Saint Joseph’s Building & Trades Program Showcases First Student-Built Home
On Tuesday, June 17, Saint Joseph’s hosted a special Open House to celebrate a major milestone for its Building and Trades program: the completion of the very first student-built home in the new Waugh Estates neighborhood.
The event welcomed students, instructors, staff, sponsors, and community members to mark the occasion with a ribbon cutting and tours of the finished home. Guests had the chance to see what hands-on career training really looks like and how Saint Joseph’s is developing students for meaningful careers in the skilled trades From framing to finishing, the house was completed as part of a real-world learning experience that reflects the heart of the program.
The home is the first in a series planned for the Waugh Estates neighborhood. With continued support from community sponsors, the Building and Trades program is offering students the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the construction field.
The Open House served as both a celebration and a glimpse of what is possible when education and hands-on training come together with purpose. It is the start of something lasting for both the students and the community.
Saint Joseph’s Celebrates Dedication and New Beginnings
On Friday, June 27, Saint Joseph’s College hosted a heartfelt Pinning Ceremony to honor students who completed their certification training programs over the last year. With approximately 120 students, family, and friends in attendance, the event celebrated the hard work, determination, and personal sacrifices made by students on their path to a new career.
The ceremony brought together graduates from across healthcare and veterinary programs, including those who had completed coursework in-person and online. One especially memorable guest was Ms. Shanavia Washington, a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist student who completed her program online and made a special trip to campus to be pinned in person.
The celebration began with a warm welcome from Executive Director Bill Carroll and an opening prayer led by Fr. Bill Stang. Program Coordinator David Wall then proudly recognized the graduates as the newest alumni, celebrating their accomplishments and welcoming them into the Saint Joe family as they take the next step in their professional journeys. Instructors were present to personally pin their students during the ceremony, adding a meaningful and memorable touch to the celebration.
Each pin represented not only the completion of a program, but also the dedication, resilience, and goals achieved along the way. Many students balanced their education with full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments.
Saint Joseph’s is proud of each graduate who crossed the finish line this year. Their achievements reflect a strong commitment to personal growth and career success. Congratulations to all!
Embarking on a Resurgence Focused on Regional Growth
Saint Joseph’s College is laying the groundwork for a new chapter with plans for a regional trades center on campus, designed to bring hands-on training and workforce development opportunities to the community. The Rec Center will serve as the new home for this initiative, being prepared as a flexible hub with the vision of offering programs in high-demand fields such as carpentry, welding, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.
Work is already underway on the project, beginning with the installation of a new HVAC system. This is the first step in transforming the Rec Center into a modern, adaptable space capable of supporting a wide range of training opportunities.
The trades center is being developed in collaboration with local businesses and industry partners, with the goal of preparing individuals for meaningful, well-paying careers while also supporting the regional economy. It will also connect directly to Saint Joseph’s existing Building & Trades program, where students construct a house on campus from the ground up each year. These student-built homes are then sold to the public, allowing students to graduate with real-world experience while making a tangible impact in the community.
With construction completed on the first student-built house, work on the second home is set to begin in September.
Lineman Skills Training on Campus
Earlier this year, Saint Joseph’s College partnered with the Indiana Municipal Electric Association (IMEA) to bring their Lineman Apprentice Skills Training Program to campus.
This intensive six-week program immerses participants in the essential skills of the utility trade. Participants learn climbing techniques and pole-top rescue, explore basic electrical theory and system components, and gain experience with tool and equipment handling. Training also emphasizes job site safety and the use of personal protective equipment, while covering grounding, rigging, and system troubleshooting. A key component of the program is Class A CDL training provided through Saint Joseph’s CDL Academy, giving participants the behind-the-wheel instruction and preparation they need to obtain their license through the state. Taught by seasoned industry professionals, the program concludes with a certificate of completion that positions graduates for high-demand, high-wage careers in the utility field.
By hosting IMEA’s Training Programs, Saint Joseph’s is proud to strengthen its role as a regional hub for workforce development and support Indiana’s next generation of linemen. This program expands opportunities for students and career-changers alike and demonstrates the College’s commitment to hands-on training in high-demand trades that keep our communities connected and thriving.
Meet Jerome – Our New Business Development Coordinator
Jerome, a proud native of Alsip, Illinois, brings over 39 years of specialized experience in personnel management to his new role as Business Development Coordinator. The fourth of five brothers, Jerome’s journey began at Marist High School in Chicago, followed by Moraine Valley Community College. His commitment to service took root when he enlisted in the United States Army, completing basic training at Fort Knox, KY and advanced training at Fort Benjamin Harrison, IN as a Personnel Management Specialist.
His military career led him to 1st Personnel Command in Schwetzingen, West Germany, where he managed artillery crewmember assignments across the European Theatre of Operations. It was during this tour that he met his future wife, Trish—also a soldier and fellow Chicagoan. Though they had never crossed paths back home, their shared service brought them together. On August 26, 2025, they will celebrate 37 years of marriage, with three children and three grandchildren as part of their legacy.
Jerome’s service continued stateside at Fort Sill, OK, where he oversaw artillery personnel training during the lead-up to Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was honorably discharged following the war and returned to the Chicago area, where he built a distinguished 29-year career in the insurance industry as an analyst, investigator, specialist, and senior life care advocate.
Driven by his passion for helping others navigate their careers, Jerome transitioned to workforce development as a Career Advisor at WorkOne in Rensselaer. His leadership and expertise quickly elevated him to Business Service Representative for four southern counties in Northwest Indiana’s Region 1, where he facilitated funding opportunities for local businesses and their employees.
Now, as our Business Development Coordinator, Jerome brings a wealth of knowledge, a deep commitment to service, and a proven track record of empowering individuals and organizations alike. We’re thrilled to welcome him aboard.
Grad Spotlight: Megan Jones
Megan Jones has faced abuse, setbacks in school, and the challenges of raising two young daughters. Through it all, her love for her children and determination to make a difference have carried her forward. She often heard people tell her she could not succeed, but Megan refused to accept that. “I want to show my girls that if they want to do something, they can.”
After her first attempt at a medical assistant program ended when the school lost its accreditation, Megan returned to what she knew best: retail work. Soon after, she became pregnant with her first child, and the cost of living made staying at home the more practical choice. When her second child arrived, the expenses of daycare made continuing her education even more difficult, so her goals were repeatedly put on hold. It wasn’t until working at TC Harris that Megan realized she wanted more than just surviving difficult jobs. She was determined to build a better future for herself and her daughters, and with the support of her partner, she was finally ready to try again.
That fresh start came at Saint Joseph’s College. From the very beginning, she felt welcomed and supported. “My Program Coordinator immediately responded and got the ball rolling. It felt like he was actually excited to have me there.” That encouragement made all the difference to Megan.
Megan has successfully completed our EKG Technician program and is now advancing through our Pre-Nursing program, working toward her goal of becoming an LPN. Her experience stands as a powerful example of resilience, reminding us that challenges can be overcome with determination, encouragement, and the right opportunities.
Upcoming Events
Homecoming: September 12-13, 2025
Bring your Puma friends and join us for the annual SJCAAI Homecoming!
Get your hotel room reserved, and make plans to come out to campus for the festivities. You can RSVP here for homecoming and/or here for our annual golf outing.The weekend's activities include:
Friday, September 12
Golf outing at Pine View Golf Course, Monticello, shot gun start at 1 p.m.
Saturday, September 13
Mass at 10 a.m.
Beer and Brat tent opens at 11 a.m.
Other activities TBA
Birthday Wishes
On July 25th, we celebrated an extraordinary milestone for an extraordinary man. Mike Vallone, Class of 1960, a proud Puma, and Life Member of the Board of Trustees, turned 90. Mike has been a pillar of Saint Joseph’s College for decades. His steady presence and genuine love for the College have shaped its direction, its strength, and its spirit. Always generous with his time and knowledge, he offers unwavering support with sincerity and purpose. His lasting impact on the College is felt in everything we accomplish.
For years, Mike personally welcomed new students at the start of each fall semester, setting the tone with a dictionary, a smile, and words of encouragement. It was more than tradition. It was a reflection of who he is and what Saint Joe means to him.
Few have shown the lifelong dedication to Saint Joseph’s College that Mike Vallone has. His loyalty has left a lasting legacy, and we are proud to celebrate him. Happy 90th, Mike! Thank you for everything you’ve given — and continue to give — to Saint Joseph’s College.
In Memory of a Puma and Friend
It is with deep sadness that we share the news that our dear friend, Jim Madden, passed away on Tuesday, August 19th. Jim was more than a supporter of Saint Joseph’s College, he was a true Puma who was devoted to the College and its mission in every way. A proud 1964 graduate, he served as a Trustee from 1975 to 2008 at which time he continued to serve as a Life Member. Jim’s guidance, leadership, and positive spirit were always focused on what was best for the College and its future.
Jim’s legacy will continue to shine through the College he loved so dearly. Every step forward that Saint Joe takes will carry with it the wisdom, passion, and optimism he poured into this place. His name and spirit will live on most visibly at Madden Court, a neighborhood in the Waugh Estates established for our Building and Trades program.
We honor Jim not only for his unwavering belief in Saint Joseph’s College, but also for the kindness, encouragement, and smile he shared with all who knew him. His impact is immeasurable and his memory will remain a guiding light for Saint Joseph’s College. You can read his obituary here.
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We are saddened to share that Dennis Riegelnegg, former President of Saint Joseph’s College, passed away on May 12 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Dennis served as President from 2009 to 2014, a time in which he guided the College with vision and care. His leadership and commitment to our community left a lasting mark, and he will be remembered with gratitude by all who knew him. You can read his obituary here.
Want to help or become involved?
Give an Alumni Gift - To give a gift in recognition of a loved one, or to make a donation in support of Saint Joseph’s College, please visit www.saintjoe.edu/give for more information on the different ways to give.
Program Development - If you have a specialized skill set or expertise that could be useful in building our future curriculum, consider reaching out to us at marketing@saintjoe.edu
Instructor Opportunities - Share your skills and experience with our students. Email programs@saintjoe.edu for details.
Contact Us
Saint Joseph’s College
PO Box 300
Rensselaer, IN 47978
Email: saintjosephs@saintjoe.edu
Phone: 219-866-6000
saintjoe.edu