February 2026 Newsletter

Then ... From borrowed courts to a home gym

The Cougars, led by former Athletic Director Phil Wilson, tipped off for the very first time in November 1968, facing Montcalm Community College at Kalamazoo’s Loy Norrix High School. A week later, they defeated the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music Junior Varsity 93–69, with standout Vince Hodge pouring in 21 points in the second half. On Jan. 30, 1971, the Cougars played their inaugural game in their new home gym against the Kellogg Community College Bruins. That season, Tim Cloud of Bangor led the way, averaging an incredible 30 points per game.

And, Now ... Cougar Champions

On March 1, 2025, the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Cougars captured the 2025 Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) State Championships at home, defeating Macomb Community College 93–85. From there, they launched a history-making run in Danville, Illinois, earning the program’s first-ever NJCAA Division II national tournament win. The Cougars reached the Final Four and finished No. 4 in the nation — the best post-season finish in program history!

Read the full story here.

Check out the images from their championship game here.

Do you have a Kalamazoo Valley Community College memory from the early days? We’d love to see any photos or hear your inspirational stories. Contact shollins@kvcc.edu to share your memories for a possible Alumni Spotlight.

Second-Generation Entrepreneur Success

Jason Van Beck grew up working for his dad’s roofing and siding company. Today, he is the president of Capstone Home Improvement in Kalamazoo and has been living his entrepreneurial dream ever since. 

Why did you attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College? 

My sister was two years ahead of me and attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College, so when I graduated from Kalamazoo Christian High School, I enrolled, too. I knew I wanted a degree in business, and starting at Kalamazoo Valley Community College was the best decision financially. I graduated from Kalamazoo Valley in 1999 and transferred to Western Michigan University, where I earned a degree in business administration. I had hands-on experience working with my dad, but I knew I wanted to run my own company. 

Read more of Van Beck's story here.

Are you an alumni with a business? Sign up for our Alumni Business Directory and you could be our next Alumni Business Spotlight! Sign up here.

Nursing Pinning Ceremony Includes Family and Friends

In the Fall of 2025, students of the Nursing program celebrated with family and friends. The Dale B. Lake Auditorium was packed with excitement as each graduate was greeted on stage to receive their pin and flowers from family and friends. To see the images click here. To learn more about becoming a student of the nursing or other health career programs click here.

Alumni Art Show Seeks Artists

Whether you create through photography, painting, digital design, sculpture, mixed media and fiber arts, ceramics — even culinary arts, we want you in the 15th Annual Kalamazoo Valley Community College Alumni Art Show on June 5, 2026. Deadline to enter the show is May 21, 2026. For more information, click here.

Distinguished Alumni Award Nominations Sought

Do you know a Kalamazoo Valley Community College graduate whose story deserves to be celebrated? See the graphic below. Help us recognize the leaders, innovators and quiet difference-makers among us by submitting a nomination by Feb. 13. For more information, click here.