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Harper Talks Alumni Podcast 50th episode logo

Episode 50 - A Look Back

February 13, 2026

Episode 50 is here! Countless stories. One powerful community. In this milestone episode of the Harper Talks Alumni Podcast, we’re revisiting the powerful advice from alumni over the past five years — the moments that inspired our listeners to say yes, take risks, and create their own paths. Their journeys started at Harper. Their impact reaches far beyond. Tune in and get inspired. Episode 50 is live! Listen to Episode 50

Harper Talks 49 Phyllis Higgins

Alumna Phyllis Higgins shares how the Fast Track program jump-started her education on Harper Talks

January 12, 2026

The Army veteran shares how Harper College’s accelerated program helped her balance work, education and long-term career goals. Read More

Phyllis Higgins Headshot

Harper Talks Episode 49 – Phyllis Higgins

December 04, 2025

US Army veteran and Harper College alumna Phyllis Higgins joins Harper Talks to share her inspiring journey from military service to corporate success. Phyllis reflects on returning to school through Harper’s Fast Track program, balancing work and family, and finding her passion in supporting others. Now an apprenticeship talent navigator at Zurich Insurance, she champions opportunities that help students and career-changers thrive. Phyllis shares a powerful reminder to take the leap, invest in yourself, and “just do it.” Listen to Episode 49

Harper Talks 48 Izabela Pieniadz

From design classes to museum leadership: Alumna Izabela Pieniadz shares her journey on Harper Talks

November 19, 2025

The arts and preservation professional reflects on how saying ‘yes’ to opportunities at Harper College shaped her path. Read More

Distinguished Alumni Awards event

Harper to celebrate 2025 Distinguished Alumni

October 27, 2025

The annual awards program on November 6 will honor five Harper College alumni who have made an impact through their careers and in their communities. Read More

Harper Talks 47 Maria and Jose Macias

Alumni Maria and Jose Macias share love, leadership and lifelong learning on Harper Talks

September 29, 2025

The husband-and-wife duo reflects on their Harper experience, from student clubs to relationship and career success. Read More

Harper alumni speak at a table in front of an audience of Harper students

Career Conversations with Harper Alumni helps students network and build career skills

September 25, 2025

Harper College alumni will share tips on leadership and career development in yearlong series, beginning October 1. Read More

Lillian Xie, Harper College Distinguished Scholar alumna and youngest planned giving donor.

Lillian Xie: A Full-Circle Journey of Purpose and Philanthropy

September 23, 2025

The Distinguished Scholar alumna shares how a Harper scholarship shaped her journey and why she became the college’s youngest planned giving donor. Read More

runaway at night

Harper Fashion Studies student garments hit the runway in Rome

September 17, 2025

Two recent graduates of Fashion Studies were selected to participate in the seventh edition of the Fashion & Talents fashion show hosted by Academia del Lusso in Rome, Italy. See More

Karen Durante

Karen Durante

September 07, 2025

Harper College’s renowned fashion design program launched the successful marketing career of Karen Durante, a 1982 graduate. Today, she is vice president of partnerships and member development for the 7,000 members of Finishing Contractors Association (FCA) International. Meet Karen Durante

Last Updated: 1/21/26