Life

  • The Messenger’s New Editor-In-Chief’s Journey To JCCC

    The Messenger’s New Editor-In-Chief’s Journey To JCCC

    (Photo provided by: Baptiste Raffin) Coming to you straight from Saint-Egrève, France, I am so excited to introduce you to Baptiste Raffin, the new Editor-In-Chief of The Messenger for the 2025-2026 school year. Raffin has been living in the United States since July of last year and is looking forward to continuing his education at…

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  • JCCC’s Next Student Senate President Is Ready To Get Started

    JCCC’s Next Student Senate President Is Ready To Get Started

    When you think of the typical President of Student Senate, I bet your first thought isn’t a 16 year old student still in high school at Blue Valley Northwest. But, Oliver Gonzales is nothing but “typical.”

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  • JCCC’s DECA Team And Their Competition Performances

    JCCC’s DECA Team And Their Competition Performances

    JCCC’s DECA team participated in two state tournaments in February with one student, Jeremiah Reed, placing third in the Kansas State competition in the Professional Sales category. The team has only six members with five of them competing in the Kansas State tournament, and only two competing in the Missouri State tournament.

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  • Video: Graduation Information And Tips

    Video: Graduation Information And Tips

    Graduation is a big celebration at JCCC! Learn what graduation is, why you should graduate, and how to prepare your classes so you’re all set to graduate!

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  • The Messenger’s Main Mic Having Fun Before Summer Break!

    The Messenger’s Main Mic Having Fun Before Summer Break!

    Welcome back to another episode of Main Mic. Summer is finally here, as so, this is the last episode of Main Mic for the semester! Join everybody as they figure out a certain smoothie situation, and figure out what their superpowers would be! If you have any stories please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

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  • Video: “Oh! A Rhinoceros!'” Behind The Scenes Of The Rhinoceros Production

    Video: “Oh! A Rhinoceros!’” Behind The Scenes Of The Rhinoceros Production

    Go behind the scenes with some of the cast and crew of the ‘Rhinoceros’ production.

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  • Video: Stine Speaking Showcase Overview

    Video: Stine Speaking Showcase Overview

    Each semester JCCC hosts the Stine Speaking showcase. Students looking to go into or simply taking communication classes can participate in this competition to show off their skills, and have the opportunity to earn cash prizes.

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  • Nick Fisher Talks Mental Health

    Nick Fisher Talks Mental Health

    Welcome to another episode of Student Stories. For the last Student Story of the Semester, we have a special guest today. Nick Fisher, who recently won the Stine Speaking Showcase, joins Jen today. Join them as they both talk about his story, mental health, and other powerful topics.

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  • Crazy Shenanigans Before Finals On The Podcast

    Crazy Shenanigans Before Finals On The Podcast

    Welcome to another episode of Main Mic. Today’s episode is a doozy. Enjoy a bunch of college kids trying to keep it together in the final stretch of the semester. Join them as they play some games and have a good laugh. If you have any stories please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

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  • Video: What’s Free At JCCC?

    Video: What’s Free At JCCC?

    What’s better than free things? JCCC offers multiple areas of free, able to use, easy access facilities and resources for students. Don’t miss out on the opportunities offered to you.

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  • Video: A Deeper Look Into JCCC’s Film Production Program

    Video: A Deeper Look Into JCCC’s Film Production Program

    Johnson County Community College hosts classes to advance students knowledge and experience in the film department. These classes help them to learn equipment and skill that will be used in the professional setting, preparing them for success.

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  • Join The Student Environmental Alliance

    Join The Student Environmental Alliance

    The Student Environmental Alliance (SEA) is one of many clubs we have on campus. They meet on the first and third Friday of every month, from 2:30-4 p.m., in SCI 122. At each meeting, professors Lani Witters and Daniel Cryer teach students about environmental issues, and lead discussions with students.  

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  • From JCCC To Congress: Sharice Davids’ Inspiring Journey

    From JCCC To Congress: Sharice Davids’ Inspiring Journey

    Sharice David’s path to the U.S. House of Representatives began at Johnson County Community College, where she started her higher education journey. Raised by a single mom who served in the Army, Davids became the first in her family to attend college. After her time at JCCC, she transferred to the University of Missouri-Kansas City…

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  • Playing The Ultimate Game Of Two Truths And A Lie

    Playing The Ultimate Game Of Two Truths And A Lie

    Welcome to another episode of Main Mic. Today, we are joined by a special guest, who you may have heard of on one of our Student Stories episodes, Baptiste! Today, join them as they all talk about finals week and how they are prepping for it. Afterwards, join them in an exciting game of 2…

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  • Video: Student Stories – Full Time Jobs And Classes

    Video: Student Stories – Full Time Jobs And Classes

    Taking the time to talk to students on campus, we get to learn how students handle their day to day jobs and classes at the same time. Special thanks to Michael Price’s Basic Video Production class and Studio B for helping with this interview video!

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  • JCCC’s Dental And Nail Services Provide Low Cost Alternatives

    JCCC’s Dental And Nail Services Provide Low Cost Alternatives

    Many students didn’t know that JCCC offers discounts on all kinds of services on campus. The nail tech program offers discounts on nail services provided by students enrolled in the nail technician program. Open from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, the salon takes appointments online or by phone. They offer basic nail services like…

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  • Video: JCCC’s Art And Student Influence

    Video: JCCC’s Art And Student Influence

    Art on campus can impact students in many different ways. It can bring people together and spark emotion or thought. Art can strive students to put more thought into how we see the world, such as the great pieces at JCCC like the Hare Bell.

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  • BSU Poetry Slam Showcases Student Talent And Emotion

    BSU Poetry Slam Showcases Student Talent And Emotion

    The poetry slam was not just a competition, but a celebration of expression. For anyone wrestling with emotions—whether joy, sadness, anger, or anything in between—channel those feelings through writing. You might discover an unexpected talent and perhaps find yourself inspired to share your poem at the next BSU poetry slam.

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  • Video: A Look Into The JCCC Theatre Program

    Video: A Look Into The JCCC Theatre Program

    Johnson County Community College holds a place for our arts department in many fields to explore. One way students choose to express themselves is through acting in our theatre program, many continuing into a future career.

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  • Mckenzie And Zach Play The Ultimate Game Of Guess Who

    Mckenzie And Zach Play The Ultimate Game Of Guess Who

    Welcome to another episode of Main Mic. Today, Mckenzie and Zach are found without Harper. Join them as they talk about current events going on around campus such as the theater production of “Rhinoceros”, donation boxes, starting up a garden, and much more. Later, join them as they play the ultimate game of guess who.…

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  • ‘Rhinoceros’ By Eugene Ionesco Now Performing At JCCC

    ‘Rhinoceros’ By Eugene Ionesco Now Performing At JCCC

    “Rhinoceros” is a play written by Eugene Ionesco and directed by Trevor Belt. The story revolves around citizens in a French town who begin shifting into rhinoceroses one by one, leaving only one man, Bérenger, as the last human in the town.

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  • JCCC’s Nature Contest Promotes Biodiversity Appreciation

    JCCC’s Nature Contest Promotes Biodiversity Appreciation

    Although the competition has been going on for a couple weeks, since April 1, there’s still time to get out there and find lots of animals before the deadline on April 30. SEA will be announcing the winners at 2 p.m. on May 5. 

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  • Rosslyn Johnson Navigates College And High School

    Rosslyn Johnson Navigates College And High School

    Welcome back to another episode of Student Stories. Today, Jen is joined by a high school nontraditional student Rosslyn. Rosslyn shares her experiences with doing college classes in high school to eventually only doing college courses. Get to know Rosslyn and all of her fun experiences. If you have any stories please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com Thanks…

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  • How To Celebrate Earth Day

    How To Celebrate Earth Day

    Welcome back to another episode of Main Mic. Today, Harper, Mckenzie, and Zach are joined together to talk about upcoming events, such as Earth Day! Get to know about some of the events happening here at JCCC to celebrate Earth Day, such as organized clean ups or even clothing repairs. Afterwards, join them all as…

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  • Roll The Dice With JCCC’s D&D Club

    Roll The Dice With JCCC’s D&D Club

    Playing D&D helps students learn how to work as a team, solve problems together, and think creatively. It’s also a great way to meet new people and connect with others who share your interests. 

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  • JCCC Automotive Technology Offers A Cost Effective Solution

    JCCC Automotive Technology Offers A Cost Effective Solution

    At JCCC, students facing car troubles could have a cost-effective solution thanks to the college’s Automotive Department. This valuable service allows students to submit their vehicles for repairs with possible reduced costs, all while benefiting Automotive Technology students by giving them hands-on experience.

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  • Student Stories: The King of Hallmark Movies

    Student Stories: The King of Hallmark Movies

    Welcome back to another episode of Student Stories. Today, Jen is joined by a fellow member of The Messenger, Baptiste. Listen in on today’s episode and learn all about Baptiste and his journey from France to America. He will talk about things such as Hallmark, crepes, and soap operas, so stay tuned! If you have…

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  • Our Opinion On The Minecraft Movie

    Our Opinion On The Minecraft Movie

    Welcome back to another episode of Main Mic. Today, enjoy a low-key episode with Harper and Zach. Join them as they discuss the new movie, the game, and some classic Minecraft nostalgia.  If you have any stories please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

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  • Best Sausage In KC? Dave Derr Sizzles Up The Podcast

    Best Sausage In KC? Dave Derr Sizzles Up The Podcast

    Welcome back to another episode of Student Stories. Today, Jen is joined by one of her own fellow classmates, Dave. Learn all about Dave, and how he manages to juggle his own business, being a student, and his love for music. If you have any stories please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

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  • Reading Crazy Reddit Stories

    Reading Crazy Reddit Stories

    Welcome back to another episode of Main Mic. Today, Harper, McKenzie and Zach are all together. Join them as they talk about some new upcoming events happening at JCCC such as the final class drop deadline and graduation. After, join them as they read out some insane Reddit stories they found and share their opinions…

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  • Hidden Resources – Perks Of A Counselor

    Hidden Resources – Perks Of A Counselor

    A not so hidden resource at JCCC is our counseling center. Many students aren’t aware of just how much a counselor can help your college experience. Here we show just how useful they truly are to student success.

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  • Feminism, Hunger Games, and Video Games? Ending Women’s History Month Featuring Girl Talk

    Feminism, Hunger Games, and Video Games? Ending Women’s History Month Featuring Girl Talk

    Welcome back to another episode of Main Mic. As Women’s History Month comes to a close, we are pleased to have some special guests in this episode. Narissa and Shreya, both Model UN students here at JCCC, talk about a project they are working on. In this episode, they discuss topics such as Women’s Rights,…

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  • JCCC’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance Brings Communities Together

    JCCC’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance Brings Communities Together

    “Without diversity, so much of the spirit, ideas, and innovation on campus would be gone,” Schwarz said. “Some of the biggest, liveliest events of the year would not be possible without students from a wide variety of different communities coming together. Our community is made better by the diversity of people within it.”

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  • Professor Harvey Fitzer Rocks Out Teaching At JCCC

    Professor Harvey Fitzer Rocks Out Teaching At JCCC

    For nearly 24 years JCCC Professor Harvey Fitzer has been keeping the spirit of rock and roll alive here on campus, and one might even say he is the living embodiment. From teaching guitar to creating the rock and roll history course here at JCCC, to still kicking it on stage as part of a…

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  • Robert Freemon Spreads Love Around JCCC: Student Stories Podcast

    Robert Freemon Spreads Love Around JCCC: Student Stories Podcast

    Welcome to the first episode of Student Stories! Join Jen today in interviewing a fellow student musician. In this episode, Jen and Robert talk all about good vibes and the joys and struggles of being a musician.

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  • Has STEM Overshadowed The Arts?

    Has STEM Overshadowed The Arts?

    Johnson County Community College offers many fields to go into from welding to anatomy. We take the time to answer the general question, “Has STEM overshadowed the arts?”

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  • How to College: Spring Break From At-Home To Far Away & Finding Great Music In KC

    How to College: Spring Break From At-Home To Far Away & Finding Great Music In KC

    With Spring Break right around the corner, many people are going to have some last minute travel vacations in mind. Whether you stay or go, we have ideas for a good time.

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  • Lee Brice Concert Tells Life’s Journey As A Musician

    Lee Brice Concert Tells Life’s Journey As A Musician

    Lee Brice performing, You, Me, and My Guitar. (Photo courtesy of Lee Brice.) At 45, country music singer-songwriter Lee Brice is by no means at the finale of his journey as a musician. But he has had enough life experiences on and off the stage that he can look back and reflect on all that he…

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  • Meet Your Co-Host

    Meet Your Co-Host

    The long awaited day is finally here. Harper is finally joined with her new co-host, Mckenzie. Get to meet the new host and what they have to offer to the podcast.

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  • Experience the Flavors of Africa at JCCC’s Bake Sale

    Experience the Flavors of Africa at JCCC’s Bake Sale

    The bake sale will feature a delectable assortment of traditional treats that are sure to delight your palate, featuring a unique assortment of amazing food, such as: fluffy puff puffs—sweet, airy dough balls that are perfect for satisfying your cravings, savory samosas, filled with a mix of spices and fillings.

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  • Students to Put on Annual V-Day Play

    Students to Put on Annual V-Day Play

    “It is a collection of poems, scenes, and monologues, many of them written and performed by members of the cast themselves, the sum of which is to inform, educate and move audience members to stop assault and violence against women.”

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  • Ways to Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, Starting This Weekend

    Ways to Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, Starting This Weekend

    The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Overland Park will be this Saturday, March 8. Starting at 10 a.m. at 79 St. & Floyd, making its way to the roundabout on Santa Fe Drive.

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  • Learn More About JCCC’s Study Away Programs

    Learn More About JCCC’s Study Away Programs

    The purpose of Study Away is to be able to continue your credited education with JCCC, but outside of Overland Park, giving students the chance to have extremely hands-on learning and immersive educational experiences. Of course, being able to travel somewhere fun or abroad is another perk. 

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  • Student Senate President Working To Make JCCC ‘Best School It Can Be’

    Student Senate President Working To Make JCCC ‘Best School It Can Be’

    Logan Grigsby. (Photo by Elizabeth Taylor) Logan Grigsby never saw himself as the president of Student Senate, but, a couple years and a job opening later, he is fulfilling that role, serving JCCC and its community. “At first I was only an online student, so then I decided, I want to come on campus and…

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  • Becoming A Member of the Nerman

    Becoming A Member of the Nerman

    When you become a member of the Nerman Museum, you’re doing more than just gaining access to exciting exhibitions and programs. Your membership helps sustain the museum’s mission of promoting contemporary art and supporting arts education.

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  • A Night at the First Impressions Etiquette Dinner 

    A Night at the First Impressions Etiquette Dinner 

    Throughout the course of your life, you may have occasion to be interviewed over dinner. You may already know the ins and outs of interview best practices, but the meal adds a whole new dimension to what’s expected of you.

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  • JCCC performs The Lieutenant of Inishmore: Here’s How it Went

    JCCC performs The Lieutenant of Inishmore: Here’s How it Went

    The play is full of dark humor, exploring themes of violence, loyalty, and absurdity. … Ultimately, it highlights the absurdity of both political extremism and human behavior, all while maintaining a dark, comedic tone.

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  • How to College: The Confidence Edition

    How to College: The Confidence Edition

    Inspiration to Fake It Till You Become It We’ve all experienced moments when we feel uncertain. This can happen in large crowds, social events, or when meeting new people. After reading this article, you’ll learn how to “fake it till you make it,” and even better, how to “fake it till you become it.” Below…

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  • Communication And Neurodiversity The Focus of Mar. 3 Workshop

    Communication And Neurodiversity The Focus of Mar. 3 Workshop

    “I would just encourage people to come if you’re looking to increase your communication styles and skills, be able to work with a wide variety of people you know, whether it is in your personal life or in your life on campus, this would be a really great way to kind of start that conversation…

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  • JCCC to Hold Talk on Taylor Swift

    JCCC to Hold Talk on Taylor Swift

    Dr. Brian Donovan will give an insightful exploration of Taylor Swift’s cultural impact, and the phenomenon of fans developing deep emotional connections with celebrities. 

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  • JCCC Foundation Presents Lee Brice In Fundraiser Concert for Student Scholarships

    JCCC Foundation Presents Lee Brice In Fundraiser Concert for Student Scholarships

    Calling all country music fans-country singer, Lee Brice, is coming to Kansas City. The Cohen Community Series, a benefit concert to help raise money for student scholarships, is an event put on by the JCCC Foundation every year.  Brice will be performing on Mar. 1 at Yardley Hall, located in the Midwest Trust Center on…

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  • The Messenger Main Mic: Snowed In Again!

    The Messenger Main Mic: Snowed In Again!

    Photo by Ian Buhrle. Welcome back everybody to another episode of Main Mic. In today’s episode, Harper and Zach get snowed in yet again and are forced to record online. Enjoy them trying to figure out what to talk about without trying to fall asleep. If you have any stories, please email themessengerjccc@gmail.com

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  • Updated: Community Garden Proposed at JCCC

    Updated: Community Garden Proposed at JCCC

    Corrections: Due to a reporting error, the article has been updated to reflect corrections, including the fact that the garden is not guaranteed and the location is proposed, as well as the reference to the aquaponics system (previously referred to as composting). Growing Green, a new club starting on campus, has a slogan, “Big enough…

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  • Addams Family Comes To MTC

    Addams Family Comes To MTC

    “It’s about  our special family in particular. And Wednesday has met someone that she’s interested in,” Actor Rodrigo Aragon (Gomez Addams) said. “So his family comes over to meet and they are what we could call a normal family. So you can imagine what can happen when two very different families get to meet and…

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  • How to College: English Conversation Hour, How to Watch White Lotus, And Thrift Like a Pro

    How to College: English Conversation Hour, How to Watch White Lotus, And Thrift Like a Pro

    English Conversation Hour Students at JCCC who want to engage in conversation in order to practice their English speaking skills can join in at the English Conversation Hour. These meetings happen every other Thursday, and students can stop by for free. Along with improving your English, you can meet other students and make new friends,…

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  • Student-Led ‘Lieutenant of Inishmore’ to Premiere This Weekend

    Student-Led ‘Lieutenant of Inishmore’ to Premiere This Weekend

    Sawyer Richmond (playing Padraic) and Mel Pearce (playing Mairead) rehearse a scene together for JCCC’s production of The Lieutenant of Inishmore by Martin McDonagh. (Photo by Gregory Jackson) This week, the JCCC Theatre Department will premier its production of Martin McDonagh’s play, “Lieutenant of Inishmore.” This show is directed by JCCC’s own Artistic Coordinator Scott…

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  • Students Prep for Annual Fashion Show

    Students Prep for Annual Fashion Show

    This year, the fashion show will take place in the school’s culinary building, which offers a unique setting for the event. In keeping with the building’s purpose, culinary students will be contributing to the atmosphere by providing food for the event, adding a flavorful touch to the experience.

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  • MTC $5 Tickets For All Students

    MTC $5 Tickets For All Students

    Students are encouraged to take advantage of this deal all throughout the year, with this February having multiple shows offering this student discount, including the “Addams Family” musical on Feb. 21, the Alisa Amador Trio on Feb. 22, and the Grammy winning performers the Imani Winds and Boston Brass on Feb. 23.

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  • Meet The Host of the Student Stories Podcast

    Meet The Host of the Student Stories Podcast

    Harper introduces the host of the new Student Stories section for The Messenger Mic’d Up. Get to know her, and what her podcast will be about. Join them through the difficulty of being snowed in with just a few computer problems.

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