Diversity & Inclusion at Kalamazoo Valley

Past Diversity & Inclusion Events at Kalamazoo Valley

2026 Events

March

Poster for a Women’s History Month Luncheon titled ‘Leading the Change: Women Shaping an Enduring Future.’ Event details: Thursday, April 2, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Texas Township Campus, Main Gym. The event is free. Four women will be honored and participate in a panel discussion: Artrella Cohn, Valerie Cunningham, Ph.D., Mary Gustas, and Chef Stephanie Hughes-Winfrey. Description text explains that Kalamazoo Valley Community College is hosting a luncheon for students, faculty, staff, and community members in celebration of Women’s History Month. Panelists include Artrella Cohn, chief impact officer at Communities in Schools of Kalamazoo; Valerie Cunningham, Ph.D., LMSW, D.Min., founder and CEO of Synergy Health Center and BlackWellness Network; Mary Gustas, executive director at the Comstock Community Center; and Chef Stephanie Hughes-Winfrey, MBA, director of culinary education at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Sonya Bernard-Hollins, Kalamazoo Valley’s alumni relations manager, will serve as moderator. The poster includes headshot photos of the four panelists, a QR code for registration, and a note asking attendees to RSVP by March 25. The Kalamazoo Valley Community College logo appears at the bottom.

Women’s History Month Luncheon
Kalamazoo Valley Community College is hosting a free Women’s History Month Luncheon on Thursday, April 2, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Texas Township Campus Main Gym. The event, titled "Leading the Change: Women Shaping an Enduring Future," features a panel discussion with local leaders Artrella Cohn, Valarie Cunningham, Mary Gustas, and Chef Stephanie Hughes-Winfrey, moderated by Sonya Bernard-Hollins.


Flyer for a Kalamazoo Valley Community College Disability Awareness event. Join Kalamazoo Valley Community College for the Disability Awareness Ribbons Make-Fest, where the community aims to create 500 ribbons for campus-wide distribution during the week of March 16-20. You can contribute to this goal by attending either of two free, 'come and go' sessions: the first is Tuesday, March 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the TTC Learning Center, and the second is Thursday, March 12, from noon to 2 p.m. in Room 3180 at the TTC.

Disability Awareness Ribbons Make-Fest
Join Kalamazoo Valley Community College for the Disability Awareness Ribbons Make-Fest, where the community aims to create 500 ribbons for campus-wide distribution during the week of March 16-20. You can contribute to this goal by attending either of two free, "come and go" sessions: the first is Tuesday, March 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the TTC Learning Center, and the second is Thursday, March 12, from noon to 2 p.m. in Room 3180 at the TTC.


Event flyer titled “For Whom the Liberty Bell Tolls: A Candid Discussion of Freedom in America.” The background shows a close-up photograph of the Liberty Bell on the right and a black silhouette profile of a woman’s face on the left. Event details: Tuesday, March 10, 1–2 p.m., Anna Whitten Hall, Downtown Kalamazoo, Room 128. Description: Rebecca Durkee will lead a discussion marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and Women’s History Month, examining whether the Declaration applied to everyone. The talk explores the delayed recognition of women’s freedom after “Independence,” especially for Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous women, and traces the path toward full enfranchisement for women in the United States. Hosted by Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

For Whom the Liberty Bell Tolls: A Candid Discussion of Freedom in America
"For Whom the Liberty Bell Tolls: A Candid Discussion of Freedom in America," is a discussion, led by Rebecca Durkee, takes place on Tuesday, March 10, from 1–2 p.m. at Kalamazoo Valley Community College in Anna Whitten Hall, Room 128. The presentation honors Women’s History Month by exploring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the complex history of enfranchisement for Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous women.


Flyer for a Kalamazoo Valley Community College mental health awareness event. On March 11 from noon to 1 p.m., Kalamazoo Valley Community College and the Michigan Assistive Technology Program will host a virtual session titled 'Apps, Devices & AI for Mental Health.' This session aims to explore how assistive technology - from self-regulation apps to AI - can support mental health, recovery, and individuals with disabilities, with ASL interpretation and CART services provided for accessibility.

Apps, Devices & AI for Mental Health
On March 11 from noon to 1 p.m., Kalamazoo Valley Community College and the Michigan Assistive Technology Program will host a virtual session titled "Apps, Devices & AI for Mental Health." This session aims to explore how assistive technology - from self-regulation apps to AI - can support mental health, recovery, and individuals with disabilities, with ASL interpretation and CART services provided for accessibility.


February

Promotional graphic for a Black History Bingo event. Large text reads ‘Black History Bingo.’ Event details shown: Thursday, February 19, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Anna Whitten Hall, Room 128. The design features illustrated bingo cards, numbered bingo balls, and a bingo marker on a purple and orange background. Additional text states: ‘Learn about local Kalamazoo history in a fun and interactive way.’ The event is presented by the Society for History and Racial Equity. Logos for Kalamazoo Valley Community College and the Society for History and Racial Equity appear at the bottom.

Black History Bingo Event
Black History Bingo event held at Kalamazoo Valley Community College on Thursday, February 19, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Located in Room 128 of Anna Whitten Hall, the event is presented by the Society for History and Racial Equity (S.H.A.R.E.) and offers a fun, interactive way to learn about local Kalamazoo history.


Promotional graphic for a campus discussion titled ‘Reclaiming History as a Tool for Liberation, Identity, and Action.’ Event details read: February 26, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Texas Township Campus, Room 4240. The event welcomes students, staff, faculty, and community members to join Michael Harrison, executive director of the Kalamazoo Black Male Alliance, for an interactive discussion exploring the meaning and power of Black history in everyday life. A small portrait of Michael Harrison appears in the upper left. The Kalamazoo Black Male Alliance logo is displayed near the title. A QR code labeled ‘scan QR code to sign up’ appears in the lower left, and the Kalamazoo Valley Community College logo appears in the lower right. The background features colorful geometric patterns in red, green, orange, and black.

Reclaiming History as a Tool for Liberation, Identity and Action
Kalamazoo Valley Community College invites students, staff, faculty, and the public to attend "Reclaiming History as a Tool for Liberation, Identity and Action" on February 26. This interactive session, held from noon to 1:30 p.m. in TTC Room 4240, features Michael Harrison, the Executive Director of the Kalamazoo Black Male Alliance. The discussion aims to create a collaborative space where participants can explore and define the enduring power of Black history and its practical applications in modern life.


January

“Flyer for the 2026 Kalamazoo Valley Community College annual ‘MLK – Beyond the Dream Celebration,’ themed ‘Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy.’ The free discussion luncheon takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Room 4240 at the Texas Township Campus. RSVP required by January 21 via QR code or online registration. The flyer includes a stylized portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and headshots of seven honored community members: Doreen Gardner, Ken Greschak, Sean Harris, Ebony Hemphill, Dontray Hemphill, Stephanie Hoffman, and Cee Maul.

MLK Beyond the Dream Celebration: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy
Join Kalamazoo Valley Community College for a free discussion luncheon honoring seven community members in the areas of freedom, justice, and democracy. Lunch is included. RSVPs required by Jan. 21 by scanning the QR code or signing up at https://bit.ly/ValleyMLKDay26

Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, 11:30am-1:00pm, Room 4240, Texas township campus


Flyer for a Kalamazoo Valley Community College KV Allies event titled ‘Building Awareness.’ The session takes place Tuesday, January 27, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Anna Whitten Hall, Room 307, Downtown Kalamazoo. The event will provide information on a variety of sexual and gender identities and best practices for supporting students and staff. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. RSVP by January 20 using the QR code. The flyer features a rainbow-striped background and Kalamazoo Valley Community College branding.

KV Allies: Building Awareness
We’ll provide information on a variety of sexual and gender identities and best practices for greater students and staff support.

Tuesday, Jan 27, 2026, 2:30-4:30 P.M. Anna Whitten Hall, Room 307


2025 Events

December

Mental Health First Aid Training

Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help offered to a person who may be developing a mental health challenge or is in a mental health crisis.

60% of college students met the criteria for at least 1 mental health challenge.

Friday, December 5 | 8:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. | FREE
Room 246 | Culinary & Allied Health Building
Open to staff, faculty, and students

Integrated Services of Kalamazoo proudly offers the training.

RSVP is required. For more information, contact Chris Whitsel at .
Ten registrants are required or the session will be cancelled.


November

DiversiTEA!

DiversiTEA! Featured topic - Building Bridges: Connecting Across the Generations - a three-part series
Tea, coffee, and pastries provided!

Session 1:
Understanding Generational Differences
Wednesday Sept. 24 | 10 - 11:30 a.m. Texas Townshop Campus, Room 4380
RSVP by Sept. 17

Session 2:
Communicating Effectively Across Generations
Thursday Oct. 23 | 10 - 11:30 a.m. TTC, Room 4380
RSVP by Oct. 16

Session 3:
Developing Resilient Organizations and Individuals
Thursday Nov. 20 | 10 - 11:30 a.m. CAH, Room 246
RSVP by Nov. 13


MI-ACE Women's Network Kalamazoo Chapter presents: Women of Influence - click here for PDF flyer

MI-ACE Women's Network Kalamazoo Chapter presents: Women of Influence
Thursday, Nov. 13 | 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. | Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Texas Township Campus, Rm. 4240

Featuring a panel discussion with influential women in academia from Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo College. Each panelist will share their professional journey working in higher education as a woman - the challenges they faced, the supports that helped along the way and advice they have to pass along to other women.


October

What's on your mind? Tell us at the Student Success Breakfast - Tuesday Oct. 7, 9:30-11am, room 128, Anna Whitten Hall, downtown Kalamazoo - Wednesday Oct. 8, 9:30-11am, room 4240, Texas Township Campus - FREE - All students welcome!
Celebrating Hispanic/LatinX Heritage Month - Tuesday, Oct. 7 | 1-3pm | FREE | Room 4240, Texas Township Campus | Celebrate the vibrant cultures, rich histories, and contributions of Hispanic/Latinx communities. Enjoy a day filled with live music, food, and fun! This event is open to ALL students, staff, and faculty.

June

A flyer for the 'Student Success Breakfast' event, encouraging students to share what's on their mind.

What's on your mind? Tell us at the Student Success Breakfast

Thurs. June 19, 9:30-11am, Texas Township Campus room 4240, FREE

All students welcome! No registration required!
Our campus staff is eager to learn more about your student experience - the good and the bad, your stress and your success. You'll also be able to connect with a variety of campus support services and resources to help you on your journey.

April

A flyer titled 'Respecting Differences' promotes a 1.5-hour workshop on neurodiversity in the workplace.

Workshop: Respecting Differences

Weds. April 9, 9-10:30am or 1:30-3pm

Jason Reid and Kristen Light
Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace

A flyer titled 'Mental Health First Aid' promotes a full-day workshop on mental health first aid.

Workshop: Mental Health First Aid

Weds. April 3, 8:30am-4:30pm, Texas Township Campus room 4380, FREE
Open to staff, faculty, and students
Integrated Services of Kalamazoo proudly offers the training.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help offered to a person who may be developing a mental health challenge or is in a mental health crisis. MHFA is an international, evidence-based program that teaches people to identify, understand, and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance abuse challenges.

January

A flyer for an interfaith panel event, designed to foster understanding, break stereotypes, and promote connection between diverse faith traditions.

MLK - Beyond the Dream Celebration

Thurs. Jan. 30, noon-1:30pm, Texas Township Campus room 4240

Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy
Join Kalamazoo Valley Community College for a free discussion luncheon honoring six community members in the areas of freedom, justice and democracy. Lunch is included. RSVPs are encouraged by Jan. 24 by scanning the QR code or signing up at https://bit.ly/KVMLK2025, but drop-ins are welcome.

A flyer for an interfaith panel event, designed to foster understanding, break stereotypes, and promote connection between diverse faith traditions.

Interfaith Panel Discussion

Thurs. Jan. 23, noon-2pm, Texas Township Campus room 4240

Join us for a meaningful conversation designed to foster understanding, break stereotypes, and promote connection between diverse faith traditions. This eveng is a vital step toward building a stronger and more inclusive community, thereby promoting mutual respect where everyone is valued, empowered, and has a voice. Registration is encouraged by noon Jan. 20, but walk-ins are welcome.
Lunch provided!

2024 Events

November

A flyer titled 'Unlocking Psychological Safety' promotes a two-hour workshop on creating psychological safety in the workplace. The session aims to empower individuals to express their ideas, share opinions, and address challenges openly. Practical tools for building trust and thriving professionally and personally will be discussed. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, from 10 a.m. to noon. It is free, with RSVP required by October 31. The location is Room 247 in the Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Tea and coffee will be provided. The speaker is Cheruba A. Dhanaraj, Ph.D. A QR code is included for registration. The flyer features the KVCC logo and an illustration of a head with a brain outline.

Workshop: Unlocking Psychological Safety

Tues. Nov. 5, 10am-noon, Culinary and Allied Health Building, Room 247

Join us for a two-hour workshop on creating a psychological safety in the workplace, where individuals feel empowered to express their ideas, share their opinion and openly address challenges. Gain practical tools to express your authentic self, build trust on your team and thrive both professionally and personally. Tea and coffee provided. Featuring speaker Cheruba A. Dhanaraj, Ph.d.

A flyer for the 'Visiting Writers Series' featuring Robin Wall Kimmerer, a botanist and author of the New York Times bestseller Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants. The event takes place on Wednesday, November 6, at Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Texas Township Campus, Dale B. Lake Auditorium. There are two lectures: 'Braiding Sweetgrass' at 10 a.m. and 'Restoration and Reciprocity' at 2:15 p.m. Preregistration is required, with one ticket per person. A book signing will follow immediately after the lectures. Doors open 30 minutes prior to each session, and tickets can be picked up at the will-call table. A QR code is provided for registration. The flyer includes an image of Robin Wall Kimmerer, the book cover of Braiding Sweetgrass, and a braid of sweetgrass at the bottom. Logos for Kalamazoo Valley Community College and its museum are included.

Visiting Writers Series: Robin Wall Kimmer, botanist and author

Wednesday, Nov. 6, 10am and 2:15pm, Texas Township Campus, Dale B. Lake Auditorium

Hear from Robin Wall Kimmer, New York Times bestselling author of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants, during two lectures on Wednesday. Nov. 6 at the Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Texas Township Campus.

  • 10am: Braiding Sweetgrass
  • 2:15pm: Restoration and Reciprocity
  • Book signing immediately afterward.

Preregistration required to attend. One ticket per person. Note: Doors open 30 minutes prior to each lecture. Preregistrants will pick up their tickets at the will call table outside Dale B. Lake Auditorium. Your ticket will be released 15 minutes prior to the event and give to those on the waiting list.

A flyer for 'DiversiTea!' with the featured topic 'Disability as Diversity.' The event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Texas Township Campus, in Room 4370-4380. The flyer notes that tea, coffee, and gluten-free snacks will be provided. Attendees are reminded that this is a fragrance-free event and are asked to refrain from wearing scented products. RSVP is required by November 12, with a provided link: bit.ly/DiversiTea_Nov2024. The flyer features a purple background with illustrations of diverse hands holding cups of tea or coffee and the Kalamazoo Valley Community College logo at the bottom.

DiversiTea!

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 10-11am, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Texa Township Campus, Room 4370-4380

Featured Topic: Disability as Diversity. Tea, coffee, and gluten-free snacks provided. RSVP required by November 12. Note: THis even is fragrance free. Please refrain from wearing scented products.

Event flyer for 'MI-ACE Women's Network Kalamazoo Chapter Presents: Women of Influence' panel discussion. The event is scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 3:30-5:00 PM at Kalamazoo Valley Community College Texas Township Campus, Room 4240. The flyer includes the MI-ACE Women's Network and ACE Women's Network Michigan logos at the top. It describes a panel discussion featuring women leaders in academia, with event details, objectives for women attendees, and a QR code for registration. Light refreshments will be provided, with registration deadline of November 4. The bottom of the flyer includes three professional headshots of the panelists: Candy McCorkle, Ph.D., Karen T. Isble, and Paige Eagan, Ph.D. The flyer also includes the organization's mission statement about improving the climate for women in higher education careers throughout Michigan.

MI-ACE Women's Network Kalamazoo Chapter Presents: Women of Influence

Thursday. Nov. 7, 3:30-5pm, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Texa Township Campus, Room 4240

Featuring a panel discussion with influential women in academia from Kalmazoo Valley Community College, Western Michigan University, and Kalamazoo College. The panelists are Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Western Michigan University, Candy McCorkle, Ph.D.; Vice President for College Advancement, Kalamazoo College, Karen T. Isble; and Provost and Vice President for Instruction and Student Services at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Paige Eagan, Ph.D.

Women in academia are invitded to:

  • Celebrate the achievements of women leaders
  • Build relationships
  • share experiences
  • Foster a supportive community dedicated to advancing women in higher education

Light refreshments will be provided. Use QR code to register by Nov. 4.

MI-ACE is committed to improving the general climate and professional environment for women by identifying, developing, encouraging, advancing, linking, and supporting (IDEALS) women in higher education careers throught the state.