The People of Penn State
Welcome to the People of Penn State Podcast — the podcast from the Penn State Alumni Association that brings you the incredible stories of Nittany Lions making their mark on the world!
Each episode, a rotating cast of hosts sit down with Penn State alumni who are changing the game in business, science, sports, the arts, and beyond. You never know who you'll hear from next — but you do know it'll be a conversation worth tuning in for!
The People of Penn State
Episode 18 — Director Of The Ruth Matthews Bourger Women With Children Program, Katherine Pohlidal
Another great story to share on this episode of The People of Penn State, as Katherine Pohlidal joined us to discuss her work as the Director of the nationally recognized Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program at Misericordia University.
The Women with Children Program (WWC) is one of only eight such programs in the United States. Its goal is to empower economically disadvantaged single mothers by providing the opportunity to complete a college degree, creating brighter futures for themselves and for their children. Through the program the roadblocks to higher education are removed and the completion of a college degree becomes a reality.
BOURGER WWC STUDENT FAMILIES RECEIVE:
- Free on-campus housing in safe, secure homes for up to 4 years
- Free books and academic supplies for both mother and children
- Priority placement for child care and federal work study jobs
- Support with all subsidies including; SNAP, ELRC, WIC
- Family enrichment programming, children’s libraries, playgrounds and garden
- WWC Scholarships awarded annually for tuition assistance
Learn more about the Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program by clicking here.
Katherine also talked about her family's strong ties to Penn State, which include many alumni:
Edwina Pohlidal (mother), Rich Pohlidal (brother - former men’s rugby player), John Pohlidal-(brother), Elizabeth Pohlidal (sister - former national champion with the women's rugby team) Regan Palfey Pohlidal (sister in law -Blue Band alum), and Kristi Pohlidal (sister in law).
Timestamps:
0:00 — Alma Mater Verse #1
0:18 — Intro
2:10 — The Pohlidal family's strong Penn State roots
4:35 — Katherine's experiences as a student
6:32 — Meeting Joe Paterno story
9:25 — Ad Read #1
10:30 — The Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program
24:50 — The power of higher education to make an impact
30:35 — Future of the Women with Children Program
34:20 — Further information on supporting the program
35:00 — Ad Read #2
36:40 — Katherine's heartfelt James Franklin story
39:30 — Lighting Round Q&A
43:20 — Outro
44:10 — Alma Mater Verse #2
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