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Kalamazoo Valley Community College

InFocus: News for Kalamazoo Valley Students

January 31, 2022

Greetings Students,

"The time is always right to do what is right," was the theme of the Jan. 17 Wreath Laying event in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This favorite quote from this significant leader inspires me to think deeply about civil rights, social justice and human rights. He made this statement as a part of his remarks to Oberlin College students in 1964.

As we join with others from across the community to celebrate Black History Month, I hope that you will take advantage of opportunities to participate in events and activities designed to help us consider what is "right."

February is always a busy month for college students and this year is no exception. In addition to the requirements of virtual and for some, face-to-face studies, I know that many of you are juggling the care of family members and employment. However, if you find that you are able to squeeze in just one more class this semester, second-part-of-term classes start March 3. Taking just one more class could make it possible for you to complete your program in time to participate in May Commencement activities.

These times may not be easy, but it is always right to pursue your dreams and the goal of completing your associate degree or program certificate. As you continue to press ahead, the college community is here to support you.


Sincerely,

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


Admission, Registrations, and Records

Second Part-of-Term Classes
Second 12-week classes begin today, Jan. 31. The last day to register or exchange classes is Feb. 4, and the deadline to drop with a refund is Feb. 8. Additional winter classes start March 3. Click here for tips on how to search for second part-of-term classes.
Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Black History Month
Celebrate Black History Month Feb. 2

In honor of Black History Month, Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Office of Diversity and Inclusion in collaboration with the Office of Student Engagement invites you to attend a virtual program "Beyond the Dream III" - a deeper look at the perspectives of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his impact on our nation, particularly throughout the South in 1967. This college and community-wide conversation, planned for Feb. 2 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., provides participants the opportunity to listen and share thoughts regarding Dr. King's philosophies and its relevancy in today's society. For accommodations and registration details, contact Trice Batson or Ezra Bell.


Cougar Basketball Food Drive

Bring Canned Goods to Feb. 2 Basketball Games

The Cougar women's and men's basketball teams and the college are hosting a food drive at the Feb. 2 home games against Ancilla College. Tipoff is at 5:30 p.m. (women's basketball) and 7:30 p.m. (men's basketball).

Please bring canned goods and nonperishable food items. All donations made to the "Hunger Games" project go to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, whose mission is to end hunger in our community. Games are in the gym at the Texas Township Campus. Admission is free.


Learning Center
Tutoring Available
If you need a little extra help in your classes, free tutoring is available in math, writing, accounting, biology, chemistry, computers, economics, geosciences and physics.

Tutors at Kalamazoo Valley

Math Center
In-person math drop-in tutoring sessions are available at the Texas Township Campus (TTC) in the Learning Center, Room 2220 and the Arcadia Commons Campus at Anna Whitten Hall (AWH), Room 123.

Texas Township Campus Hours
  • Monday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Friday 9 a.m.3 p.m.
  • Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Anna Whitten Hall Hours
  • Monday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Tuesday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and  3 p.m.- 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Thursday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 6 p.m.
Virtual drop-in math tutoring sessions are available the following days and times:
  • Monday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  • Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Zoom Room is easily accessed by logging into your MyValley account.

Writing Center
Drop-in writing tutoring on Zoom (no appointment necessary). Please log into your MyValley to access a virtual tutor.

The hours of operation for the Writing Center are:
  • Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

In-person tutoring available at Texas Township Campus by appointment only.
Email: writing@kvcc.edu or learningcenter@kvcc.edu.

Course-Specific Tutoring
Course-specific tutoring is by appointment on Zoom or in person. Please contact the Learning Center to schedule:
learningcenter@kvcc.edu or 269.488.4437.

For more information about your tutoring options, please visit
www.kvcc.edu/services/tutoring.


Phi Theta Capsule Honor Society
PTK Resumes Mental Health Awareness Speaker Series Feb. 8

Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges, will be continuing its Mental Health Awareness Speaker Series on Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. via Zoom with guest speaker Nancy King, from COPE Network, who's presentation will be discussing narcan and addiction. All are welcome. For more information, email ptk@kvcc.edu.
Cougar Cafe
Pre-Order Valentine's Day Treats in the Cougar Cafe
The Cougar Cafe will be selling the following items for Valentine's Day.
  • Chocolate Covered Strawberries - 6 for $7.99
  • Heart Shaped Crave-worthy Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 for $1.99
  • Peanut Butter Blossoms - 3 for $1.99
  • Heart Shaped Sugar Cookies - 3 for $1.99

Pre-pay and order in the Cougar Cafe by Feb. 9. Pick-up order in Cafe on Feb. 14 by 2:30 p.m.


Financial Aid
Apply Now for Valley CARES Funding
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented both the college and our students with unprecedented challenges. In consideration of this, the college created the Valley CARES Emergency Assistance Fund. The Valley CARES Emergency Assistance Fund provides limited emergency financial support to students who have experienced unexpected expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic.

The Valley CARES Emergency Assistance Fund application can be found in your MyValley account, by selecting Valley Cares Application, under "My Links." Students can receive up to $1,200 for personal expenses for this current semester.


Please email the Financial Aid office or call 269.488.4340 with any questions.


Work on Campus
Work study opportunities are available! This program provides an employment opportunity which enables students to earn money toward their education while going to school. Click here to see the open positions and how to apply. If you have questions, contact Derik Redding at dreddding@kvcc.edu or 269.4878.4252.
 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 in our new virtual space. 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.

Image of Student working on a laptop
Upcoming events include:
 
Jan. 31 | Student Veterans Resume Workshop | 6:30 p.m.  
We welcome our student veterans to join this event for tips on translating their military skills into language that will enhance their civilian resumes! This event will be held via Zoom. For more information contact, Charles Heidelberg.  
 
Feb. 1 | FAFSA Night | 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. 
The Financial Aid office is hosting several FAFSA Nights to assist families in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you have any questions or need help, stop by the Financial Aid Office at our Texas Township Campus. Staff will be available to answer questions as well as assist with the financial aid process. 
 
Feb. 1 | How to Study: Math | 6 p.m. 
A discussion about best techniques for practicing math. This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, contact Beth Brandon
 
Feb. 2 | Interview Skills   
Come join this digital event where students will be able to refresh their interview techniques as well as practice sitting for an interview. For more information, please contact Mary McConnell.  
10 - 11 a.m. | Interview Skills | This event will be held via Zoom.
3 - 4 p.m. | Interview Skills | This event will be held via Zoom. 
 
Feb. 2 | Western Wednesday | 10 a.m.  
Are you interested in attending Western Michigan University? Connect with advisors and admission representatives from the Office of Admissions and the College of Arts & Sciences from Western Michigan University. Western Wednesday sessions are live, interactive presentations designed to answer your frequently asked questions about becoming a Bronco. This event will be held virtually. For more information on how to attend, please contact Ezra Bell or Levi Funk
 
Feb. 2 | What is Right with You? | 1 p.m.   
Take the Clifton Strengths Assessment and discover your Top 5 Strengths! This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, please contact Sabrina Kooy.   
 
Feb. 2 | How to Study: Math | 2 p.m. 
A discussion about best techniques for practicing math. This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, contact Beth Brandon

Feb. 2 | Student Veteran Interview Workshop | 6:30 p.m.  
Student veterans, come join this event for job interview tips including ways to utilize useful techniques for translating your military experience in a civilian job interview. This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, contact Charles Heidelberg
 
Feb. 4 | Fifth Year First Friday Ready to Launch | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.  
Final year Early/Middle College students should bring their resume and be prepared to dive into what might come next. For updated information on how to attend, contact Dr. Deborah Coates.

Feb. 4 | Third Annual Black Arts Exhibit | 5:30 - 8 p.m.  
In collaboration with the Black Arts & Cultural Center and the greater Kalamazoo community, Kalamazoo Valley's Center for New Media will be hosting its 3RD Annual Black Arts Exhibit in observance of Black History Month. This show will highlight the works of local black artists and provide a shared connection to the rich black cultural heritage in the Kalamazoo area. 

   
Feb. 8 | FAFSA Night | 4:30- 6:30 p.m. 
The Financial Aid office is hosting several FAFSA Nights to assist families in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you have any questions or need help, stop by the Financial Aid Office at our Texas Township Campus. Staff will be available to answer questions as well as assist with the financial aid process. 

Feb. 9 | How to Study: Science | 2 p.m. 
Bio and Chemistry - A discussion about study techniques for each type of class. This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, contact Beth Brandon
 
Feb. 9 | Women's Basketball Home Game | 5:30 p.m. 
Women's Basketball Home Game against Glen Oaks Community College, located at the TTC Main Gym. 
 
Feb. 9 | Men's Basketball Home Game | 7:30 p.m. 
Men's Basketball Home Game against Glen Oaks Community College, located at the TTC Main Gym. 
 
Feb. 10 | How to Study: Science | 2 p.m. 
Bio and Chemistry - A discussion about study techniques for each type of class. This event will be held via Zoom. For more information, contact Beth Brandon
 
Check the college calendar for other upcoming opportunities.

Student Organizations
Did 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. Want to start your own club? Contact Coty Dunten.

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.


Kalamazoo Valley Museum


A pair of old boxing gloves
Many big names in boxing got their training with the Kalamazoo Boxing Academy. Explore the personal stories of the boxers and trainers at the "The Forgotten Fighters of the Kalamazoo Boxing Academy" exhibit at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, which the college operates in downtown Kalamazoo. It runs from Feb. 5 through Sept. 18. Admission is free to the museum and to the exhibit. The museum is located at 230 N. Rose St. It is now open for limited hours, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 - 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 - 3 p.m. Preregistration at kalamazoomuseum.org is recommended. Walk-in slots are available, but entry is not guaranteed if capacity is reached.

Historic Kalamazoo Boxing Academy Exhibit Opens Feb. 5 


Kalamazoo Valley Promise Services
Promise Progress Report luncheon
Attention Kalamazoo Promise scholars! Join us Feb. 17 for a Progress Report Luncheon. Enjoy  a delicious meal with Valley and Promise officers, drawings and prizes and more. The Promise coach and advisor will be available to share updates and connect you with resources. Due to Valley COVID-19 precautions, students must RSVP for one of five 30 minute time-slots posted by Feb. 14. Luncheon will be held in Room 9318, Student Success Services conference room, on the Texas Township Campus.
Art and New Media
CNM Students! Get Connected with an Advisor or Counselor
Center for New Media students are encouraged to participate in Get Connected events next month. Get Connected with an Advisor or Counselor runs on Wednesday, March 9 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. and Thursday, March 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Center for New Media.

This your chance to check in a counselor to review your progress. Don't wait until the end of the semester! During these sessions, CNM students will have the opportunity to discuss:
  • How classes are going
  • Any issues either in the classroom or outside of class
  • Specific needs that can be addressed to help boost confidence in academic work
  • Any other concerns
Get Connected! Day One Reservation
Get Connected! Day Two Reservation

Libraries
Kalamazoo Valley Libraries: Collection Spotlight, Reading Together and February Book Display

Juvenile & Young Adult Collection Spotlight
We have rearranged the Juvenile & Young Adult collections at the Texas Township Campus Library, to make them easier for you to use and browse. Sections are now divided into book types/reading levels. These sections include:
  • Board Books
  • Picture Books
  • Easy Readers
  • Children's Chapter Books
  • Young Adult Books
We have also added a range of new books including many award winners and diversity titles. Come check them out today!
 
Reading Together
Kalamazoo Valley Libraries are partnering with the Kalamazoo Public Library (KPL) on their annual event, Reading Together. For the past 20 years, KPL has invited community members to read the same book, and then hear the author talk about it. This year's book is a graphic novel, The Best We Could Do, by Thi Bui, and the author is sharing her work with Kalamazoo on March 22. Aubrey Rodgers, a Kalamazoo Valley instructor at the Center for New Media will also be participating in the Reading Together program, giving a presentation on Visual Storytelling on Feb. 12. Visit the Kalamazoo Public Library's website at www.kpl.gov to learn more about the book and related events. 
 
Check out a copy of The Best We Could Do at either the TTC or ACC library and explore our physical and virtual displays of past Reading Together titles.
 
Book Display
It's Black History Month! Celebrate this February by checking out our new display. Browse them at the Texas Township Library and online.
 
We look forward to connecting with you!
 
*We appreciate you following Kalamazoo Valley's safety protocols and practicing social distancing when you visit us.
 
Visit us online
Call 269.488.4328
Email: libraries@kvcc.edu
Chat with a college librarian 24/7: https://www.kvcc.edu/library/asklib.html
Zoom by appointment, please email libraries@kvcc.edu
Follow us on Instagram @kalamazoovalleylibraries

Student Employment Services
Looking for Work or Volunteer Opportunities?
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 with Student Employment Services.
 
Below are some of the jobs currently posted on Career Coach:
 
Accounting/Business/IT/Marketing
IT Internship - Senior Services
Payroll Technician - Residential Opportunities, Inc.
Document Systems Administrator - Humphrey Products
Financial Advisor - Safe Harbor Management Group
IT Support Specialist - Duncan Aviation
System Analyst - Imperial Beverage
 
Culinary
Residential Housing Cook Part-Time - Residential Opportunities, Inc.
Sous Chef - Gull Lake Country Club
Event Cook - Senior Services
Culinary Crew Leader - Friendship Village
Dietary Aide - Bronson Lakeview Hospital
 
Education
Camp Counselor and Assistant Director - Girls Scouts Heart of Michigan, Kalamazoo
Overnight Cabin Counselor - Sherman Lake YMCA
Childcare Center Aide / Assistant Teacher- Michigan Afterschool Association
Paraprofessional - KRESA
Teaching related positions (multiple) - Tri-County Head Start
 
General Studies
Window Cleaning Tech - Shine of Kalamazoo
Volunteer Coach - Girls on the Run
Various Warehouse openings - Imperial Beverage
Production Associate/Machine Operators - DENSO Manufacturing
Production Associate - FlavorSum, LLC
Machine Operator - Summit Polymers
 
Health Careers
Home Health Aide/Companion/Direct Care - Multiple positions and companies seeking
 
Human Services
Skill Building Technician / Behavior Technician - Residential Opportunities, Inc.
 
Law Enforcement
Female Correction Officer and Male Correction Officer - Van Buren County Government
 
Science Related
Strike Team Crew Member - Van Buren Conservation District
Lab Assistant - Better Environmental Scientific and Testing, Inc.
QO Lab Analyst - Zoetis
Lab Tech / Lab Assistant- Next Stage Labs
 
Trades
Heavy Equipment Shop Tech - Alta Equipment
Automotive/Equipment Mechanic - City of Portage
Refurbishment Tech - Friendship Village
Equipment Tech - American Arbor, LLC
HVAC Tech - A-1 Refrigeration
Industrial Motor Controls - Inter-Source Recovery Systems

Volunteer Needs
The Gilmore
Volunteer for The Gilmore
The Gilmore International Piano Festival is April 24 - May 15. The Gilmore celebrates the piano in all its variety and depth: including jazz, classical, pop, folk, swing, blues, gospel and everything in between. Its Film Series is presented in the Mary Jane Stryker Theater at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum.

The Gilmore relies on the expertise, time and energy of volunteers to accomplish this great festival. From ushers to working backstage, there are endless opportunities for you to get involved. If you have any questions, please contact Emily Fackler at efackler@gmail.com.
Visiting Writers
Save the Date! Tommy Orange Comes to Campus
Kalamazoo Valley Community College's "About Writing" Visiting Writers Series welcomes Tommy Orange on April 19 for two events: an on-stage conversation at 10 a.m. and a reading and on-stage conversation at 2:15 p.m. in the Student Commons Theater, Room 4240, at the Texas Township Campus. Orange is the author of the New York Times bestselling novel There There, a multi-generational, relentlessly paced story about a side of America few have ever seen: the lives of urban Native Americans. There There, was one of The New York Times Book Review's 10 Best Books of the Year, won the Center for Fiction's First Novel Prize and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. More
 

 Protect yourself and loved ones. Get you flu vaccine today!Student Employment Services

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

Kalamazoo Valley