Empowering the Future: Labette Community College Hosts Inaugural Level Up Employability Conference
April 9, 2025
By: Natalee Lewis
Parsons, KS – Labette Community College (LCC), in partnership with the Reach One Teach One Foundation, proudly hosted the first-ever Level Up Employability Conference on April 3 at 10:00 AM in the Thiebaud Theatre on LCC’s campus. This dynamic and engaging event was designed to equip high school students with essential employability skills and real-world career insights.
The Reach One Teach One Foundation is committed to empowering individuals through education, mentorship, and skills training. Its mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where community members can build confidence, discover their talents, and create a brighter future. The foundation supports a wide range of impactful initiatives, including: Second Chance Education Center, Save Our Sons Youth Mentoring, Employability Skills Workshops, QPR Suicide Prevention Training, Virtual Student Support, Motivational Speaking, Leadership Workshops.
The Level Up Employability Conference was specifically tailored for high school students who are exploring their future career paths. The event featured inspiring guest speakers, interactive resume-building and interview workshops, communication skills training, and opportunities for students to engage directly with local business professionals.
The goal: to develop local talent, support career readiness, and contribute to the region’s workforce and economic growth.
With generous support from Labette Community College, Evergy, Alexander Manufacturing, and Tank Connection, the event welcomed approximately 70 students from Field Kindley High School, Parsons High School, Labette County High School. These students gained valuable insights into the job market, honed their professional skills, and connected with potential employers.
Highlights of the day included presentations from guest speakers:
- Lee Reliford, Owner, Second Chance Education, Co-Director, Reach One Teach One Foundation
- Mandy Monroy, Co-Owner, Second Chance Education Center, Co-Director, Reach One Teach One Foundation
- Martin Watson, Owner/Operator of Watson Barber Shop
- Charles Gross (DJ Chuck G), In-Game Host, University of Tulsa
- Andrew Johnson, Lead Production Program Recruiter, Day & Zimmermann
- Jennifer Sinclair, Market People Partner, Walmart
The event also featured employability workshops, raffle prizes, and a live DJ to keep energy and engagement high throughout the day.
Lee Reliford, founder of Second Chance Education and one of the event’s keynote speakers, emphasized the importance of inspiring students to take charge of their future. “The mission of the Level Up Employability Conference is to get students excited about creating the future they want. Get up, get out, and start your journey with purpose, passion, and confidence.”
Mandy Monroy, also a featured speaker, reinforced the event’s focus on practical skills and personal empowerment. “We understand that each person’s path to success is unique. We want students to leave with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to reach their goals. Preparing students for today’s competitive job market benefits both the employee and the employer—promoting growth and sustainability.”
The Level Up Employability Conference is part of Reach One Teach One’s broader mission to uplift youth and invest in regional economic development. While LCC was honored to host the event, the planning and organization were led by the Reach One Teach One Foundation—demonstrating the power of community partnerships in action.
For more information about the Level Up Employability Conference, please contact the Reach One Teach One Foundation by calling 620-717-4066 or visiting 2700 Main Street, Parsons, KS 67357.