The Sprout

This week on The Sprout, we sit down with Dr. Tasha Jones, Dean of Allied Health Professions at Richland Community College's Health Professions Division. Dr. Jones takes us inside one of the most dynamic and growing divisions at Richland — a true gateway for anyone looking to build or advance a meaningful career in healthcare. From single-day courses to multi-semester programs, the Health Professi...

On this episode of The Sprout, Rachael Pender, Student Trustee at Richland Community College, shares a personal testimony that goes far deeper than she expected when she first walked through RCC’s doors. Rachael opens up about the challenges she faced, the moment she received support, and how that turning point changed the trajectory of her life. Along the way, Richland became more than a school—i...

What does it look like when a college truly commits to its community — not just as a slogan, but as a lived strategy? In this episode of The Sprout, we sit down with Julie Melton, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Foundation Executive Director at Richland Community College, to celebrate how far both the college and the greater Decatur area have come — and where they're headed togethe...

The future of energy is here — and Richland Community College is making sure you don't get left behind. On this episode of The Sprout, Tamika Thomas, Director of CEJA Programs at Richland Community College, joins us to dive into Richland's Clean Energy Careers Bridge Program, a game-changing initiative that's opening doors for everyday people to step into high-demand, high-paying careers in clean...

On this episode of The Sprout, April Ingram, Executive Director of Workforce Development & Training, joins us to discuss Workforce Training at Richland Community College. April breaks down how the college is partnering with local businesses to provide targeted training that meets the needs of today’s job market. Whether it’s up-skilling current employees or preparing new workers for in-demand...

On this episode of The Sprout, Andrew takes us inside the Engineering Program at Richland Community College. From hands-on learning to real-world problem solving, he shares what it’s like to be part of a program that’s equipping the next generation of engineers right here in our community. We also explore Richland’s partnership with TCCI Manufacturing—bridging the gap between education and industr...

On this episode of The Sprout, we welcome Dr. Zúñiga, Executive Vice President of Academics and Student Success at Richland Community College, for an inspiring conversation about his journey at Richland Community College. Isaac shares his story of growth, perseverance, and the ways education has opened doors he never imagined possible. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of com...

On this episode of The Sprout, we sit down with Ariel Valesco to explore the Dual Credit program at Richland Community College. Ariel unpacks how high school students are getting a head start on their college education, earning credits while still in high school and setting themselves up for success. We discuss the impact this program has on students, families, and the community—creating pathways...

On this episode of The Sprout, George Strohl joins us to talk about the exciting world of electric vehicles (EV) and how Richland Community College is positioning students at the forefront of this industry revolution. George shares insights into the EV program, the skills students are gaining, and why this field represents both innovation and opportunity for our community. From sustainability to c...

On this episode of The Sprout, we welcome Ashley Grayned to discuss the Prep Academy at Richland Community College. Ashley takes us inside this innovative program designed to prepare students for success before they even step into college-level coursework. We explore how the Prep Academy is removing barriers, building confidence, and ensuring that every student—regardless of their starting point—h...

On this episode of The Sprout, we sit down with Sincere to hear his powerful EnRich testimonial. Sincere shares his personal journey through Richland Community College's EnRich program—a story of transformation, second chances, and discovering potential he didn't know he had. His testimony reminds us that education isn't just about degrees; it's about redemption, growth, and the courage to rewrite...

In this episode, we sit down with Commander Jim Gets of the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Facility to explore what it truly takes to serve and protect a community. Beyond the tactical skills and procedures, Jim opens up about the human elements that define great police officers—empathy, integrity, communication, and a genuine commitment to the people they serve. Commander Gets shares insig...

What does it take to create a true pipeline of skilled workers in manufacturing? In this episode, we explore FAME (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education)—an innovative program bridging the gap between education and industry. Join us as we sit down with John Oliver, Dean of Applied Science & Technology at Richland Community College, alongside Kyle Miller, a FAME student from Macon, Il...

Common sense isn't common—and that's exactly why the work happening in essential skills education matters more than ever. In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Terrence "TAT" Taylor, an Essential Skills Instructor at Richland Community College, to explore how fundamental life skills like self-regulation and self-accountability aren't just assumed knowledge—they're learned behaviors that...

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Tucker, Director of the Culinary Arts Program at Richland Community College, Brian shares his journey of discovering that when you teach what you love, everything changes—the energy, the connection, and the impact. For Brian, that love is cooking, and it has fueled a teaching style that's as flavorful as the dishes his students create. Through the Culinary A...

As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. today, we would like to highlight and honor those who are carrying on the legacy of hope, those who have continued to dream and bring change and transformation. This week's episode is with Gina Taylor, who is the executive director of the EnRich Program. Together we talk about changing lives through education and trauma-informed practices. It was a heartfelt...

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Cris Valdez, President of Richland Community College, as he shares the philosophy guiding Richland’s approach to education and the innovations shaping its future. His perspective frames education not merely as instruction, but as a redemptive force—one that restores opportunity, cultivates potential, and strengthens the community over time. This conversation sets...