Current or most recent title and employer?
Director of Communications, Woman’s Life Insurance Society
How did SC4 help prepare you?
I was working full-time when I first enrolled at SC4, and initially only planned to take a few classes to improve my graphic design skills. An SC4 advisor helped me create a path to complete my associate degree in business by combining the required/core classes with electives that helped me build the design skills I needed for the job I had then. It was a lot of hard work, taking classes in person and online while working full-time, but it was definitely worth it in the end. The classes I took at SC4 prepared me well for the next level of classes when I transferred to Walsh College. Even today, the combination of my degree(s) and those creative skills helps set me apart from others and has enabled me to continue to grow in my career.
What do you like most about what you do professionally?
I’m fortunate to work for an organization that has a mission I care about deeply. In my role, I get to work on a wide variety of communications and marketing-related projects and campaigns from developing corporate messaging and ad campaigns to graphic design, video production to social media and website content. I love that I get to apply the skills I gained at SC4 and continue to learn new things every day while helping my organization and the people we serve as we pursue our mission.
Did you transfer on and earn other degrees? If so, what degrees and from where?
After graduating from SC4, I transferred to Walsh College where I earned my bachelor’s degree in business and marketing.
Category: Alumni
Alumni Spotlight: Bill Thrash
Current or most recent title and employer?
Senior Vice President, Customer Operations at Critical Start
How did SC4 help prepare you?
SC4 provided an educational foundation based in critical thinking, strong interpersonal communication, and the value of community engagement. SC4 gave me the tools to build and nurture a network of individuals that would go on to support my growth and development long beyond my time at SC4.
What do you like most about what you do professionally?
Cyber security is a thrilling field. I am grateful I get to build teams of engineers, customer success managers, support analysts, and program managers that solve unique security problems and prove value long-term to our customers. I love the community that exists in cyber security. We’re all facing big problems and we all rally to help one another. I am fortunate that I can lead such an amazing group of people and help maximize their potential each and every day.
Did you transfer on and earn other degrees? If so, what degrees and from where?
No, I obtained my 60 hours and went on to law enforcement. I’ve never returned to finish my degree.
Alumni Spotlight: Christina Parraghi
Current or most recent title and employer?
Office Manager of Croswell Tire & Towing
How did SC4 help prepare you?
SC4 provided me with the foundation of classes to further pursue my degree at a university. I loved working on the old radio station 91.3 “The Bluewater’s only Alternative Radio” and actually remember hosting an event where a lanky flat-top hair Kid Rock came and performed at SC4 cafeteria years before he became famous!
What do you like most about what you do professionally?
All of my past career and work experiences have prepared me to handle the many different challenges and daily responsibilities that I encounter as a manager. I also realize that it’s important to never stop learning new skills but the most important skill is attitude and keeping a positive outlook for each new day!
Did you transfer on and earn other degrees? If so, what degrees and from where?
Transferred to Western Michigan University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Alumni Spotlight: Cora Dewan-Smith
Current or most recent title and employer?
Property Manager with Village Green
How did SC4 help prepare you?
SC4 helped me save a lot of money during my undergrad. I was originally a science major, and my last semester I took two business courses that really made me realize I had to change my path.
What do you like most about what you do professionally?
Every day is different in the multi-family housing industry. I am able to help people find their homes.
Did you transfer on and earn other degrees? If so, what degrees and from where?
Yes, I earned a BBA from Northwood University focusing on hospitality and franchising.
