Chatting with Chemeketa

On this week’s Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and Les Wielgas initiate two inspiring conversations about what makes Chemeketa such a special place to learn, work, and belong.

First, hear from Karen Alexander, Director of Student Accessibility & Testing Services, about how Chemeketa is breaking down barriers so every student can succeed.

Then, Vivi Caleffi Prichard, Associate Vice President of Culture & Co...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Marie Hulett welcome special guests to highlight two major academic pathways shaping the future of health care and education. Dean of Health Sciences Sandi Kellogg joins the conversation to unveil Chemeketa’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, created in partnership with community colleges across Oregon, which will allow registered nurses to c...

In this episode, Chemeketa President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos explore two inspiring topics that show how Chemeketa enriches lives both inside and outside the classroom.

First, the spotlight is on music. Chemeketa’s Music Program Director and Chair Bryce Tomlin joins the show to share how the program gives students a creative outlet while building teamwork, confidence, and lifelong skills. Bryce talks about exciting up...

This week on Chatting with Chemeketa, Marie Hulett and Les Wielgos take you inside two of Chemeketa’s most high-powered programs. First up, Diesel Technology lead instructor Kevin Ruby shares how his students swept the top five spots at the state SkillsUSA competition—and what it takes to turn raw talent into industry-ready expertise. Then, Fire Protection instructor Joshua Darland joins the conversation with updates on rebuilding ...

What do a brand-new baseball team and a flurry of campus renovations have in common? They’re both part of Chemeketa’s big summer lineup! In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Marie Hulett and Les Wielgos welcome Pat Zajac, General Manager of the Marion Berries, to talk about Salem’s newest collegiate baseball team, how it landed at Chemeketa, and what it means for the community. Then, we take you behind the scenes with Isaac ...

On this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, guest host Marie Hulett joins Les Wielgos for an inside look at how Chemeketa is helping students succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. First up, Jennifer Cox, Dean of Library and Learning Resources, shares how the college is closing the digital divide through laptop lending, embedded tutoring, new tech tools, and fun summer events at the library, including a Comic Book launch an...

Get Ready for College—and Celebrate Big Wins!

In this exciting episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos welcome Teter Kapan, Director of Student Success and Belonging, to break down everything future students need to know to get started this fall—from applications and financial aid to orientation and student life. Whether you're a high school senior or an adult ready for a fresh start, Te...

In this sun-soaked episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Marie Hulett and Les Wielgos explore how summer term can be a powerful—and surprisingly chill—way to stay on track with your college goals. Associate Dean of Academic Advising Angela Archer joins the conversation to share expert tips on course planning, conquering intimidating classes, and making the most of Chemeketa’s resources—even during popsicle season. Then we shift from ...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Marie Hulett steps in as guest host alongside Les Wielgos to explore some exciting developments at the college. First, they dig into all the growth happening at Chemeketa’s Agricultural Hub with Tim Ray, Dean of Agricultural Sciences & Technology—covering everything from hands-on workshops to workforce training in fields like horticultur...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos uncork a fascinating discussion about two of Chemeketa’s standout programs: Wine Studies and Medical Assisting. Dean Paul Davis joins the conversation to highlight how these programs are preparing students for rewarding careers while supporting local industry needs. Plus, we sit down with Student Resource Navigator Mari Monroy Conchas, who ...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, we introduce two inspiring guests who are shaping the present and future of Chemeketa Community College. First, we head to the heart of Yamhill County with Russell Jones, the new leader at our Yamhill Valley Campus. Russell shares exciting developments at YVC, including high school partnerships, growing student success, and the return of Discover Day. Then, we sit down with Lillian Anders...

It's our 2-year anniversary episode of Chatting with Chemeketa! Join Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos as they celebrate this milestone and welcome two incredible guests who are making a difference in student success.

Ana Angel Chora shares her inspiring journey from ESOL student to student services specialist, highlighting how Chemeketa’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program empowers learners with essential skills a...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, we’re highlighting the incredible resources available to student veterans and the crucial support systems that help all students succeed.

Meet Nate Easton, the new coordinator of Chemeketa’s Veterans Resource Center, as he shares how the center fosters community, connects veterans with peer advisors, and provides critical services—from education benefits to wellness events.

Then, James Mc...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, hosts Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos explore the excitement of college athletics with Traci Stephenson from Chemeketa’s Athletics Department. They discuss the impact of sports on students, how teams are formed, and the important connection between athletics and academic success. Later in the show, Marg Yaroslaski joins to share exciting news about the expansion of Chemeketa’s Bachelor of ...

On this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, we look into the vibrant world of Chemeketa’s Art Department and Gallery with Deanne Beausoleil and Amadeo Rehbein-Verhoeven. Discover the incredible gallery exhibits, innovative art history and creativity classes, and the profound impact of art on students and the community.

Later, Francisco Saldivar joins us to highlight exciting updates in Chemeketa’s Apprenticeship Program, including ...

On this week’s Chatting with Chemeketa, we dive into two exciting topics! Dan Carlson, a Chemeketa Building Inspection program grad-turned-instructor, shares insights on how the program prepares students for in-demand careers as building inspectors—offering flexible pathways and even new non-credit certificates. Then, Karla Hale joins us to discuss expanding educator pathways, innovative partnerships, and how Chemeketa is shaping t...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, hosts Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos explore two exciting topics. First, Erika Romine from Chemeketa’s Early Childhood Education program shares how the college is addressing the critical need for preschool teachers in the Willamette Valley through diverse degree and certificate options, innovative cohorts in Salem and Yamhill, and exciting new initiatives like courses in Spanish launching...

In this episode of Chatting with Chemeketa, Jessica Howard and Les Wielgos welcome two inspiring guests to discuss transformative programs making a profound impact on our community. First, Katie Dwyer, Director of Prison Education and Community Reentry, shares how Chemeketa’s programs are giving Adults in Custody a chance to rebuild their lives through education, vocational training, and reentry support. Learn about the life-changi...

Join us on the latest episode of Chatting with Chemeketa as President Jessica Howard and co-host Les Wielgos explore the vibrant opportunities within Chemeketa Community College’s Horticulture Program. Special guest Joleen Schilling shares her inspiring journey into horticulture and highlights the immersive, hands-on experiences offered to students, including managing real-world plant production contracts and contributing to local ...