’Mid the Pines Podcast
Grove City College Alumni and College Relations
Grove City College strives to be the best Christian liberal arts college in America. We provide a learning experience unlike any other. But not everything you learn comes out of a textbook. At Grove City, faith informs education every bit as much as our esteemed faculty. This one-of-a-kind experience means that while students are preparing for a career, they are also discovering their purpose. This podcast features the alumni and faculty thought leaders of the highest proficiency, purpose, and principles sharing their personal and professional experiences and expertise. In their own words, these are their stories.
Episodes
Ep. 043: Stewardship That Matters: Finance, Calling, and Investing in People with Jeff Bees '92
In this episode of Mid the Pines, Zach Jew ’11 welcomes Jeff Bees ’92, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Resources (Health Sciences) and Vice Dean for Finance at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Jeff reflects on his career in nonprofit finance, the importance of stewardship and leadership, and what makes Grove City College graduates stand out. Along the way, he shares insights on mentorship, recruiting talent, investing in people, and building a meaningful career rooted in purpose and service.
Ep. 042: Ready for the First Bell: Helping Students, Parents, And Teachers Tart the School Year Strong with Emmalynne (Adrian '10) Waseleski
In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew '11 welcomes Emmalynne (Adrian '10) Waseleski, Assistant Principal at Hillview Elementary School in Grove City, for a timely conversation about starting the school year with confidence and purpose. Emmalynne shares practical advice for students, parents, and educators, covering everything from establishing healthy routines and building strong school-family partnerships to navigating the challenges facing today's learners. Whether you're preparing for the first day of school or looking for encouragement throughout the year, this episode offers valuable insights on student success, educational leadership, and creating school communities where every child can thrive.
Ep. 041: BONUS EPISODE - Opening Convocation 2026: Building Wisdom in the Age of AI
Grove City College President Bradley J. Lingo '00 kicked off the 2026-27 academic year with an Opening Convocation address emphasizing the increased use of Artificial Intelligence and the disruptive technology’s impact and implications for higher education, while encouraging students to pursue the truth, meaning, and wisdom necessary to live a faithful and fruitful life. “Let us build with care. Let us refuse to outsource the work of becoming wise. Let us pursue truth, goodness, and beauty with courage and humility,” he said. ▶️ Watch the full Convocation address. 📰 Find additional coverage and related news from Grove City College.
Ep. 040: More Than a Picture: Capturing Stories, Chasing Light, and the Art of Wedding Photography with Hannah (Williams ’13) Bjorndal
In this episode of 'Mid the Pines, award-winning wedding photographer and Grove City College alumna Hannah (Williams ’13) Bjorndal shares how she turned a passion for photography into a thriving business. From capturing meaningful moments to navigating the realities of entrepreneurship, Hannah offers a behind-the-scenes look at wedding photography, industry trends, advice for couples, and the art of preserving stories that last a lifetime.
Ep. 039: Navigating Change, Leading People, and Serving Through Real Estate with Mark Sandvig '07
Grove City College alumnus Mark Sandvig ’07 joins Mid the Pines to discuss his journey from seminary and pastoral preparation to real estate leadership. Mark shares lessons on career change, calling, leadership, and serving others, offering practical encouragement for anyone navigating transition or seeking purpose in their work.
Ep. 038: Leading When It Matters Most: Lessons in Leadership with Dr. Richard Stone
What does it take to lead in high-stakes environments—and stay grounded in faith and purpose? In this episode of Mid the Pines, former Undersecretary for Health for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Dr. Rich Stone shares lessons from his career in military and national healthcare leadership, along with reflections on raising a Grove City graduate. From leading complex teams to making tough decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement for aspiring leaders.
Ep. 037: Time, Talent, and Tradition-Investing in the Place That Invested in You with Steve DeCaspers '97
In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Steve DeCaspers ’97, current Alumni Council President, to explore the lasting impact of alumni engagement at Grove City College. From personal reflections on his student experience to leading the Alumni Council today, Steve shares how graduates can stay meaningfully connected through their time, talent, and resources. Hear stories of mentorship, service, and generosity—and discover how even small steps can strengthen the Grove City community for generations to come. Whether you’re newly graduated or years removed, this conversation offers simple, meaningful ways to reconnect and make an impact.
Ep 036: 1,200 People. One Vision. How Great Leaders Make It Real with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia
What does it take to align 1,200 people around a single vision? In this episode of Mid the Pines, Zach Jew sits down with Barbara (Bentz '83) Staniscia, President and General Manager of Bechtel Plant Machinery, Inc., to explore how great leaders turn vision into reality. From her Grove City roots to leading mission-critical work supporting the U.S. Navy, Barb shares practical insights on culture, purpose, and leading people through complexity.
Ep 035: From Psychology Major to Bank Executive: Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats on Leadership, Being People-Forward, and Finding Your Path
In this episode, we sit down with Grove City College alumna Jordyn (Taylor ’03) Kemats, Executive Vice President of S&T Bank, to explore a vocational journey shaped by faith, leadership, and lifelong learning. From her beginnings as a psychology major to leading enterprise transformation in banking, Jordyn reflects on how calling often unfolds one step at a time. Together, we discuss leadership through change, decision‑making grounded in character, and the role of faith in navigating responsibility and growth—offering encouragement to students and professionals discerning their own paths.
Ep 034: Sesquicentennial Stories: 150 Years of Grove City College with Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak
In this special sesquicentennial episode of 'Mid the Pines, our host Zach Jew ’11 sits down with Hilary (Lewis ’09) Walczak to explore the 150-year story of Grove City College. From the College’s founding in 1876 to the traditions that still shape campus life today, Hilary offers a unique perspective from the College Archives — highlighting the people, moments, and convictions that have defined Grove City across generations. The conversation also looks ahead to the 2026 sesquicentennial celebration and what it means for alumni, students, and friends of the College. Join us as we reflect on a legacy of faith, leadership, and enduring impact — and consider what the next 150 years might hold. **After this episode was recorded, we learned of the passing of Dr. Edwin P. “Doc” Arnold on March 16, 2026. Dr. Arnold served as longtime Director of Bands and Chair of the Music Department at Grove City College, and also held several senior administrative roles across campus. He was 80.
Ep 033: BONUS EPISODE Featuring President Brad Lingo’s '00 Inauguration Speech
A special bonus episode featuring President Brad Lingo’s '00 inauguration address as the 10th president of Grove City College, highlighting the College’s mission and the enduring values that define who we are.
Ep 032: Learning the Long Way: Formation, Leadership, and Endurance with Nick Matthews '95
In this episode of Mid the Pines, Grove City College alumnus Nick Matthews ’95—business leader, executive coach, and accomplished endurance athlete—joins host Zach Jew '11 to explore how leaders are shaped over time. From his early days studying Industrial Management to leading teams, learning through failure, and eventually coaching CEOs, Nick shares candid insights on formation, humility, and the long view of leadership. He also reflects on the discipline behind completing 76 marathons and ultramarathons, and how endurance principles translate directly into effective leadership. This is a conversation about growth, stewardship, and learning the long way.
Ep 031: Faith at Home Plate: From GCC to the Red Sox, Kyle Sasala
In this episode of 'Mid the Pines, we sit down with Kyle Sasala, a former Grove City College Baseball Coach who is currently serving as a minor league coach for the Portland Sea Dogs, the Double-A affiliate for the Boston Red Sox. Before stepping into professional baseball, Kyle spent several years on the Varsity Baseball staff at Grove City College, where he poured into student-athletes and helped live out an athletic department culture built around a simple but powerful mantra: Wolverines Together.
Ep 030: Moving into our next 150 with Brad Lingo '00, President of Grove City College
Our newest 'Mid the Pines episode features Brad Lingo ’00, J.D., the 10th President of Grove City College, for a dynamic conversation about his first semester in office, his transition from Regent University’s Law School, and his vision for the College as it marks its 150th anniversary in 2026. He offers an engaging look at upcoming celebrations and how the broader community can participate. Tune in to learn more about what to expect in this milestone year as we look toward our exciting future.
Ep 029: Finding Home at Grove City College with Yvonne Lingo, First Lady of Grove City College
In this episode of Mid the Pines, we sit down with Yvonne Lingo, the new First Lady of Grove City College. Yvonne shares her family’s experience of settling into campus life, the joys and surprises of living at the heart of GCC, and the moments that made it feel like home. The conversation highlights her passion for community, hospitality, and discipleship, including her vision for hosting the upcoming Senior Women’s Bible Study in the President’s House. Enjoy a warm and thoughtful dialogue about gratitude, faith, and the unique spirit of Grove City College, as Yvonne looks ahead with hope and intention for the semesters to come.
Ep 028:18th Annual Ronald Reagan Lecture, featuring Paul Ryan, Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
On November 6, Grove City College hosted a historic evening: former Vice President Mike Pence and former Speaker Paul Ryan together on stage for the first time in College history. Before 600 guests, they reflected on Ronald Reagan’s vision of America as a “Shining City on a Hill” and the enduring beacons of faith and freedom. Listen in to the recording of the 18th Ronald Reagan Lecture hosted by the Institute for Faith & Freedom at Grove City College.
Ep 027: Vision, Venture, and Vocation with Evan Addams '10
In this episode of Mid the Pines, host Zach Jew '11 talks with Grove City College alumnus Evan Addams ’10 — founder of The Gather Company, co-founder of Arise Classical Academy, and Alumni Trustee of Grove City College. Evan shares his journey from student to entrepreneur, exploring how faith, creativity, and leadership intersect. Hear insights on innovation, calling, and the courage to build something meaningful — all grounded in the timeless values of Grove City College.
Episode 026: Heart to Heart: A Journey into Pediatric Cardiology
As a pediatric cardiologist and Professor of Pediatrics at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Dr. Justin Tretter ‘06 discusses his journey from GCC to a leading expert in cardiac imaging and congenital heart care. With over 170 published articles and his role as editor-in-chief for the upcoming 5th edition of Anderson’s Pediatric Cardiology textbook, he shares insights into his impactful work, including his role as Lead Medical Scientist at Cara Medical. Tune in to learn about his experiences, challenges, and advice for future medical professionals!
Episode 025: Behind the Scenes with “The Chosen” with JD Larsen '96 and Melissa (Trifaro '96) MacLeod
In this episode of the ‘Mid the Pines podcast, we sat down with Grove City College alumni JD Larsen '96 and Melissa (Trifaro '96) MacLeod. JD, the CFO of 5&2 Studios—responsible for the production of The Chosen TV series on the life and ministry of Jesus—shares his journey from Grove City College to his role in one of the most successful faith-based series today. JD also shares the significance of the series’ production moves, funding model changes, and the studio's future plans. Melissa, Senior Director of Alumni and College Relations, reflects on their recent visit to The Chosen set in Texas. From campus memories to career advice, this episode offers an insightful and inspiring conversation for alumni and fans of The Chosen alike - Don't miss Season 5, now in theaters in three parts during April!
Episode 024: President Paul J. McNulty ’80, Dr. Paul Kengor, & Andrew Coffin ’98 - From Grove City to Hollywood: Behind the Scenes of "Reagan"
President Paul J. McNulty ’80 served as host of this 'Mid the Pines podcast episode with Dr. Paul Kengor, professor of political science and executive director of the Institute for Faith & Freedom at GCC, and alumnus Andrew Coffin ’98, vice president and director of the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, Ca. The pair unpacked their personal and professional connections and talked about their experiences beyond the classroom that have taken them to places far west as they worked together to film Reagan, the 2024 film adapted from Kengor's book, The Crusader.
Episode 023: Dr. Karin Hendrickson '99 - Striking a Chord: How Music and Sports Shape Success
In this inspiring episode, Jeff Tedford '00 (Chair; Professor of Music at Grove City College) sits down with Dr. Karin Hendrickson '99, a dynamic alumna whose journey through the worlds of music and sports has significantly shaped her path to success. Join us as we explore Karin's early passions and the pivotal moments that led her to excel both as a musician and an athlete.
Episode 022: Robert J. Lewis '64 - A Legacy of Leadership
Robert J. Lewis '64 is a distinguished alumnus and a 2024 recipient of our Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award. From his humble beginnings to becoming a renowned figure in the business world, Robert's journey is a testament to resilience and innovation. Listen to this episode to discover how he transformed challenges into opportunities, leading to a successful career and life lived with philanthropy. We'll explore his insights on leadership, the importance of giving back, and how his time at GCC shaped his path.
Episode 021: Dr. Kristina Pazehoski '01 - The Science of Mentorship
Dr. Kristina Pazehoski '01 is Grove City College’s Chair of the Department of Biology. In this episode, Kristina shares her journey from GCC student to GCC professor, including her humble reaction to being named Omicron Delta Kappa's Professor of the Year in 2018. Kristina reveals how her relationships with students developed a passion for mentorship, bringing full circle her own formative experiences with GCC professors who mentored her in years past. Listen to this episode to learn more about the "science" of mentoring students, from spiritual ministry to her current research with students studying the gut microbiome.
Episode 020: Richard Staley '62 - Impacting and Investing in Future Generations
Richard G. Staley ’62 is a successful entrepreneur and generous benefactor of Grove City College. He earned his bachelor degree in Chemical Engineering from GCC and then spent 15 years working for a company before he discovered his passion for starting his own business. In 1977 he founded Flavor House Inc., and then years later he started Staley Equipment Corp. In 2020, Richard gave 4 million dollars towards Grove City College, and in recognition of his generous gift, the Board approved renaming our primary academic building in his honor - Staley Hall of Arts and Letters. Join us in getting to know Richard through this podcast conversation, as we discuss his career journey and his passion for impacting the next generation!
Episode 019: Jake Reid '05 - What You Can't Coach
Jake Reid '05 is the President and CEO of Sporting Kansas City (Sporting KC) - one of 29 teams in major league soccer (MLS). Jake received his bachelor's degree in marketing management from Grove City College and also played on the varsity basketball team. He launched his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as an Accounting Executive and Sales Manager. He then moved to England, working as a Ticket Sales Manager for the Derby County Football Club. Jake has been with Sporting KC since 2010 in various roles, serving as President and CEO since the age of 33. Join us to learn more about what Jake does in his current role and how he has achieved success as a young professional.
BONUS Episode: Impact 150 Celebration - Join us Nov. 3 @ Gecko Robotics (Pittburgh, Pa.)
Join Development Officer Zach Jew '11 and Vice President for Advancement Jeff Prokovich '89 as they discuss the exciting Impact 150 Launch Celebration event to be held on November 3, and the innovative work being done by event host, Gecko Robotics. This alumni-owned company is leading the way in high-tech global solutions for industry and infra-structure and have some pretty special ties to the College. Don't miss this special video edition and get registered now for an evening you won't want to miss on November 3rd!
Episode 018: Michael Lazarus ’77 - Hiring Character, Training Talent, and Investing in Relationships
Michael Lazarus ’77 is a past recipient of the Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award and holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Grove City College. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of companies Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras and Breeze Airways. The founding Chairman of JetBlue Airways and Co-Chairman of Fender Musical Instruments Corp., he has served on the Board of Directors for Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches, Restoration Hardware, Morris Air/Southwest Airlines, Guitar Centers, Inc., Integro, Inc., Apple American Group (Applebee’s), and many other privately-held growth companies. With this much business expertise, Michael had a lot of wisdom to share - tune in to learn about his story of perseverance to improve and advance in all he does.
Episode 017: Dan Creston ’81 - Investing in Start-Ups and Engaging with Students
Dan Creston ’81 graduated from Grove City College with a B.A. in Business Administration and started his career working in sales. Later, he landed as Chief Operating Officer at Alpha Packaging Inc. and partnered with the CEO to open 9 plastic packaging plants - selling the company 3 times to private equity firms. Dan is currently the founder and owner of Creston Consulting, a small business mentoring and Angel investing firm. Dan shares his story of how he has invested in start-up, empowered new ideas, and continues to engage with current students looking for new business ventures.
Episode 016: Joe Dorris ’11 - Spreading the Gospel Through Art
Joe Dorris ’11 is a missionary living in Guatemala working with The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM). This episode delves into Joe's passion for videography and how he's seeing God use it in unique ways to spread the gospel.
Episode 015: Rusty Chadwick ’04 | Sharing a Passion for Nurturing Successful Teams and Fulfilled Team Members
Rusty Chadwick ’04 literally “takes one for the team” every day! As Director of WinShape Teams, one of five arms of the WinShape Foundation that was established in 1984 by Truett and Jeannette Cathy (also the founders of Chick-fil-A), Rusty makes it his mission help teams of every shape and size to become the very best version of themselves. In our latest ‘Mid the Pines podcast, Rusty shares about his unique career experiences, including his latest project, a documentary series called Teams Made Well. Learn how a guy from West Virginia found himself driving cattle in Colorado and later drove a camper van across the mountains of New Zealand – all part of the unexpected but divinely orchestrated path that led him to discover his true calling. Learn more about the Teams Made Well documentary series and check out Rusty’s book, Team Work: 13 Timeless Principles for Creating Success and Fulfillment as a Team Member.
Episode 014: Lissa (Swanson ’10) Yanak | Empowering Mindset, Attitude, and Habits to Transform Adversity into Opportunity
Join us for an inspiring chat with Lissa (Swanson '10) Yanak about her journey from Grove City College to a career as a Licensed Professional Counselor, and her recent shift into Life Coaching. Lissa is passionate about empowering others and explores how our mindset, attitude, and habits transform adversity into opportunity – something she's learned from her own journey as a two-time Cancer "Thriver."
Episode 013: Rob Kunst ’19 | Career Networking: Brick-by-Brick
Rob Kunst '19 graduated with a major in Finance and an Analytics minor, and he's now working at Protiviti as a Senior Consultant for the Risk & Compliance practice in New York City. How did Rob go from Butler, PA to a consulting job in NYC? In this episode, Rob will share how he took the vision and values of the Wolverine Football team off the field and networked with alumni to land his current career.
Episode 012: Dr. Randy Wilber ’76 - Initiating International Peace Serving Team USA, Olympics
2013 Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award winner Dr. Randy Wilber '76 is a senior physiologist at the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO. He has served Team USA athletes at 11 Olympic games, including elite athletes like Michael Phelps, Apollo Ohno, Katie Ledecky, Ryan Lochte, and many others. His work with athletes focuses on altitude training, heat/humidity acclimatization, blood chemistry analysis, over training, international air travel jet lag, and exercise-induced asthma. In this episode of the 'Mid the Pines podcast, Dr. Wilber discusses how he landed in his dream career due to a coffee table book he read at age 8 and the philosophy of the Olympic games that continues to resonate with him today.
Episode 011: Laura Fryan ’11 and Aubrey Patton ’10_Designing Life Together
Laura Fryan '11 and Aubrey Patton's '10 friendship has taken them from Grove City College to Northeast Ohio, where they have supported each other as their families have grown and are now working together to grow their shared hobby of interior design into a start-up consulting business, the Love Living Here Design, Co. We’re going to explore their experiences together in business and also be sure to leave our listeners with some practical interior design and home remodeling tips and tricks!
Episode 010: Falco Muscante ’20 | Why Return
After completing his degree in Business Management at Grove City College, Falco Muscante '20 went on to law school at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh where he is currently completing his Juris Doctor degree and working as a Summer Associate for K & L Gates, a multinational law firm spanning five continents, one of the top international law firms in the world. While the pandemic provided an unexpected ending to Falco’s senior year, he returned in 2021 to walk the stage and share a commencement message titled “Why Return” - emphasizing gratitude to those who make Grove City College an amazing place. Our conversation today will encompass his career journey and his personal pursuit of hard work and dedication. I’m excited to hear his perspective on being a life-long learner, learning not just from professors or managing partners, but also from the people we interact with daily.
Episode 009: Bill Smith ’69 | Co-founding Smith Micro Software, Inc
Bill Smith, class of 1969, is one of our most accomplished alumni and is a past recipient of the Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award. After graduating from Grove City College with a degree in Business Administration, Bill launched his career with companies like RCA Computer Systems, Xerox Data Systems, and Rockwell International Corporation before co-founding Smith Micro Software, Inc. in 1982. Guided by his visionary leadership and savvy business acumen, Smith Micro developed a reputation as a trusted software solution provider to wireless carriers and cable companies. Throughout the company’s 40-year history, Bill has overseen more than 25 strategic acquisitions and has built Smith Micro into a multi-national company in the rapidly evolving global telecommunications industry. Recently, in 2021, Smith Micro made the largest acquisition in company history, making it a market leader in delivering mobile family safety software solutions to wireless carriers.
Episode 008: Don Shockey ’63 | The Improbable Journey
Dr. Don Shockey, class of 1963, has lived a life that many people would consider fascinating, and that Don himself calls “The Improbable Journey.” How did this Pennsylvania farm boy find himself researching shock wave physics and materials fracture science, working for the Stanford Research Institute, consulting for NASA, and pursuing hobbies like working with the ski patrol at Lake Tahoe and diving for abalone off the coast of California? We’ll find out today as we chat with Don, who was Grove City College’s Man of the Year and Sportsman of the Year in 1963 and who went on to become a Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award winner in 2010.
Episode 007: Carol (MacGamwell ’79) Yannuzzi | Advocating for Type 1 Diabetes
Grove City College Alumni Association president and member of the class of 1979, Carol MacGamwell Yannuzzi, has had great success combining her business and fundraising skills with a personal passion for the issue of type 1 diabetes. She has been promoting the research, education, and advocacy of diabetes through her roles at the American Diabetes Association and JDRF, formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Listen in to learn her story from Grove City College, her advocacy for type 1 diabetes, and how she's making an impact in our community.
Episode 006: Christopher Parker ’93 | A Miraculous Road to Recovery
Christopher Parker, class of 1993, has served as a music educator for 14 years, and he’s also been a high school principal, and even a substitute teacher for a time. Chris is married to Tracy, and they share their lives in Rochester, New York, with their 3 beautiful children, a 10-year-old son and 9-year-old twins, a son and daughter. Today’s podcast focuses on the story of Chris’ prolonged battle with Covid-19 and his miraculous road to recovery where he has encountered the grace of God at many turns. As a warning to our listeners, some parts of Chris’ story may be difficult to hear.
Episode 005: Dr. Andy Sems ’95 | Orthopaedic Surgeon and Commencement Speaker
Dr. Andy Sems '95 is one of our most accomplished alumni who will soon be returning to campus for the College’s 142nd Commencement to address our Class of 2022. After graduating from Grove City College, Dr. Sems completed his medical training at The Ohio State University and his orthopaedic surgery residency at The Cleveland Clinic, with fellowships in Austria and at the University of Minnesota/Hennepin County Medical Center. Since 2005, he has been affiliated with the world-famous Mayo Clinic, where he oversees the Limb Lengthening and Regeneration Clinic. He shares with us his career journey and a sneak preview of his anticipated Commencement address to our Class of 2022.
Episode 004: Jake Loosararian ’13 | Founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics
We caught up with Jake Loosararian '13, founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics to talk about his journey from "Grover to Gecko" and points in between. Find out more about Jake and his quickly expanding company that now has a presence in the Netherlands, a brand new 70,000 square foot Pittsburgh headquarters at Nova Place, and the largest 2022 investor funding round ($73M) in the Pittsburgh region to date.
Episode 003: Amy (Fisher ’09) and Nate Mucha ’08 | Entrepreneurs @ Daisy Pops and Each+Every
Our guests on the ‘Mid the Pines podcast are a husband-and-wife team, Nate Mucha, class of 2008 and Amy Fisher Mucha, class of 2009. Nate and Amy live and work in Kent, OH, each owning a growing business while raising a young family together. In work and life, this couple has surrounded themselves with a community of Grove City College alumni!
Episode 002: Karin (Hawkins ’92) Reed | Virtual and Hybrid Meeting Expertise
Amy Evans from Grove City College is joined by alumna Karin (Hawkins) Reed, class of 1992. Karin is an Emmy award-winning journalist and CEO of Speaker Dynamics, a corporate communications training firm, featured in Forbes. While speaking through a webcam might be relatively new to much of the world, Karin has been teaching business professionals how to be effective on-camera communicators for nearly a decade. A three-time award-winning author, she has been quoted as a thought leader by various prestigious publications, including Inc. (Incorporated) Magazine, Fast Company and Business Insider and was named an “Author who Inspires Us” by McKinsey and Company. Karin and her team have been the chosen training partner for some of the world’s most recognized companies – from Nike to Lenovo (lə-NOH-voh) – and most respected academic institutions in the world –from Duke University to the Graduate School of Business at Stanford. In this episode, Karin shares her career journey and practical advice for the virtual and hybrid work environment.
Episode 001: Kathy Hunt ’91 | Professional Writer, Cookbook Author, Chef
Joanie Baumgartner from Grove City College talks with alumna Kathy Hunt, class of 1991, also known as “Kitchen Kat.” Kathy is a professional writer, blogger, a trained chef, a cooking class instructor, and lecturer. She’s a lifetime learner with 2 master’s degrees and culinary school rounding out her Grove City College degree. She’s accomplished all this while also being a consummate world traveler, having visited 51 countries on six continents! She’s just launched her third book, the second cookbook she’s authored, titled “Luscious, Tender, Juicy: Recipes for Perfect Texture in Dinners, Desserts, and More.”
2021 Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award - Christine (Bittler ’97) Keener
Christine (Bittler '97) Keener receives the Jack Kennedy Alumni Achievement Award at Homecoming 2021. She is vice president of operations, in Europe and North America, for Alcoa, Inc., where she is responsible for the operational performance of 10 production facilities in Europe and North America employing over 6,300. Most recently, she served as VP Commercial & Strategy where she led marketing, sales, trading, new business development, metal planning, commodity risk management, and customer service for the global primary metal portfolio of $7-8 billion in revenue, and was accountable for setting the strategic direction and managing portfolio decisions and growth projects for the Aluminum business unit.
2021 Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award - Dr. Brian Pall ’94
Dr. Brian Pall '94, director of Global Clinical Science, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc., accepts the Jack Kennedy Alumni Achievement Award at Grove City College's Homecoming 2021. Dr. Pall leads a team of research clinicians who are developing the next generation of contact lens products. Throughout his career, he has focused on soft contact lens product development from prototype to global launch. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and has been granted four patents. He led the clinical development and launch of the world’s first commercially available medication-releasing contact lens.
2021 Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award - A. Christopher Bakken III ’82
A. Christopher Bakken III '82 accepts the Jack Kennedy Alumni Achievement Awards award at Homecoming 2021. He is the executive vice president of nuclear operations and chief nuclear officer at Entergy Nuclear and is responsible for plants in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Michigan, and Nebraska. An enterprise leader, he builds relationships with stakeholders and the nuclear industry, and is a strong advocate for the company’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives.
9/11 In Their Own Words - This Could be my Last Morning Alive (Paul McNulty ’80 and Brenda (Millican ’80) McNulty)
Grove City College President Paul McNulty '80 and his wife Brenda '80 recount their unique experiences of 9/11 as a family in the public eye. Paul arrived at work at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. as the first planes were crashing in New York City. Events unfolded quickly, and within days, Paul was appointed the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, ultimately resulting in his prosecution of the case against terrorist Zacarias Moussaoui. They share how the events of 9/11 impacted their lives and the lives of their children. This audio interview was conducted by Grove City College Archivist Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak. These recordings are the property of Grove City College and may not be used without permission. Contact [email protected] for more information.
9/11 In Their Own Words - Immediate Deployment (Steve Frank ’74)
On 9/11, Steve Frank '74 was a full-time Army National Guard LTC assigned as Director of Public Works, U.S. Army Engineer Corps. He was on a phone call with the Pentagon when he heard a loud "bang" and the line went dead. He had heard Flight 77 crash into the Pentagon in real-time, and was immediately deployed to Ft. Hood, Texas to assume command of the 4th Infantry Division’s Rear Operations Center (Division) Logistics Command Post. This is his story. This audio interview was conducted by Grove City College Archivist Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak. These recordings are the property of Grove City College and may not be used without permission. Contact [email protected] for more information.
9/11 In Their Own Words - Exiting the Pentagon (Jim Hogan ’79)
Jim Hogan '79 was retired from the Air Force and working as a civilian employee in the Freedom of Information Office at the Pentagon on 9/11. He recounts his miraculous evacuation from the building that day. This audio interview was conducted by Grove City College Archivist Hilary (Lewis '09) Walczak. These recordings are the property of Grove City College and may not be used without permission. Contact [email protected] for more information.