“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

Maya Angelou

In our constantly evolving world and innovative societies, it can be hard to keep up with how different diverse cultures and peoples are becoming more and more intertwined. Globalization has increased greatly over the past ten to twenty years, mostly thanks to international business growth rates, online/technological advancements and product development outsourcing to other countries. 

When we think of creating educational environments for every student to thrive, what is usually the first thing that comes to mind? Schools that include an engaging curriculum. Classrooms that cultivate joy. Buildings that are lively and welcoming that offer a multitude of extracurricular activities and opportunities for students to explore the world through texts or field lessons outside of the classroom?

Tyler Gedman studied art at CCAC South Campus, and graduated in 2022. Tyler is continuing his education in the fall, but in the meantime, is substitute teaching and painting his way through life.

“Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being’s suffering. Nothing—not career, not wealth, not intelligence, certainly not status. We have to feel for one another if we’re going to survive with dignity” - Audrey Hepburn
 
I have long believed in the power of empathy and the need for more of it in our classrooms and our boardrooms. 

Christine O’Donnell recently obtained her Associate Degree in General Studies at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). She will graduate in August with her Associates in Accounting. Christine plans on transferring to a four-year university to obtain her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She got accepted to Penn State University and she’s waiting to hear back from the University of Pittsburgh. Christine currently works full time and she’s married with four children, eight years old and younger. 

Mike Kistler is working on an Associate’s Degree in Business Management at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), and is also currently a 10th Grade High School student at Pittsburgh Central Catholic. Mike volunteers with his Church, and with the local food bank during the past year. Read more about his experience below! 

Tiffany Schmitt earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from a different university in 2016, and decided to come back to school after a long hiatus. Up until just last year, she’s been farm-hopping across northern California and southern Oregon. Although she went to school for psychology, she found it difficult to break into the field at her degree level, and ultimately decided to do something totally different and adventurous!

Debra Overcashier is seeking a degree in Psychology from the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). She also earned an Accounting degree back in 1994, worked in banking for over 26 years, and retired from PNC. At CCAC, she is a member and Vice President of Psi Beta Honor Society and a member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). She’s also the Judge of Elections for her local voting poll. Debra has been married to her husband for 16 years. Read more about her spotlight below: 

Kaila Tench is a May 2022 graduate of the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) where she earned a degree in the Dietetic Technician program and also received her Certified Dietary Manager Certificate in December 2021. She is currently employed at Allegheny General Hospital. Kaila completed her first internship at Magee Women's Hospital during the Summer semester of 2021, and recently completed her last internship at the Jewish Community Squirrel Hill Food Pantry.