Lakeland University Alumni Return for Annual Colloquium Events: Networking and Scholarship Opportunities

Why the Annual Colloquium Matters for Lakeland Students

The annual colloquium at Lakeland University is more than a gathering of former students; it is a strategic platform that connects current and prospective students with alumni who have translated their Lakeland education into real‑world success. By attending, participants gain firsthand insight into career pathways, discover scholarship opportunities, and build a network that can support them throughout their academic and professional journeys.

Key Benefits for Attendees

• Career Insight: Alumni share the challenges and triumphs they faced after graduation, offering a realistic view of industry expectations.
• Scholarship Exposure: Faculty members discuss full‑tuition scholarships available to students who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement.
• Networking Opportunities: Lunch sessions and informal meet‑ups allow students to connect with alumni who can become mentors, employers, or collaborators.
• Skill Development: Panels emphasize the importance of communication, adaptability, and continuous learning—skills that are essential in any field.

To take advantage of these benefits, prospective students are encouraged to submit your application today and explore the range of programs that align with your interests.

Highlights from This Year’s Panels

The 2025 colloquium featured nine distinguished alumni across three major disciplines: Humanities & Fine Arts, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Science, Technology & Education. Each panel offered a unique perspective on how Lakeland’s curriculum and campus culture prepared them for success.

Humanities & Fine Arts

• Daniel “DZ” Zea Zapata ’14 – Morning host at 103.7 KISS‑FM and in‑game host for the Milwaukee Bucks. He highlighted the value of public speaking and media literacy skills honed during his time at Lakeland.
• Rebecca Meyer ’11 – Technical writer at Active Club Solutions. Meyer discussed how Lakeland’s emphasis on research and writing laid the groundwork for her career in technical communication.
• Tanner Hackl ’15 – Freelance graphic designer and photographer. Hackl emphasized the importance of a strong portfolio and networking within the creative community.

Business & Entrepreneurship

• Emma Lehr ’19 – Meetings & events coordinator at Kohler Co. Lehr explained how Lakeland’s experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and case competitions, sharpened her project management skills.
• Jordan Johnson ’19 – Real estate agent for CENTURY 21® Ace Realty, MSLOD ’20. Johnson shared insights into the real‑estate market and the role of continuous professional development.
• Katelyn Gunderson ’22 – HR resource for Pinnacle Senior Living (Pennant Service Center). Gunderson highlighted the importance of empathy and communication in human resources.

Science, Technology & Education

• Brianne (Frank) Burton ’17 – Chemist II at Sheboygan Paint Company. Burton discussed how Lakeland’s laboratory courses prepared her for industrial research.
• Davan (Fleming) Raasch ’20 – Licensed athletic trainer at ThedaCare. Raasch emphasized the significance of teamwork and patient care skills.
• Joshua Becker ’21 – School resource officer and police officer with the Sheboygan Police Department. Becker spoke about the intersection of education and public safety.

Alumni Advice for Current and Prospective Students

Across all panels, alumni underscored a set of core principles that can guide students toward academic and professional excellence:

• Be open to change and adaptable.
• Comfortably embrace discomfort; growth often occurs outside your comfort zone.
• Push beyond familiar boundaries to meet new people and develop new skills.
• Leverage the extensive resources at Lakeland and build a robust network.
• Master both verbal and written communication.

These insights reinforce the value of a holistic education that balances coursework, extracurricular involvement, and real‑world experience.

How to Get Involved and Maximize Your Experience

Students who wish to deepen their engagement with Lakeland’s alumni community can take several proactive steps:

1. Attend the Colloquium: Register for the event through the calendar page and prepare thoughtful questions for each panelist.
2. Join a Club or Organization: Lakeland offers a wide range of student‑run businesses, performing‑arts groups, and professional societies that provide leadership opportunities.
3. Seek Mentorship: Utilize the university’s mentoring program to connect with alumni who share your career interests.
4. Apply for Scholarships: Explore the scholarship listings and meet with financial aid advisors to discuss eligibility.
5. Volunteer: Participate in community service projects or campus events to build a service‑oriented profile.

By actively engaging in these activities, students can create a network that supports both their academic pursuits and future career goals.

Looking Ahead: Future Colloquium Themes and Opportunities

Lakeland University plans to expand the scope of the colloquium in upcoming years, incorporating emerging fields such as data science, sustainability, and global health. The university also intends to increase the number of scholarship awards presented during the event, making it an even more attractive option for students seeking financial support.

To stay informed about future colloquium dates, themes, and scholarship opportunities, students should regularly check the news section and subscribe to the university’s newsletter.

Take the Next Step in Your Lakeland Journey

Whether you are a prospective student evaluating your options, a current student looking to broaden your network, or an alumnus eager to give back, the annual colloquium offers a unique platform to connect, learn, and grow. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how Lakeland can support your academic and career aspirations.

Have questions? Write to us! We are ready to help you navigate your educational path.

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