EWU Hosts Second Community Engagement Speaker Series: From Campus to Career

Eastern Washington University’s College of Professional Programs (CPP) frecently hosted its second Community Engagement Speaker Series: From Campus to Career. The event featured a panel of influential leaders who shared insights on essential workforce skills.

The April 22 event brought together students, faculty and staff, providing the campus community with an opportunity to connect with top leaders in healthcare, government, education and business. Attendees engaged in conversations, asked questions, sought career advice and built connections to support their future professional journeys. According to the organizing team from the College of Professional Programs, the energy in the room was inspiring! CPP’s goal is to continue creating spaces where the EWU community can learn, grow and thrive together.

Several members of the EWU community supported the event, including Shelly Shaffer from the School of Education; Cola Boyer, director of tribal relations; ASEWU President Ashton McKean; and Kim Davis, senior director for diversity and inclusion. Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson also sent a message recognizing EWU’s commitment to workforce development, partnerships and collaboration.

Paul Reed, publisher of the Spokane Journal of Business, moderated the panel discussion. Panelists included Ezra Eckhardt, CEO of STCU; Shari McMahan, president of EWU; Alex Jackson, senior vice president and CEO for MultiCare’s Inland northwest and central Washington regions; John Hohman, city manager for the City of Spokane Valley. The highlights of the panel discussion and their insights are highlighted below:

Ezra Eckhardt, CEO of STCU

Eckhardt began by discussing how his journey started with his admission to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in world history. After serving in the U.S. Army, he transitioned into the business world, moving from the Bay Area to Seattle, then to the East Coast, and eventually returning to the Spokane area, where he began working for credit unions.

Shari McMahan, President of EWU

McMahan shared that her parents invested in a college fund, enabling her to become a first-generation college student. Her journey included a deep appreciation for research universities and a strong interest in environmental and public health. She explained that she has held a variety of roles within academic institutions and said her true passion lies in helping others succeed.

Alex Jackson, Senior Vice President and CEO for MultiCare’s Inland Northwest and Central Washington Regions

Jackson shared his knowledge of the healthcare industry, noting that it is “phenomenally complex and fascinating.” He emphasized the opportunities available in healthcare to grow and challenge oneself. Jackson also discussed the importance of doing your best in any role and added that it’s essential to think beyond individual contributions and consider how your work supports the goals of your team and organization.

John Hohman, City Manager for the City of Spokane Valley

One piece of advice from Hohman was, “Don’t be afraid of change. A lot of people struggle with that, but remember to move forward in a way that sets your path apart from others.” He also emphasized the value of volunteering within your organization, noting that staying engaged helps ensure continued learning.

Skills and Strengths Sought in New Hires

The panelists were asked to discuss the strengths and skills they typically look for in new hires.

Hohman recommended being open-minded and receptive to opportunities—essentially, to “be a sponge.” He stressed the importance of being coachable, building on what you learn and always seeking solutions. Jackson highlighted the value of being the most successful individual on a successful team. Eckhardt pointed out that in today’s world, proficiency in artificial intelligence is increasingly important, along with a willingness to learn and to become an enabler within your organization.

Addressing Workforce Gaps

Panelists also addressed workforce gaps in their industries and the opportunities available to students.

Eckhardt noted the need for problem-solvers who are committed to growing within an organization. Jackson shared that early-career roles in healthcare offer exceptional opportunities, and that demonstrating a strong work ethic can open many doors. He also cited ongoing workforce gaps in nursing, social work and clinical expertise. Hohman added that the City of Spokane Valley often faces challenges in hiring project engineers.

Cultivating a Culture of Belonging

The discussion turned to cultivating a culture of belonging and community in the workplace.

Eckhardt explained how STCU has embedded belonging into its core values, using action-oriented language to reinforce workplace culture. The organization also hosts events where employees are encouraged to share ideas and connect. Jackson noted that MultiCare fosters a strong local culture, guided by core values such as stewardship and collaboration. McMahan shared that EWU is guided by four core pillars, one of which is belonging.

Final Advice for Students

The event concluded with audience questions and key advice for students seeking employment:

• Make sure your résumé highlights that you are well-rounded and capable of solving problems collaboratively.
• Thoroughly research the employer and organization before your job interview.
• Come prepared with thoughtful questions. For example, ask if there’s anything you can clarify, this is your opportunity to tell your story.

A video recording of the presentation can be viewed online.

Story by Brynne Irish. Photography by Chris Thompson.