Alumni Stories with Steve Robinson

Shalet Barker, Holt Senior Care & Rehab Center

On this episode, Alumni Stories welcomes Shalet Barker into the studio to share her journey. As a dedicated healthcare professional who works as a Housekeeping Aide at Holt Senior Care & Rehab Center, Shalet built a strong educational foundation at LCC - earning both her Human Services Certificates of Completion and Achievement before graduating in May of 2021. She then continued her education, completing her bachelor’s degree in Community Human Service with a Family Concentration in December 2023. She is currently pursuing graduate studies at Sienna Heights University, with plans to transfer to Walsh University in Canton, Ohio, where she will complete her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her commitment to serving others spans from her hands-on work in senior care, to her academic pursuit of becoming a mental health counselor.

Dustin Earley, County Road Association of Michigan

Dustin Earley's educational journey took him through LCC from 2012 to 2015, where he built a strong foundation before completing his Professional Communications Bachelor's degree at Sienna Heights University at the University Center on LCC’s campus. Dustin has built a successful career as a communications professional, earning his accreditation in PR designation while leading engagement and outreach efforts for Michigan's county road infrastructure. Website: Country Road Association of Michigan [https://micountyroads.org/]

Oscar Pena, Black Rose Designs

Oscar Pena is an inspiring entrepreneur who had an incredible journey throughout his time at LCC. Starting with the HSDCI program in 2012, Oscar later moved to the Digital Media, Audio, and Cinema program. Now, he is the Head Designer and founder of Black Rose Designs, a clothing company known for its high-quality apparel made right here in Downtown Lansing. As a dedicated small business owner, Oscar continuously gives back to the community. Recently, he reconnected with LCC through the Michigan Reconnect program.

Marta Herrera-Zamora, State of Michigan Quality Analyst

Dr. Robinson invites Marta Herrera-Zamora to join him on this episode of Alumni Stories. Herrera-Zamora is a Cuban Refugee who obtained two associate degrees from Lansing Community College and continued her education at Michigan State University. She now works for the State of Michigan as a Quality Analyst.

Andrew Gillman, Bicultural Consultant

Dr. Robinson connects with Andy Gillman in this episode of Alumni Stories. Andy is a Bicultural Consultant for Toyota and the President of Hinoki Foundation, a volunteer organization that promotes Japanese-English bilingualism and multiculturalism. Andy explains how LCC’s Japan Adventure set him on the path to a career involving Japan, and its effects it had on his life through social, business, and educational connections. Website: Hinoki Foundation [https://hinokifoundation.org/] Website: LCC Japan Studies Endowment [https://www.lcc.edu/foundation/givenow/japanstudies.html]