Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Floyd Hayes, professor of biology, whose local research on Grebes offers a glimpse into the world of field biology and the role of observation, curiosity, and discovery in scientific work. Floyd shares how his research informs his teaching, creating opportunities for students to engage directly with the natural world while developing critical thinking skills. From time spent in the field to moments of discovery, this conversation highlights how hands-on learning shapes both scientific understanding and student growth.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• An overview of his research on grebes and what drew him to this field
• How fieldwork and observation play a role in student learning
• Ways students can get involved in hands-on scientific experiences
• The impact of mentorship in shaping future scientists

Why Listen

This episode offers a window into how research and teaching come together to create meaningful learning experiences. Whether you work in the sciences or not, it’s a reminder of the value of curiosity, exploration, and mentorship—and how faculty help students engage deeply with the world around them.

In this episode, we sit down with PUC’s academic dean to talk about women in leadership and what it means to lead well within higher education. Drawing from her own journey, she reflects on the importance of visibility, mentorship, and support for women, while also challenging the idea that leadership only comes with a title. Together, we explore how leadership can be practiced from anywhere on campus.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Her path into academic leadership and lessons learned along the way
• Why leadership isn’t limited to formal roles or titles
• Common challenges women face in leadership—and how to navigate them
• How faculty and staff can encourage and support women leaders
• The role of mentorship, representation, and everyday influence

Why Listen

This conversation offers thoughtful insight for anyone shaping campus culture. Whether you lead from a formal position or through daily influence and service, this episode invites faculty and staff to reflect on how leadership is modeled, shared, and supported—and how we can create space for women to lead with confidence and purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with Kurt Sollanek, PUC’s newest biology professor, to talk about what it’s like to join the campus community, step into the classroom, and begin shaping student experiences. Our conversation explores his journey into biology, how he approaches teaching and learning, and the ways he hopes to support students both academically and personally. We also talk about collaboration, mentorship, and the excitement—and challenges—of starting fresh at a new institution.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• What drew him to biology as a discipline and a teaching vocation
• The courses he’s teaching and the strategies he’s excited to use in the classroom
• How he connects lab and lecture work to real-world application
• His approach to mentoring students and supporting their growth beyond academics

Why Listen

This episode offers a thoughtful introduction to a new faculty voice on campus and a reminder of how teaching, mentorship, and collaboration shape the student experience. Whether you work directly with students or support learning behind the scenes, this conversation highlights the shared work of helping students find confidence, direction, and meaning in their education.