KV FocusPlus

Dec. 1, 2022

Greetings,

Celebrating student success is one of the great joys of our work at Kalamazoo Valley! We will commemorate student success in a big way during Commencement on Sunday, Dec. 18. More than 278 students have petitioned to graduate. We expect great participation from our graduates and a large crowd of family members and friends at Miller Auditorium beginning at 2 p.m.

I am looking forward to hearing from student speaker Heather Austin, a gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps who is an Iraqi War veteran and single mom to five children. She has maintained a 3.5 GPA in business administration while working full time at FedEx and continuing to advance through military ranks. Her remarks are sure to be inspiring.  

Kalamazoo Valley alum Brian Murray, an automotive technology instructor, will provide faculty remarks and the campus band is returning for the celebration! I hope that you will be able to make time in your schedule to volunteer behind the scenes or attend this important occasion as an audience member.

Soon we all will be celebrating the end of the winter semester, so until then, I know that you will continue to support all of our students, every day. Thank you.

Sincerely,

L. Marshall Washington, Ph.D.
President

In Memory

The college community is mourning the recent loss of two full-time employees. We extend our sincere sympathy to the college colleagues, family and friends of:

Tom Hughes
April 29, 1962 - Nov. 24, 2022
Instructor - History (22 Years of Service)
 

Joe Wilder
Aug. 6, 1968 - Nov. 20, 2022
Public Safety Office (One Year and Two Months of Service)

 
Losses such as these are heartbreaking. May the memories we share bring support and comfort to those who grieve. 

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High School Art Contest Winners to Be Announced at the CNM on Dec. 2
The first Kalamazoo Valley Community College Greater Kalamazoo High School Art and Design Competition Exhibit includes 68 pieces of art created by students from 15 different high schools, including Covert High School, Kalamazoo Innovative Learning Program, KRESA, Kalamazoo Central High School, Portage Central High School, Loy Norrix High School, Van Buren Tech Center, Lawton High School, Mattawan High School, Portage Northern High School, Decatur High School, Gull Lake High School, Comstock High School, Home School/Gull Lake Virtual High School, Schoolcraft High School and Bloomingdale High School.

The exhibit will open at the Center for New Media in downtown Kalamazoo on Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. during Art Hop. This contest will be become an annual event at the CNM, according to Director Tom Hamann. The contest and related exhibit will be on display every year during the months of December and January in the Arcus and Center for New Media gallery spaces and open on the evening of Art Hop. Four awards will be given for Best of Show, first, second and third places. Awards will be announced at 6:30 p.m.

The awards include:
Best of Show - Two semesters of tuition (15 credit max per semester) and additional funds for books and materials for enrollment in the Studio Arts or Applied Arts and Media Technologies programs.
Runner-Up - $500
Second Place - $200
Third Place - $100

"We can't wait to reward the artistic talents of the area's high school students," said Hamann. "We're very impressed with the quality of the submissions and pleased with the level of participation, especially since this is the first time we've hosted this event."

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Registration for Summit Opens Next Week
Registration for the Winter 2023 Summit will open next week. The in-person event will take place Jan. 5 on the Texas Township Campus from 8 a.m. - noon. Breakfast, sponsored by the Board of Trustees, and employee years of service recognition will take place prior to Summit breakout sessions. Please watch your email for registration details. As a reminder, registration for breakfast and breakout sessions is required.

The KVCC Foundation's annual fund campaign is going on now and there's still time to contribute. Helping students achieve their educational goals is one of the best ways to have an impact on the future.

For more than 55 years, Kalamazoo Valley Community College has been providing life-changing experiences for students and their families. Although the college offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the state, many of our students can't afford to attend college without assistance.

Please make a gift to the KVCC Foundation for student scholarships. Send your tax-deductible donation to KVCC Foundation, P.O. Box 4070, Kalamazoo, MI 49003, visit kvcc.edu/foundation to donate online or call 269.488.4821.

Kalamazoo Valley Libraries: Exam Treats, Study Spaces, Returns and Database Spotlight

Exam Treats
Exam-time schedules can be brutal. It can be easy for your students to overlook simple necessities such as nourishment. If they find themselves hungry between tests, the libraries have them covered. They can stop in to either location for a selection of free chewy granola bars and other munchies. And while they're here, they can study while they snack.

Study Spaces
Both libraries feature quiet, cozy and convenient study spaces in unique environments. We have tables, computers, comfy armchairs and isolated study cubicles with plenty of room for students to situate themselves and their belongings. The Texas Township library has closed study rooms for extra privacy - interested students can ask about availability. The Anna Whitten Hall library features a unique scenic lookout over downtown Kalamazoo and the TTC library offers a panoramic two-story view of the surrounding nature preserve. Did we mention that we have free snacks for exam time?

Returns
In all the end-of-the-semester hustle, don't forget that it is time to return borrowed library materials. Please return any items that are due and contact the library if you would like to request a renewal. To return books and media, please drop off materials at any book drop or library service desk. A convenient 24/7 book drop is located outside the tower entrance at the Texas Township Campus. Laptops and hotspots should be returned to the circulation desk at either library location.

Database Spotlight: CQ Researcher
Congressional Quarterly (CQ) Researcher is a great source for comprehensive and unbiased reports by seasoned journalists on newsworthy issues. You can search for topics by keyword or browse the alphabetical Issue Tracker for subjects of interest. Each 24-page report provides a full overview, background and projection of future prospects for the issue covered and links and leads to further research. Whether students already have a subject in mind or are just searching for ideas, CQ Researcher is a great place to start exploring those hot topics.
 

We look forward to connecting with you!
Visit us online
Call 269.488.4328 
Email
Chat with a college librarian 24/7
Please email to Zoom by appointment
Follow us on Instagram @kalamazoovalleylibraries

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Time to Buy Commencement Caps, Gowns, Honors Regalia
Please spread the word to December graduates that they can buy commencement regalia up until 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 at the Bookstore on the Texas Township Campus. Also for sale are diploma frames, graduation yard signs and mortarboard graphics. The graduation ceremony is Sunday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. at Miller Auditorium at Western Michigan University.

Bookstore Accepts Winter Financial Aid on Dec. 19
Dec. 19 is the first day that students can use winter financial aid to make purchases at the Texas Township Bookstore. Book authorizations will end on Jan. 25. Both in-store and online purchases are eligible. The Bookstore is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Note that the college will be closed on Friday, Dec. 23 and reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3. However, online orders can be placed anytime at bookstore.kvcc.edu. Online orders can be mailed to any address, or held for pickup at the Texas Township Campus Bookstore or at the Anna Whitten Hall Library at the Arcadia Commons Campus in downtown Kalamazoo. Shipping is $5.

Shop for the Holidays at the Bookstore!
The perfect gift for your Kalamazoo Valley student, alum, employee and their families is Cougar gear! Get everything from comfy college-branded sweatshirts, pants, socks, T-shirts and hoodies, plus mugs, backpacks, baseball caps, water bottles and more at the Texas Township Bookstore. For your convenience, you can shop online at bookstore.kvcc.edu. Shipping is $5. Buy in person can do so from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

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Join us for Spirit Week: Let's Celebrate the Completion of Fall 2022!
In celebration of the season and the last week of the semester, Kalamazoo Valley has planned multiple Spirit Week events across our campuses from Dec. 13 - 15. Join us at any of the upcoming events listed below:

• Dec. 13 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Hot Chocolate Bar and Holiday Cookie Decorating | Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building Lobby
• Dec. 14 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Hot Chocolate Bar and Holiday Cookie Decorating | Texas Township Campus Cafeteria
• Dec. 15 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Hot Chocolate Bar and Holiday Cookie Decorating | Anna Whitten Hall Lobby

To learn more, contact Ezra Bell.

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PLAYER SPOTLIGHT
Player Spotlight is an occasional feature highlighting outstanding student-athletes at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. The honorees have been nominated by their coaches. Today, we focus on women's and men's basketball.
 

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

Abigail Long, co-captain
Position: Point Guard
Hometown: Portage, Michigan
Major: Web Design / Coaching
Why outstanding: Long was Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) Freshman and Player of the Year last season, averaging 25 points and 10 rebounds. She is back to double down on her legacy here at Valley this season as co-captain for the second consecutive year. She is resilient with an extreme work ethic. She has also maintained a 4.0 GPA and is on track to graduate this spring. 
 

Carly Boughton
Position: Power Forward
Hometown: Portage, Michigan
Major: Undecided
Why outstanding: Boughton is already making an impact on and off the court. She finished with 17 points and 11 rebounds in our final pre-season scrimmage against Kalamazoo College, earning our first game ball of the season. As a freshman, she is already displaying great leadership by being vocal and physically raising the bar every practice. She's a hard worker and a great motivator for her teammates. 
 
MEN'S BASKETBALL

Myles Johnson
Position: Guard/Forward
Hometown: Portage, Michigan
Major: Liberal Arts
Why outstanding: Johnson is a leader on and off the court. His games speak for themselves, but off the court he continues to strive for excellence. Recently our team was asked to participate in the Lincoln Elementary Spirit Week assembly. Johnson and some of our team responded by attending and leading a special segment at the event, which was a big hit. We have heard nothing but positive responses from the school's teachers and administrators. Johnson also takes his studies serious, currently maintaining a 3.4 GPA while keeping his plate full with basketball, academics and community service. He has participated in a total of four service projects so far this school year.
 

Jakson Dentler
Position: Guard
Hometown: Otsego, Michigan
Major: Business
Why outstanding: Dentler was a walk-on last year and, through hard work and dedication, has earned a scholarship spot on the team this year. His work ethic and attitude is what sets him apart as he is a pleasure to coach. Dentler thrives while balancing working hard at school, maintaining a job and committing time to community service projects. He is the type of person who welcomes a task and puts his best foot forward. He is finding success on and off the court this year.


DeShawn Leslie-Tinsley
Position: Guard
Hometown: Battle Creek, Michigan
Major: Undeclared
Why outstanding: Leslie-Tinsley is on the team as a walk-on red-shirt, meaning he is not participating in games this year. He has embraced his role on the team and brings energy and effort every day to make himself and our team better. In the classroom, he carries a B average while juggling a work-study job on campus. He has really embraced the college experience thus far and continues to thrive on and off the court. We are looking forward to big things from Leslie-Tinsley as he continues his career here at Kalamazoo Valley.

 
Ready for Some Basketball? Home Games in December
If you're looking for a free, fun activity with a variety of dates from which to choose, Kalamazoo Valley men's and women's basketball games are a great option! They take place in the main gym at the Texas Township Campus. Here's the December home game schedule. Your friends and family are welcome, too!

• WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7, 7 p.m.
  Men's Basketball, Valley vs. Albion College J.V.
• WEDNESDAY, DEC. 14, 5:30 p.m. 
  Women's Basketball, Valley vs. Mott Community College
• WEDNESDAY, DEC. 14, 7:30 p.m. 
  Men's Basketball, Valley vs. Mott Community College
• WEDNESDAY, DEC. 28, 5:30 p.m. 
  Women's Basketball, Valley vs. Detroit Christian Community College
• WEDNESDAY, DEC. 28, 7:30 p.m. 
  Men's Basketball, Valley vs. Detroit Christian Community College

For the full season schedule, visit https://athletics.kvcc.edu/landing/index.

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Kalamazoo Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra Performs for Dec. 2  Art Hop 
Enjoy live music at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum during the Dec. 2 Art Hop in downtown Kalamazoo! The Kalamazoo Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra will perform holiday music to kick off the season with merriment. Showtimes are at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Seating is first come, first served. Advance registration is not required.

Holiday Music Planetarium Show Runs Dec. 2 - Jan. 5 
What do Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Brenda Lee and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra have in common? They and other popular artists are featured in the "Let It Snow" holiday music and light planetarium show running from Dec. 2 through Jan. 5 at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum! See below for a full list of showtimes. Buy tickets at the front desk, or in advance by choosing from the list of dates at kalamazoomuseum.org/planetarium. Tickets: $3 (museum entry is free). Run time: 30 minutes. Check out the trailer here!
 
SHOWTIMES:
DEC. 2 - 17 | Fridays and Saturdays | 11 a.m.
DEC. 27 - 30 | Tuesday thru Friday | 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
JAN. 3 - 4 | Tuesday and Wednesday | 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Jan. 5 | Thursday | 2 p.m.

 

Ride the Holly Jolly Trolley in Downtown Kalamazoo
Did you know the free Holly Jolly Trolley in downtown Kalamazoo is co-sponsored by Kalamazoo Valley Community College's own Kalamazoo Valley Museum? You can ride it Thursdays through Sundays, Nov. 27 - Dec. 19; Saturday, Dec. 24; and Saturday, Dec. 31, for limited hours. See below for the schedule. Catch the trolley on the hour, and 30 minutes after the hour, at Kalamazoo City Hall, the first stop. The trolley makes eight stops each trip!
 
REGULAR HOURS (Nov. 27 - Dec. 19): 
Thursdays | 5 - 9 p.m.
Fridays | 5 - 9 p.m.
Saturdays | 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sundays | noon - 4 p.m.
 
SPECIAL HOURS:
Saturday | Dec. 24 | noon - 4 p.m. (Christmas Eve)
Saturday | Dec. 31 | 8 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. (New Year's Eve)
 
For questions about the Holly Jolly Trolley, call 269.388.2830.

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