Lansing USD469 is proud to share our Alumni Spotlight series to celebrates the achievements and stories of our Lansing USD469 alums. Their accomplishments are a testament to the community and excellent education fostered here in Lansing. By sharing their journey, they'll inspire current students and fellow alums while highlighting our graduates' diverse paths.
Jillian Moya Beltrán , Class of 2011
Question: What is your current job title, and where do you work?
Answer: Homicide Victim Advocate at Jackson County Prosecutor’s office
Question: What is your educational background (Colleges, CTE, trade, etc) after Lansing?
Answer: I completed my associate degree through Johnson County. After COVID, I went back to school to receive my degree in hospitality as a trained pastry chef (2023). My side hobbies including practicing yoga. I am a certified 200 hour yoga teacher and yoga sculpt instructor!
Question: What are some career highlights or personal achievements you would like to share?
Answer: My path to education wasn’t an easy one! I always struggled in school and had to come home after my first unsuccessful semester in college. During a gap year, I traveled to Central America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Africa. I volunteered with various established ministries and helped locals in their communities. I loved teaching English and meeting people from all walks of life.
Question: How did your education in our school district influence your career or personal growth?
Answer: The Spanish program at LHS really set me up for success! Gracias to Sra. Elliott and Sra. Spellman for the intensive work and repetitive conjugation. I advanced in the college setting and was ahead of my peers. I used Spanish to free lance interpreting services in a healthcare setting. I even used it during my travels in Central America. I’ve learned if you can speak another language, companies will want you! At my current job, I frequently have contact with a Spanish speakers. There’s nothing better than meeting someone at their lowest moment, and be able to communicate effectively. My victim families truly appreciate the effort!
Question: Do you have any fond memories or stories from your time at our school district that you’d like to share?
Answer: I enjoyed being with Mrs. Curatola because she made the worst math student believe in herself! My background was remedial math, and I failed my state assessment. I also failed my first semester of geometry but was determined to pass the second time around. After crying about failing, we spent time together and set a plan for me to come in before and after school. Mrs. Curatola went above and beyond to make sure I understood every lesson. I even had the best grade in the class during one of our tests!
Question: What advice would you give to current students who are preparing for their future?
Answer: Presence over perfection
