Always A Raven Podcast

Kyle McMillian '06

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz reconnects with Kyle McMillan, Benedictine College Class of 2006, for a conversation two decades in the making. A Kansas City native now living in Phoenix, Kyle reflects on his journey from a tight-knit Midwestern upbringing to building a life and career in Arizona—while carrying Benedictine’s sense of community with him every step of the way.
Kyle shares how his path wasn’t perfectly mapped out, starting in chemistry before pivoting to finance with the help of mentors who challenged him to lean into his strengths. That shift led to a long career in banking, where he’s spent nearly two decades growing within one organization and embracing opportunities that pushed him beyond his comfort zone—including a life-changing move out West.
Throughout the conversation, Kyle highlights the lasting impact of Benedictine’s culture—from the friendships formed during Rock Week to the deeper lessons of connection, presence, and stepping into unfamiliar spaces. Whether it’s maintaining decades-long friendships or building new networks in a new city, he emphasizes how those early experiences shaped the way he approaches both life and leadership.
Now a husband, father, and active member of his local community, Kyle shares how he continues to “pay forward” what he gained in college—through service, mentorship, and even a memorable tattoo earned after raising over $1 million for charity. At its core, this episode is a reflection on staying connected, giving back, and the enduring power of the Raven community—no matter where life takes you.

Jane Whelan ' 24

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Jane Whelan, Benedictine College Class of 2024, for a conversation rooted in curiosity, calling, and the courage to pivot. From a childhood filled with road trips to battlefields and museums to pursuing her master’s in public history at American University, Jane shares how a lifelong love of storytelling has shaped her academic and professional journey.
Originally set on becoming a high school history teacher, Jane’s path shifted through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a pivotal realization that being good at something doesn’t always mean it’s the right long-term fit. A professor’s challenge to rethink her “why” became a turning point, guiding her toward museums and public-facing history.
She reflects on working at the Smithsonian and discovering a passion for smaller, community-centered institutions, where history feels more personal and accessible. Through these experiences, Jane emphasizes the importance of chasing clarity over credentials and staying open to unexpected direction.
Now preparing to return to Benedictine in a new role within its library, Jane talks about making history engaging and alive for others. The conversation ultimately explores discernment, purpose, and how understanding where we come from can help shape where we’re going.

Joe Wurtz '99

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Joe Wurtz, Benedictine College Class of 1999 and current Dean of Students, for a conversation rooted in mentorship, growth, and the enduring power of community.
Joe’s journey to Benedictine began with a transfer sparked by his passion for philosophy, but it was the people—mentors, teammates, and friends—who ultimately shaped his path. From a pivotal moment on the rugby field that led to deeper mentorship and faith formation, to his evolution from student to campus leader, Joe reflects on how being seen and challenged by others changed the trajectory of his life.
Throughout the episode, Joe shares how Benedictine’s core values—faith, friendship, and the love of learning—have remained constant, even as the world and student experience continue to evolve. He offers insight into the challenges facing today’s students, from technology to increased parental involvement, and emphasizes the importance of accountability, human connection, and stepping outside of comfort zones.
At its core, this conversation highlights the role of mentorship and intentional community in forming confident, purpose-driven individuals. Joe’s story is a testament to the idea that growth often comes through challenge—and that the Raven identity is built on investing in others, embracing opportunity, and moving forward with purpose.

Dr. LaTisha Williams '00, G'07

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Dr. LaTisha Williams ’00, G’ 07  graduate of Benedictine College and current principal of Atchison High School, whose impact reaches far beyond the walls of her community.
Raised in Atchison, Williams shares how her journey came full circle—returning home after college with a passion for education and a calling to build others up. From her early days in special education to leading an entire high school, her foundation as a “builder of community” has remained central, shaping environments where students feel supported, challenged, and valued.
A major focus of the conversation is her work with the Human Dignity curriculum, which emphasizes that every student has inherent worth and untapped potential. What began as a local initiative has grown into a global conversation, even leading Williams to present at the United Nations on its impact. Through this work, she’s helping students develop confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of who they are.
At its core, Williams’ story reflects what it truly means to be a Raven—leading with purpose, investing in others, and creating lasting change right where you are.

Dr. Kerry McDonald '87

On this week's episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Dr. Kerry McDonald, Benedictine College Class of 1987, for a fascinating conversation on curiosity, perseverance, and the winding road that leads to a life's calling. What began as a singular focus on football evolved into a decades-long pursuit of scientific discovery — one he never saw coming.
Kerry shares how a biology degree he wasn't sure he even wanted set the foundation for a distinguished career as Distinguished Professor and Chair of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Missouri. Along the way, he reflects on the mentors, study groups, and values rooted in his time at Benedictine that quietly shaped everything that followed.
From lessons in critical thinking and communication to the surprising staying power of a liberal arts education, this episode dives into the mindset that carried Kerry through 30 years of groundbreaking research — and how the "once a Raven, always a Raven" spirit remains a cornerstone of his life today.

David Litkenhus '93

On this week’s episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with David Litkenhus, Benedictine College Class of 1993, for a powerful conversation on purpose, service, and the unexpected paths that shape a life. What began as a singular focus on basketball evolved into a lifelong commitment to something greater; serving his country.
David shares how a pivotal moment during the Gulf War shifted his perspective, leading him from the basketball court to the battlefield, where he built a distinguished career across both the Air Force and Marine Corps. Along the way, he reflects on the mentors, experiences, and values rooted in his time at Benedictine that helped guide every transition.
From lessons in leadership and resilience to the importance of community and asking for help, this episode dives into the mindset that carried David through decades of service—and how the “once a Raven, always a Raven” spirit continues to influence his journey today

Diamond Howell '07

On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz welcomes Dr. Diamond Howell, a 2007 Benedictine College graduate, educator, author, and advocate for faith-filled leadership in public education, to share her journey of purpose, perseverance, and learning to trust God’s plan.
Diamond reflects on growing up in Atchison and initially planning to leave home for college before a scholarship led her to Benedictine. What began as a practical decision quickly became a transformative experience. She shares memories of campus life, the close-knit community that made Benedictine feel like its own world, and the mentors who helped shape her confidence and direction.
Now working in public education as a staff health and wellness leader, Diamond speaks candidly about living out her Christian faith in environments where faith is not always openly discussed. Listeners will hear a heartfelt conversation about surrendering personal plans, supporting others through service, and embracing the unexpected paths God places before us. This episode is perfect for alumni, educators, parents, and anyone inspired by stories of resilience, calling, and walking boldly in faith.

Larry Buessing '60

On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz welcomes Larry Buessing, class of 1960, longtime board member, mentor, and pillar of Benedictine College, to share his journey of faith, service, and lifelong dedication to Raven Nation.
Larry reflects on his time at Saint Benedict (now Benedictine College), arriving from Axtell, Kansas, and leaving with friendships, memories, and a deep connection to a community that shaped his life. From his freshman hall adventures to memorable stories of campus life in the 1950s, Larry brings the history of Benedictine to life with warmth, humor, and insight.
He shares how he and his wife, Theresa, established an endowed legacy scholarship for the first member of a family to attend Benedictine, helping students like Calvin Tosi, a Navajo graduate making an incredible impact across 47 states. Larry reflects on the joy of mentorship, welcoming students into his home, and seeing firsthand how generosity and guidance can transform lives.
Listeners will hear thoughtful conversations about community, leadership, paying it forward, and witnessing the growth and evolution of Benedictine College from its historic brick streets to a thriving modern campus. This episode is perfect for alumni, students, and anyone inspired by stories of service, legacy, and the enduring spirit of Raven Nation.

Derek Lyssy '11

On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz welcomes Derek Lyssy, a 2011 Benedictine College graduate and Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas, to share his journey of faith, leadership, and discovering purpose beyond his original career plans.
Derek reflects on his time at Benedictine College, arriving as a business student considering corporate sales and leaving with a formation that would shape his faith, friendships, and future. He shares memories of campus hospitality, lifelong friendships, meeting his wife in Scholastica Hall, and the culture that made Benedictine feel both deeply personal and transformative.
Through mission trips to El Salvador, playing basketball inside a state penitentiary, and growing in conviction about his Catholic faith, Derek explains how Benedictine prepared him not just for a career, but for a life of service. What began as an interest in business evolved into missionary work with FOCUS, advancement roles in Chicago and Tulsa, and ultimately leadership in Catholic philanthropy.
Listeners will hear a thoughtful conversation about vocation, mission-driven leadership, marriage, and what it truly means to live with purpose. This episode is perfect for alumni, young professionals discerning their path, and anyone inspired by stories of formation, service, and paying forward the gift of a Benedictine education.

Angela Cronister

On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz welcomes Angela Chronister, a Benedictine College alumna, to share her journey of faith, family, loss, and purpose.
Angela reflects on her path to Benedictine — arriving after a year traveling the country in ministry and immediately finding a campus that felt like home. She shares memories of dorm life, the spirit of hospitality that defined her experience, and the community that helped shape her confidence and convictions.
As her life unfolded, Angela navigated unexpected turns — transferring to pursue nursing, becoming engaged as a sophomore, and experiencing the profound loss of her first child while still in college. She speaks candidly about grief, the role of faith in carrying her through unimaginable hardship, and the strength she found in community during life’s most difficult moments.
From thirteen years as an emergency room nurse to homeschooling her children and launching a birth and bereavement doula business, Angela reflects on how Benedictine’s formation prepared her to be “in the world, but not of it” — seeing the dignity in every person and leading with compassion.
Listeners will hear a heartfelt conversation about resilience, vocation, family life, and the lasting impact of a Benedictine education. This episode is perfect for alumni, parents, and anyone inspired by stories of faith woven through every season of life.