Blog
Nine alums return for annual colloquium events
Dec. 8, 2025
Lakeland University welcomed nine successful graduates back to campus the first week of December for the annual colloquium events.
The colloquiums invite current and prospective Lakeland students to learn more about the journeys and experiences of each graduate both before, during and after their Lakeland experience.
Prospective students also have an opportunity to network with the alums during lunch and interview with LU faculty for full-tuition scholarships to attend Lakeland.
This year’s panels included:
Humanities & Fine Arts
- Daniel “DZ” Zea Zapata ’14, morning host, 103.7 KISS-FM & Milwaukee Bucks in-game host.
- Rebecca Meyer ’11, technical writer, Active Club Solutions.
- Tanner Hackl ’15, freelance graphic designer & photographer.
Business & Entrepreneurship
- Emma Lehr ’19, meetings & events coordinator, Kohler Co.
- Jordan Johnson ’19, MSLOD ’20, real estate agent for CENTURY 21® Ace Realty.
- Katelyn Gunderson ’22, WI HR resource for Pinnacle Senior Living (Pennant Service Center).
Science, Technology & Education
- Brianne (Frank) Burton ’17, chemist II, Sheboygan Paint Company.
- Davan (Fleming) Raasch ’20, licensed athletic trainer, ThedaCare.
- Joshua Becker ’21, school resource officer and police officer, Sheboygan Police Department.
The grads reminisced about their time at Lakeland, noting that the campus of people is truly a family and that the connections they made still benefit several to this day.
They also shared a wealth of advice for current and prospective students, including:
- Be open to change and adaptable.
- Be comfortable being uncomfortable – this is how personal and professional growth happens.
- Push outside your comfort zone to meet new people and build your skills.
- Plug into the many resources at Lakeland and build your network.
- Be able and willing to communicate verbally and in writing.
