Bear Tracks - The Official Podcast of Butler Community College

Memories of Butler

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs is joined by Gianna Scott, a 2008 graduate of Butler Community College and a small business owner. Gianna shares her journey from struggling with academics and dropping out of WSU to thriving as a small business owner in Butler County. She discusses the pivotal role Butler Community College played in reigniting her passion for learning and her transition from working at Cargill to starting her own photography and printing business, Flamingo Inc. Despite challenges, including changing career paths and dealing with economic downturns, Gianna emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, mentorship, and lifelong learning. She also highlights how Butler’s supportive community and flexible learning environment helped her succeed. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of perseverance and the pursuit of passion.

Thankful for Butler

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs talks with 2010 Butler graduate Rachelle Clift. Rachelle shares her educational journey from being initially hesitant about attending Butler Community College to falling in love with its campus and community. She discusses her involvement in various campus activities such as the dance team and marketing club, and how these experiences shaped her career path. Rachelle also delves into her current roles with Andover Life and the Andover Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the supportive environment Butler provided. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of Butler's comprehensive approach to education, as praised by Dr. Tamara Daniel, and Rachelle's continued advocacy for the college. Links: AndoverLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087605274625 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087605274625] AndoverLife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andoverlife/ [https://www.instagram.com/andoverlife/]   Andover Chamber of Commerce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andoverchamberofcommerce/ [https://www.facebook.com/andoverchamberofcommerce/] Andover Chamber of Commerce Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andover_chamber/ [https://www.instagram.com/andover_chamber/] Andover Chamber of Commerce LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andover-area-chamber-commerce/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andover-area-chamber-commerce/]   Andover Chamber Podcast: Andover Amplified on most streaming platforms.

ArtTober: Celebrating Butler's Arts Programs with Dean Valerie Haring

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs delves into Butler’s exceptional arts programs with special guest Valerie Haring, Dean of the Arts, Digital Media, and Communications Division. Valerie shares her extensive 34-year journey at Butler, from student to faculty member and eventually, to her current role as dean. She highlights the remarkable faculty's professional achievements, the tight-knit community within the arts division, and the legacy of the late Lynn Havel, former chair of the art department. Hearing also discusses ArtTober, a month-long celebration of arts at Butler, featuring performances, exhibitions, and collaborations with local high schools. The episode underscores the unique opportunities and supportive environment Butler Community College offers its students, encouraging prospective students to explore its programs.

Through Micah's Lens

In this episode of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs sits down with Butler graduate and filmmaker Micah Streeter. Micah shares his journey from growing up in Kansas to pursuing his passion for filmmaking, inspired by early experiences and family connections to higher education. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing high school, community college, and his filmmaking endeavors. Micah reflects on his creative process, the importance of critical thinking nurtured at Butler, and how community colleges like Butler have shaped his career. He also offers insights into his professional projects and the unexpected joys of logistical planning in film production. Follow Micah's work through his online platforms as he continues to make strides in the film industry.

Introducing Dr. Daniel - President of Butler Community College

In the season two premiere of Bear Tracks, host Hayley Hobbs welcomes the new president of Butler Community College, Dr. Tamara Daniel. Dr. Daniel shares her extensive background in higher education, her journey to Butler, and her vision for the future of the college. She discusses her strategies for improving student retention and completion rates, fostering internal relationships, and enhancing workforce development. Dr. Daniel emphasizes the importance of staying data-driven, the value of institutional culture, and the need for strong community partnerships. The episode concludes with Dr. Daniel expressing her excitement for the new academic year and her commitment to maintaining Butler's timeless values while driving innovation.