Gator Bites

In this episode of Gator Bites, we’re diving into Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year college students, and a powerful force for student success at Lamar State College Orange.Host Daniel McLemore sits down with PTK faculty advisors Jessica Williams and Byron Lumpkin to explore how the Alpha Nu Gamma chapter is helping students grow beyond the classroom. From leadership development and community service to scholarships and national recognition, PTK offers opportunities that extend far beyond academics.Whether you’re a student considering joining or just curious about what PTK really offers, this conversation highlights how finding the right community can transform your entire college experience.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this episode of Gator Bites, we’re spotlighting the FAME internship program and how it’s redefining what it means to be career-ready. Recorded during National Apprenticeship Week, this conversation explores how students can earn a degree while gaining real-world experience through direct partnerships with industry.Host Daniel McLemore is joined by Sean McFarland, Dereck Cloeren, and FAME student Mason Pruett to break down how the program works and why it’s becoming a game-changer for workforce development in Southeast Texas. From paid, hands-on training to mentorship from experienced professionals, FAME offers a clear pathway from the classroom to a full-time career.Whether you're a student unsure where to start or an employer looking for skilled talent, this episode highlights how education and industry can work together to build the future workforce.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this episode of Gator Bites, we celebrate ahead of National Apprenticeship Week with a deep dive into the Dow Apprenticeship Program and its impact on students and the Southeast Texas workforce. Host Daniel McLemore is joined by Dow representatives Larry Spears and Milton Briggs, along with LSCO student Gabriel Torres, to discuss how apprenticeships allow students to earn while they learn, gain real-world experience, and build lasting careers.From classroom concepts to hands-on application in the field, this conversation highlights the power of industry partnerships and how programs like this are creating opportunities that don’t just change careers, they change lives and communities.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this special episode of Gator Bites, hosts Zoey Royer and Reid Burman take the podcast on the move at Gatorama, one of Lamar State College Orange’s most exciting campus events. From student organizations and ambassadors to community partners like DuGood Credit Union, this episode captures real conversations happening across campus. Hear firsthand what students love about being a Gator, why getting involved matters, and how events like Gatorama bring the LSCO community together.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this episode of Gator Bites, we explore the Operator Academy at Lamar State College Orange, a fast-paced, hands-on training program designed to prepare students for careers in the petrochemical and industrial workforce. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with instructor Tony Bramlett and recent graduate Caeden Arceneaux to discuss how the 16-week academy works, the importance of safety and technical training, and the role industry partnerships play in shaping workforce programs. From lab simulations and real-world equipment to career readiness and confidence building, this conversation highlights how LSCO is helping meet one of the region’s most critical workforce needs.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this episode of Gator Bites, Daniel McLemore sits down with Martha Morian, Crystal Meyers, and Ava Rambo to explore the world of real estate from three unique perspectives: education, industry, and a brand-new professional entering the field. Together, they discuss LSCO’s Real Estate program, what it takes to earn a license, the discipline and business skills needed to succeed, and why real estate is about much more than just selling houses. From ethics and contracts to mentorship and market trends, this conversation highlights how LSCO is preparing students for a dynamic and rewarding profession.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this episode of Gator Bites, we take a closer look at the Criminal Justice program at Lamar State College Orange. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with Program Director Hallie Gates, law enforcement officer and faculty member Antonio Mitchell, and President Emeritus Dr. Tom Johnson to discuss the many career paths within criminal justice. From forensic science and law enforcement to courtroom procedures and investigative work, the conversation explores how LSCO is preparing students for careers dedicated to service, ethics, and protecting their communities. About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this special episode of Gator Bites, we take the podcast on the road to the LSCO Career Expo inside the Shahan Events Center. Host Daniel McLemore walks the expo floor and speaks directly with employers from across Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana to learn about career opportunities, workforce needs, and the qualities companies look for when hiring graduates. From healthcare and emergency services to banking, public health, and community organizations, this episode highlights the many pathways available for students preparing to enter the workforce.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

In this inspiring episode of Gator Bites, we spotlight LSCO’s Education program and the Teachers of Tomorrow student organization. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with education majors Carolina Dela Cruz and Olivia Hudnall, along with Program Director Dr. Skyler Slaughter Murphy, to explore what it truly means to pursue a calling to teach. From field experiences in local classrooms to service projects like Special Olympics and Sabine Place, this conversation highlights the heart, resilience, and purpose behind preparing the next generation of Texas educators.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What happens after LSCO? In this episode of Gator Bites, Daniel McLemore sits down with Kendra De La Fuente and Karina Salgado Estrada to talk about LSCO’s upcoming Transfer Fair - an event designed to connect students directly with four-year universities ready to welcome Gators into bachelor’s programs. From understanding core completion and seamless transfer agreements to exploring scholarships and reducing credit loss, this conversation breaks down how students can confidently take their next step and turn long-term goals into a real, actionable plan.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

Looking for a fast, hands-on pathway into healthcare? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Program Director Stacy DeMontmollin and instructor Amber Cormier about LSCO’s Dental Assisting program. From real-world clinical rotations and modern dental technology to high-demand career opportunities, this program prepares students to enter the workforce in just 10 months. Featuring special guest Mayor Larry Spears Jr., the episode also highlights how programs like this are creating generational change right here in Orange.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

Court reporting is more than what you see in movies; it’s a high-skill, high-demand career with flexibility, strong earning potential, and real impact. In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Christy Smith, Program Director of Court Reporting at Lamar State College Orange, along with instructor Baylee Richards and student Shelby Sweeney. Recorded during National Court Reporting and Captioning Week, this conversation explores what court reporters really do, why there’s a growing nationwide shortage, and how LSCO’s fully online program is opening doors for students (including working parents) to build meaningful, in-demand careers.Mentioned in the episode:A-Z Program and Project StenoAbout Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What if education worked around your life and not the other way around? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with LSCO’s Workforce and Continuing Education team, Kristin Walker, Michelle Hammerly, and D’Wayne Shaw, to unpack how workforce programs create fast, flexible pathways into new careers. From short-term credentials and employer partnerships to upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning, this conversation explores how LSCO is meeting students exactly where they are and helping them take confident next steps toward their goals.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What happens when industry demand meets hands-on education? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Sean McFarland, Howard Bailey, and Alex Spell to explore LSCO’s new Machine Shop program launching this spring. From the nationwide shortage of skilled machinists to six-figure career pathways and stackable credentials, this conversation dives into why manual machining is making a comeback and how students can turn precision skills into lifelong careers right here in Southeast Texas.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

How can education strengthen public service? In this special episode of Gator Bites, President Wendy Elmore sits down with Chris Ellison, Director of Program Development and Training for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, to discuss an innovative partnership transforming the TJJD workforce. Together, they explore how LSCO is helping new hires and long-time employees earn college credit, pursue certificates and associate degrees, and even move toward bachelor’s pathways all through training they've already completed. Discover how collaboration between education and public service is creating career opportunities, improving employee retention, and empowering those who serve Texas youth.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

How do you balance classes, parenting, and everything in between? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Jessica Moore, LSCO’s Student Government Association Vice President and founder of a potential new student parent organization. Jessica shares her story of perseverance, community, and the challenges of raising a child while pursuing her degree — and how she’s helping other parents find strength, support, and success along the way.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What happens when education meets community? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Polk County Center instructors Heidi Kelly, Vic Wheeler, and Jessica Fant to discuss the impact of bringing higher education closer to home. From nursing and history to business and Spanish, these passionate educators share how access, community, and opportunity are shaping the lives of students in Livingston and beyond.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What does it mean to find your voice in college? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with SGA President Joshua Taylor and senators Reid Burman and HeavenLeigh Hughes to talk about leadership, campus involvement, and community at LSCO. From funny behind-the-scenes stories to real lessons on confidence and connection, this episode dives into how student leaders are shaping campus life while finding their voices along the way.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What does it take to turn opportunity into impact? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Joshua Taylor, President of LSCO’s Student Government Association and past Chair of the Texas State University System’s Student Advisory Board. From boosting student worker wages to building community on a commuter campus, Josh shares how leadership, courage, and action come together to create lasting change and how LSCO students truly embody Your Future. Our Focus.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What does it take to be part of history? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with students of the very first Registered Nursing cohort at LSCO’s Polk County Center. From career changes and lifelong dreams to the power of learning close to home, these students share what motivates them, how they’re growing through hands-on training, and why nursing truly is a calling of the heart.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

How do products get from warehouses to your doorstep, and who makes it all happen? In this episode of Gator Bites, we sit down with Hilda Marcel, Program Director of Logistics at LSCO. From Amazon’s game-changing strategies to the role of AI in modern supply chains, Hilda shares her passion for teaching logistics and preparing students for careers in an industry that never stops moving.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

How do you prepare students for success in the world of finance? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Ryan Holland, Department Chair of Finance, and Chris Kovatch, Banking Instructor and Vice President of Commercial Lending at Rave Credit Union. Together, they share how LSCO’s new Banking program equips students with real-world skills, industry insight, and the confidence to thrive in a growing financial sector.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

From answering 911 calls to securing grants that change lives, Jillian Bland has built a career around helping others. In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Jillian about her journey from police dispatch to LSCO’s Workforce Department. Hear how her unique background, passion for progress, and work with statewide grants are creating hands-on opportunities and hope for students and businesses alike.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

How do students turn vision into action? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Zoey Royer, president of LSCO’s brand-new FBLA chapter, and faculty advisor Ryan Holland. From leadership development to national competitions, discover how these Gators are building confidence, connections, and careers while making a big impact on campus today.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What happens when the host becomes the guest? In this special episode of Gator Bites, the mic is flipped on Elaina Forester as she shares her journey from LSCO student and ambassador to intern and storyteller. Joined by the Marketing and Communications team, Elaina reflects on launching the podcast, the lessons she’s learned behind the scenes, and how her experiences at LSCO are preparing her for a future career in journalism.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

What does it mean to be a student leader at LSCO? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Elaina Forester sits down with Kendra De La Fuente, Director of Advising and Recruiting, to explore the Student Ambassador program. From campus tours to community events, discover how these outstanding students lead with service, represent Gator pride, and help transform lives on and off campus.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into the world of crime scenes and investigations—Gator style? 🐊 In this episode of Gator Bites, host Elaina Forester sits down with Hallie Gates, Department Chair of Criminal Justice at LSCO, to talk about the brand-new Forensic Science program. From fingerprints to blood spatter to cybercrime, discover how LSCO is giving students the hands-on experience they need to crack the case and launch exciting careers in criminal justice.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

Join Dr. Wendy Elmore, Lamar State College Orange’s newly appointed president, as she shares her background, leadership approach, and vision for the college’s future.About Lamar State College Orange:Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.