KCC Staff/Retiree Alumni Stories

Kelli Jandura

KCC Staff Alumni
Director of Clinical Education, Respiratory Program
’03 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

I always knew that I wanted to help people and originally I wanted to be a teacher. I took the CNA program in high school and found out that I love healthcare. My clinical then led me to the respiratory program at KCC!

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

KCC was the perfect choice for me. It was big enough and had all of the resources I needed to meet my goals, but small enough that it always felt like home.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

Do it!! You will not regret it. You may start here, but you can finish anywhere!

What is your role in your position?

I have loved every minute of my position as the Director of Clinical Education for the Respiratory Program.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part is being able to make a difference in patients’ lives through educating future Respiratory Therapists! I get to impact patient care, mentor future professionals, share my knowledge and passion for helping others, witness students’ growth as they progress through the program, and help contribute to advancements in the field.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

I feel honored and privileged to have learned from and work alongside some of the greatest educators. I have many great memories from KCC.

Herman Martinez

KCC Staff Alumni
Manager II - Manager of Facility Maintenance
’21 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

I have always wanted to further my education, and choosing KCC was the perfect fit for my life circumstances. As a local institution, KCC made it possible for me to begin my educational journey while balancing full-time employment and raising my young daughters.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

KCC was an excellent choice for me as an employee, as it allowed me to advance my career by earning my associate degree in Heating and Air Conditioning while remaining employed. The flexible scheduling at KCC made it possible to attend classes while managing both work and family commitments.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

My advice for students considering KCC is that it offers courses that can accommodate your schedule and align with your desired career path. Additionally, KCC provides courses that are transferable to other Universities. Why not start your educational journey at KCC; and have the flexibility to finish your degree elsewhere when desired.

What is your role in your position?

I am responsible for ensuring that the maintenance department operates smoothly and efficiently.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The opportunity to grow professionally and academically.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

One of the most memorable events was seeing all four of my daughters and my spouse walk the stage to proudly receive their KCC degrees.

Olivia Melgoza

KCC Staff Alumni
Administrative Assistant, TRIO grant programs
’21 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

As I was finishing high school, I wasn’t sure about attending college because of my late father’s illness. My family encouraged me to start at a community college and explore my options. KCC gave me the flexibility to attend classes in a way that worked best for me, which meant a lot since I was also caring for my father at the time. Staying close to family was a priority, and KCC made that possible. It also felt like the right fit and offered everything I was looking for in a college.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

KCC was a good choice for me because it was close to home and offered the flexibility I needed. While I was studying, I worked as a student employee and cared for my late father during his battle with cancer. I had a lot to balance, but the support and understanding I received from KCC staff made it possible to stay on track and succeed despite the challenges. As an employee, KCC gave me the opportunity to develop new skills while being part of a team that embraces diversity and fosters an inclusive culture.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

My advice to any student considering KCC is to take advantage of all the resources available to you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and connect with professors, staff, and fellow students. KCC is a wonderful place to grow, learn, and prepare for your future. Believe in yourself—you have what it takes to succeed, even through the challenges you may face.

What is your role in your position?

I am an Administrative Assistant for TRIO (Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services). I handle scheduling, recordkeeping, event planning, student outreach, and data entry.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job at KCC is knowing I play a role in helping students reach their goals. I value the strong sense of community and the opportunities to build meaningful connections with both students and coworkers.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

Some of my favorite memories are the team events and going on cultural trips with TRIO Talent Search, Upward Bound, or TRIO SSS. Having been a student in the same program I now work for makes these experiences even more meaningful. I really enjoy connecting with students, coworkers, and the community.

Jackie Montemayer

KCC Staff Alumni
Respiratory Therapy Program, Director & Phi Theta Kappa, Advisor
’03 KCC Graduate
’09 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

As a senior in high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. My parents encouraged starting at a junior college and then transferring. I liked the idea of smaller class sizes and a more affordable education. At the time my mom didn’t live far from KCC, so I was able to still live at home and concentrate on my courses.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

The small class sizes provided more individual attention from the professors. The college truly felt like a community that wanted me to succeed. There was student led organizations that I was able to join: TRIO, student council, and Phi Theta Kappa. I was also able to obtain a student worker position that worked around my class schedule. My first year at KCC, I was able to walk on to the softball team that received 3rd in the nation. KCC provides top notch professors, mentors, and coaches. KCC set me up for success as I transferred to UIUC.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

I have no regrets going to a community college first. I appreciate the opportunities KCC provides to all students. KCC truly set me up for success — I believe in KCC’s values and mission. I came back to KCC for a second degree and came back again as a professor.

What is your role in your position?

I am a Respiratory Therapy Program Director and a Phi Theta Kappa advisor. I keep up with the reporting of our program to our accreditation body, CoARC. I instruct courses throughout the program, keep track of the budget, report our outcomes to the college, and get to collaborate with other health care program directors to provide a great experience for all students! For Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), I help facilitate meetings among PTK members, encourage students to be involved and keep up with regional and leadership involvement opportunities.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing students succeed is the most rewarding part of my position.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

KCC offers their employees professional development opportunities. I look forward to our Summer Respiratory Forum that we are able to attend with other respiratory programs across the United States. Additionally, in 2019, our PTK students were recognized on stage in Orlando, Florida for their Honors in Action/research activity.

Stephanie Newberry

KCC Staff Alumni
Specialist, Physical Plant Department
’96 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

Being a local resident, KCC was my preference for my educational needs. I was the first in my immediate family to attend and graduate with a college degree. I was a single parent of two children and KCC allowed me the opportunity to obtain a college degree at my own pace.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

The flexibility of the class schedule and the location of the campus was key to my decision to attend KCC.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

KCC has an AMAZING support system! The staff members go above and beyond to see that students succeed. KCC embraces every student and does everything possible to enhance the quality of life through learning. KCC has many resources available to help students on their path to graduation.

What is your role in your position?

I am the mailroom supervisor for the Physical Plant Department. My duties shipping and receiving, USPS mailing, Key control, vehicle reservations and many other duties.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is knowing I have an impact on students. I have student workers that work alongside me, and it is a joy to see them grow. Celebrating their accomplishments, whether it is achieving honor roll status, receiving a scholarship, or simply a job well done in their position is the greatest reward I could receive.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

I have seen many events occur during my time as an employee at KCC. One that stands out in my mind is watching a student worker sign for a scholarship to attend Columbia College in Chicago. The look of pride on her and her father’s faces will be engraved in my memory for many years to come.

Kylie Orvis

KCC Staff Alumni
Senior Administrative Specialist, Business Affairs
’23 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

I knew I wanted to obtain my first college degree, and with KCC being local and affordable, it was a no-brainer. Being able to transfer credits from a previous institution also made it possible for me to cut down on my course load.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

KCC was more than a school for me; it was where I began to grow mindful of the world. The campus environment and student life gave me a healthy balance while keeping me focused on my goals. I joined organizations that matched my interests and still stayed committed to my coursework. The professors and staff genuinely cared about their work and their relationships with students, and I always felt supported, whether by an advisor, a professor, a staff member, or even a friendly face on the way to class.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

Don’t even think twice about it - sign up today. It’s hard to find a college where not only is it affordable, but the quality of education is also exceptional. It’s the best decision a person could make!

What is your role in your position?

As a student, I worked in the Hammes Bookstore in the summer of 2022. I also worked at the Miner Memorial Library in the spring and summer of 2023. Once graduated, I came back to KCC in the fall of 2024 as a staff member of the Continuing Education and Business Partnerships office, and currently I am the Senior Administrative Specialist for Business Affairs.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I love knowing that every little function of my job ultimately impacts the students we serve at KCC, making this a better place for everyone. Even if I am not in a student-facing role, I know that every duty is for the benefit of our students and the entire institution.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

One of the most meaningful parts of my role is watching students interact with patients during clinicals and seeing their confidence grow. Giving students their completion letters at the end of the semester is a proud moment, but what stays with me most is when a student sincerely says, “Thank you.” I always respond, “You did this—I was here to guide you,” because their growth and success belong to them.

Anne Reilly

KCC Staff Alumni
Professor of Nursing
’87 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

I chose KCC after high school for several reasons. Due to health considerations, staying close to home was important to me. I also wanted a strong academic foundation for my future education in nursing. KCC allowed me to work while attending school and provided an affordable option without sacrificing the quality of my education.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

I was able to stay home for health reasons, work and continue my education.

Did you earn other degrees following KCC? If so, what degree(s), college, and year?

I transferred to Lewis University and received my BSN in 1990. I received my MSN from ONU in 2014.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

KCC provides a solid foundation for wherever you want to go.

What is your role in your position?

I am a Professor of Nursing. I teach theory and clinical for the CNA program. I also do clinical and demos in the RN program.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I love to see students grow and become successful as kind, professional CNAs.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

One of the most meaningful parts of my role is watching students interact with patients during clinicals and seeing their confidence grow. Giving students their completion letters at the end of the semester is a proud moment, but what stays with me most is when a student sincerely says, “Thank you.” I always respond, “You did this—I was here to guide you,” because their growth and success belong to them.

Nancy Schunke

KCC Staff Alumni
Director, KCC South Extension Center & Alumni Relations
’91 AS Business Transfer - KCC
’93 BS Marketing - Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

Choosing KCC was the right decision for me due to its affordability, high-quality education, and flexibility. With lower tuition rates, I avoided substantial debt. The knowledgeable professors, smaller class sizes, and personalized attention significantly enhanced my learning experience. Flexible scheduling allowed me to balance studies with work and other responsibilities. Additionally, KCC’s transfer agreements with four-year universities made it easier to continue my education.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

KCC was a good choice for me as a first-generation college student because it provided a supportive and familiar environment close to home. Being close to home for my first two years made the transition into college easier. The smaller campus and class sizes allowed for more personalized attention from instructors, making it easier to seek help and build relationships.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

If you’re considering KCC, my advice is to fully embrace this option as a smart, strategic step in your educational journey. Community colleges offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of four-year universities, allowing you to complete general education requirements without accruing significant debt. Take advantage of the smaller class sizes to build strong relationships with your professors and get personalized support.

What is your role in your position?

As Director for the KCC South Extension Center, I am responsible for the management and operations for the South Extension Center including supervision of staff, programs, services, outreach, enrollment tracking and academic advising. Additionally, I manage marketing and advancement functions with focus on alumni, outreach, recruitment, and project management.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is providing opportunities and programming for college students at the South Extension Center in Watseka and watching them develop into confident, capable individuals. Seeing students who may have initially been uncertain or hesitant transform into engaged and self-assured learners is incredibly fulfilling. I take great pride in knowing that the programs and support we offer are making a tangible difference in their lives, helping them achieve their academic goals and inspiring them to reach their full potential.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

One of the most memorable experiences for me was collaborating with a team of colleagues to develop the Fast Path transfer degree program. This program is significant as it marks the first time an entire degree can be earned entirely at the South Extension Center in Watseka. Witnessing our first cohort of students earn their degrees in 2020 was an incredibly rewarding and unforgettable moment, highlighting the impact of our collective efforts and dedication.

Rebecca Sherry

KCC Staff Alumni
Radiography Program Director
’06 KCC Graduate

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

I originally went to a university and realized that the large lecture halls were not for me. I learn best when I can ask questions and have a more intimate class size. I went to KCC for Radiography, and it was an excellent choice. In 2 years at KCC, I received the education needed for me to have a fulfilling career in healthcare!

How well did KCC prepare you for your current job?

I feel KCC did an amazing job preparing me for my job. It gave me the skills needed to be a radiologic technologist. As program director of the very same program, I graduated from, I believe it demonstrates the success of the KCC radiography program.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

I would recommend all students to attend KCC before making the choice to go to a university. KCC provides great transfer general education courses, which helps keep costs low. During their time at KCC they can explore the various programs we offer. KCC offers something for everyone.

Add in anything else about KCC that you think new or prospective students should know.

I would tell prospective students that it would benefit them to come to campus and check out the programs offered. I wish I had done that before going to a university. I changed my major many times and could have saved a lot of money and started my career sooner. KCC is a great place to start your educational journey. It could even be a fantastic place to end it with one of our many excellent programs!

John Shivers

KCC Staff Alumni
Custodian Supervisor, Facilities
’20 KCC Graduate

How did you decide KCC was right for you?

I started KCC in 1993 just taking classes towards a degree in Criminal Justice, but between working and having a family I was forced to put my education on the back burner. I chose KCC because it was close to home and that’s what I needed after driving back and forth to Joliet every day for work. I don’t think I could have been able to go if KCC wasn’t close to home.

Why was KCC a good choice for you?

The main reason for choosing KCC was the proximity to home. I also knew that KCC was an excellent community college based on the research I conducted comparing other 2-year organizations in the area. KCC had everything I was looking for right at home.

What advice would you give a student considering KCC?

Take advantage of all the federal assistance that’s available, don’t let your financial situation dictate you not getting your degree. Take advantage of the navigators that are here at KCC. They will guide and assist you in making your dream of having a degree and career possible.

What is your role in your position?

I am the first shift custodial supervisor. I help keep the facilities clean and make this facility attractive to newcomers who may be considering coming to KCC. I very much believe that first impressions and appearances have a huge effect on someone when they are considering coming to an organization.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I think the most rewarding part of the job is getting to know the students and watching them work hard through each semester, but when graduation day comes, I love seeing the joy on their faces after accomplishing their goal.

During your time working at KCC, what are some of the events or moments that are most memorable?

Graduation is always special, especially my own during the unknown graduation of 2020 and coming a member of Phi Theta Kappa. I really enjoy the gathering that are held at KCC prior to Christmas break and just getting to know all the employees here that put so much hard work into accomplishing the overall mission of KCC.