Welcome from the President

Greetings,

Community colleges are critical leaders in the American higher education landscape. The open admission policy, coupled with affordable tuition and geographic proximity to home, provides a pathway for post-secondary education for many students.

Community colleges are also the most diverse and inclusive segment of higher education. Across the nation community colleges serve a larger proportion of women, African Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, Hispanic/Latino, Native Americans, LGBTQA+ students and students with disabilities. Therefore, community colleges are uniquely positioned to foster an environment that honors, respects and embraces the variety of students attending the nation's colleges and universities. Further, community colleges are entrusted with creating educational environments that are safe, respectful and responsive; and where the potential of students can be realized at the highest level possible.

To help ensure a bright future for our graduates, Kalamazoo Valley Community College embraced a new mission statement during 2022. This concise and action-oriented statement provides the framework for the creation of a new five-year strategic plan.

The 2023-2027 strategic plan was created through a comprehensive process inviting input from:

  • Faculty, Staff and Administrators
  • Community and Industry Advisory Committee Members
  • Students
  • Alumni and Donors

We will continue to intentionally pursue and nurture strategic relationships and partnerships that help us realize our goals of creating a vibrant local economy by providing people with the skills and supports needed to gain access to good jobs. The annual report will provide additional information about what makes Kalamazoo Valley a top-rated educational institution.

Overall, we are making progress toward achieving our mission, Kalamazoo Valley Community College creates innovative and equitable opportunities that empower all to learn, grow and thrive. Thank you for your continued advocacy on behalf of the college and our students.

Sincerely,
L. Marshall Washington, PhD
President

If you would like Dr. Washington to attend and/or speak at an event, please complete an event request. Someone from the President's office will follow up with you regarding your event.