Building the Future of Tempe: Workforce, Business & Education in Action

Recovery, Reinvention & Rising Higher: Two Students Redefining What’s Possible

In this inspiring episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese welcomes two extraordinary Rio Salado College students whose stories prove it’s never too late to start over, dream bigger, and redefine your future. Meet Marielena “Mari” Aguirre Foster, who is approaching nine years of sobriety and preparing to transfer to Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College to study public policy and health policy. Alongside her is Goldie Johnson Pompey, a student leader balancing work, academics, and a future legal career as she prepares to transfer to the University of Arizona to pursue law. Together, they share what it means to return to school as non-traditional students while juggling careers, recovery, leadership, and life experience. From late-night study sessions and online learning flexibility to discovering mentorship, purpose, and community through Rio Salado College, this episode highlights the transformative power of education at every stage of life. In this episode: * Mari shares her journey through recovery and personal transformation * Goldie discusses returning to college while working full-time * Both students reflect on finding leadership, belonging, and mentorship through student life * The conversation explores how community college can open unexpected doors * They discuss overcoming fear, self-doubt, and starting again This episode is a powerful reminder that growth is always possible — and that sometimes the most meaningful journeys begin later than expected.

From Foster Care to Founder: Building Hope Through 7th Dream Helping Hearts

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese sits down with Rio Salado student and nonprofit founder Shaniqua Hopkins, alongside one of the young women she mentors, Sharara. Shaniqua’s journey began in the foster care system — a childhood shaped by adversity, resilience, and a promise to create something better for others like her. Today, she is the founder of 7th Dream Helping Hearts [https://www.7thdreamhelpinghearts.org/], a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster, at-risk, pregnant, and parenting teens through mentorship, resources, and community. But this episode is more than one story — it is impact in action. Through Sharara’s emotional and inspiring testimony, listeners witness what happens when someone feels supported, seen, and believed in. From securing housing and employment to building confidence and independence, her journey reflects the heart of Shaniqua’s mission: walking alongside young women and helping them build self-sufficient futures. Together, they discuss: * Breaking cycles and creating generational change * The realities of foster care and teen parenthood * Starting a nonprofit while raising a family and attending college * The power of mentorship, consistency, and community support * Why courage often begins with simply reaching out This episode is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the life-changing impact of showing up for others.

Building the Future of Tempe: Workforce, Business & Education in Action

What does it take to build a thriving local economy? It takes collaboration. In this episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese sits down with Robin Arredondo-Savage, President & CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, and Lisa Hausz , Program Manager for Economic Development with the City of Tempe. Together, they explore how higher education, workforce development, and business leadership intersect to shape Tempe’s future. From attracting new industries to strengthening legacy businesses, from Career Ready internships to adult upskilling programs, this conversation dives into how Rio Salado College, the Chamber, and the City are working side by side to create opportunity for every generation. You’ll hear about: * Why skilled talent is the #1 driver of economic growth * The in-demand skills employers are seeking right now * How micro-credentials and flexible education meet real workforce needs * Supporting adult learners balancing work, family, and career transitions * The power of collaboration in building economic mobility

From Group Homes to Graduations: Frank Nino’s Journey of Resilience and Hope

In this inspiring episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese sits down with Frank Nino — a first-generation college graduate, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Rising Sun Athletic League. Frank opens up about his powerful story, from growing up in group homes and becoming a father at 19, to walking into Rio Salado College with his four kids and a dream. What started as one class turned into two associate degrees, two certificates, and a bachelor’s degree with honors. But Frank didn’t stop there. He’s now mentoring youth, building businesses, and redefining what’s possible for those who’ve felt unseen. This conversation is a moving reminder that your past does not define your future — and that purpose can be found through perseverance, service, and a commitment to making others feel seen and heard. 🎙️ Topics covered: * Frank’s journey from foster care to college * How Rio Salado helped him discover confidence and direction * The creation of Rising Sun Athletics and his mission to support underserved youth * The power of mentorship, faith, and education to transform lives * What legacy really means when you start with nothing 🔗 Learn more at www.riosalado.edu [https://www.riosalado.edu]

Brave Steps: Alysa Call’s Journey From Classroom to Clinic

In this powerful episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese sits down with Alysa Call, a lifelong learner whose two-decade educational journey with Rio Salado College spans from teacher to nurse — and every bold step in between. Alysa first turned to Rio Salado in 2006 as a busy mom and Spanish teacher seeking licensure renewal. Years later, she returned with a new dream: to become a nurse. With humor, honesty, and heart, Alysa shares how Rio’s flexible scheduling and supportive structure helped her navigate intense science prerequisites while balancing motherhood, work, and health challenges. From using frozen meal prep and family chore charts to layering chemistry classes between summer vacations, Alysa reveals the real-life systems, support, and mindset shifts that made it all possible. Now a nurse who uses her Spanish medical interpretation skills daily, Alysa reflects on what it means to show up scared, stay organized, and trust that even in the messiness, growth is happening.