Director of Dual Enrollment Juliann Jankowski brings to Southwestern Michigan College (SMC) a wealth of experience in higher education and a unique background in television broadcasting to the role. Jankowski officially joined SMC’s Niles campus in June.

Jankowski, a Granger resident and Miss Cassopolis 1985, holds degrees in telecommunications from Michigan State University and the University of Notre Dame. She boasts 12 years of experience in higher education enrollment and teaching, along with 14 years in leadership development and training.

Prior to joining SMC, Jankowski worked for Ivy Tech Community College in business and industry training, utilizing her telecommunications background to facilitate panel discussions. She also held the position of director of enrollment at Davenport University, overseeing the South Bend and Goshen campuses.

Jankowski’s SMC journey began by taking a public speaking course at the college before moving on to Michigan State University. She took a public speaking class at Southwestern Michigan College (SMC) the summer before college to boost her confidence for college-level work.

“I originally intended to be a news reporter,” Jankowski shared, recounting her career path. However, a summer internship at MTV during her junior year at MSU propelled her into a different direction. She ultimately moved to New York City after graduating, working for MTV’s “Club MTV” dance show and later transitioning into development work at WNIT in South Bend.

SMC’s dual enrollment program, which saw a post-pandemic resurgence to 512 students, allows high school students to earn college credit while still in high school. Jankowski emphasizes the program’s benefits, including exposure to the college environment, access to college facilities, and the opportunity to engage with college faculty and higher-achieving peers.

“I’m a big believer in dual enrollment,” Jankowski said. “I’m very passionate about what is such a great opportunity for high school students.”

In her new role, Jankowski focuses on fostering dual enrollment opportunities for students in Cass and Berrien counties, collaborating with local school districts and home-school partnerships.