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MISSION STATEMENT
Kalamazoo Valley Community College creates innovative and equitable
opportunities that empower all to learn, grow and thrive.
Sept. 15, 2025

Greetings!

It was wonderful to see so many students enjoying themselves at Vibe Fest last week. Events like this complement the college's more traditional learning opportunities for our students and help build their success and create a feeling of belonging at the college. They are an important part of achieving our mission: Kalamazoo Valley Community College creates innovative and equitable opportunities that empower all to learn, grow and thrive.

As I mentioned at the Summit, this academic year we will be deepening our work to help students thrive through the Valley Dream. We will be redoubling our efforts to promote the upward mobility of our students and to catalyze vibrant communities. We will strengthen our capacity to better collect and use our data so we can powerfully impact this and future generations.

The Valley Dream isn't about playing it safe. This year, we will intensify our emphasis on the innovation listed in our mission statement. Together, we can use our data to take risks and to try new approaches, even if we're uncertain about the outcomes. We might stumble sometimes as we push through boundaries, but we can learn together and quickly adjust our approaches.

Over the next few months, we'll be establishing a Valley Dream core team and data team to provide opportunities to go further in the transformative work we all support together. With the Valley Dream, we're not just keeping up with the evolution of community colleges, we are helping to lead it. And we are doing it the Valley way: with compassion, innovation and an unwavering commitment to our community.

I'm looking forward to seeing what we discover together this semester!

 
Sincerely,

L. Marshall Washington, Ph.D.
President
Input Needed
Thank you for participating in last week's Summit. See pictures from the Summit here. In the spirit of continuous improvement, please provide your feedback here. 

Injured While Working Protocol
Employees who are injured while working should report to Public Safety to complete an incident report. Documenting when, where and how the injury occurred ensures proper protocols are followed. Public Safety will forward the report to Human Resources for follow-up. This process helps protect both the employee and the college.

Higher Learning Commission FAQs
What does accreditation actually mean for Kalamazoo Valley?
Valley is proudly accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a trusted authority that confirms we deliver top-tier education across the board. The HLC provides our official stamp of excellence, affirming that Kalamazoo Valley meets high standards of academic quality and integrity at all levels through our external review and site visit. This accreditation covers every corner of our institution — from every campus and classroom to all programs, administrative work, services and student experiences.
 
Why does accreditation matter at Kalamazoo Valley?
Accreditation isn't just a stamp — it's our promise. It tells students, families and our community that Kalamazoo Valley delivers high-quality education with integrity, accountability and impact. Through the HLC visit and review, we are recognized for meeting rigorous standards at all levels. It is how we stay competitive, earn trust and continuously improve. Accreditation keeps us sharp, united and focused on what matters most: student success.
 
How does accreditation connect to our daily work?
Maintaining our accredited status isn't just a checkbox — it is a bold affirmation of our promise to students. It means we are all-in on delivering innovative, inclusive opportunities that fuel everyone's ability to learn, grow and thrive. From classrooms to campus services, every action we take drives this mission forward. Accreditation keeps us focused, accountable and proud of the impact we make every day.
 
Look for more HLC FAQs in upcoming newsletters or visit the webpage.

Stay Alert: Hang Up, Don't Click, Verify
Recent breaches — including TransUnion (exposing over four million people's personal information) and others across major industries — remind us that attackers often rely on phishing scams and phone-based impersonation to trick people. In simple terms:

  • Attackers send an email, text or call pretending to be a trusted source.
  • They may acquire your personal email or phone number as well.
  • They may ask for passwords, verification codes or push you to act fast.
  • Sometimes, they'll send a fake notice that urges you to call a number or visit a website or scan a QR code.

If you get an unexpected call asking for sensitive details, hang up and use a trusted source (company directory, official website) to verify before acting. This simple step can reduce the risk of costly mistakes. Please stay alert and share with your teams.

Wellness Event: Massages for Employees
As shared earlier this year, Kalamazoo Valley has received a gift from the Stryker Johnston Foundation to support the wellness and engagement of all employees. This investment allows us to create opportunities that promote connection, health and well-being across our campus community.
We're excited to announce our first wellness event: massages for employees.
Take a moment to prioritize your self-care and enjoy a 15-minute relaxing massage. Slots are available on two different days this month. Please email hr@kvcc.edu to sign up. Spaces are limited, so please reach out early to secure your preferred time.
Reserved dates and times at the following locations:
  • Texas Township Campus: Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Anna Whitten Hall: Thursday, Sept. 25 | 1- 5 p.m.
We look forward to kicking off this initiative with you and will continue sharing upcoming wellness-focused opportunities in the weeks ahead. This will include more massage event dates as well.
If you have any questions, please reach out to hr@kvcc.edu.
Early Registration for Employees
Employee registration for the Winter 2026 semester will be Oct. 3-5. Full and part-time employees may request access to online registration for themselves and/or their dependents through 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3.

To request access:
  1. Send a message from your Kalamazoo Valley employee account to arr@kvcc.edu. Enter “Employee Registration” as the subject so we can easily find your request for early access to registration among all of the emails we receive from students. It must be from a “@kvcc.edu” address.
  2. List the name and Valley number or birth date for each admitted person who will be registering.
  3. We will add authorization to each person's record and reply to confirm.
  4. Beginning Oct. 3, each authorized individual may log into MyValley, select "Register or Drop Classes" from My Links and register.
If you miss this opportunity, you may still register following the standard registration schedule for all students beginning Monday, Oct. 6. Please email the Admissions, Registration and Records office at arr@kvcc.edu, or call x4281, if you have questions.

 

Chosen First Name Process
Kalamazoo Valley Community College supports the use of chosen first names for students and employees who prefer a name different from their legal one. Kalamazoo Valley allows the use of chosen first names in college communications, records and systems — except where legal names are required by law. Get an update on the new process for setting up a “Chosen First Name” (formerly “used name”) and how to support students, staff and faculty who wish to make a change.

Sept. 25 | Room 4380 (TTC) & Zoom | noon - 1 p.m.

Oct. 15 | Room 207 (AWH) & Zoom | 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 29 | Room 4380 (TTC) & Zoom | noon - 1 p.m.



Save the Date for KV Allies Event on Oct. 21
Mark your calendar for “KV Allies: Building Awareness,” a discussion about the variety of sexual and gender identities and best practices for greater student and staff support. The event will be held Tuesday, Oct. 21, from noon to 2 p.m., on the Texas Township Campus in Room 4380. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. To sign up, click here.

 
You're Invited to a Wellness-Packed Lunch and Learn Series
Take a mindful moment in your day to recharge, reflect and grow. Join us for a refreshing series of talks focused on positivity, wellness and personal growth.
 
September 2025 Events
From Surviving to Thriving - Touring Eight Dimensions of Wellness
Monday, Sept. 22 | 11 a.m. - noon | Register | Room 3250 (TTC) or Zoom 
Join us for an engaging midday break as we dive into the eight dimensions of wellness — from financial wellness to emotional balance and everything in between. Enjoy your lunch while exploring how to thrive in every area of life — body, mind and spirit.
 
An Introduction to Tools for Everyday Peace
Wednesday, Sept. 24 | noon - 1 p.m. | Register | Room 3250 (TTC) or Zoom 
Step away from the hustle of your work day and join us for a rejuvenating lunch and learn. We'll be focused on mindfulness, meditation and yoga. No experience needed — just an open mind and a willingness to start being present in each moment.
 
Wellness Workshop
Monday, Sept. 29 | noon - 1 p.m. | Register | Room 4380 (TTC) or Zoom
Welcome to an inspiring space to discuss real-life wellness tools that we want to build into our plan to thrive. Start by watching two or more of the YouTube videos below, then bring your ideas, questions and energy to our interactive lunch and learn event.
 
Unlocking Excellence – One Short Training at a Time
We've assembled a series of brief video trainings you can access on your own timeline to gain extra clarity on wellness:
“Do You Really Need to Take 10,000 Steps a Day?” [5:26] A look at the many positive mental and physical effects of walking.
“10 Strategies for Managing Time Well” [11:49] Reduce stress while staying more on top of your work responsibilities, the time you need for personal growth and reserved time for stress-reducing activities.
“Prescribing Nature for Health” [17:47] Personal and scientific reflections showing the positive impact nature can/does have on mental and physical dimensions of wellness.
“How to Challenge Your Negative Self-Talk” [11:46] Insights and strategies revealing the habits and effects of talking yourself out of opportunities.
Don't forget: You can also sign up for the wellness workshop (above) centered on strategies outlined in these videos.

Note: Please check with your supervisor to be sure your work schedule allows you to attend. Also, please plan to bring your own lunch. Questions? Contact Kimberly Dupree, training and development coordinator at kdupree@kvcc.edu.

New Employee Wellness Class Begin Sept. 18
12:05 p.m. with 30 - 45-minute programs focusing on Pilates and yoga | Room 6040 in the Wellness and Fitness Center
New instructor Josie Mooriag from FitNiche Training
No equipment or experience necessary — all ability levels welcome
Fall schedule kicks off with two sessions in September: Thursday, Sept. 18 featuring Pilates and Thursday Sept. 25 featuring yoga. Beginning Oct. 2 and running through Dec. 11, sessions will be held Tuesday and Thursdays with the exception of Thanksgiving break Thursday, Nov. 27.
  
Employee Benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Need better sleep? Interested in tools to improve your focus and productivity? Do your managerial skills need polishing? Want help with legal documents like estate planning? Kalamazoo Valley's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential work-based program that offers more resources than you might think. For more information, click here.
  • Use access code: worklife
  • Or call 800.386.7055 anytime
You Are Not Alone — Community Resources Available
Some of our students, coworkers, friends, relatives or even ourselves may need assistance from time to time. The college has a list of community resources on our website. We encourage you to share the list with others.

The Search Committee Process Training
Are you new to your role as a hiring manager? Would you like to serve on a search committee? The Search Committee Process Training is a required for all staff and faculty wishing to serve on a search committee. Participants will explore the basics of serving on a search committee and gain insight into how implicit or unconscious bias can influence the decision-making process. To sign up, click on the registration link below for your desired session.
 
Oct. 2 | 10 a.m. | Room 3330, TTC | Register here
Nov. 12 | 2:30 p.m. | Room 207, AWH | Register here

Retirement Services
Would you like tips for working with a financial professional? Click here to register for this or other upcoming webcast sessions offered for TIAA members.
 
Flu Season
The schedule for on-site flu clinics for employees is now available. Below are the dates, locations and times. Reserve your time slot by clicking on the links. Employees should bring a copy of their insurance card to the appointment. Contact Becky Craft in Human Resources at rcraft@kvcc.edu with questions.

Sept. 25 | Texas Township Campus | Room 3330
Time: 10 a.m. - noon & 4 - 6 p.m.
Click here to sign up
 
Sept. 30 | Anna Whitten Hall | Room 208
Time: 2 - 3 p.m.
Click here to sign up
 
Oct. 6 | Texas Township Campus | Room 3330
Time: 9 - 11 a.m. &  2 - 4 p.m.
Click here to sign up

Open Enrollment
The time to make changes to your benefit elections will be Nov. 1-15. Please think about your needs and discuss options with your family members. 

News from the Libraries
Students Study in the Library!
Many students don't know that the Libraries are the perfect place to study. 
  
                             
Texas Township Library, TTC 3120/8420                          Arcadia Commons Library, AWH 321
 
Encourage your students to check out the:
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Excellent views
  • Individual and group study furniture
  • Computers and printers
  • Help from librarians
  • Access to books and electronic databases
  • Study rooms (TTC)
Ask a Librarian
Feel free to copy and paste the following information into your Canvas course:
 
Did you know that librarians can help with research and citation? Evaluating information? Or finding a book on a topic of interest? Ask a Librarian! 


What's for Lunch?
Cougar Cafe is open Mondays through Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Coffee Den is open Mondays through Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The menu includes:
Monday | Sept. 15 | Lemon orzo soup; grill station selections
Tuesday | Sept. 16 | Lemon orzo soup; grill station selections
Wednesday | Sept. 17 | Three onion soup; walking taco bar
Thursday | Sept. 18 | Three onion soup; loaded chili cheese fries
Monday | Sept. 22 | Roasted pepper soup; grill station selections
Tuesday | Sept. 23 | Roasted pepper soup; grill station selections
Wednesday | Sept. 24 | Roasted pepper soup; lasagna with garlic bread
Thursday | Sept. 25 | Roasted pepper soup; beef enchiladas




Electronic Textbooks and Courseware Available for Classes
Please share this information with students. Did they know they automatically get electronic versions of textbooks and other course materials for their classes? It's called Ready Day One. The cost is charged to their tuition bill. E-books tend to be at least 50 percent cheaper than hardcover and paperback textbooks. Please note that electronic materials are ONLY available in classes where the instructor selected the option for the course and many do.
 
What students need to know: 

  • Within 24 hours of registering for a class with the electronic materials option, Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Texas Township Campus Bookstore sends an email indicating that they are enrolled in Ready Day One and that e-course materials will be available in their Canvas account on the first day of class. It's important to watch for the email. 
  • If they wish to opt out and remove the Ready Day One charge from their tuition bill (it will be itemized there), they must act within two weeks from the first day of class. They have three options for doing so: Complete the transaction via their Canvas account, email the Bookstore at bookstore.kvcc.edu or call the Bookstore at x4030.

Bookstore Now Accepting Fall Financial Aid for School Supplies
Please spread the word to students that fall financial aid can be used to make purchases at the Texas Township Bookstore, effective now. Both in-store and online purchases are eligible. They can shop in person or online at bookstore.kvcc.edu. Online orders may be picked up at Texas Township Campus or the Anna Whitten Hall Library at the Arcadia Commons Campus in downtown Kalamazoo, or shipped for $5.

Bookstore Selling Uniforms for Fall Semester Classes  
Students can purchase the exact uniforms their program requires at the Texas Township Campus Bookstore. The Bookstore works with faculty and vendors to get them the best value, and they can use their financial aid. Shop in person, or order online at bookstore.kvcc.edu. We also have class kits and relevant supplies such as stethoscopes, penlights, study aids and more.



Student Spotlight: Khadija Bodian & Colby Way
Khadija Bodian (Animation & Game Art, December 2024) and Colby Way (Animation & Game Art, December 2023) first connected as Kalamazoo Valley Accelerated Associate Program (KVAAP) students before becoming work-study students in the KVAAP office. Today, you can find them both supporting fellow students in the college's Computer Lab.
 
When they joined KVAAP, both described themselves as reserved and quiet. Over time, their confidence grew. “I was very shy and conflict avoidant," said Way. "Now I've learned to advocate for myself and be more outgoing to get things done.” As for herself, Bodian said, “I'm a lot better at collaborating with my peers and mentors. I'll at least try to engage in conversation with classmates, staff and faculty.”
 
Their favorite part of being KVAAP work-study students? For Way, it was managing and reorganizing the KVAAP library, plus running Dungeons and Dragons sessions for students and staff. Bodian found the job both productive and calming: “Playing librarian was kind of therapeutic.”
 
Now, as Computer Lab staff members, both enjoy the chance to stay connected with students. Way loves coaching Art and Animation students through Adobe programs, while Bodian appreciates the laid-back, collaborative environment. Reflecting on the journey, Way added: “It's been truly unique. I never felt alone and always had a friend to help me through classes and even after graduation.”
 
What's next? Way is currently pursuing his degree at Western Michigan University with an open future ahead, while Bodian plans to transfer to Eastern Michigan University to complete her bachelor's in animation and work in game and film studios. Their stories are a testament to how KVAAP can help students grow, build lasting connections and discover new opportunities — on campus and beyond.

Upcoming KVAAP Info Sessions
Students can attend these information sessions via a Zoom meeting link that will be sent to them upon signing up. These sessions will explain how KVAAP can assist students with achieving their educational goals. Interested students can register here.

  • Thursday | Sept. 18 | 3:30 - 4 p.m.
  • Monday | Sept. 22 | 1:30 - 2 p.m.

 
Study Tips Session Offered for Valley Athletes   
Valley athletes from all five sports attended the Student-Athlete Study Table Kickoff on Friday, Sept. 5, where they received tips and resources to assist with academic success. They also heard from President L. Marshall Washington; Provost and Vice President for Instruction and Student Services Paige Eagan; Associate Vice President for Student Development Services Nkenge Bergan; Athletic Director Russ Panico and other administrators and faculty from throughout the college. Held every semester, the event is coordinated by Aaron Williams and Jeff Stone of Student Development Services, who both presented. Click here for more event photos.
 

Enjoy Free Home Volleyball Game Sept. 18! 
Cheer on the women's volleyball players at their first home conference game at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 in the main gym at Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Texas Township Campus! The team will play Kellogg Community College. Feel free to invite your friends and family! Remember, home games are always free. The next home game in September is Tuesday, Sept. 30 vs. Marian University's Ancilla College. Click here for the full schedule of both home and away games, and read a story about the season here. Click here for photos of the team in action. For regular team updates, be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook @kvccvb.


Fall Honorable Lecture Series Starts Sept. 23
Enjoy weekly talks this fall examining ways we restore the tenants of reciprocity with the natural world as a community and as individuals. Organized by Kalamazoo Valley Community College's ValleyHub in partnership with the museum, the sessions are held every Tuesday, from Sept. 23 to Nov. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. This drop-in lecture series takes place at the college's Marilyn J. Schlack Culinary and Allied Health Building, located at 418 E. Walnut St. in downtown Kalamazoo. View the list of topics at valleyhub.kvcc.edu/events.
 

‘Dancing With Life: Mexican Masks' Exhibit Opens Sept. 27
Explore the rich festival culture of Mexico through historic and contemporary masks at the “Dancing With Life: Mexican Masks” traveling exhibit coming to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, from Sept. 27, 2025 through Jan. 4, 2026. The exhibition centers around the work of the mask makers and dancers themselves through written and recorded interviews, including bilingual Spanish and English texts.
 

EXTENDED: Two Fun Exhibits from the Museum's Archives
Have you seen the new “Colorful Collections” and “The Art of Advertising” exhibits at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum? The museum has extended their runs until Sunday, Sept. 21. Admission to both is free! “Colorful Collections” features items from the Kalamazoo Valley Museum's permanent collection displayed in a rainbow of hues. Delve into the color spectrum like never before as you enjoy some of the brightest and boldest examples from the KVM's collection. “The Art of Advertising” showcases nostalgic signs and advertisements from area businesses from the museum's archives, offering up an eclectic mix of advertising paraphernalia from bygone eras. 
  
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
6767 West O Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49003-4070






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Kalamazoo Valley Community College · 6767 W O Ave · Kalamazoo, MI 49009 · USA