Linda Blandford graduated High School planning to work a job until accumulating a sufficient amount of money to attend a higher education facility without working. Needless to say, life had other plans. Twenty-five years later the opportunity to attend GRCC presented itself. The economy took a down turn, Linda’s job went overseas, and the US Government offered a two-year educational program, the Trade Adjustment Act, run through the local Michigan Works office. That very first day on campus attending classes changed the direction of Linda’s life. After two and a half years of hard work, Linda graduated GRCC as a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Delta Pi Alfa with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting and another one in Business Administration. Due to the friendly atmosphere GRCC presented and family obligations, Linda went to work as a part-time Professional Tutor in the GRCC Business Tutorial & Computer Lab. During this time Linda, also worked in the Math Tutorial Lab and several other part-time accounting positions trying to pick which type of accounting work to pursue. Eventually, Linda joined the Cashier’s Office as an Accounts Receivable Clerk in 2020. Meeting and helping students from very diverse backgrounds succeed, was and continues to be an enjoyable rewarding experience for Linda.

With over 20 years of experience in higher education, I've dedicated my career to helping students navigate their academic journeys. I specialize in assisting those who are undecided about their major or program, and I'm committed to creating a safe, challenging and safe supportive environment where every student feels empowered to achieve their dreams. My Background  I'm a proud graduate of several Michigan universities. I earned my bachelor's degree from Calvin College, my MBA from Western Michigan University, and an Educational Leadership Certificate from GVSU, where I most recently worked. I also just completed my PH.D. IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP from Eastern Michigan University. The Ph.D. process was a long and difficult journey, but it taught me the importance of perseverance and never giving up.  When I'm not working, I love spending time with my family, especially my grandson. Let's Connect I offer both virtual and in-person appointments, so you can choose the option that works best for you. If you have a quick question, you can reach me by email at SWHITE@GRCC.EDU. I look forward to connecting with you soon! Schedule a virtual or in-person appointment Current schedule Monday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.  (in-person and virtual appointments) Tuesday: 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. (in-person and virtual appointments) Wednesday: 8 a.m.to 4 p.m. (in-person and virtual appointments) Thursday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (virtual appointments only) Friday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.   (in-person and virtual appointments) Degrees and Certifications BA, MBA, Ed.S. Ph.D.

Carrie has been a key member of the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) Information Technology team since 2019. In their role as EA to the Associate VP of IT/Chief Information Officer, and Information Technology Division, Carrie manages office operations, coordinates schedules, conducts research, and supports various tasks to assist the Vice President and division leadership. With an Associate of Business from GRCC, Carrie brings a deep understanding of Higher Education business and operations. They are a subject matter expert within the division, providing vital support in the execution of process and procedure-driven events. Known for their exceptional customer service skills and ability to interact effectively with individuals at all levels, Carrie plays a critical role in supporting the Information Technology team in achieving their strategic goals. www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-magnanti

Ell Simpson is a support professional in the Marketing & Communications Department. A key member of the team, Simpson helps tell the stories of students, faculty and staff and of how a GRCC education changes lives. Simpson earned a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies from Ferris State University in 2017, with an emphasis on Multicultural Relations and Professional Writing as well as a Technical Writing Certificate. A first-generation college student, Simpson has used their talents and the experiences of their personal journey to assist GRCC students through a variety of positions since joining the staff in 2012. Simpson has served as a professional tutor, a Fast Track/On Track facilitator and a paired reading mentor.

Jackie Araiza started her journey at GRCC as a first-generation college student. Over her 8-year at GRCC, she has contributed her skills to various departments, displaying a commitment to assisting students in navigating the college process. Recognizing the excitement and challenges inherent in choosing a career and navigating college, Jackie invites individuals to reach out, expressing her eagerness to provide assistance. Initially joining as a student employee at the Lakeshore Campus while pursuing her Associates of Arts, which she successfully earned in 2019, Jackie later transitioned to the College Success Center. Continuing her academic pursuits, she transferred to Grand Valley State University, where she obtained her Bachelor's in social work. Subsequently, Jackie took on a role in the Student Financials department. In 2021, Jackie achieved her Bachelor's degree in social work and is presently pursuing her Master's in Clinical Social Work at the University of Michigan. She now serves as the Admissions and Enrollment Coordinator and Lakeshore Campus Lead for GRCC's Lakeshore Campus in Holland, Michigan, Jackie is dedicated to supporting new students in navigating the admissions and enrollment process, bringing her wealth of experience to assist individuals on their educational journey. " Here to Help: First-generation college grad Jaqueline Araiza helps students navigate admissions process " Jackie Araiza inició su trayectoria en GRCC como estudiante universitaria de primera generación. A lo largo de sus 8 años de servicio, ha aportado sus habilidades a varios departamentos, mostrando un compromiso ferviente para ayudar a los estudiantes a navegar por el proceso universitario. Reconociendo la emoción y los desafíos inherentes a la elección de una carrera y la navegación universitaria, Jackie invita a las personas a comunicarse, expresando su entusiasmo por brindar asistencia. Ingresó inicialmente como empleada estudiantil en el Campus Lakeshore mientras perseguía su Asociado en Artes, que obtuvo con éxito en 2019. Más tarde, Jackie se trasladó al Centro de Éxito Estudiantil. Continuando con sus estudios, se transfirió a la Universidad Estatal de Grand Valley, donde obtuvo su licenciatura en trabajo social. Posteriormente, Jackie asumió un papel en el departamento de Finanzas Estudiantiles. En 2021, Jackie obtuvo su licenciatura en trabajo social y actualmente está cursando su Maestría en Trabajo Social Clínico en la Universidad de Michigan. Ahora se desempeña como Coordinadora de Admisiones y Matrícula y Líder del Campus Lakeshore para el Campus Lakeshore de GRCC en Holland, Michigan. Jackie está dedicada a apoyar a los nuevos estudiantes en la navegación del proceso de admisión y matrícula, aportando su amplia experiencia para ayudar a las personas en su trayectoria educativa.