| 9 - 9:50 a.m. |
Breakout Session One []
(Staff and faculty select one option to register for)
Celebrating Five Years of Valley Food Share
Amy Brandt, Isaac Turner and Nancy Young
TTC 1310
The Valley Food Share has been meeting the immediate food needs of students since 2019, and we want to celebrate with you. Come learn about this cross-college initiative that provides weekly boxes of fresh, healthy food to students. We'll share numerous ways that you can get involved, including opportunities to volunteer and promote to students.
(Register)
Your Employee Benefits - Did You Know?
Becky Craft and Michelle DeMerrit
TTC 4540
Join us for an insightful session on understanding your employee benefits package. Learn about the various components of your benefits, including healthcare, retirement plans, and other perks and how to make the most of them.
(Register)
Who is Your Family? Determining Kinship Cross-Culturally
Diane Roushangar
TTC 2530
Have you ever wondered how we determine who is our kin? This session offers cross-cultural examples and a discussion of various kinship systems that influence our social relations, family and even marriage patterns. You will have the chance to draw your own kinship diagram and think about how living in a different culture might change who you call family.
(Register)
Wellness Initiatives, Mental Health Services and Behavioral Intervention Teams
LaSonda Wells
TTC 3180
How are community colleges being proactive and preventative? This session will focus on my sabbatical activity reviewing the websites of Michigan's 31 community colleges to explore how community colleges are being proactive and preventative regarding the well-being of students. Specifically, the report explores wellness initiatives, mental health services and behavioral intervention teams at community colleges.
(Register)
Updates from the Kalamazoo Valley Museum
Bill McElhone
TTC 4550
Since 1991 the Kalamazoo Valley Museum has been part of the college. This session provides a brief overview of this history and explores past, current and future use of the museum's programming, exhibits, collections and other resources for the benefit of the students, faculty, staff and the greater community.
(Register)
Smartphone Photography
Aubrey Rodgers
TTC 4510
This session will be a hands-on workshop where we learn how to take better photos with our smartphones. We will learn some photography tips and work on taking portraits, still life images and landscapes. Come with your smartphone charged, updated and ready to take some amazing photos.
(Register)
Robin Wall Kimmerer: Nov. 6, 2024
Julie Stotz-Ghosh
TTC 1330
Visiting Writers at Kalamazoo Valley, The Kalamazoo Valley Museum and other campus partners are joining together to discuss themes and ideas related to Robin Wall Kimmerer's Book, Braiding Sweetgrass. Come to this session to hear about the events and get prepared for Robin Wall Kimmerer's visit on Nov. 6, 2024.
(Register)
Tour of the Cosmetology and Barbering Facility
Aliah Wafford
School of Cosmetology and Barbering, West Entrance
Step into the world of beauty and grooming with an exclusive tour of our new Cosmetology and Barbering School. Discover the vibrant learning environment where future stylists and barbers hone their craft, explore our cutting-edge facilities and see firsthand the tools and techniques that shape the next generation of beauty professionals.
(Register)
Growing our Culture of Appreciation
Cathy Colella and Franki Hand
TTC 2520
Learn about the benefits of appreciation and gratitude at work and in our lives. Gain some strategies for becoming more comfortable with giving and receiving praise for a job well done. Join us for some tips and tools to help practice using these acts of appreciation.
(Register)
Course and Curriculum Task Force Update
Allison Moore, Kelly Naatjes and Chris Pruis
TTC 2590
This session will be a summary of the course and curriculum process changes. The new process was developed by a Task Force of faculty and staff and will be piloted this fall. If you've thought about making changes to curriculum but don't know where to start, come see what the new process entails, get a demo and a chance to ask questions.
(Register)
Capital Outlay Technical Trades Project Update
L Marshall Washington, Brian Lueth, Paige Eagan, Mark Dunneback and Dannie Alexander
TTC 4230
In January 2024, the college received notification of authorization to enter into the formal planning phase of the Technical Trades Project. An update on the project to date will be provided.
(Register)
Building Well-Being: Self-Reflection through LEGO Serious Play
Adrienne Fraaza from Élevé Leadership
TTC 4560
This engaging and hands-on workshop will introduce participants to the LEGO Serious Play method and will foster personal reflection, particularly on well-being. Through guided building activities, you will create tangible models that represent your thoughts and feelings, enabling a deeper understanding of your well-being. No prior experience with LEGO is necessary. Come ready to build, reflect and grow!
(Register)
AED Training, CPR Awareness and Tourniquet Application
John Garwood and Sean Gordon
TTC 4530
Through lecture, videos and practical exercises, participants will be introduced to the proper use and function of AEDs (Automatic Electronic Defibrillators) located throughout the college campuses. Training will include proper use of applying a tourniquet as well as basic first aid for a bleeding injury. Lastly, participants will learn one person CPR awareness and will receive instruction on how to conduct one person CPR until the arrival of first responders. Lastly, hands-on practical application of the above topics will occur utilizing proper training equipment under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
(Register)
TIAA: 529 College Savings Plan
Jennifer Uhlar from TIAA
TTC 1350
Open doors to the future: Learn how to invest in a 529 college savings plan, a state-sponsored plan that provides tax-advantaged savings for college costs.
(Register)
Gallagher Benefit Review
Gallagher Representative
TTC 1320
Our agent of record, Gallagher, will do an employee benefit review. They will touch on Blue Cross Blue Shield, Delta Dental and Aflac. There will be a Q&A at the end if time permits.
(Register)
VOYA: Retirement Ready
VOYA Representative
TTC 4520
The presentation will build upon the New Employee Orientation and will discuss the Personal Healthcare Fund, the DC plan, Pension Plus and Pension Plus 2 plans. Topics covered will include the difference between the 401k and 457 plans, contribution limits, investment options and payout options. VOYA is connecting workplace benefits and savings, simplifying the experience and helping make a more secure financial future possible.
(Register)
ChatGPT Practice
David Kobb
TTC 2150
Join us for an interactive workshop designed for those wanting more practice using AI tools like ChatGPT. You'll gain hands-on experience with a series of diverse, pre-selected tasks provided by the presenter. Our goals are to help you get more comfortable using AI tools, practice applying them to various scenarios and learn from each other's experiences and strategies.
The workshop will follow a simple format: First, the presenter provides a task, and you'll have a few moments to complete it using ChatGPT. Afterward, as a group, we'll discuss and share out experiences in completing the task, including what worked well and what didn't. We'll repeat this process with different tasks as time allows.
This is not an introductory course, so come ready with a ChatGPT account, a basic understanding of how to use the tool, and be prepared to practice, collaborate and enhance your skills.
(Register)
KVAAP Student Panel
Misti Mahon
TTC 2580
Join the KVAAP team and learn more about the program and how it has been a part of student success. Don't just take the KVAAP team's word for it. There will be a panel of students speaking about their experiences.
(Register)
Promoting Inclusion for International Students
Nizora Haitova
TTC 2550
This session aims to help student support professionals and faculty develop practical strategies to effectively meet the diverse needs of international students who are new to campus. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the various adaptation styles and social interaction types common among international students. Additionally, they will reflect deeply on the complex transition experiences these students undergo as they move from their native cultures to the U.S. higher education system. The session will also include a thorough review of best practices and actionable recommendations for providing meaningful support to this important student population.
(Register)
| 9:50 - 10 a.m. |
Break
|
| 10 - 10:50 a.m. |
Breakout Session Two []
(Staff and Faculty select one option to register for)
Wellness and Fitness Center Basics
Renea Peruski and Devon Lozano
TTC 6060
Do you want to feel more energized? Are you in need of some stress relief? Being physically active at the Wellness and Fitness Center (WFC) may be the answer for you! Come join us in the WFC and learn about all of the resources available to you. Enjoy an opportunity to complete your orientation, get a locker, tour the facilities, ask questions and try out the equipment.
(Register)
The Psychology of Eating
Meredith Holland
TTC 4550
Many Americans are aware of what they should eat to be healthy, but struggle to actually implement these behaviors in their everyday lives. The psychology behind eating is a complex interplay between individual learning histories and living within an obesogenic environment. In this talk, Meredith Holland will present information she researched for her Master's thesis and doctoral dissertation, which covers the history of the dieting movement and empirical evidence of how people actually lose weight and keep the weight off. Self-management tips will also be discussed.
(Register)
Need food? This session is an introduction to the offerings in the Cougar Cafe as well as how to order catering through Aramark and how to use the Cater Trax ordering system.
Dan McCann from Aramark
TTC 1310
Need Food? This session is an introduction to the offerings in the Cougar Cafe as well as how to order Catering through Aramark and how to use the Cater Trax ordering system.
(Register)
Learning is Growing: The Kalamazoo Seed Collaborative
Lexie Kobb and Franki Hand
TTC 4540
Learn about the Kalamazoo Seed Collaborative project, a cross-departmental and community-collaborative project that connects community members with plant seeds for the reasons of education and exploration of: seed stewardship, land stewardship, economic independence, literacy, mental and physical health, social justice, food sovereignty, land sovereignty, community care and more. Wonder how seeds connect all these topics? Come find out... and maybe pick up some seeds for your own garden.
(Register)
MI-ACE Women's Network: Finding Your Inner Strength
Tracy Labadie, Gabby Vernon and Nizora Haitova
TTC 4230
Learn more about Kalamazoo Valley's Mi-ACE Women's Network during this session designed to help women recognize their inner strength and cultivate confidence. We will explore practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt and emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.
(Register)
It's Not What You Know, It's Who You Know - Tips and Tricks for Networking
Maddie Isch
TTC 1330
We have all heard the old turn of phrase: "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Like it or not, it is true. It's not usually your degree, years or experience or specific expertise alone that gets you a seat at the table. Even when you have all the correct qualifications, knowing the right person often is that little leg up that helps us get our foot in the door. We often need other people, and other organizations to make our big ideas a reality. So, how do you create a professional network? What if you go to all the events, but you're an introvert and you're never sure how to approach people? Why do you need to participate in all this glad handing anyway? In this session we will answer all these questions and provide some insight into where you can find networking opportunities here in Kalamazoo.
(Register)
Introduction to Social Dance
Jim Ratliff
TTC 3250
Join co-workers for this fun, beginner-friendly introduction to learn three forms of social dance: contra dancing, line dancing and the easy steps from Kid 'n' Play's movie House Party. Wear supportive shoes and perhaps dress in layers to regulate comfort during this active session.
(Register)
Garden Guardians
Aubrey Rodgers and Sara Tanis
TTC 4510
Learn how Applied Arts and Media Technologies and Horticulture have teamed up to help spread the word on how to be a real superhero to our environment. From the pollinators to the fireflies, learn how to make the world a little better for us all.
(Register)
Education and the Courts: What I Learned in Summer School
Kelly Naatjes
TTC 2540
A session on the history of education litigation and its profound impact on policy, based on a summer class experience. Explore key judicial activities in areas such as desegregation efforts, school finance, special education, school discipline, free speech and religious freedom. Take this opportunity to rejuvenate your own curiosity as a life-long learner.
(Register)
Courageous Conversations
Ollie Barnes, III
TTC 3180
Courageous conversations provide a model that provides the necessary language, tools and practice on how to engage peers and managers in healthy conversations.
(Register)
AED Training, CPR Awareness and Tourniquet Application
John Garwood and Sean Gordon
TTC 4530
Through lecture, videos and practical exercises, participants will be introduced to the proper use and function of the AEDs (Automatic Electronic Defibrillators) located throughout the college campuses. Training will include proper use of applying a tourniquet as well as basic first aid for a bleeding injury. Lastly, participants will learn one person CPR awareness and will receive instructions on how to conduct one person CPR until the arrival of first responders. Lastly, hands-on practical application of the above topics will occur utilizing training equipment under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
(Register)
Building Well-Being: Self-Reflection through LEGO Serious Play
Adrienne Fraaza from Élevé Leadership
TTC 4560
This engaging and hands-on workshop will introduce participants to the LEGO Serious Play method and will foster personal reflection, particularly on well-being. Through guided building activities, you will create tangible models that represent your thoughts and feelings, enabling a deeper understanding of your well-being. No prior experience with LEGO is necessary. Come ready to build, reflect and grow!
(Register)
TIAA: 529 College Savings Plan
Jennifer Uhlar from TIAA
TTC 1350
Open doors to the future: Learn how to invest in a 529 college savings plan, a state-sponsored plan that provides tax-advantaged savings for college costs.
(Register)
Gallagher Benefit Review
Gallagher Representative
TTC 1320
Our agent of record, Gallagher will do an employee benefit review. They will touch on Blue Cross Blue Shield, Delta Dental and Aflac. There will be a Q&A at the end if time permits.
(Register)
VOYA: Retirement Ready
VOYA Representative
TTC 4520
The presentation will build upon the New Employee Orientation and will discuss the Personal Healthcare Fund, the DC plan, Pension Plus and Pension Plus 2 plans. Topics covered will include the difference between the 401k and 457 plans, contribution limits, investment options and payout options. VOYA is connecting workplace benefits and savings, simplifying the experience and helping make a more secure financial future possible.
(Register)
AI in the Classroom
Marty Adams
TTC 2530
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing education? Join us for an engaging and informative session exploring the dynamic world of AI in the classroom. We'll delve into personalized learning, innovative teaching tools and the potential of AI to transform the way we learn. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the future of education!
(Register)
ADHD: Executive Functioning, Attention and You
Lois Baldwin
TTC 2590
You don't have to have ADHD to be curious about how the cognitive function of attention affects you. Let's explore what it means for you in the workplace, at home, in your family and for your students in the classroom.
(Register)
Ask IT: Your Questions, Answered
Aaron Snead
TTC 2580
Got a tech question? This is your chance to ask Aaron Snead, the Vice President of IT. Whether you're troubleshooting a pesky issue, curious about new software, or just want to better understand the tech tools available to you, our IT experts are here to help. Join us for an open forum where no question is too small or too complex. Get the answers you need and learn tips and tricks to make your workday smoother. Come prepared with your questions or just listen in and learn.
(Register)
SDS and KVAAP Session: Cultural Awareness and Guided Self Placement
Justin Campbell from The Urban Connection Project
TTC 4240
Required session for SDS and KVAAP staff.
Please do not register if you are not SDS or KVAAP staff.
The first step to improving any situation is evolving the way we think and our approach. Enhancing our connection through culturally responsive practices can lead to a powerful experience in supporting our learners.
This session will touch on the importance of Cultural Responsiveness in higher learning, and specifically how the practices enhance our ability to support students through the Guided Self-Placement. This session will be highly engaging and interactive, as well as provide actionable steps for immediate implementation.
(Register)
Keynote Extended Session: Sense of Belonging
Terrell Strayhorn
TTC 2540
Join us for a continuation of the college-wide keynote session. An inspiring keynote session focused on the profound impact of belonging in our personal and professional lives. Our speaker will explore the psychology behind the sense of belonging, highlighting how it influences motivation, engagement and overall well-being. Whether you're looking to strengthen team dynamics, enhance student engagement or build more supportive communities, this session will provide valuable insights and practical approaches to foster a deeper sense of belonging in every aspect of your life.
(Register)
Building a Strong Workplace Culture: Insights from Bronson
Steve Polega from Bronson
TTC 2520
Discover how Bronson prioritizes key elements of workplace culture, such as work ethic, dress code and professional attire. In this session, our partner will share their approach to cultivating a cohesive and productive work environment by setting clear expectations and standards. Gain insights into what this employer values, as it relates to preparing our students for the workplace.
(Register)
| 10:50 - 11 a.m. |
Break
|
| 11 - 11:45 a.m. |
Staff and Faculty Award Ceremony
(Staff and faculty should register)
Main Gym
Join in celebrating our colleagues as the 2024 Staff and Faculty Award Winners are announced. This special event honors the dedication, innovation, and excellence that our team members bring to the Valley team every day. With heartfelt recognition and spirited camaraderie, we'll applaud those who have gone above and beyond in their roles, showcasing their contributions and celebrating the collective success that makes our institution thrive.
(Register)
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| 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. |
College-Wide Lunch
Staff and faculty should register if they plan to attend.
- Note that the lunch count will be based on registration for this session at 5 p.m. on August 22 (the registration deadline).
Student Commons & Cafeteria
Dr. Washington invites all faculty and staff to a college-wide lunch on Aug. 28.
The registration deadline for lunch is Aug. 22 at 5 pm. If you do not register by the deadline, you will not be included in the lunch count.
(Register for lunch)
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