Gator Bites

Lamar State College Orange

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‘Gator Bites’ gives an authentic, inside look into Lamar State College Orange, dedicated to elevating Gator voices, spotlighting campus life, and fostering meaningful conversations that connect, inform, and inspire the Gator community. Through engaging interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and real talk about college life, we aim to build a stronger, more connected campus culture.

MAR 2

S1: E20 | Called to the Classroom: Inside Teachers of Tomorrow

In this inspiring episode of Gator Bites, we spotlight LSCO’s Education program and the Teachers of Tomorrow student organization. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with education majors Carolina Dela Cruz and Olivia Hudnall, along with Program Director Dr. Skyler Slaughter Murphy, to explore what it truly means to pursue a calling to teach. From field experiences in local classrooms to service projects like Special Olympics and Sabine Place, this conversation highlights the heart, resilience, and purpose behind preparing the next generation of Texas educators. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

18 min
FEB 23

S1: E19 | Your Next Step Starts Here: Transfer Pathways at LSCO

What happens after LSCO? In this episode of Gator Bites, Daniel McLemore sits down with Kendra De La Fuente and Karina Salgado Estrada to talk about LSCO’s upcoming Transfer Fair - an event designed to connect students directly with four-year universities ready to welcome Gators into bachelor’s programs. From understanding core completion and seamless transfer agreements to exploring scholarships and reducing credit loss, this conversation breaks down how students can confidently take their next step and turn long-term goals into a real, actionable plan. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

14 min
FEB 16

S1: E18 | Ten Months to a New Career: Dental Assisting at LSCO

Looking for a fast, hands-on pathway into healthcare? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Program Director Stacy DeMontmollin and instructor Amber Cormier about LSCO’s Dental Assisting program. From real-world clinical rotations and modern dental technology to high-demand career opportunities, this program prepares students to enter the workforce in just 10 months. Featuring special guest Mayor Larry Spears Jr., the episode also highlights how programs like this are creating generational change right here in Orange. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

14 min
FEB 9

S1: E17 | Every Word Matters: Inside LSCO’s Court Reporting Program

Court reporting is more than what you see in movies; it’s a high-skill, high-demand career with flexibility, strong earning potential, and real impact. In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Christy Smith, Program Director of Court Reporting at Lamar State College Orange, along with instructor Baylee Richards and student Shelby Sweeney. Recorded during National Court Reporting and Captioning Week, this conversation explores what court reporters really do, why there’s a growing nationwide shortage, and how LSCO’s fully online program is opening doors for students (including working parents) to build meaningful, in-demand careers. Mentioned in the episode: A-Z Program and Project Steno About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

26 min
FEB 2

S1: E:16 | Meeting You Where You Are: Workforce Pathways at LSCO

What if education worked around your life and not the other way around? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with LSCO’s Workforce and Continuing Education team, Kristin Walker, Michelle Hammerly, and D’Wayne Shaw, to unpack how workforce programs create fast, flexible pathways into new careers. From short-term credentials and employer partnerships to upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning, this conversation explores how LSCO is meeting students exactly where they are and helping them take confident next steps toward their goals. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

26 min
JAN 12

S1: E15 | Built to Last: Inside LSCO’s New Machine Shop Program

What happens when industry demand meets hands-on education? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Sean McFarland, Howard Bailey, and Alex Spell to explore LSCO’s new Machine Shop program launching this spring. From the nationwide shortage of skilled machinists to six-figure career pathways and stackable credentials, this conversation dives into why manual machining is making a comeback and how students can turn precision skills into lifelong careers right here in Southeast Texas. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

35 min
11/24/2025

S1: E14 | Credit for Service: Empowering Texas’ Juvenile Justice Workforce

How can education strengthen public service? In this special episode of Gator Bites, President Wendy Elmore sits down with Chris Ellison, Director of Program Development and Training for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, to discuss an innovative partnership transforming the TJJD workforce. Together, they explore how LSCO is helping new hires and long-time employees earn college credit, pursue certificates and associate degrees, and even move toward bachelor’s pathways all through training they've already completed. Discover how collaboration between education and public service is creating career opportunities, improving employee retention, and empowering those who serve Texas youth. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

9 min
11/11/2025

S1: E13 | Balancing Books and Bedtime: The Journey of a Student Parent

How do you balance classes, parenting, and everything in between? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore talks with Jessica Moore, LSCO’s Student Government Association Vice President and founder of a potential new student parent organization. Jessica shares her story of perseverance, community, and the challenges of raising a child while pursuing her degree — and how she’s helping other parents find strength, support, and success along the way. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

14 min

4

out of 5

4 Ratings

‘Gator Bites’ gives an authentic, inside look into Lamar State College Orange, dedicated to elevating Gator voices, spotlighting campus life, and fostering meaningful conversations that connect, inform, and inspire the Gator community. Through engaging interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and real talk about college life, we aim to build a stronger, more connected campus culture.

Creator

Lamar State College Orange
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

20
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 Lamar State College Orange
Show Website

Gator Bites