Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast

In the Season One finale of the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast, host Jen Davis reflects on the journey through 12 episodes featuring diverse alumni from various departments, local businesses, and initiatives like disability services and the Future Wolves program. Joining her is Dr. Clyne Namuo, JJC’s 10th and current president, who shares his inspiring vision behind the Roots and Branches storytelling initiative. They discuss the impact of capturing alumni stories, highlighting past guests, and the significance of generational stories in education. 

Dr. Namuo also shares the success of key initiatives like Future Wolves 12x12x12 dual credit, the Hispanic Serving Institution designation, and the Crawford Honors College, emphasizing the communal effort and strategic vision that make JJC a first-choice institution. The episode concludes with a special reflection on Jen's personal and professional journey, as well as her dedication to education and community engagement.

Creators and Guests

Host
Jen Davis
Jen Davis currently serves as the Annual Giving and Alumni Relations Manager at Joliet Junior College. As a former English instructor, she has spent more than two decades in higher education serving students at various points in their educational and professional careers. In her current role, Jen works to foster meaningful relationships with JJC alumni, bridging past experiences with present opportunities. Her outreach efforts include planning small and large-scale events, designing and executing yearly social media, direct mail and e-campaigns, and collaborating with other departments on campus to keep alumni engaged and connected. On occasion, Jen will also expand her role to that of JJC’s mascot, Wiley Wolf, for on-campus events and print media.
Producer
Amanda Quinn
Amanda Quinn currently serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Joliet Junior College, where she leads the college's fundraising efforts with a focus on major gifts and corporate support. With over 15 years of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Amanda aligns fundraising strategies with the college’s priorities to ensure growth and success. She has a proven track record of enhancing annual fund programs, organizing key events, and cultivating valuable relationships with donors. Amanda's strategic vision and dedication have significantly contributed to the advancement of Joliet Junior College.
Guest
Dr. Clyne G. H. Namuo
Dr. Clyne G. H. Namuo is the 10th president of Joliet Junior College, serving since 2022 with a focus on community engagement and student success. He has championed initiatives such as the 12x12x12 Dual Credit program, Future Wolves, Hispanic-Serving Institution designation, and the Namuo Family Endowed Scholarship for First-Generation Students. Previously, he served as interim president of Phoenix College and vice president of learning at South Mountain Community College, leading efforts in equity, technology integration, and workforce development. His early career at Cochise College included faculty and leadership roles in cybersecurity and construction programs. Dr. Namuo is active nationally with the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Community College Trustees. He holds a Ph.D. in higher education strategy from the University of Arizona, and degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Hawaii. A published author and speaker, he lives in Frankfort with his wife Tiana and their five children.

What is Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast?

Welcome to the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast!

As the nation’s first community college, Joliet Junior College has played a key role in shaping America’s higher education system. Our rich and beautiful history reaches more than a century into the past, forever connecting generations of alumni.

In each episode, we sit down with different alumni to uncover their most cherished memories, hear their inspiring tales, and get their hard-earned wisdom for future Wolves.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the roots of our rich history and branch out into the stories that define us, hit that subscribe button and join us on the Roots and Branches JJC Alumni Podcast!

For more information, Foundation events, and ways to give or get involved, visit jjc.edu/alumni and follow us on social media.