletes, social media, their families, and much more.  Speaking of social media, check out Delvon's YouTube channel. It's Del's in a Life. Let us know what's on your mind; email [email protected]. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! 

This time on the Campus Conversations podcast, we hear from a couple of softball players. Freshmen Alyssa Aikins and Lily Shehorn stopped by to talk about the game and life as a Shawnee Community College student. Let us know what you think. Hit that subscribe button and leave a review!

This time on Campus Conversations: The Shawnee Community College Podcast, we chatted with some Saints basketball players. Sophomore Tray'von Thomas and freshman Ladricus Pittman join the conversation, letting us know more about them, why they chose Shawnee Community College and their plans. 

We recently discussed how the music industry has influenced all walks of life, including higher education. That conversation continues this week but with the film industry. Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor looks ahead to what the future holds for higher education and SCC. We would love to hear your thoughts on the subject. Email ⁠[email protected]⁠ to weigh in!

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is undergoing some changes. The application process is expected to start at the end of this month.  On this episode of Campus Conversations, Shawnee Community College Financial Aid and Veterans Affairs Coordinator Keyarra Blissett. We discuss upcoming changes and let parents, guardians, and students know what they need to do to get started. Visit the Shawnee Community College Financial Aid page for more details. Do you have any questions about the podcast? Email us today at [email protected]. 

We're firing up the nostalgia on this week's episode of Campus Conversations. Tina Dudley joins us to share some Cap'n Crunch and discuss her roles at Shawnee Community College. Tina is the executive assistant to both SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor and the Saints Foundation of Shawnee Community College. Fun fact: we share Cap'n Crunch's full name on the show. Would you happen to know what it is?  If you have questions or concerns about the show, email [email protected] anytime! And please leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Be sure to share this as well!

Did you know that higher education could learn from the evolution of the music industry? It's true. This week on Campus Conversations, Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor looks ahead to what the future holds for higher education and Shawnee Community College, through the perspective of the ever-changing music industry. We would love to hear your thoughts. Email ⁠[email protected]⁠ to weigh in!

Cereal is a big part of many people's lives. You're likely to have a bowl or two of this breakfast staple at some point during the day. This week on the Cereal podcast, Shawnee Community College Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness Dr. April Teske and SCC Executive Director of Public Information and Marketing Kevin Hunsperger sit down for a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios. The two discuss the nostalgia behind cereal, the importance of breakfast, and exactly what Dr. Teske does at Shawnee Community College. Please email us your thoughts on this and other podcast episodes at [email protected]. Remember to subscribe and leave a review. 

Shawnee Community College Head Basketball Coach John Sparks recently celebrated a milestone. The Saints' victory on Wednesday, November 8 was Sparks' 300th career win at Shawnee! This week on Campus Conversations, we hear more about the basketball program and Sparks' path to becoming head coach.  If you have questions or suggestions, email [email protected]. 

Shawnee Community College President Dr. Tim Taylor continues the conversation that started on episode 1 of the podcast. This time, Dr. Taylor and co-host Kevin Hunsperger look ahead to what the future holds for higher education and Shawnee Community College. We would love to hear your thoughts on the subject. Email [email protected] to weigh in!

Halloween is almost here, and we thought it was the right time to kick off the 'Cereal' podcast with a conversation over a bowl of Count Chocula, the popular Monsters Cereal.  Shawnee Community College Dean of Allied Health and Nursing Mandy Hannan is the guest. She shares more about the nursing program, her path to get to SCC, and childhood memories involving; you guessed it, cereal.  Join us for the nostalgia and let us know your favorite cereals too. Send suggestions or questions to [email protected].

This week on the Campus Conversations Podcast, we will hear from four performers from the upcoming Shawnee Community College production of Seussical. Performances are on Friday and Saturday, November 3 and 4 at 7 p.m. Get your tickets online at shawneecc.edu. Connor Windings is an SCC alum and longtime member of the theater community. He plays Horton the Elephant in the musical. Briley McBride plays Thing 2, Isaac Smith is Mr. Mayor, and Kendyl Sparks is Bird Girl. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions for the podcast, please email [email protected]. 

Welcome to Episode 1 of Campus Conversations: The Shawnee Community College Podcast. In this episode, it's the first of a series of shows on the process of change in higher education. SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor shares his thoughts on the history of adaptive change vs. disruptive change.  We'd love to hear your thoughts as well on this. Email [email protected] to weigh in. 

Welcome to the Pilot episode of Campus Conversations: The Shawnee Community College Podcast. On this episode, you will hear from SCC President Dr. Tim Taylor and Executive Director of Public Information and Marketing Kevin Hunsperger