Kirtland proudly celebrates 60 years of excellence by honoring the achievements of its alumni, whose contributions have helped shape the college’s legacy.
We invite you to explore their stories and join us in commemorating this milestone.
Hospice and Palliative Care RN Liaison
Covenant HealthCare
Nursing ADN, 2020
Carly Riselay-Roque attended Kirtland from 2019 to 2020, earning her Associate Degree in Nursing through the LPN to RN program. She is currently furthering her nursing career, and is enrolled in a Family Nurse Practitioner program. Currently, she is a Hospice and Palliative Care RN Liaison at Covenant HealthCare, where she has been for the last 12 years. When asked about the impact Kirtland has had on her, she writes “Kirtland played a significant role in shaping my nursing foundation and professional journey.”
Engineering Team Lead
Besser Company
AAS Industrial Mechatronics, 2018
After graduating from Kirtland, Corey attended Michigan Technological University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, with a minor in Data Acquisition and Control. He is currently the Engineering Team Lead at Besser Company. He describes his job responsibilities as “PLC and HMI development, industrial network design, system diagnostics, control panel design, and the modernization of our equipment platforms.” He is also working to “improve diagnostic visibility for operators and maintenance teams and help guide long term engineering direction for future equipment.” When asked about the impact Kirtland has had on him, Corey writes “Kirtland played a major role in shaping my career path. The hands-on coursework, supportive instructors, and smaller class sizes helped me build confidence and a strong technical base. The program prepared me for success at Michigan Tech and gave me early exposure to the type of real-world skills that I use every day as an engineer and team leader. My time at Kirtland was a key step toward becoming the professional I am today, and further honed in my areas of interest and focus.”
Student Success Coach
Kirtland Community College
ABA, ASA, 2015
Alex attended Kirtland from the years 2013-2015, graduating with an Associate in Business Administration and an Associate in Arts in 2015. Following her Kirtland graduation, Alex continued her education at Grand Valley State University, where she then obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. Today, Alex is a Student Success coach at Kirtland, where she makes an impact on students’ lives every day. “I help students to gain resources that remove academic, social, and economic barriers that may otherwise prevent them from completing classes” she writes. When asked what her favorite part about working at Kirtland is, she said “The students I get to work with. They teach me something new every day, and provide me with ideas and insights that I wouldn’t have thought of.”
Owner and Operator
Lovewell’s Corner Store
Associate in Arts, 2017
Jean Peterson attended Kirtland Community College from the years 2015-2017, graduating in 2017 with an Associates in Arts - Summa Cum Laude. After Kirtland, she attended Albion College, where she graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications Studies, and a minor is Psychological Science - Magna Cum Laude. Currently, Jean is the owner and operator at Lovewell’s Corner Store in Lupton, Michigan. Jean writes “I am proud to serve my community not only through business, but through kindness, collaboration, and connection. My store has become a hub for giving and togetherness, especially during the holidays.” When asked about the impact Kirtland has had on her, she writes “The strong foundation I built at Kirtland - rooted in hard work, integrity, and community - continues to shape everything I do, both personally and professionally.”
Oyster Hatchery Specialist
Mook Sea Farm
Transfer Program, 2020
Paxton Spencer attended Kirtland from the years 2018-2020. She then transferred to Lake Superior State University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Management. She is currently working as an Oyster Hatchery Specialist at Mook Sea Farm, on the coast of Maine. When asked about what her job entails, Paxton writes “I am involved in all aspects of the oyster life cycle, from the egg to seed. My focus in the hatchery has been in the microalgae department as oysters have to eat! I help maintain multiple microalgae species so the oyster babies have a healthy buffet of food as they grow. Once the oysters are big enough, I help send them on their way to our farm or a farm along the Atlantic coast to grow into beauties.” Paxton also very much enjoyed her time at Kirtland, and writes “I genuinely felt appreciated, seen and heard at Kirtland when it came to my professors and other staff members that I interacted with. It was a warm, inviting and unforgettable environment where you were treated like a person with a future. Everyone wanted to see you move forward and made sure that you were on track to continue that path. I would never take back my time at Kirtland and the only thing I regret is not being able to spend more time as a Firebird. “
Insurance Surveyor
Associate in Criminal Justice, 2022
Timothy attended Kirtland from the years 2020-2022, graduating in 2022 with an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice. Timothy is currently working as an Insurance Surveyor. He had enjoyed his time at Kirtland very much, expressing a great experience in the police academy. He writes “My journey started with all my classes and being fully involved with the instructors. It didn’t matter what day of the week it was or relatively what time it was, the instructors were always available to help the other classmates and I through our assignments and other course work.” He also expressed gratitude to his instructors, stating “While going through the Police Academy, three instructors, John Metts, Reagan Forester, Director Pariott, were there to help me through that tough time. If I had a situation that I could not figure out, they guided me in a way that would make me think of the answers.”
Cosmetologist and Founder of Mane in the Mitten, LLC
Cosmetology, 2024
Hannah Carlson graduated from the cosmetology program at Kirtland in 2024. She became a licensed cosmetologist in the State of Michigan and immediately found work in a local salon. After just seven months, she moved into her own suite and now works completely independently. She started a social media account, Mane in the Mitten, to showcase the cosmetology projects she had worked on during her time at Kirtland, and it eventually turned into a business, Mane in the Mitten LLC. When asked about her time at Kirtland, Hannah writes, “I cannot say enough good things about the cosmetology program, and how it has more than prepared me for building a clientele and running my own business. I’m so humbled to have been able to make this advancement so early in my career, and I couldn’t have done it without the advice and teachings of the wonderful educators at Kirtland. They helped me refine my passion into a way to support myself and uplift others, and for that I’m so grateful.”
Business and Industry Relations Coordinator, Kirtland Community College
Associate in Business Management, 1994
Erine Wescoat graduated from Kirtland Community College in 1994 with an Associate in Business Management. After Kirtland, she continued her education at Spring Arbor University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Management and Organizational Development in 1999. At Spring Arbor, she realized her passion for education and teaching, so she then went on to earn her Masters of Arts in Organizational Management in 2006. She also holds a graduate certificate in Marketing with Davenport University (completed in 2015) as well as a Doctorate in Business Administration (completed in 2019). In her current role as the Business and Industry Relations Coordinator at Kirtland, she is responsible for “working hand in hand with employers, local agencies and individuals to help them get training needed to fill gaps, be career ready and add to their skills so they can thrive”. When asked why she wanted to return to Kirtland, she wrote “I wanted to go back to Kirtland to make a difference. I had also retained relationships with several of the Kirtland faculty after graduation and I could see how much their influence and support helped me grow in confidence and skills enough to dominate in different industries. I loved the atmosphere and knew if I could get through it, I could help others overcome challenges too.” When asked about what she loves most about working at Kirtland, she writes “My favorite part of working here is when a student comes shooting down the hallway to share some news or show me their work or when I get a text that says. “Hey, remember me? I started my own business…”
Behavioral Health Therapist
Associate in Business Management, 2008
Christine Riley attended Kirtland Community College from the years 2004 to 2008, earning an Associate in Business Management in 2008. In 2021, she returned back to Kirtland to participate in the 3 in 1 program, then transferring to Northwood University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. She then continued on to Spring Arbor University, where she graduated in 2024 with a Master of Social Work. Christine is currently working as a Behavioral Health Therapist. In this role, she participates in crisis intervention, develops safety plans and treatment objectives, provides therapeutic services, locates placement for patients in need of inpatient treatment, and conducts follow-up and check-ins with her clients. When asked about her time at Kirtland and what it meant to her, she writes, “Kirtland was a huge gift to someone who did not have an opportunity to attend a university directly after graduating high school. It allowed me to continue my education, and I was able to take classes throughout my adult life in anything I was interested in, and my credits show the variety! Kirtland later created the 3 in 1 program, which allowed me to get a degree from a private university after just a few more classes at Kirtland, ultimately saving my family a lot of hard-earned money. Kirtland supported my transfer and has been a crucial stepping stone in my journey.”
Assistant Manager
Grayling County Club
Technology Management, AAS, 2022
Amairis Hart attended Kirtland from 2020-2022. After graduating from Kirtland in 2022 with an Associate degree in Applied Science, Amairis is currently continuing her education through Southern New Hampshire University to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design and Media Arts. Simultaneously, she is working as the Assistant Manager at the Grayling Country Club. When asked about what her current job entails, she writes "In my current position, I partner with the Director of Operations to ensure seamless facility operations, spearhead our social media and digital marketing efforts, and oversee the full design and management of our website."
Licensed Practical Nurse
Practical Nursing (LPN), 2014
Brittany attended Kirtland from the years 2008-2014. In 2014. She graduated with an LPN certificate. She has worked the past 11 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse in a skilled nursing facility. She has now returned back to Kirtland to pursue her ADN. “Recently, I decided to continue my education and am now enrolled in Kirtland’s LPN-to-ADN program - right back where my nursing journey began” she writes. Her long-term goal is to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DPN) so she can “provide care with the holistic perspective of a nurse in an advanced provider role.”
Retired Medical Assistant
Medical Secretary, Medical Assistant,
Office Assistant Certificates, 1990
George Ann Pratt attended Kirtland later in her life, after having her three children. She returned to Kirtland, taking class part time and working part time, all while raising her family. After graduating in 1990, she worked for over 20 years as a Medical Assistant, until her retirement. She expresses gratitude to Kirtland for giving her the opportunity to have a flexible schedule in order to earn her degree. She was very proud to have been able to go back to school and graduate, and was very grateful her grandfather could be in attendance at her graduation. She loved her career very much, and still misses it to this day. George Ann is one of three generations in her family who have attended Kirtland—herself, her son, her daughter, and her granddaughter.
Laboratory Science Manager, State of Michigan
Computer Science, AAS, 2010
Storm Shriver attended Kirtland from the years of 2008-2010. After Kirtland he attended Central Michigan University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. Then, he went on to attend Michigan State University, obtaining his Master of Science in Pharmacology and Toxicology. Currently, he is attending the University of Massachusetts Lowell for a Master of Science in Chemistry. He is currently working as a Laboratory Scientist Manager at the State of Michigan. “I’m helping start up the State of Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency’s Analytical Reference Laboratory. I guide strategy for the Laboratory Division, oversee the analytical methods we use, review and report results, and remain hands-on with daily testing and analyses. Our work strengthens data integrity and supports public health and consumer safety across Michigan” he writes.
Electrical Technology Instructor, KCC
Associate in Electrical Technology, 2008
Aaron Vineyard graduated from Kirtland in 2008 with an Associate degree in Electrical Technology and Applied Science. Following graduation, he obtained a Master Electrical License from the State of Michigan, which involved completing a five-year apprenticeship. He has now returned to Kirtland as a full-time Electrical Technology Instructor. In his role, he teaches students, supports their educational development, and contributes to the continuous improvement of the Electrical Technology Department at Kirtland. Last year, Aaron played a key role in launching a new instrumentation lab at Kirtland Gaylord, enhancing hands-on training and practical experience for students in the Electrical Program. When asked about his favorite part of working at Kirtland, he expressed that it is the opportunity to assist students and help them achieve their goals.
Registered Nurse
Certificate of Practical Nursing, 1981
Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, 1982
Shelley Glanton attended Kirtland from 1980 to 1982, earning a Certificate of Practical Nursing in 1981 and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 1982. In 2002, she graduated from the University of Cincinnati, where she earned Board Certification in Gerontology and became a member of the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). In 2012, she was certified as a Resident Assessment Coordinator by the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordination (AANAC). Shelley has thoroughly enjoyed her career, stating, “It has been more than a career to me, it’s a calling, a journey that has helped shape who I am today.” She also writes, “Nursing has been a great adventure of resilience, responsibility, sadness, and great joy. The rewards of nursing are many and immeasurable.” In 2014, she received an award for outstanding Pastoral Care as a registered nurse from the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina. She shared one of her greatest memories during her time as an RN, writing, “I walked into a patient’s room, and she said, 'Oh, thank goodness it’s an RN.' When I got close enough for her to see my name tag, I asked how she knew. She said, ‘Your cap, I know you are from Kirtland and an RN because of your black stripe on your cap. ’ That gave her comfort, and I was very proud to be an RN.”
Community Health Worker
District Health Department
Associate in Science and Arts, 2018
Holly Holm attended Kirtland after graduating high school, but was unable to complete her degree at that time. Several years later, she decided to return back to school and fulfill her dream of earning her degree. In 2018, she obtained an Associate in Science and Arts degree while raising her family and working full time. After Kirtland, she continued her education at Central Michigan University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Today, she is working as a Community Health Worker for the District Health Department #10. In her role, she works to connect people in the surrounding counties with health and social services, making a positive impact in their lives every day.
Library Director, Oscoda County District Library
Associate in Arts, 1989
Amy Knepp attended Kirtland from 1987 to 1989, graduating with an Associate in Arts degree in 1989. After Kirtland, she attended Baker College, where she obtained a Bachelor’s in Business Administration degree in 1999. Then, she continued her education at Drexel University, earning her Master of Science, specializing in Library and Information Science, in 2009. Amy is currently working at the Oscoda County District Library, where she has worked since 1992. She is currently the Library Director, a position she has held since 2002. In October of 2022, Amy was awarded the Michigan Library Association Lifetime Achievement Award. Amy says her love of libraries and reading began at a young age, and that it wasn’t until she was attending Kirtland that the idea of building a career around her love for libraries was planted in her brain. She writes, “Little did I know how reachable that dream really was, and I never expected to spend my career at the same library, but here I am thirty years later.”
Housing and Student Life Coordinator, KCC
Associate in Business Management, 2020
Associate in Foundations in Fine Art and Illustration, 2021
Shawn Witherspoon attended Kirtland Community College after graduating high school, and graduated in 2020 with an Associate's in Business Management and then in 2021 with an Associate's in Foundations in Fine Art and Illustrations. Shawn is now the Housing and Student Life Coordinator at Kirtland Community College. In his role, Shawn supports students who live on campus. He achieves this by making them feel at home and ensuring they have everything they need to be successful. He plans events and activities for students, serves as a point of contact for any questions they may have, and strives to build a community where students feel welcome and cared for. When asked about his favorite part of working at Kirtland, Shawn writes, “The students. They are the reason I enjoy coming to work. They make me laugh, they challenge me, and they keep things interesting.” When asked about why he chose to come back to Kirtland as a staff member after graduating, Shawn writes, “As a Kirtland alum, it means a lot to be back supporting students who are walking a path I once walked myself. This college had a real impact on my life, and now I get the chance to give that same support to others.”
Patient Outreach Billing Specialist, Lynx Dx Inc.
Associate in Applied Science/Health Information Technology, 2016
Chelsea McNiece attended Kirtland from the years 2014-2016, graduating in 2016 with an Associate in Applied Science/Health Information Technology. Currently, she is working as a Patient Outreach Billing Specialist at Lynx Dx Inc. In her role, she reaches out to eligible patients and offers them a discounted rate for their services, and explains the billing process so patients have a better understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. When asked about her experience at Kirtland, she writes, “I love Kirtland Community College!” and that “Graduating gave me a tremendous amount of confidence to never give up on myself and to keep asking questions, always.”
Sheriff's Deputy, Huron County Sheriff’s Department
Police Academy, 2021
Hunter Talaski attended Kirtland from 2020 to 2021. He graduated in 2021 with an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice. Before attending Kirtland, he transferred from Delta College because he felt Kirtland would have been a better fit for him, due to the atmosphere and rural location. Currently, Hunter is a Sheriff’s Deputy at Huron County Sheriff’s Department, where he has been for the last three years. When asked about his time at Kirtland and the Police Academy, he writes, “The academy was changing both mentally and physically. They say while attending an academy, you become a family. They were right, as all twenty of us were a family. We definitely pushed each other to be the best that we can. The instructors for the academy were there for us and set us up for success in Law Enforcement.”
Service Technician
Automotive Technology Certificate, 2018
Zachary Walby attended Kirtland from the years 2016-2018, graduating in 2018 with an Automotive Technician Certificate. After graduating, he went straight into the automotive workforce. In his current job as a service technician, he is responsible for extensive diagnosing and repairing of vehicles, with a focus on Land Rovers. When asked about his time at Kirtland, he writes, “At a time when I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do, I left from a Mechanical Engineering degree at a university and completed some general education courses at Kirtland, and I gave their programs a closer look. After some thought, I decided on the Automotive Technology program. Couldn't have made a better choice. Bob, Jeremy, and Dean were instrumental in showing me the industry and how I could best succeed. It took me some time, a couple of different shops, but I found one that works best for me, and the things I learned from my instructors affect my work every day.”
Certified Occupational Safety Specialist
Associate in Technology Management, 2018
Jonathon Freier attended Kirtland from the years 2016-2018, graduating in 2018 with an Associate in Technology Management. Currently, he is working as a Certified Occupational Safety Specialist. When asked about what his current job entails, Jonathon says he is a safety representative, and he is responsible for visiting job sites and visiting with the crews, identifying potential hazards on job sites, ensuring employees are following company policies, and ensuring companies are complying with OSHA regulations. Jonathon writes that he is “building one-on-one relationships with team members, being there to protect workers, and provide safety, such as correct equipment and protecting their wellbeing.”
Merchant Services Sales Advisor
Huntington Bank
Associate in Arts, 2002
Elizabeth Laier attended Kirtland from the years 1999-2002. In 2002, she graduated with an Associate in Arts degree. In 2009, she began her current career at Independent Bank (now Huntington Bank) as a part time teller. Through her hard work and dedication, she worked her way up to becoming the branch manager at the West Branch location. She has recently transitioned to a new role within the company, working as a Merchant Services Sales Advisor. Elizabeth has been with the company for almost 16 years.
Fine Art and Illustration, AAS, 2021
Brittany attended Kirtland from the years 2018-2021, and graduated with an Associates of Art degree in 2021. After Kirtland, Brittany attended Saginaw Valley State University, where she graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Art, with a minor in Criminal Justice. Currently, Brittany is assisting with the care of her brother, and is seeking her next career opportunity. When asked about her experiences at Kirtland, she said “I enjoyed my time at Kirtland. My professor Scott Rice had a big impact on me while I was there. He was such an amazing professor, and helped me out when I needed it. I couldn’t have asked for a better professor.”