LCC Students Explore Opportunities at Spring Cardinal Connect Event

Parsons, KS — Students at Labette Community College had the chance to connect with employers and community organizations during the Spring 2026 Cardinal Connect Business Showcase, held Monday, March 9, in the Breezeway on campus.

The event brought together a wide range of local and regional organizations, giving students the opportunity to learn about careers, internships, and services available in the area. Representatives from healthcare, public service, early childhood, industry, and nonprofit sectors spent the morning visiting with students and sharing information about what they do.

Organizations that participated included Prairie Mission Retirement Village, Labette Center for Mental Health Services, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas/Oklahoma, Parsons Police Department, Kansas Department of Transportation, SKIL, Tank Connection, Labette Health, SEK DSA, Tri-County Special Education, Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, Curious Minds Discovery Zone, Westside Christian Church, Care Cupboard Hygiene Pantry, Kansas Army National Guard, Kansas Works, and Remnant Church & Coffee House.

Students were encouraged to stop by multiple tables, ask questions, and build connections. Those who visited with at least five organizations received a free lunch and were entered into a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card.

Students, employees and attending vendors also received complimentary tea, energy drinks and dirty sodas from Saltea Sloth, who brought their mobile store from Joplin, MO.

“Cardinal Connect gives our students a chance to meet the people and organizations that help make up our community,” said Hannah Brewer, Director of Public Relations at LCC. “It’s a simple way to start conversations that could lead to opportunities for students, but also for businesses to collaborate with the college as a whole.”

The showcase is hosted each semester and continues to serve as a meeting point between LCC students and the businesses and organizations that support the region. The Fall 2026 Cardinal Connect event will be help on Wednesday, September 2, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Please contact Director of Public Relations, Hannah Kennedy at hannahk@labette.edu for more information.