Kalamazoo valley community college

InFocus: news for the kalamazoo valley community college students
MISSION STATEMENT
Kalamazoo Valley Community College creates innovative and equitable
opportunities that empower all to learn, grow and thrive.
Oct. 14, 2024


We are nearly at the midpoint of the fall semester. There are so many priorities competing for your time and attention. The change of seasons and the start of the holiday season can also sometimes be overwhelming. Pursing good mental health is a priority, and sometimes we need to seek support and access to care to thrive. 

If you need support or access to services, you are not alone. At Kalamazoo Valley, we believe in blocking the stigma of seeking mental health services. Click here to learn more about services available to you. Everyone at the college is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. 

Today we celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day! Indigenous Peoples' Day, at its core, strives to celebrate and honor the past, present and futures of Native peoples throughout the United States and acknowledges the legacy of colonialism, which has historically devastated indigenous communities and continues to negatively impact them today. More importantly, it honors the histories, cultures, contributions and resilience of contemporary Native peoples. Please join me in recognizing Native people in our communities. Learn more.


Sincerely,

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

admissions, registration, and records
Winter Registration is Open
Registration for the Winter 2025 semester began last week and is now open to all students. Click here to view the course schedule.

Payment is due Nov. 12 by 7 p.m., when registration temporarily closes for non-payment cancellations. Upon reopening on Nov. 15 at 7 a.m., classes that are not paid for, on a payment plan, covered by financial aid or covered by a third-party will be dropped after five business days of registration.

Advisors and counselors are available to help students select the correct courses for each degree plan. To schedule an appointment, call 269.488.4040.

Image includes a angular drawing of a cougars head in three-quarters profile. text reads: petition to graduate ready to graduate in december? login to myvalley by october 31 to submit your petition.

libraries
Start Your Research Here: 'Opposing Viewpoints: Gale in Context'
Your paper is due and you're looking for a topic. Or, maybe you've already chosen a controversial issue to research. Where can you find reliable information to back up your claim? Try one of our Current Issues databases.
 
"Opposing Viewpoints: Gale in Context" provides information on hundreds of social issues and is a good place to start your research.

  • "Browse Issues" to find a topic that interests you, or enter your topic ideas in the search bar
  • Choose from overviews, viewpoints, academic journals, magazines and newspapers
  • Email articles to yourself and click the citation icon for an MLA or APA citation
    • Be sure to proofread those citations with our library Citation Guide
Citing AI
Citation is a formal way of acknowledging the words and ideas of others, even if that "other" is a machine! Check out our examples for citing generative artificial intelligence (AI) in both MLA and APA formats. 
 
Request an Appointment with a Librarian
Librarians are standing by to answer your research and citation questions. Drop by 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., or use our online form to schedule an appointment with a librarian. 
 
Hours and Contact Information phi theta kappa honor society
PTK to Induct New Members Oct. 30
Kalamazoo Valley Community College's chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society for two-year colleges, has recently extended new invitations for membership to eligible students. Those who accept are invited to participate in an optional induction ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30 in the Texas Township Campus Theater, Room 4240. New members who plan to take part in the Oct. 30 ceremony will meet in Room 4230 at 6 p.m. for a brief orientation prior to induction. RSVP required by no later than Thursday, Oct. 23. more

student employment services
Looking for a job, internship, apprenticeship and/or volunteer opportunity?
Student Employment Services assists students with job searching, resume writing and practice interviewing. Visit Career Coach, Kalamazoo Valley's online job board to see if there is something that interests you.
 
If you are looking for something different other than what is listed, we can help. Call 269.488.4040 or email careercenter@kvcc.edu to schedule an appointment.

Here are some of the jobs currently posted on Career Coach:
 
Business Pathways (Accounting/Business/Information
Technology/Marketing/Administrative Assistant)
Tax Associate/Receptionist/Associate Team Leader - H&R Block
Kalamazoo Wings - Marketing/Game Operations Intern - Greenleaf Hospitality
Web or Converting Extra - Graphic Packaging Int.
Practice Support Assistant - Integrated Services of Kalamazoo
Office Supervisor - Neuropsychology Associates
Network Operations Specialist - Portage Public Schools
 
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement/Public Service
Security Officer/Wings Event Center - Greenleaf Hospitality
 
Culinary/Brewing (Sustainable Food Systems)
Kitchen Cook - Vineyard Assisted Living
Multiple opportunities at Greenleaf Hospitality Group
 
Education
ESI Paraprofessional (Special Education) - Portage Public Schools
 
Engineering & Skilled Trades
Automotive Service Technician - Ford Dealerships
CAD Engineer - Canvas Innovations
Electrician - Graphic Packaging International
Senior Service/HVAC Technician - Hinman Company
Maintenance Worker - Plumbing and Heating - Portage Public Schools
Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship - Greenleaf Hospitality
 
General Studies
Atrium Attendant, Room Attendant and similar positions - Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Day Custodian - Portage Public Schools
Childcare - Friendship Corners Child Care
Lead Event Setup - Wings Event Center

Health Careers
Registered Medical Assistant - Integrated Services of Kalamazoo
Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant - several postings
Medication Technician - Vineyard Assisted Living
Practice Support Assistant - Integrated Services of Kalamazoo
Caregivers Wanted, Earn While you Learn - Visiting Angels
Medical Scribe - iScribeMD
 
Human Services/Social Sciences/Public Services
Program Specialist - Direct - Integrated Services of Kalamazoo
 
Sustainable Horticulture
Several opportunities including paid Internship - BrightView Landscapes
 
Volunteer/Unpaid Internship Opportunities
Care Collective Volunteer - Care Collective of Southwest Michigan
Companionship Volunteer - Elara Caring
Students are invited to participate in "LinkedIn 101," a free webinar offered by an organization called 10,000 Degrees. It will be offered Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 5 - 6 p.m. Pacific Time (2 - 3 p.m. Eastern Time). 
The image shows a collage of nine people jumping joyfully against colorful background panels, along with information about an upcoming LinkedIn 101 webinar hosted by 10,000 Degrees. Text reads: UPCOMING WEBINAR LINKEDIN 101 Join 10,000 Degrees to learn about the power of LinkedIn and how to use the platform to network and job search. We'll cover the basics of LinkedIn—creating your professional brand, how to build your professional network, and strategies for your internship and job search utilizing LinkedIn. Students who meet the eligibility can receive a one-time, 12-month FREE LinkedIn Premium Account, which is over a $500 value! Who is eligible for a free LinkedIn Premium account? Any student currently attending a community college in the United States: Students who are part of a 10,000 Degrees community partner organization, Any 10,000 Degrees college student, Must register for and attend one of our LinkedIn Webinars, Have never received a free 12-month premium subscription in the past ATTEND FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $50 GIFT CARD! TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2024 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM PT REGISTER NOW! 10000degrees.org/linkedin-101-oct-29 Thank you to our event partner: LinkedIn
 

Image is a flyer with a realistic illustration of a shuttle bus driving towards a block of text. Text reads kalamazoo valley shuttle service. Need a ride between campuses? Catch the free kalamazoo valley shuttle. Shuttle runs from 6:50am to 7pm abd travels to the arcadia commons compus (ACC), the Bronson healthy living campus (BHLC) and the Texas township campus (TTC). Pick up/drop off locations: ACC – southeast corner of rose street and water street (due to construction, the shuttle will not be at the location until the advised departure time. BHLC – walnut street parking lot (in front of the Marilyn j. Schlack culinary and allied health building). TTC – flagpole entrance. Kalamazoo Valley community college.

kalamazoo valley accelerated associate program (KVAAP)
Upcoming KVAAP Event - The Program Showcase
Join KVAAP at the Program Showcase on Thursday, Nov. 7 from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. at Anna Whitten Hall, Room 128. At the event, students will have an opportunity to speak with representatives from different Kalamazoo Valley programs. The event is perfect for undecided students or students who are considering changing their program of study, but it is open to everyone! You don't have to be a KVAAP student in order to participate. Free pizza will be provided.
 
Classroom Visits
Classroom visits are a great way for students to hear about our program. If you are interested in having someone from KVAAP come speak to your fall students for 15 minutes about the program, please contact Elizabeth Schab at eschab@kvcc.edu. 
 
Upcoming KVAAP Info Sessions

  • Tuesday, Oct. 15 | 5 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 23 | 10 a.m.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 5 p.m.

Attending a KVAAP Info Session is a required part of the application process. Interested students can register here.

career: join KVAAP at the program showcase. are you an undecided student? this event is for you! come learn about kalamazoo valley's programs that lead to exciting careers! Thursday november 7, 12:30 to 2:30pm in anna whitten hall, room 128. Register for classes. enjoy free pizza. interact with staff and students. business, sociology, culinary arts brewing, art and new media, counseling, communication, liberal arts, and more.

Image is a flyer that contains a collage of five scenes of students cutting hair or studying at the barbering college. Text reads Cosmetology and barbering grand opening october 17 from 9am to 4pm hair care services will be available on a walk-in basis at a discounted rate. guests are invited to enjoy music provided by a DJ, a photo backdrop, giveaways, free food and drinks. www.kvcc.edu/haircare

image includes a photo of a blue cougar mascot in a black tshirt and posing with arms crossed before a wrought iron fence and a brick wall. Text over the top reads Do you want to be Kal the Kalamazoo Valley Mascot? The Kalamazoo valley mascot scholarship. offers $1,200 per semester when agreeing to represent kalamazoo valley at on-and-off campus events. requirements: be actively enrolled in at least six credit hours, submit an application at www.kvcc.edu/finaid and tryout in front of a small committee. attend mascot training. do not disclose their identity until indicated by college administration. to learn more, email nkenge bergan at nbergan@kvcc.edu. Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
Computer lab hours: texas township campus student commons help desk 269-488-4250. Fall and Winter Semester. monday through thursday from 7:30am to 8pm. friday from 8am to 5pm. saturday from 10am to 3pm. closed sunday. Arcadia commons campus center for new media, room 275. help desk 269-373-7925. fall and winter semester. monday through thursday from 8am to 8pm. friday from 8am to 5pm. saturday from 10am to 3pm. closed sunday. Kalamazoo valley community college.
Image is a flyer that features muted colors and retro style cutout art of mustic notes, stars, a singing mouth, a disco ball, a record player, a vintage microphone, a hand flashing a peace sign and a human eye. Text reads this ain't no disco using music to help you study. in this event, we will be focusing on using mnemonic devices, made up songs, or silly phrases to create connections and build memory around tough study topics. October 22 from 3 to 4pm in Room 128 of Anna Whitten Hall. Kalamazoo valley community college.
Image is a flyer with simplistic illustrations of fall leaves and trees. Text reads Kalamazoo valley community college presents it's the season of the sticks november 5, from 3 to 4 pm in room 4230 texas township campus. take a break from the course work and studying and chill with us. we'll have games, coloring, and snacks.
Image features a photo of the top of a wind turbine against a blue sky that fades to to all white on the right. Text over the white area reads: wind turbine technician academy. join the nation's leading training program for wind turbine technicians! a 24 week competency based training program. a noncredity full time program. highly skilled instructors, who have been through the academy and have field experience. fast track to in-demand and high pay jobs. the next academy begins january 6, 2025. www.kvcc.edu/academics/wind. kalamazoo valley community college.
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. october 29, november 5, november 19, december 10. look for transfer tables in the lower level cafeteria between 10am and 2pm.
western wednesdays are you interested in transferring to western michigan university? connect with advisors and admission representatives from western michigan university. on-site admissions day: wednesday, october 30 from 9am to 4pm in the texas township cafeteria. other days are wednesday november 6 from 10am to noon. wednesday, november 20, 10am to noon. wednesday, december 4, 10am to noon.
A flyer promoting a Test Anxiety Workshop hosted by Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Text reads: Test Anxiety Workshop The test anxiety workshop gives students a deeper understanding of what test anxiety is and an opportunity to build a unique plan for successful test taking. October 15 from 3 to 4 P.M. | Room 128 Anna Whitten Hall. An illustration on the right shows a worried person holding their hands in front of their mouth with thought bubbles, checkmark, and crossed box symbols around them.
valley future educators clubl. thinking about pursuing a degree in an educational field? the valley future educator's club (VFEC) offers a great place to meet other students like you who share a passion for teaching and learning and are interested inn investigating a career in education. all meetings are held in texas township campus room 4370, with the exception of november 18, which will be texas township campus room 4550. mondays, 1 to 2pm. 2024, november 18, last meeting of the year. 2025, january 27, february 17, and march 17.

Image contain a photograph of three young adults standing with a blue cougar mascot that is dressed in KVCC tshirt. All three indiviuals and the mascot are giving the camera a 'thumbs up' gesture. the image also prominently features the KVCC and Western Michigan University logos. Text reads: Wednesday, october 30, 9am to 4pm. Western michigan university on-site admission event. Kalamazoo valley community college texas township campus, lower level cafeteria. Interested in transferring to western michigan university? join us and connect with advisors and admissions representatives from WMU to learn about available transfer resources. www.kvcc.edu
A promotional flyer for an event titled Subject to Review with Ed Genesis, focusing on social justice through a hip-hop lens. The flyer features a dark background with purple and teal text accents. The main text reads: A look at social justice through a hip-hop lens with the event title Subject to Reviewin large, stylized purple font. Below, details of the event are listed: Monday, October 14 from 6 to 8 P.M. | FREE at NACD | 612 N. Park St., Kalamazoo. It notes that food will be provided, with sounds by DJ Playhouse. An additional description explains that hip-hop artist and activist Ed Genesis will discuss how hip-hop connects to social justice topics, such as racism, mass incarceration, class, violence, and gender. Registration details are provided at www.campusce.net/kvcccommunity. Contact information for Program Coordinator Charmelle Abdullah is given (email cabdullah@kvcc.edu and phone 269-353-1268).
image is a flyer in the design of a corkboard notice wall with the information contained in the form of several notes pinned to the board. Text reads kalamazoo valley community college math club. when? 3:30 pm on november 22 and december 6. where? the lounge near the learning center (texas township campus, room 2220) located on the second floor. what? fun math activities tutoring opportunities for all mathematic levels.
A flyer for the Faculty Poetry and Fiction Reading event hosted by Kalamazoo Valley Community College. The design features a torn piece of notebook paper on an orange background with graphic elements like a blue pen and black-and-white hands. The event details read: Faculty Poetry and Fiction Reading on October 23 from 2:30 to 3:30 P.M. at Texas Township Campus, Room 4240. It notes that English instructor John Abbott will read his original fiction, and Dean Billy Reynolds will read his original poems. The event is marked as Free and open to the public.
Image is of hand-drawn hearts, flowers, and wavy lines that are rainbow colored. Text reads LGBTQ+ diversity club. Join the LGBTQ+ diversity club at kalamazoo valley community college! We have bi-weekly meetings and host events for LGBTQ+ students and allies. Come build community, engage in advocacy/education or just hang out. To sign up, request more information find out when the club meets or to join our discord server, contact club advisor misti mahon at mmahon@kvcc.edu or club president dawson knipp dknipp8724@mail.kvcc.edu

LGBTQ+ Diversity Club Enriches College Experience
Twenty-one-year-old Dawson Knipp's experiences at Kalamazoo Valley Community College have been full of enriching endeavors. The 2022 Marcellus High School graduate is an honors student and is the president of the college's LGBTQ+ Diversity Club. Knipp says that the club has been an invaluable resource and offers opportunities that supplement students' educational experiences. "It has bolstered my confidence a lot to know that I have this club and community to back me and represent me," said Knipp. "It's taken a lot of anxiety off my shoulders." more


Havirmill Cafe

Havirmill Cafe Now Open
Students enrolled in Kalamazoo Valley's culinary arts and sustainable food systems programs put their training to work in the Havirmill Cafe. The cafe offers grab-and-go options, as well as a hot bar with freshly made entrees. It is located in the Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building, 418 E. Walnut St., in downtown Kalamazoo. Havirmill Cafe hours are Monday - Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. through Oct. 15 and Oct. 29 - Dec. 5. Please follow the Havirmill Cafe Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KVculinaryeats.

Taps on Tuesdays

Taps on Tuesdays is Back
Taps on Tuesday is a happy hour-style event hosted by Kalamazoo Valley's brewing department, Sept. 17 - Dec. 10 from 5 - 7 p.m., except Oct. 29. Beer and food pairings, appetizers and wine are available for purchase. Students, alumni, faculty and staff receive 50 percent off their purchases. Walk-ins only; no reservations required.

office of diversity and inclusion

Image is a flyer with a colorful, striped background behind the solid black silhouette of a woman’s head. Text reads: Lecture Tuesday, October 15 from noon to 1 P.M., free. Drop-In Museum Hours Tuesday, October 15 from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M., free Experience the profound impact of Black music on American culture and social movements through rare artifacts and interactive displays. From jazz to hip-hop, discover how iconic Black artists have shaped popular culture and inspired change, while celebrating the resilience and contributions of Black people in the face of racial discrimination. Black History 101 Mobile Museum Music Of The Movement Tuesday, October 15 Kalamazoo Valley Community College Texas Township Campus, Room 4240 Keynote Speaker Dr. Khalid El-Hakim

A promotional poster for Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month celebration at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. The left half contains event details on a dark blue background with decorative flowers, while the right half shows a vibrant illustration of people celebrating with music, food, and dancing under colorful papel picado (traditional Mexican paper banners) decorations. The illustration depicts musicians playing guitars, people dancing, eating tacos, and drinking beverages, with a festive atmosphere enhanced by cacti and decorative bunting. Text reads: Celebrating Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month Tuesday, october 22, Noon to 2 P.M., Free Room 4240, Texas Township Campus Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Celebrate the vibrant cultures, rich histories and contributions of Hispanic/Latinx communities. Enjoy a day filled with live music, games, food and fun! This event is open to all students, staff and faculty. Don't Miss This Exciting Celebration Of Heritage And Unity!

Workshop introduction to neurodiversity facilitated by the disability network southwest Michigan. Explore how neurodiversity influences sensory, movement and communication differences, the impact of ableism on brain-based disabilities and ways to support students and colleagues. Thursday, October 22 from 10am to noon. Free. Room 4240 texas township campus. RSVP required by October 22.

Image is a flyer with a colorful, hand-painted illustration of trees and flowers. Text reads: November art hop. Nature’s impressions: land life and abstraction. November 1 from 5:30 to 8PM during art hop in the center for new media arcus gallery. Sponsored by MRC artworks and KVCC.

The official kalamazoo valley community college cougar bookstore
A photo of folded tshirts resting on a table stacked with books. Both shirts feature a rainbow and the words Good Vibes kalamazoo valley
Send Good Vibes with Bookstore's New Retro-Style T-Shirt
The Bookstore has heard you want clothing with more color, something new and different. YOU GOT IT! This 100% pre-shrunk USA sourced cotton T-shirt comes in two colors with the message "Good Vibes" across the front. Boogie on down to the Texas Township Campus Bookstore, and ride the retro wave with this �70s- inspired groovy T! If surfin' the web is more your thing, get it online from our website at bookstore.kvcc.edu.
athletics
A group of volleyball players from what appears to be a Kalamazoo Valley Community College 'Cougars' team poses together in a room. They are wearing a mix of black hoodies, blue t-shirts, and gray shirts with the Cougars volleyball logo. The team members are gathered around a collection of Cheez-It boxes spread out on the floor. Some players are standing while others are kneeling, all smiling at the camera. The image appears to be taken in what looks like a storage or utility room with cinderblock walls and windows visible in the background.
Volleyball Players Volunteer at Food Program for Kids
Kudos to our Lady Cougars volleyball team volunteering to help pack food bags for the PowerUp program at Portage Public Schools on Sept. 25. The initiative provides nutritional items for students to take home in backpacks over the weekend. We're so proud of how student-athletes embrace community service here at Valley!

Enjoy a Free Home Volleyball Match this Weekend!
Come show your school spirit and cheer on the Lady Cougars Volleyball Team on Sunday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. and noon. They play Muskegon Community College in the main gym on the Texas Township Campus of Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Bring your friends and family! Remember, home games are always free! The last home game of the season is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26 at 1:30 p.m. Find the full schedule here. Read an article about the volleyball season here.
 
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.
A promotional poster for a museum exhibit titled 'Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art' at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. The poster features two Masonic artifacts against black backgrounds: on the left, an oval pendant with symbolic imagery including blue pillars and geometric shapes; on the right, a ceremonial compass-shaped pendant featuring a sunburst design with a face at its center. The text announces the exhibit runs until January 5, 2024, is free, and includes 80 pieces showcasing Masonic and Odd Fellows history. The museum's contact information and logo appear at the bottom: 230 N. Rose St., Kalamazoo, kalamazoomuseum.org, 269.373.7990.
Secret Societies Illuminated in New �Mystery and Benevolence' Exhibit
Step into the mysterious world of secret societies with the Kalamazoo Valley Museum's newest exhibit, "Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art"! The captivating, free traveling exhibition is on display now through Jan. 5. Eighty carvings, sculptures, textiles and regalia bring to light the histories, symbolism and values of the Masons and Independent Order of the Odd Fellows, taking visitors behind the veil of these intriguing fraternal orders that have had an influence on contemporary American popular culture.
 
All Ages Invited for Chemistry Day Hands-on Experiments Oct. 19
It's time again for CHEMISTRY DAY! If you like science experiments and hands-on learning, don't miss this fun, free program at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum on Saturday, Oct. 19, from noon to 4 p.m.! This year's theme is "Photography and Imaging: Picture Perfect Chemistry." You'll get a peek at the techniques and practices for preserving artifacts, and learn how to safely exhibit fragile objects. We're teaming up with the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society for an exciting day of hands-on activities and demonstrations for learners of ALL ages and abilities. Among the demonstrations will be how UV light affects pigmentation, and the different materials and techniques used to make and care for photographs from different time periods. No preregistration is needed. Learn more at kalamazoomuseum.org.

Planetarium Offers Free Halloween-Themed Light Shows
Looking for Halloween fun for your little ones? Enjoy FREE a 20-minute-long "Ooky Spooky" light show at our Kalamazoo Valley Museum's planetarium on Saturday, Oct. 26 and Thursday, Oct. 31. Showtimes are 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. This family-friendly show includes four Halloween music favorites. Each song in this light show is synchronized with full-dome graphics to create an experience that is fun and entertaining. It is suitable for grades 2 and up. It's first come, first served free tickets on the day of the show.
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Texas Township Campus
6767 West O Avenue
PO Box 4070
Kalamazoo, MI 49003-4070
269.488.4400