In this episode of the YC podcast, host Cadu Medina sits down with Dr. Doug Berry, the Provost at Yavapai College. Dr. Berry shares insights into his role, which involves supervising various academic support divisions, including humanities and STEM. He discusses his journey from a college athlete to an academic leader, emphasizing his passion for community colleges and the vital role they play in students' lives.

Dr. Berry highlights the exciting new initiatives at Yavapai College, including the introduction of bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields such as business and nursing. He explains the importance of general education courses in developing essential skills like communication and critical thinking, which are often overlooked but crucial for students' success.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Berry addresses common misconceptions about community colleges, advocating for their value in providing quality education and affordable options for all students. He also shares inspiring stories about student leaders and faculty initiatives that contribute to a supportive and engaging campus environment. The episode concludes with Dr. Berry's reflections on his first nine months at the college and his commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both students and staff.

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In this episode of the YC podcast, host Cadu Medina interviews Dr. Marylou Mercado, the Vice President of Workforce Development and Health Sciences at Yavapai College. Dr. Mercado shares her inspiring journey as a first-generation college student who started in a community college and eventually earned her doctorate. She discusses her passion for education and community service, emphasizing the vital role of Yavapai College in addressing workforce needs, particularly in health sciences and construction.

Dr. Mercado highlights ongoing initiatives to enhance training programs for healthcare workers and the importance of affordable housing in the community. She sheds light on the underappreciated roles of nursing assistants and their impact on patient care. The episode also touches on the college’s commitment to providing comprehensive support services for students, showcasing the value of community colleges in empowering individuals to achieve their educational and career goals.

The conversation concludes with Dr. Mercado reflecting on her love for the community and her vision for the future, which includes expanding health sciences programs to meet the growing demands in the region.

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In the inaugural episode of the YC podcast, host Cadu Medina interviews Dr. Lisa Rhine, the president of Yavapai College. Dr. Rhine shares insights from her 35 years in higher education, discussing her journey to Yavapai College and her passion for community colleges. She highlights the diverse and impactful initiatives at the college, including the introduction of baccalaureate degrees and efforts to address housing challenges for students and staff.

Dr. Rhine emphasizes the vital role Yavapai College plays in workforce development and community enrichment while also addressing common misconceptions about community colleges. The conversation concludes with Dr. Rhine’s thoughts on the importance of self-confidence for students and her love for the college and community.

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