At last, summer! Like many of you, I found the glidepath into summer marked by graduations, family gatherings, and a little R&R over the Memorial Day holiday.

We celebrated my niece Karlee’s graduation with honors in radiation technology from Jefferson College, where every member of her cohort has accepted a post-graduation offer in their field. Given the Chamber’s priority on talent development, I was particularly interested in the program, the opportunities available to these graduates, and the health care systems that supported their learning during practicums. Many students chose their employers based on these experiences.

While I don’t recall who spoke at my own graduation from William Jewell decades ago, I enjoyed the speaker chosen for Karlee’s – a Jefferson alum, Kenneth Steicker, CEO of Consort Homes, LLC. Like most commencement speakers, he has a long list of academic, business, and civic successes, but it was advice from his coach during his time at community college that has shaped him over the years. “Effort doesn’t guarantee you’ll win, but lack of effort guarantees you won’t.”

Steicker reminisced with pride about his community college days, noting that this period is a proving ground. Through my service on the Johnson County Community College Foundation Board, I meet students and alumni who share the same sentiments, namely that JCCC isn’t just an education but a place that has changed and shaped the trajectory of their lives.

Our three-year-old grandson, Henry, recently stayed with us for several days. I was reminded how quickly kids learn and how eager they are for new information and experiences. From climbing at Thompson Park, exploring the toys and books at Johnson County’s Central Library, making peanut butter kiss cookies, riding his bike, and working on his numbers, he makes the most of every waking minute.

That’s a lesson we all can emulate.