Alumni Spotlight

Adam Goldinger, 29, of Mechanicsburg, attended Westmoreland County Community College from 2015 to 2017 and is our featured alumnus.

As a senior in high school, Goldinger found himself uncertain about where he wanted to continue his education. With several colleges in mind and guidance from his family, he ultimately chose to begin his college journey at Westmoreland County Community College before transferring to a university.

“As a senior in high school I struggled with where I wanted to go. I had a few colleges in mind. After some discussion with my family, I decided that attending WCCC for the first two years and then transferring to a university was the right thing to do. It was the best decision I made!”

While at Westmoreland, Goldinger studied Early Childhood Education and was actively involved on the golf team. He credits the college experience, along with the relationships he built, as some of his fondest memories.

“Enjoying the college experience, meeting my classmates, and preparing for my career” stand out as highlights of his time at WCCC.

Goldinger also speaks highly of his instructors, especially Nancy Rustic, who played an important role in his academic journey.

“Nancy Rustic was my favorite instructor, as she helped and encouraged me throughout my core classes.”

After graduating from Westmoreland in 2017, Goldinger transferred to Clarion University to continue pursuing his degree in Early Childhood Education, graduating in 2019. He began his career as a building substitute in the Kiski School District, where he worked for a year and a half. In 2021, he was hired as a third-grade teacher at the Cumberland Valley School District in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, where he continues to make an impact today.

Goldinger credits his coursework and classroom observations at Westmoreland for preparing him for his career.

“My classes and observations at Westmoreland helped me get firsthand experience of what being in a classroom looks like and how to prepare to teach in one.”

Education runs in Goldinger’s family—his sister is also a WCCC graduate, and his mother currently works at the college, further strengthening his connection to Westmoreland.

Outside of the classroom, Goldinger enjoys playing golf, pickleball and basketball, as well as video games and watching movies. He remains active in his community through involvement with Harrisburg Young Professionals and volunteering with Shop with a Cop.

When asked what advice he would give to current college students, Goldinger encourages them to embrace the journey.

“Don’t feel pressured to have everything figured out right away. Use your time as a student to explore, ask questions, and build relationships. The skills and connections you develop will help you in your career.”

 

 

 

Jack Butler, 53, of Ligonier is a featured alumnus of Westmoreland County Community College whose educational journey and professional impact reflect perseverance, purpose, and lifelong learning. Butler attended the college from 2004 to 2006, drawn by its convenient location, flexible scheduling, supportive professors and strong career guidance.

While at Westmoreland, Butler studied philosophy, psychology and sociology, while completing core subjects including math. One of his fondest memories is also one of his proudest accomplishments—passing algebra. That success was made possible, he says, by his favorite professor, Lou Congelio.

“He helped me pass math, gave me confidence, and tailored the class to the students,” Butler shared. “A true student-centered teacher.” Outside the classroom, Butler was actively involved in the powerlifting club, finding both community and balance during his time at the college.

After completing his studies at Westmoreland, Butler continued his education at the University of Arizona, building on the academic foundation he established early on. He credits the college with preparing him for his career by strengthening his ability to work with statistical data, develop effective study habits, navigate ADHD and—most importantly—learn how to ask for help.

Butler currently serves as the Director of Person-Centered Support at Achieva and is a nationally recognized leader in person-centered practices, organizational transformation and disability rights. With more than 30 years of experience in human services, he has led the integration of Charting the LifeCourse across all areas of the organization, from direct support to finance, HR and communications. A Charting the LifeCourse Ambassador and dynamic presenter, Butler is known for elevating the voices of people with disabilities through meaningful, values-driven conversations.

His leadership has taken him to national stages, including the National Charting the LifeCourse Showcase, the ODP Employment Summit, the National Leadership Consortium, and numerous policy and workforce initiatives focused on employment equity and systems change. He also serves as the Provider Team Facilitator for the SWTCIE Project in Western Pennsylvania, a five-year federal initiative supporting the transition from subminimum wage to competitive integrated employment. In recognition of his work, Butler received the 2024 Innovations in Person-Centered Practices Award at the Charting the LifeCourse Showcase.

Despite his leadership role, Butler remains grounded in direct practice, continuing to work as a Direct Support Professional. He also serves on the Board of the Ligonier Chamber of Commerce and is a member of Temple University’s Disability Health Care Disparities Committee. A published contributor to multiple national and professional journals, Butler frequently writes and speaks on topics including ableism, authentic inclusion and Social Role Valorization.

Reflecting on his experiences, Butler shares, “Twelve years ago, the National Leadership Consortium changed my life—and I will always speak about their influence. The faculty are change agents and, by association, so are the graduates.”

Beyond his career, he is also an interior firefighter, ultra-marathon runner, OCR athlete, ADHD advocate and lifelong learner. He credits major life milestones with shaping his path, including the birth of his daughter Bella after he completed his degree, which he says changed his life trajectory. He also acknowledges the unwavering support of his wife, Monica, throughout his long educational journey.

His advice to current Westmoreland students is simple yet powerful: “It’s never too late. Never give up. Always give your best.”

📧 Email: jbutler@achieva.info

🔗 LinkedIn: Jack Butler on LinkedIn