E60:  From GED to CNA: Kelly's Journey of Resilience and Purpose

E60: From GED to CNA: Kelly's Journey of Resilience and Purpose

Author: Lewis and Clark Community College April 25, 2025 Duration: 18:08

In this episode, host Jill Dupy is joined by Kelly, a recent graduate of the Illinois High School Diploma program and a newly certified CNA. Kelly shares her inspiring journey from overcoming personal challenges and raising three children to earning her diploma and pursuing a career in caregiving. Kelly discusses the impact of education, the importance of believing in yourself, and what success means to her. Whether you're a student, educator, or community member, Kelly's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to take the next step toward your future. 


Lewis and Clark Community College presents Building Futures: Preparing the Workforce of Tomorrow, a series that goes beyond the classroom to explore the real-world skills and evolving knowledge needed in today's job market. Each episode connects the dots between education and practical application, featuring conversations with instructors, local employers, industry specialists, and successful graduates. You'll hear firsthand about emerging trends in various fields, the specific competencies employers are seeking, and how hands-on training programs are designed to meet those needs. This podcast serves as a direct line to the people shaping career pathways, offering insights into everything from technical trades and healthcare to business innovation and environmental science. It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about understanding the landscape of modern work and how continuous learning builds a resilient career. Tune in for thoughtful discussions that demystify the journey from education to employment, all grounded in the experience of a community college deeply integrated with its regional economy. Discover how practical education adapts to prepare individuals for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 60

Building Futures: Preparing the Workforce of Tomorrow
Podcast Episodes
E49: A Virtual Journey: Enrolling as an Adult Student [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:30
This episode takes listeners through the steps of enrolling as an adult education student at Lewis and Clark Community College. It introduces the various staff members and their roles, including the outreach specialist,…
E48: Connecting with Adult Learners: Tips from Project READ Tutors [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
In this episode, you'll get to hear from two amazing tutors in the Project READ program, as they share their experiences working with adult learners on improving reading, writing, math, and English language skills. You'l…
E47: It's Never Too Late: A High School Diploma Success Story [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:18
In this episode, you'll hear from Erik Branham, who obtained his high school diploma, after being out of school for many years. Erik shares how he returned to get his diploma after serving in the Navy and becoming an avi…
E46: Meet Sarah Jones, Project Support Assistant [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:35
In this episode, you'll hear from our Project Support Assistant Sarah Jones, as she shares her personal and educational journey. Sarah shares her perspective of being a parent of a student, as well as working at Lewis an…
E45: The YouthBuild "House Crew" [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:35
In this episode, you'll hear from 3 YouthBuild students, Cayan Moore, Kadin Hausman-Brown and Jason Gill as they discuss the work that they have been doing renovating a house. Cayenne, Kadin and Jason share a bit about t…
E43: Preparing to Become an Entrepreneur: With Ju'Qyon Womack [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:06
This episode features a conversation with student Ju'Qyon Womack, as he discusses the importance of being committed to your goals and reveals his plans to start a business. Ju'Qyon discusses some of the important life le…
E42: Meet Lucas Wall, YouthBuild and GED Program Participant [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:42
In this episode, you'll meet Lucas Wall, YouthBuild and GED Program Participant, as he discusses his educational journey and why he decided to sign up for both programs. Lucas discusses what he enjoys most about his clas…
E41: Persevering and Succeeding in Your Career Journey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:32
In this episode, you'll meet Johnny Johnson, an adult education student who shares his journey from dropping out of school in 8th grade to obtaining his GED. Johnny talks about some of the obstacles that he faced along t…
E40: Meet YouthBuild Student Jada Johnson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:40
YouthBuild student Jada Johnson joins the program to discuss what brought her to YouthBuild and what she's learned from the program so far. Jada reveals some of the most important people in her life and the life lessons…