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Kalamazoo Valley Community College

InFocus: News for Kalamazoo Valley Community College Students

MISSION STATEMENT
Kalamazoo Valley Community College creates innovative and equitable
opportunities that empower all to learn, grow and thrive.

Jan. 30, 2023

Greetings Students!

February is always a busy month! This year is no exception. However, you may be able to accelerate the completion of your degree or certificate if you are able to squeeze in just one more class this semester. Additional second part-of-term classes start soon. Please check your schedule to determine if you are able to take advantage of this opportunity.

I know that many of you are juggling jobs and the care of family members along with the demands of your work at the college. I get it.

Part of our busyness is associated with trying to keep up with the information that bombards us daily. For the most up-to-date information about what is happening at the college, I encourage you to check the college calendar and news postings on the homepage of the college website daily. 

Remember to check your Canvas notes and if you need assistance, please talk with your instructors or schedule an appointment with a Student Development Services team member.

We are doing our part to keep you informed. Please do your part to access and act upon the information we provide.

Keep pressing forward!


Sincerely,

Signature: L. Marshall Washington
L. Marshall Washington, Ph.D.
President


Kalamazoo Valley Dished Up Activities at Two Locations at the Chili Cook-Off
Culinary and sustainable food club members served up its own chili creation at Brewery Outre at 567 E. Ransom St. at Kalamazoo's annual Chili Cook-Off over the weekend. The dish was a hearty, sweet and spicy chili composed of two kinds of beef, multiple peppers and chilies and includes Brewery Outre's newest release, the Cerberus Porter as part of the ingredients. More

2023 Community College Innovation Challenge

Apply Now for Community College Innovation Challenge
The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), in partnership with the National Science Foundation, invites you to participate in the 2023 Community College Innovation Challenge (CCIC). In this national competition, teams of community college students, working with a faculty or administrator mentor, use STEM to innovate solutions to real-world problems. Ten selected teams will receive travel support to attend an Innovation Boot Camp in the Washington, D.C., metro area and compete for cash awards. Applications are due March 30.


Association of Community College Trustees

Attention Art Students! Designs Wanted
The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is excited to announce the launch of a competition to recognize three community college students for their exceptional graphic design talents. ACCT is accepting submissions for Community College Month (#CCMonth) logo redesigns created by current or recent former community college students. This year, we are looking to community college students to redesign this logo according to their visions so that we can bring attention to the talents of community college students and reward those talents. A team of community college leaders will serve as judges and will identify one winning logo design and two runners-up. The winner will receive a $1,250 cash award; the first runner-up will receive $500 and the second runner-up will receive $250. For more information and to enter the competition, click here.
Advising and Counseling
New Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Rolled Out
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). When people call, text or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors who are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen to the caller, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support and connect them to resources, if necessary.
NSF: Research experiences for undergraduates. propulsion, aerodynamics, and controls of aerial vehicles. Paid engineering research experience - $6000/10 weeks. Additional support for meals, travel, and housing. May 15-July 21, 2023. Independence Day will be observed on jUly 4. Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA. The high-quality research environment, through hands-on learning, STEM problem-solving, and mentored communication at both the interpersonal and presentation levels, will prepare you to apply interdisciplinary concepts as part of a highly diverse interdisciplinary team. For more information: https://sites.google.com/georgiasouthern.edu/reu-aerospace-propulsion/home
human resources
Work on Campus

Do you need a job? Why not work where you go to school? Kalamazoo Valley Community College has part-time and full-time job opportunities that could be right for you. One current posting is for a student services assistant, part-time, 25 hours per week, $11 per hour.
 
As a part-time assistant in the Student Services department, you will provide service to a diverse student, community and employee population. The ideal candidate is a team player who is able to work independently, is comfortable utilizing new technologies, and has a strong commitment to customer service and confidentiality.
 
Duties will include:
  • advising individuals on policy and procedures
  • completion of forms
  • maintaining accurate and detailed student records
  • utilizing multiple computer system (training provided)
We are looking for people with:
  • good problem solving and organization abilities
  • a positive attitude and a strong work ethic
  • excellent customer service and telephone skills
  • strong computer and data entry skills
Apply online at jobs.kvcc.edu. Check back often. There are new postings each week.
office of diversity and inclusion
Kalamazoo Valley Community College's MLK - beyond the dream. Beloved community
MLK - Beyond the Dream: Beloved Community

Join the Offices of Diversity and Inclusion and Student Development Services as we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this Black History Month. Our theme for this year is "Defining Beloved Community." What did Dr. King mean when he invoked "Beloved Community?" What is our role in building this community, and how can we work together to create this vision?
 
Connect with your fellow beloved community members at this year's Beyond the Dream event series.
 
Defining Beloved Community
Feb. 9 | 12 - 1:30 p.m.
Room 4240 (TTC)
 
Building Beloved Community
Feb. 23 | 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Room 4240 (TTC) Texas Township Campus

Contact Trice Batson at tbatson@kvcc.edu or Cat March at cmarch@kvcc.edu to RSVP and receive further information.

Taps on tuesday

Support Culinary and Brewing Students at Taps on Tuesday
Taps on Tuesday social events have resumed at the Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building downtown. These happy hours are hosted by culinary and brewing students and staff and run from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. For $10, you get beer and food pairings. Appetizers and wine are also available. Walk-ins only; no reservations required. Taps on Tuesday will run on Tuesdays through April 18.
healt Careers information sessions: emergency medical services tuesday, february 7, 6 PM in room 223, Center for Allied Health. Dental Hygiene, wednesday, february 15, 6 PM, room 4550 texas township campus. Respiratory therapy, tuesday, february 21, 5:30 PM in room 1310 texas township campus. Medical Assistant technology tuesday, february 28, 5:30 PM, room 4550 texas township campus. www.kvcc.edu/programs/health_careers
libraries

Kalamazoo Valley Libraries:
ValleyREADS, Most Important Book, Survey, ValleyCat

Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Libraries at both the Texas Township Campus and Anna Whitten Hall this winter. We look forward to sharing our spaces, support and resources with you!
 
Introducing ValleyREADS
Do you enjoy reading for fun? Want to start a reading habit? Interested in connecting with others over books and reading?  Research shows that recreational reading can lead to personal and academic growth. And, sharing books and new ideas is a great way to connect with others. Check out our new ValleyREADS LibGuide to learn more about the power of reading.
 
Most Important Book Read in College
We asked faculty and staff around the college to tell us about the most important book they read in college. Learn how these influential books made an impact by: 1) checking out the ValleyREADS displays at TTC and AWH libraries, 2) visiting our Most Important Book LibGuide and 3) watching the video.
 
Take our Survey
What is the most important book YOU read in college? Let us know about a book that is important to you by filling out this survey. We will be adding many of these books to our library displays. 
 
ValleyCat Online Catalog
Look for library books (print and electronic) by using the ValleyCat online catalog, which is the search box right in the middle of the library homepage. Learn how to search or create an account by watching our ValleyCat tutorials or by asking a librarian for help. 

We look forward to connecting with you!

Visit us online
Call 269.488.4328 
Email: libraries@kvcc.edu
Chat with a college librarian 24/7
Zoom: by appointment, please email libraries@kvcc.edu
Follow us on Instagram

  student life and engagement 
Get Involved on Campus

The Office for Student Life and Engagement is here to connect you with a number of events on campus. From meeting with transfer colleges and making a budget to learning about your strengths, our office offers learning opportunities outside the classroom. Meet new people and connect with campus contacts to make your college experience more meaningful. For more information, contact Ezra Bell.

Upcoming events include:

Jan. 31 | FAFSA Night | 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Financial Aid Office is hosting several FAFSA© Nights to assist families in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA©). Staff will be available to answer questions. Students do not need to be attending Kalamazoo Valley to receive assistance in completing the FAFSA©. If you have questions or need help, stop by the Financial Aid Office every Tuesday between 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., Room 9210 at the Texas Township Campus. For more information, email finaid@kvcc.edu.
 
Feb. 2 | KVAAP Information Session | 10 a.m.
Join this virtual information session to learn more about how KVAAP can help you achieve your educational goals. Upon signing up, a Zoom meeting link will be emailed to you. Click here to register. For more information, contact Kendall Walker
 
Feb. 3 | Black Arts Exhibit | 5:30 - 8 p.m.
The Center for New Media features a Black Arts Exhibit crafted by local African American artists. Please join us on Feb. 3 from 5:30 - 8 p.m.
 
Feb. 7 | Nursing Information Workshop | 3 p.m.
Please join us at this informative workshop to learn more about Kalamazoo Valley's Nursing Program and what we can offer you! Discover useful program information, requirements and how to prepare your application. Click here to RSVP. To learn more, email nursing@kvcc.edu.
 
Feb. 9 | Valley Food Share | 2 - 4 p.m.
Valley Food Share is an initiative designed to meet the immediate food needs of Kalamazoo Valley students. Through the program, currently enrolled students can pick up a bag, or a "share," which includes food grown locally and sourced through our own Food Innovation Center as well as non-perishable items from Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes. For more information, visit kvcc.edu/foodshare.

 
Check the college calendar for other upcoming opportunities.


student life and engagement
 
Student Organizations
Do you know Kalamazoo Valley has a number of student clubs and organizations? From dance club to anime, there is something for everyone. Clubs are a great way to meet people! Check out the complete list here.

College Social Media
Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn for all of the latest campus news. And every Tuesday, you can check us out on TikTok!


Transfer Tuesday: Are you unsure of what four-year college or university you want to attend after you complete your academic goals at Kalamazoo Valley? Connect with college and university admissions representatives at Transfer Tuesday. Look for transfer tables in the student commons between 9 AM to 2 PM in February 14, February 28, March 21, April 4, April 18
Western Wednesday: Are you interested in transferring to Western Michigan University? Connect with advisors and admission representatives from Western Michigan University. February 15 from 10 AM to 12 PM in room 4240, Texas Township Campus. March 8 - on-site admissions day from 9 AM to 4 PM in room 4230, Texas Township Campus. March 22 10 AM to 12 PM in room 4230, Texas Township Campus. March 29 10 AM to 12 PM in room 4230, Texas Township Campus.  April 12 10 AM to 12 PM in room 4230, Texas Township Campus

student employment services
Looking for a Job? Career Coach Can Help!
Student Employment Services assists students with job searching, resume writing and practice interviewing. Visit Career Coach to see if there is something that interests you. If you are looking for a different job other than what is listed, we can help. Call 269.488.4040 or email careercenter@kvcc.edu to schedule an appointment.
 
Below are some of the jobs currently posted on Career Coach:

Accounting/Business/IT/Marketing
Accounts Payable Clerk - Harding's Markets West Inc./Plainwell, MI
Night Audit Radisson Plaza Hotel - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Administrative Assistant - Human Resources - Kalamazoo Public Schools
Technical Support Assistant - Fetzer Institute
Claims Specialist - Social Security Administration
Full-time Assistant Store Manager - Rue21

Culinary/Brewing
The Morning Dish Cook - Greenleaf Hospitality Group (Several openings)
Kitchen Manager - Warner Vineyards
Brick + Brine Prep Cook - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Starbucks Barista - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Sous Chef at Wings West Old Burdick's - Greenleaf Hospitality Group

Education
Math Push-In Tutor - Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo
Para-Professional Grades 6-12 - Climax-Scotts Community Schools
Lunch and Playground Supervisor - Portage Public Schools
Curious Kids Teacher Aide - Curious Kids Childcare and Preschool

Health Careers
Clinic Nurse - RN or LPN - InterCare
Dental Hygiene - several postings
Caregiver, Care Companion, CNA - Absolute Homecare & Medical Staffing

Human Services
Assistance Payments Worker - Department of Health and Human Services
Safety & Loss Prevention Security Officer - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Landscaper - Greenleaf Hospitality Group

Trades
Automotive Embedded System Test Operator in MI - Total Computing Solutions of America, Inc.
Automotive Technician - Bridgestone Retail Operations
Automotive Lead Technician - Bridgestone Retail Operations
Maintenance Technician III - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Building and Event Technician - Wings Event Center - Greenleaf Hospitality Group


MiLeap: Free short-term training opportunities in the fields of manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. MiLEAP program goal is to serve community members that are under or unemployed and have potential barriers to obtaining living wage employment in high-demand fields. participants earn an industry recognized certificate of completion from kalamazoo valley to include a full list of skilled competencies earned. miLEAP programming directly connects participants with area employers eager to hire up completion. Sterile processing, Google IT, certified Nursing Aide, Computer numerical control, medical billing and terminology, CNC machine operator, Phlebotomy, Advanced CNC set up - Do you have other career interest? Financial assistance may be available for qualifying individuals for other certificate training and education programs less than one year. Contact MiLeap staff to determine eligibility for free funding. Do you have a program idea? Lets see how miLEAP may be able to make it happen! For more information, please reach out to our Kalamazoo Valley miLEAP team. Contacts: Charmelle Abdullah, program manager, cabdullah@kvcc.edu 269-353-1268. Adam Westhouse, program navigator, awesthouse@kvcc.edu 269-353-1571

athletics
Youth Day at Feb. 11 Basketball Games!
Calling all youngsters in grades K-12 everywhere and the adults who love them! You're invited to Big Brothers Big Sisters Day at Kalamazoo Valley Community College's FREE home basketball games on Saturday, Feb. 11! The women play at 1 p.m. and the men at 3 p.m., against Lansing Community College, in the main gym at the Texas Township Campus.

Note that the event is open to ALL youth, both in and outside the BBBS program. We also hope that Kalamazoo Valley students and other adults consider attending. A representative will be on hand to share information about how to be a mentor.
 
For more information, contact Athletic Director Russ Panico at rpanico@kvcc.edu or 269.488.4393. Find the full season here.


Big Brothers Big Sisters day at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Saturday, February 11, 1 PM and 3 PM games. Texas Township campus 6767 West O Avenue Kalamazoo. Free Admission! Youth in grades K-12 and the adults who love them are invited to attend women's and men's basketball games. for more information, please call valley athletics at 269-488-4395 or visit athletics.kvcc.edu
  What's happening at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is operated by Kalamazoo Valley Community College and is governed by its board of trustees

Photographers of Nearly 40-Year Photo Project Honored

News Channel 3 was there to cover the historic moment when the original organizers of a nearly 40-year-long photo documentary project joined with some of its volunteer photographers from over the years for a celebration, on Saturday, Jan. 21, in the Mary Jane Stryker Theater at the college's Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Check out the story here and enjoy more event photos online here.

The project started off as a way to capture how life was in the city of Kalamazoo in 1984, during the city's 100th anniversary year, but soon expanded to chronicle everyday life throughout Kalamazoo County every decade or so, most recently in 2020. The result of this collaboration between community photographers and the Kalamazoo Valley Museum is a new exhibit at the museum of about 100 images, selected from the thousands taken since the project began.

The "Moments in Time: The Kalamazoo County Photo Documentary Project" exhibit will be on display until June 2023. It features the work of 41 of the 152 photographers who participated in the project. Admission is free to exhibits and to the museum. The museum is open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit kalamazoomuseum.org


Mental health mind matters

Bring Your Kids to Mental Health Exhibit Storytime

Save the date for Saturday, Feb. 18 from 1 - 3 p.m. for a special storytime suitable for children that'll touch on mental health. It takes place at the college's Kalamazoo Valley Museum in downtown Kalamazoo. Kids and caregivers will listen to the story book "How Full is Your Bucket?" by Tom Rath. At the conclusion, a hands-on activity for the kids and caregivers will be available for them to reflect on what their own bucket of positive and negative interactions might look like. Then visit the newly opened special museum exhibit "Mental Health: Mind Matters" on the third floor. Learn more about mental health, what it might be like to have a particular mental health issue and how to be kind to your mind.

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Texas Township Campus
6767 West O Avenue
PO Box 4070
Kalamazoo, MI 49003-4070
269.488.4400







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Kalamazoo Valley Community College · 6767 W O Ave · Kalamazoo, MI 49009-7402 · USA