This week, while on campus, I had the privilege of sitting down with someone who has been instrumental in shaping Wallace State into what it is today. Dr. Vicki Karolewics has proudly served as President for more than 20 years. During her tenure, she has guided Wallace State to become one of the top three community colleges in the nation, and a recognized leader in student success. Take a look. Aspen Institute Rising Star Award. How proud are you?
– Incredibly proud. I mean, how could I not be? The Aspen Institute is a premier institute for community colleges in the nation, the College Excellence Program. And they’ve done the Aspen Prize eight cycles, and we’ve been nominated in six of those. And so now, to be designated as a Rising Star, is very affirming, it’s very rewarding, because it’s been a very long journey. You know, two decades of work.
– Yeah, tell me about it. I mean, your leadership here and what it has transformed under those couple decades, it’s amazing.
– Well, we started with a 20% graduation rate, and now our graduation and transfer rate is one of the highest in the nation. Come on.
– Right, right. So, you know, we want every single student to succeed, but in order to do that, we had to build programs, we had to build services, we had to reform developmental education. We reformed student services and advising, we built guided pathways at scale, and now we’re working on Community College 3.0 Post-Completion Success. So, it’s been a lot of work to get here.
– Yeah, I can imagine.
– A lot of work.
– A lot of work. Yeah, I mean, since we’ve been filming this episode since being on campus, I mean, it feels like a university, it doesn’t feel like a community college.
– Well, I think it has to be because of, you know, it’s a beautiful campus, we’re 300 acres, lots of big, beautiful buildings, but the quality of the programs that we have here are second to none. We’re starting a new speech and language pathology assistant program next year, and we had to work hard to get that program approved, really with an act of the legislature, to be honest. But you know, we’re known for our health programs, 14 health programs, and we’re known for our athletics. We have 14 athletic teams, just started women’s flag football, they’re undefeated. Just started men’s soccer, they’re undefeated. And we’re starting women’s soccer this next year, but we, you know –
– And multiple national championships.
– Nine. Nine national. And we aim to get a few more this year, this coming season.
– When you look to the future, you know, what do some of these new programs and things look like?
– Well, new programs for sure, because in order to be relevant as a community college, we have to be responsive to the areas that we serve, and North Alabama is growing. The opportunities available to students in the workforce now, or graduates in the workforce, are second to none. So we’re constantly developing new programs, like a new electric vehicle technology program. I mentioned speech and language pathology assistant. We’ve got a couple of programs that we’re targeting in the medical field, like nuclear medicine, that we’re working on developing those now. So, we’re growing.
– [Alex] Awesome.
– We’re at 6,700 students today, and we think that we will reach 7,000 by the end of this semester, and that’s a record for us.
– Something to be proud of.
– Yes.
– It’s incredible, and this institute is very fortunate to have you as their leader.
– Thank you. Thank you. I’m the person that’s fortunate.
– Oh, That’s so great.
– Yeah. Thank you.
– Thank you, Dr. Karolewics. Your passion for Wallace State, and your dedication to improving the lives of students and the communities you serve, is so inspiring. You are a perfect example of how someone who started at a community college can go on to achieve remarkable success. Thank you again.
Okay, here’s Reanna, a sophomore majoring in Dental Hygiene. Reanna found more than quality academics at Wallace State, she found a stage to explore new passions in the fine and performing arts. From singing in choir, to traveling for performances, her journey is proof that saying yes to new experiences can lead to incredible opportunities. Take it away, Reanna.
– Nice intro, Alex. When I was deciding where to start my college journey, I didn’t have to look far. Wallace State was right here in my community, but it offered so much more than convenience, it offered opportunity, connection, and growth. Choosing Wallace State was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Being from this area, I knew Wallace State had a strong reputation. I was involved in theater before college, so Wallace’s strong arts program naturally drew me in. But what I didn’t expect was how much I would grow by stepping into new spaces, like choir and dance. Wallace State gave me the chance to try things I never thought I could do. While I had experience in theater, I had never danced before college. Joining the Wallace State Singers was totally new for me, but it ended up becoming one of the most memorable parts of my journey. I had found my voice, literally. ♪ Well, she got her daddy’s car ♪ ♪ ♪ And she cruised through the hamburger stand ♪ And became a part of a group that felt like family. That one decision is leading to some incredible opportunities, like performing for the Alabama Community College system, and traveling to Scotland next year to be a part of a festival in Edinburgh. I have also traveled with the Wallace State Singers to Washington DC, and have performed at the Washington Monument, the Capitol, and the Marine Museum. Standing at such honorable places, representing my college, was an unforgettable moment, and just a reminder of how far I’ve come by simply saying yes to new experiences. Here, I have found more than a college, I’ve found my community. I didn’t just develop my talents, I have discovered new ones. I have found people that have believed in me before I even believed in myself. I will forever be thankful for Wallace State. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex!
– Reanna, your story shows how stepping outside your comfort zone can unlock unexpected talents and lifelong connections. From performing across the country, to preparing for international travel, you’ve embraced every moment as a student at Wallace State while preparing for your career. We are so excited to see how you continue to shine. Well done, Reanna.
Let’s welcome Johnathan. A sophomore double majoring in culinary arts and nutrition, for Johnathan, food has always been more than a passion. It’s a recipe for his future. From competing nationally, to exploring multiple degree pathways, Wallace State has given him the ingredients to grow as a student, leader, and future restaurant owner. Serve it up for us, Johnathan. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. I’m really excited to be here with you all today. Growing up, I’ve always wanted to work in a field of study that allowed me to be creative, but also gave me practical skills. Food has always been a really big part of my life, but I didn’t realize how much it could shape my future until I chose Wallace State. I chose Wallace State because of the opportunities they provide. It’s not just about the classes, it’s also resume-building experiences, multiple degree pathways, and activities that push you to grow. That combination has made all the difference for me. One of the highlights has been participating in Skills USA, which holds a national contest for all types of occupational skills. I finished first in regionals, so I got to go to Atlanta, where I placed top half of the nation. That experience showed me the importance of teamwork, leadership, and sharpening my industrial skills. It gave me the passion and motivation to keep pushing forward in culinary arts, a field that’s always changing. Right now, I’m pursuing degrees in culinary arts and nutrition, with plans to move forward into business management, and a goal to eventually open up my own restaurant. Wallace has supported me in chasing multiple passions, and that flexibility is something I truly value. Wallace also has a great group of advisors to help with degrees pathways. Advisors and instructors are extremely helpful and professional. They’ve given me a clear, step-by-step plan to complete my degrees effectively. More importantly, they’ve taught me to set smart goals. Those goals aren’t just on paper anymore, Wallace has helped me turn them into real results. Looking back, the opportunities here have laid a foundation I can build my career on. From working in the kitchen with chefs, to competing on the Skills USA stage, Wallace has helped me develop a recipe for success, and for that, I’m truly grateful. Back to you, Alex.
– Johnathan, your story shows how Wallace State helps students blend creativity with career-ready skills. From sharpening your leadership abilities on the National Skills USA stage, to preparing for business management, you are truly cooking up success, and we cannot wait to see your dream of opening a restaurant become a reality. Keep it up, Johnathan.
Let’s meet Dianna, a freshman Entrepreneurship major. Diana’s story is about resilience, family, and finding opportunity at Wallace State. As a student intern, she helps other students feel heard, while also receiving scholarships that fully cover her tuition. She’s building the foundation for her own business and future success. Tell us more, Dianna.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I’ve lived in Alabama all my life, and have had a pretty normal upbringing. With parents who were strict about me getting a good education and being a good person, it’s no surprise I ended up here at Wallace State. But my story isn’t quite that simple. My parents took me in when I was three days old, and discovered I had a brother in the foster care system a year later. And when I was two, they officially adopted both of us. Because of that background, I’ve always been curious about people’s stories and what shapes us. At Wallace State, I work with the Future Foundation, an organization that supports students, not only through large scholarships, but also with smaller needs, like gas money. I love talking to students who come in with a problem, it’s important for me that they feel seen and heard. As an Entrepreneurship major, I know those personal connections will be key to my success. I’m fortunate enough to have my tuition fully covered through multiple scholarships and support systems, and my brother, who also attends Wallace State, receives assistance as well. On top of that, I currently serve as the Team Manager for the men’s basketball team, which provides additional support for my education. I’m grateful to be in a position where I don’t have to worry about the cost of school. Life is super busy, but I love being so involved on campus. My favorite way to relax is intramural volleyball. After Wallace, I plan to transfer to a four-year university, and eventually open up my own event venue. So yes, I will be the richest sibling in my family. But that’s enough about me. Back to you, Alex.
– Dianaa, your journey shows the power of student support systems and campus involvement. From managing teams to playing intramural volleyball, you made the most of your Wallace State experience. We cannot wait to see you achieve your dream of opening your own event venue. We know it’s gonna be amazing. Best of luck, Dianna.
Say hello to Tiger, a freshman majoring in General Studies. Growing up around Wallace State, Tiger always dreamed of being a Lion, and now he’s living that dream on the baseball field. With standout athletics, strong academic support, and a transfer center that keeps his eye on the ball, Wallace State is helping him chase big goals. Batter up, Tiger! Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, guys. I grew up around Wallace State with my mom teaching here. As a kid, I attended sports camps and games, hoping that one day I’d become a Lion. Now that I’m a student and a baseball player here, it truly feels like home. Being part of such a strong baseball program pushes me to exceed on and off the field. Coach Putman holds the most wins in the Alabama Community College Conference, which is no small feat. Many former Lions have reached the major league, with some even winning World Series Rings, while many others have advanced to four-year universities. The support we receive as student athletes is what stands out most. I plan to continue at a four-year university, and Wallace’s Transfer Center has been key in guiding that process. Professors work with us when we travel for games, and coaches keep us accountable in the classroom, helping us balance academics with athletics. That combination motivates me daily, and reminds me of what an honor it is to wear Wallace State across my chest. Our facilities rival those at four-year schools. Just last year, our baseball team upgraded to a brand new turf field. But it’s more than the facilities, it’s the people. The training and athletic staff are always there to support us on good days and tough ones. At Wallace State, I’m not only completing my General Studies, but I’m being prepared for life beyond college. I plan to major in Building Science after transferring, and from there, the future is wide open. Whatever comes next, this Lion is ready. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Tiger, your journey shows what it means to wear Wallace State with pride. From childhood dreams of becoming a Lion, to competing on Wallace State’s field, you’ve come full circle. With the Transfer Center guiding your next steps, your future is wide open. There’s no doubt you’ll keep hitting it out of the park, both on the field and in life. Thanks again for sharing your story.
It’s time to meet Anna, a first year college student majoring in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Drawn to healthcare at a young age, Anna discovered her perfect fit in sonography, a competitive program that few schools in Alabama offer. From supportive faculty, to a welcoming campus community, Wallace State has given her the chance to pursue her dream career. It’s all yours, Anna. Take it away.
– Thank you so much, Alex. I grew up in a family who always prioritized hard work, whether it be in school or day-to-day life. I knew I wanted to go into the medical field from a young age, but nothing felt quite right until I discovered the world of sonography, and it seemed like the perfect fit for me. The problem was, there weren’t many schools in Alabama offering this program, until I found Wallace State. While still in high school, I toured the campus, and met some of the nicest directors and advisors that really solidified this is where I wanted to be. Finally, the time came to put in my application and pray I had done everything possible to get into this competitive program. I received my acceptance while on vacation with my family and friends, and was overwhelmed with their excitement. In the short time that I’ve been on campus, it has already been the most challenging, but honestly, the most rewarding experience of my life. My program directors are incredible, and they truly care about each student’s success. Outside of school, I have already made amazing friends, and have been blown away by the wide variety of clubs and activities that the school has to offer. I spend a lot of time with my new friends in town, and in the evenings, I enjoy running around our beautiful campus. I’ve also already found a church home here, which makes this place feel even more like where I’m meant to be. I cannot wait to step into the world of clinicals and apply real-time knowledge and practice that I have gained from this program. My time here at Wallace has really helped me step into my own, and I’ve met some of the best lifelong friends. I cannot wait to continue and see what this school has in store for me. Thank y’all so much, and back to you, Alex.
– Anna, your story shows the dedication it takes to thrive in a very challenging program. With inspiring directors, close friendships, and countless ways to get involved, you’ve built both skills, and a sense of belonging at Wallace State, and we cannot wait to see you excel in your clinicals and beyond. Best of luck, Anna.
Let’s check in with Julia, a senior Marketing Major at Rhode Island College with a minor in the new AI program. A big part of the college experience is finding your people, and that’s exactly what Julia has done. She found a community eager to welcome her in a sisterhood within Greek life. Julia, tell us your story.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I transferred to Rhode Island College because it allowed me to be close to home. It has since given me the place where I’m growing academically while also finding my people and my purpose. What I love most about RIC is the community. You’re surrounded by people who generally want to see you succeed, from classmates to professors who know you by name. I’m able to perfectly blend my Marketing major with my minor in Applications AI as I’m learning how AI tools can make marketing more creative and efficient, which is exactly what I wanna do after graduation. Outside of class, I found my squad in Theta Phi Alpha, which isn’t just a sorority, it’s a true sisterhood. We love doing crafts together and hosting deep bonding nights where we can talk and just be ourselves. Every year we walk in the Gloria Gemma 5K for breast cancer awareness, a cause that means so much to us. It’s a kind of bond where no matter what you’re going through, you’re never alone. These are my people for life. Not only is campus life at RIC great, but so is Providence. It’s the creative capital of New England and home to more than 35,000 college students. There are plenty of places to hang out, study and unwind between classes. Our campus feels like its own world, but it’s only five minutes away from the excitement of Downtown Providence and less than an hour from the beach. RIC has shown me how to balance it all: academics, leadership and community. I’ve truly grown into someone who’s confident, driven and ready for whatever comes next, and I get to do it all in this incredible place that feels like home. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– What a journey, Julia. As someone who grew up right next door in Massachusetts, Providence really is one of those best kept secret cities and such a special place to be. We’re so glad you found sisterhood and community here at RIC. Thanks for sharing, Julia.
Let’s welcome Marlyn, a junior majoring in Theater and Dance. She’s also on the track team and can’t wait to take us inside the student athlete experience at Rhode Island College. Anchormen and women participate in 21 NCAA Division III varsity sports, and RIC Athletics is committed to excellence in the classroom as well as on the field. Marlyn, the floor is yours.
– Thanks, Alex. I’m a student athlete, but I’ve always loved the performing arts, so I chose Rhode Island College because I wanted a place where I could explore both passions side by side. Plus, Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis studied acting at RIC, which makes me even prouder to be here. Being on the track team has been a life-changing experience. RIC has made huge investments in the athletic facilities, including a brand new outdoor track, which is a game changer. It’s where I trained, grew and connected with my teammates. Even while I’m currently recovering from an ACL sprain, I still feel the same energy and support from both my teammates and coaches. The athletic trainers at the Murray Center are incredible, supporting me every step of the way. This community keeps me motivated by reminding me I’m still part of the team and encouraging me to come back stronger. Competing at states and placing third was an amazing moment for me, but my favorite memories are hanging out with my teammates after practice, bonding over food and laughs. This team has taught me discipline, confidence and how to push past physical and mental limits. But I’m not just an athlete, I’m also a performer studying Theater. When I’m not on the track, you’ll find me on stage acting or dancing and student-led productions. I never danced before college, but I fell in love with my jazz class and decided to pursue dance as a minor. Performing has become a huge part of who I am. Balancing life as an athlete and a performer isn’t always easy, but RIC makes it possible. I’ve learned I don’t have to choose just one path, RIC supports me in all of them, empowering me to be everything I wanna be. Back to you, Alex.
– What a performance, Marlyn. We’re so impressed with how you shine on the track, the stage and in the classroom. Both the athletics and the performing arts facilities at RIC are really top-notch. We can’t wait to see your next act. Thanks again.
Erika is a senior nursing student from Pawtucket, Rhode Island. RIC is nationally renowned for its School of Nursing, but Erika discovered her passion for patient care in a much more personal way. She was even able to connect with her career aspirations with her Cape Verdean heritage through RIC’s Institute for Portuguese and Lusophone World Studies. Erika, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, y’all. Upon graduating high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field and declared as a Pre-Med major. Little did I know Rhode Island College has so many options for careers in healthcare, like life sciences, behavioral health, medical imaging, healthcare administration, and more. I lived on campus my first semester and felt like I was living the college dream as a first-generation student. I even had the chance to connect my Cape Verdean roots by minoring in Portuguese, but then we got the news that my mom had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Even though it was one of the hardest times of my life, I realized something beautiful. I saw the impact that nurses have and wanted to make the same difference for other families, that’s why I switched to nursing. RIC’s School of Nursing is ranked in the top 20 in New England with a 90% passing grade on the licensing exam. I learned fundamentals in a state-of-the-art nursing facility right here on campus. It features every essential item in a doctor’s office as well as a simulation room with a mannequin that blinks. Once you become an upperclassman, you move on to the Rhode Island Nursing Education Center. Located in the heart of Downtown Providence, this top-notch facility features cutting-edge simulation spaces equipped with mannequins that allow you to take a pulse and hear lung and heart sounds. There’s also high-tech spaces for study sessions with your peers. My clinical rotations have been my favorite part of the program. RIC nursing students gain real-world experiences in hospitals, clinics and schools all over the state. That hands-on experience with patient care makes me more confident in my future career and special needs nursing. It may be even interpreting. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Erika, for sharing your powerful story with us. RIC provides so many pathways into healthcare careers from nursing and community health to health education and healthcare administration. You’re continuing the proud tradition of RIC grads who have become nurses, doctors, and even hospital presidents. Way to go, Erika.
Let’s meet Connor from North Providence, Rhode Island. He’s a sophomore double majoring in Sports Management and Communications. Sports Management is one of several new in-demand programs Rhode Island College has added, which got Connor thinking about innovation at RIC, whether it’s new career-focused majors or the state-of-the-art science and cyber labs on campus. Tell us all about it, Connor. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, everybody? I’ve lived in the Providence area my entire life, so I was no stranger to Rhode Island College. Actually, I’m the son of a RIC graduate, so when I heard they were adding a Sports Management program, I was all in. Sports Management is one of the several new career-focused majors RIC has recently added, like Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science and Biotech. My program has allowed me to build the skills I need for a successful future. I’ve also vastly expanded my network with RIC alumni, and I’ve already interned with both college and new sports programs. These opportunities gimme a real sense of the exciting world of sports and all the career options available to me. Plus, I’m learning in top-notch facilities. RIC has upgraded almost every academic building on campus, like Clarke Science. Each student has to take at least one class here, even if it’s just for a gen ed. It just reopened after a total modernization, and it is one of the nice places on campus. These consistent innovations at RIC inspire me to be bold in my own life and help me to take steps towards success. My major is part of the School of Business, which just opened a brand new Cyber Range. It’s like a high-tech command center for our Cybersecurity program. RIC truly invests in preparing students for the future, and the great people here have helped me navigate where I want to go and who I want to be. Whatever major you decide, at Rhode Island College, you won’t just be sitting in a lecture hall. You’ll have the opportunity to make connections with great people and have unforgettable hands-on experiences. Just remember to be bold in everything you do. That’s all from me. Take it away, Alex.
– Wow, Connor, it must be exciting to attend a school that’s so focused on the future with new programs in Cybersecurity, Biotech, AI and Data Science in addition to Sports Management. You’re really knocking it out of the park with those internships and the connections you’ve made. Cheers, Connor.