Skip to main content
Kalamazoo College
  • About K
  • K-Plan
  • Academics
  • Admission
  • Alumni
  • GIVE
  • News
  • Life at K
  • Athletics
  • APPLY
  • Close Navigation

News and Events

  • News
  • Calendar of Events
  • Contact Us
  • Media Inquiries
  • Submit your Story
Home » News and Events » Posts tagged "civic engagement" (Page 4)

civic engagement

K Student Helps Secretary of State Empower Young Voters

Posted on October 2, 2019February 5, 2024
Hope Miller Empowers Young Voters
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has chosen Hope Miller ’22 to serve on the College Student Advisory Task Force, which is seeking ways to help young voters.

If increasing voter participation among young adults in Michigan is the goal, Kalamazoo College could be a part of the solution thanks to Hope Miller ’22.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has chosen Miller, of Manistee, as one of 33 students from two-year and four-year higher-education institutions across the state to serve on the College Student Advisory Task Force. The group is charged with recommending ways to help other college students in Michigan overcome their barriers to voting.

Participants will recommend a series of programmatic, administrative or policy changes to address those barriers through diverse perspectives as the Michigan Department of State works to implement the Promote the Vote constitutional amendment passed by voters last November.

“Young people are the future of our democracy, and this task force is an important step toward ensuring their voices are heard on Election Day and beyond,” Benson said in a news release. “I look forward to working with students, faculty and administrators in the months ahead to empower the next generation of voters.”

Miller said she is thrilled to be a part of the task force.

“Secretary Benson is incredible, and to be one of just 33 students from Michigan chosen to serve for her is such an honor. I think she’s doing great things by offering students an outlet to get their ideas straight to the individuals that can help make them a reality.”

The task force met in September and will meet two more times this fall before applying their ideas at their respective campuses and reporting back to Benson regarding what was successful. Miller, for example, says strategically placed satellite offices for the Secretary of State on college campuses might help the cause.

“I am super interested to see what we can do regarding satellite offices on college campuses, as well as making voting more accessible to everyone,” Miller said. “I think that Secretary Benson is leading the way for what all states should be doing. For us to be able to raise voter turnout in the United States, we need to be able to identify barriers to voting, and talk to the individuals directly affected by those barriers.”

It’s common for people with K ties to seek increased voter participation, especially among young adults. K alumna Carolyn DeWitt ’04, for example, is president of Rock the Vote, a nonpartisan and nonprofit organization dedicated to building the political power of young voters; and Emily Kowey ’17, the assistant director of K’s Center for Civic Engagement, helps power K Votes, a non-partisan coalition that informs K students, faculty and staff about voting and civic engagement.

Miller, though, credits Assistant Professor of Political Science Justin Berry and his class on voting, campaigns and elections for preparing and inspiring her to join the task force.

“Dr. Berry has been an enormous help, teaching me the barriers to voting, how to read and analyze voter turnout stats, and how to effectively draft solutions to the issues faced by voters,” Miller said. “I am super excited to see what we come up with at our second meeting, and how our ideas will change voting at K.”

Posted in StudentsTagged civic engagement, political science

ARTifact Helps High School Students Express Themselves

Posted on June 19, 2019August 2, 2023
Art Hop attendees view a painting from an ARTifact participant
ARTifact, fueled through K students serving as civic-engagement scholars, is a weekly studio-workshop series for high school students interested in visual art and social justice, while otherwise having limited access to art instruction. The culmination of the ARTifact workshops for the academic year came in an exhibit at the June 7 Art Hop.

When artists create, they express a piece of themselves. Art, therefore, can provide an outlet for underrepresented people to communicate their feelings, struggles and realities with those who will listen. That makes ARTifact, a program offered through Kalamazoo College’s Center for Civic Engagement (CCE), an empowering resource.

ARTifact, fueled through K students serving as civic-engagement scholars, is a weekly studio-workshop series for high school students interested in visual art and social justice, while otherwise having limited access to art instruction. The program creates a space in which participants communicate about complex social issues and express their identities through art.

The program, including the cost of materials, is offered at no cost to participants thanks to the CCE. Since its founding, the CCE has provided service-learning courses, research opportunities, internships, and student-led programs, engaging more than 10,000 K students in partnerships that foster academic learning, critical problem-solving and a lifetime of civic engagement. Through the CCE, students, faculty and staff have worked with thousands of community residents, more than 50 organizations, and in more than 30 community-based courses across K’s academic disciplines.

The CCE employs 25 civic-engagement scholars including Angela Pastor ’21 who are student leaders facilitating programs with community partners in which they and their peers learn from communities. The scholars are supported by generous endowments and grants.

The culmination of the ARTifact workshops for the academic year came in an exhibit at the June 7 Art Hop, a fun evening of art exhibits and events in and around Kalamazoo, sponsored by Arts Council Kalamazoo, that takes place during the first weekend of every month. ARTifact’s exhibit during Art Hop was stationed at the Park Trades Center, a former manufacturing facility on West Kalamazoo Avenue that houses a creative community of more than 100 designers, entrepreneurs and small business representatives.

The ARTifact workshops gathered participants for three hours every Saturday, where they created art, physically crafted their displays and created advertising posters before spreading word of its Art Hop show.

“It’s an honor to be able to provide this experience,” said Pastor ’21 of Los Angeles, a Posse student at K who also benefited from participating in a similar experience as a high school student. “When I went through it, it taught me a lot about what I could create. I know high school is a time for questioning for a lot of people. Art, I think, is a way to figure out yourself.”

Pastor said she enjoyed ARTifact week to week, although long term success would mean expanding the program to more high school students by getting more K students to volunteer. That would also mean realizing ARTifact’s full potential.

“I know some of the high school students explore their identity through sexuality or mental health,” Pastor said. “It’s a way to use art as a tool that educates and helps students explore their identity. It can be used to support their social justice issues and anything they’re passionate about. There was one workshop where we used only recycled materials. We also talked about what makes art worthy of being exhibited and we questioned what art is and what it can be. It makes me feel proud (the high school students) were able to learn about art and have all these experiences.”

Posted in Faculty & Staff StudentsTagged art history, arts, civic engagement, social justice

2019 Senior Awards Ceremony Honors Students

Posted on June 17, 2019February 27, 2023

Congratulations to the following Kalamazoo College students who received awards during the 2019 Senior Awards Ceremony on Saturday, June 15, at Stetson Chapel. The awards include all academic divisions, prestigious scholarships and special non-departmental awards. Again, congratulations to all graduates and members of the class of 2019.

George Acker Award, awarded annually to a male athlete who in his participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.

  • Allen Vinson

American Chemical Society Certified Degree in Chemistry

  • Alex Fairhall
  • Sean Patrick Walsh

Hornet Athletic Association Award, for a graduating senior who has most successfully combined high scholarship with athletic prowess.

  • Nicholas Ludka

James Bird Balch Prize in American History, for showing academic excellence in American history.

  • Cecilia Catherine Ringo

Lillian Pringle Baldauf Prize in Music, awarded to an outstanding music student

  • Lexi Ugelow

Lewis Batts Prize, awarded to seniors who have done the most to support the activities of the Biology Department and to further the spirit of collegiality among students and faculty.

  • Molly Logsdon
  • Nkatha Mwenda

Bruce Baxter Memorial Award, awarded to a senior showing outstanding development in the field of political science.

  • Lauren Arquette
  • Natalie Thompson

Gordon Beaumont Memorial Award, awarded to students who display qualities of selflessness, humanitarian concern and willingness to help others as exemplified in the life of Gordon Beaumont.

  • Anthony Diep Rosas
  • Malak Ghazal

Larry Bell Scholar

  • Natalie Thompson

The Biology in Liberal Arts Prize

  • Hayleigh Alamo
  • Emily Palmer Norwood
  • Maren Prophit

Marshall Hallock Brenner Prize, awarded to an outstanding student for excellence in the field of psychology.

  • Sophie Olivia Stone Higdon

Henry and Inez Brown Award, awarded in recognition of outstanding participation in the College community.

  • Alex Cadigan
  • Sarah George
  • Nicholas Ludka
  • Amanda Faye Moss

Clara H. Buckley Prize for Excellence in Latin, awarded to an outstanding student of the language of the Romans.

  • Chelsea Leia’Louise Miller

Mary Long Burch Award, for a senior woman who has manifested interest in sports activities and excelled in scholarship.

  • Cydney Morgan Martell

Robert Bzdyl Prize in Marine Biology, awarded to one or more students with demonstrated interest and ability in marine biology or related fields.

  • Evan Stark-Dykema

Annual Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society Division of Analytical Chemistry, to an undergraduate student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Carina Ghafari

Annual Undergraduate Award in Inorganic Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society Division of Inorganic Chemistry, to an undergraduate student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Hannah Meyers

Annual Undergraduate Award in Organic Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society Division of Organic Chemistry, to an undergraduate student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Minn Soo Kim

Annual Undergraduate Award in Physical Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society and subcommittee for the Division of Physical Chemistry, to an undergraduate student who displays significant aptitude for a career in organic chemistry.

  • Alex Fairhall

Outstanding Chemistry Student from Kalamazoo College, sponsored by the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society and is given to the graduating senior who has demonstrated leadership in the chemistry department and plans to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Sabrina Leddy

Lilia Chen Award in Art, awarded to students in their junior or senior year who distinguish themselves through their work in ceramics, sculpture, or painting, and who exhibit strong progress in their understanding of art.

  • Hayleigh Alamo
  • Qynce B. Chumley
  • Kaiya Noelle Herman Hilker

Ruth Scott Chenery Award, given to graduating seniors who have excelled academically in theatre and who plan to continue the study of theatre arts following graduation.

  • Hunter Himelhoch

Chinese Outstanding Achievement Award, which recognizes seniors who have excelled in the study of the Chinese language and China-related subjects on campus and abroad in China.

  • Molly Pan-Wei Brueger
  • Cameron Lund
  • Kimberly Yang

Provost’s Prize in Classics

  • Mara Hazen
  • Noura Al Sabboury Khayat

Provost’s Prize in Computer Science

  • Alex Cadigan

C.W. “Opie” Davis Award, awarded to the outstanding senior male athlete

  • Jordan Wiley

DeMoore/Vonk Scholars

  • Micheal Watson
  • Esther Yi

Diebold Scholar Award, given to one or more seniors in recognition of excellence in the oral or poster presentation of the SIP at the Diebold Symposium.

  • Sung Soo Park
  • Audrey Thomas
  • Taylor VanWinkle

George Eaton Errington Prize, awarded to outstanding senior art majors.

  • Kaiya Noelle Herman Hilker

Provost’s Prize in Economics

  • Andrew Parsons
  • Zachary Mark Van Faussien

Alliance Francaise Prize in French, awarded to outstanding senior art majors.

  • Daniel Horwitz
  • Sabrina Leddy

Joe Fugate Senior German Award, awarded to a senior for excellence in German.

  • Katherine Bennett
  • Timothy DeCoursey
  • Emma Eisenbeis
  • Ian Freshwater
  • Madeline Lauver

Departmental Prize in Greek

  • Mary Elizabeth Arendash

Xarifa Greenquist Memorial Psychology Department Award, given in recognition of distinctive service to students and faculty in psychology by a student assistant.

  • MaryClare C. Colombo
  • Mengqiao Guo
  • Sara Lonsberry

Griffin Prize, awarded to the senior English major who, like Professor Gail Griffin, demonstrates an exceptional ability to bridge his or her analytical and creative work in the English department.

  • Amelia Donohoe

Ham Scholar

  • Malak Ghazal

The Raymond L. Hightower Award, given to a graduating senior for excellence in and commitment to the disciplines of sociology and anthropology and leadership in the Department of Anthropology and Sociology.

  • Yuridia Luciana Gutierrez-Garcia
  • Hannah Muscara

Virginia Hinkelman Memorial Award, awarded to a deserving student who displays a deep concern for the well-being of children, as demonstrated through career goals in the field of child welfare.

  • Sara Lonsberry

History Department Award, given for outstanding work in the major

  • Daniel Horwitz

Hodge Prize in Philosophy, awarded to members of the graduating class who have the highest standing in the field.

  • Katherine Bennett

John Wesley Hornbeck Prize, awarded to seniors with the highest achievement for the year’s work in advanced physics toward a major.

  • Kevin Bhimani
  • Abhjeet Bhullar
  • Anna Emenheiser

William G. Howard Memorial Prize, awarded to a senior for excellence in academic work in an economics or business major.

  • Adelaide Hilarides

William G. Howard Memorial Prize in Political Science

  • Erin Shaughnessy Smith

Japanese National Honor Society, College Chapter, awarded in recognition of student achievement in their study of the Japanese language and their overall academic excellence.

  • Molly Pan-Wei Brueger
  • Kebra Cassells
  • Tiffany Ellis
  • Amanda Marie Esler
  • Ihechiluru Ezuruonye
  • Alex Fairhall
  • David A. Gurrola
  • YoungHoon Kim
  • Annelise Lee
  • Kayla Marciniak
  • Emma Mullenax
  • Louise Thomas

Kurt Kaufman Fellow, given annually to seniors who receive Honors in the Senior Individualized Project (SIP) conducted with faculty in the Chemistry Department.

  • Min Soo Kim

Moses Kimball Student Scholar

  • Michelle Alba-Sanchez
  • Sharat Kamath
  • Alejandra Morales

Richard D. Klein Senior Award in Psychology

  • Tapiwa Chikungwa
  • Druanna Darling
  • Hadiya Deas-Richberg
  • Kai Lin Shi
  • Patricia Spitzer

Richard D. Klein Senior Impact Award in Psychology

  • Lydia Turke

Knoechel Family Award, awarded to a member of the swimming team in recognition of demonstrated excellence in both intercollegiate swimming and academic performance.

  • Molly Logsdon
  • Sharif Shaker

Irmgard Kowatzki Theatre Award, awarded to the senior who has excelled both in academic areas and in theatrical productions during the four years at the College.

  • Katherine Kreiss

LaPlante Student Scholars, for outstanding dedication to civic engagement while designing and leading community programs that promote a more just, equitable and sustainable world.

  • Meredith Ashton
  • Tapiwa Chikungwa
  • Gus Guthrie
  • Sara Lonsberry
  • Nicholas Ludka

Tish Loveless Award, given by the Department of Physical Education to the outstanding senior female athlete.

  • Andrea MacMichael

Music Department Certificate of Distinction

  • Mackenzie Callahan
  • Amira Kamoo
  • Madeline Lauver
  • Sara Lonsberry
  • Jake Mooradian
  • Kayla Park
  • Quintin Rykar Sproull
  • Evan Stark-Dykema

Department of Philosophy Prize, awarded for excellence in any year’s work in philosophy.

  • Merrick Richardson

William E. Praeger Prize in Biology, established by the faculty in the Biology Department and awarded to the most outstanding senior majors in biology, based on academic achievement in the discipline.

  • Sadie Schadewald Jackson

Robert and Karen Rhoa Prize in Business

  • Jessica Penny

Robert and Karen Rhoa Prize for Outstanding SIP

  • Garrett Swanson

Elwood H. and Elizabeth H. Schneider Prize in English, awarded for outstanding and creative work in English done by a student who is not an English major.

  • Yuridia Luciana Gutierrez-Garcia

Senior Leadership Recognition Award, awarded to students who have provided key elements of leadership in their organizations, athletic teams, academic departments, employment, and the wider Kalamazoo community.  Students were nominated by faculty and staff members in January.  Seniors eligible for this award also had to meet a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average requirement and be in good academic and social standing at the College.

  • Hayleigh Alamo
  • Lauren Arquette
  • Max Gordon Aulbach
  • Jacob Bonifacio
  • Molly Pan-Wei Brueger
  • Alex Cadigan
  • Tapiwa Chikungwa
  • Qynce B. Chumley
  • Emma Eisenbeis
  • Ian Freshwater
  • Sara George
  • Sharat Kamath
  • Sabrina Leddy
  • Joy Lim
  • Nicholas Ludka
  • Cydney Morgan Martell
  • Ian McKnight
  • Hannah Meyers
  • Zachary Jorge Morales
  • Amanda Faye Moss
  • Nkatha Mwenda
  • Marco Antonio Ponce
  • Shivani Rana
  • Cecilia Catherine Ringo
  • Anthony Diep Rosas
  • Sharif Shaker
  • Regina Shaw
  • Allen Vinson
  • Jordan Wiley
  • JayLashay Young

Fan E. Sherwood Memorial Prize

  • Christopher Coburn

Catherine A. Smith Prize in Human Rights, awarded to a senior who has been active on campus in promoting human rights, furthering progressive social and cultural change, and combating violence, repression and bigotry.

  • Serita Evelyn

Catherine A. Smith Prize in Women’s Athletics, awarded to a woman athlete who in her participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.

  • Sarah George

Lemuel F. Smith Award, given to a student majoring in chemistry pursuing the American Chemical Society approved curriculum and having at the end of the junior year the highest average standing in courses taken in chemistry, physics and mathematics.

  • Sean Patrick Walsh

Senior Spanish Award, given by the Department of Romance Languages for outstanding achievement in Spanish.

  • Grace Beck
  • Steven Davis

Eugene P. Stermer Award in Public Administration

  • Ailih Suzanne Elizabeth Weeldreyer

Mary Clifford Stetson Prize, awarded for excellence in English essay writing by a senior.

  • Kayla Park

Dwight and Leola Stocker Prize, awarded for excellence in English writing, prose or poetry.

  • Meredith Ashton
  • Gaby Cordova
  • Madeline Lauver

Lucinda Hinsdale Stone Prize in Women’s Studies

  • Samantha Choknumtumnukit
  • Cecilia Ringo

David Strauss Prize in American Studies, awarded for the best paper written by a graduating senior in his or her junior or senior year in any field of American Studies.

  • Ian McKnight

Babette Trader Campus Citizenship and Leadership Award, awarded to members of the graduating class, who have most successfully combined campus citizenship and leadership with scholarship.

  • Michelle Alba-Sanchez
  • Ian McKnight

Margaret Upton Prize in Music

  • Dylan Beight

Donald W. VanLiere Prize Psychology in Coursework

  • Rachel Girard
  • Sophie Olivia Stone Higdon
  • Claire Amelia Kalina
  • Sara Lonsberry
  • Lydia Turke

Donald W. VanLiere Prize Psychology in Research

  • Sonah Bahl
  • Rachel Girard
  • Chelsea Leia’Louise Miller

Michael Waskowsky Prize, awarded to outstanding junior or senior art majors.

  • Amanda Marie Esler

Charles Lewis Williams Jr. Award, awarded for oratory at the English SIP Symposium

  • Emily King Boyle

Clarke Benedict Williams Prize, awarded to that member of the graduating class who has the best record in mathematics and the allied sciences.

  • Allegra Allgeier
  • Alex Cadigan
  • Natalie Thompson

Maynard Owen Williams Memorial Award, for the best student entry in the form of an essay, poetry, paintings, sketches, photographs or films derived from study abroad.

  • Grace Beck
  • Ximena Davis
  • Anna Emenheiser
  • Malak Ghazal
  • Mackenzie Landman
  • Madeline Lauver
  • Maxwell Palese
  • Kayla Park
  • Angelica Rodriguez
  • Tanush Samson
  • Paige Tobin
  • Maya Wanner
2019 Senior Awards Ceremony cDUGAL 2019_0521
The 2019 Senior Awards Ceremony, conducted June 15, honored students who received recognition for their work during the academic year.
Posted in Events StudentsTagged anthropology, arts, awards, biology, civic engagement, classics, community reflection, economics, liberal arts, philosophy, phys ed, physical education, political science, psychology, religion, Senior Integrated Project, students, study abroad

Positive Attitude, Dedication Are Hallmarks of Senior Leadership Honorees

Posted on February 27, 2019September 17, 2024

Thirty students known for their invaluable contributions to the Kalamazoo College community were honored Friday at the 15th annual Senior Leadership Recognition Awards.

Students Honored with Senior Leadership Recognition Awards cDugal 8963
Thirty students known for their invaluable contributions to the Kalamazoo College community were honored Friday at the 15th annual Senior Leadership Recognition Awards. They were (top row, from left) Ian McKnight, Max Aulbach, Alexander Cadigan and Allen Vinson; (second row, from left), Emma Eisenbeis, Nicholas Ludka, Ian Freshwater, Sabrina Leddy, Zach Morales and Jacob Bonifacio; (third row, from left) Marco Ponce, Lauren Arquette, Sarah George, Hannah Meyers and Jordan Wiley; (fourth row, from left) Anthony Diep Rosas, Regina Shaw, Shivani Rana and Qynce Chumley; and (bottom row, from left) Sharat Kamath, Cydney Martell, Hayleigh Alamo, Nkatha Mwenda, Cecilia Ringo and Molly Brueger. Winners not pictured include Tapiwa Chikungwa, Joy Lim, Amanda Moss, Sharif Shaker and JayLashay Young.

The selection committee, consisting of Associate Deans of Students Karen Joshua-Wathel and Dana Jansma, asked faculty and staff through a letter in December to nominate students, while noting an exemplary nominee isn’t necessarily the “team captain” or “organization president.”

“The individual may be the person who always seems to have a positive attitude, is consistently involved in helping a group move forward, serves as a continual role model to other students, and who shows dedication, even in times of adversity,” the letter said.

The Senior Leadership Recognition Award winners represent talented athletes, outstanding academic performers, members of the President’s Student Ambassadors and student-organization standouts.

Here are the honorees along with brief statements from their nominators:

Hayleigh Alamo, nominated by Softball Coach Kelli Duimstra:

“Hayleigh is a third-year softball team captain, which speaks to her natural leadership ability and how much her teammates look up to her. … She is the person who connects every person on our team.”

Lauren Arquette, nominated by Assistant Professor of Political Science Justin Berry:

“Lauren is one of the strongest students with whom I’ve had the opportunity to work.”

Max Aulbach, nominated by Assistant Professor of Political Science Justin Berry:

“Max is a very strong and committed student. … The regularity and quality of his contributions to classroom discussions are unmatched.”

Jacob Bonifacio, nominated by Men’s Lacrosse Coach Vince Redko:

“More than any other player, I can rely on Jake to do the right thing and encourage others to be their best.”

Molly Brueger, nominated by Women’s Soccer Coach Bryan Goyings and Wen Chao Chen Associate Professor of East Asian Social Sciences Dennis Frost:

“Molly is an exceptional individual excelling in the classroom, on the soccer field and internationally. She is diligent, generous, intelligent, selfless and kind.”

Alexander Cadigan, nominated by Computer Science Chair Alyce Brady, Computer Science Associate Professor Pam Cutter and Men’s Tennis Coach Mark Riley:

“K is a better place because of Alex’s leadership as a [resident assistant], a [teaching assistant] in computer science, and as a mentor.”

Tapiwa Chikungwa, nominated by Residential Life Area Coordinator Erika Perry, and Alison Geist, Teresa Denton, Moises Hernandez and Emily Kowey of the Center for Civic Engagement:

“As a third-year [resident assistant], Tapiwa’s contributions have been invaluable. … Her authentic servant leadership has been an incredible asset. … As a Civic Engagement Scholar, she brings deeply informed and compassionate perspectives.”

Qynce Chumley, nominated by Josh Moon of Information Services:

“The scope of Qynce’s mentoring, leadership and initiative is notable, … a distinct example of living an authentic, undaunted existence.”

Anthony Diep Rosas, nominated by Dow Distinguished Professor in the Natural Sciences Jan Tobochnik (physics) and Residential Life Area Coordinator Ashley Knapp:

“He uses his position to advocate for those without a voice.”

Emma Eisenbeis, nominated by Assistant Dean of Students Brian Dietz:

“Emma’s combination of quiet confidence and a genuine desire to help others has enabled her to effectively lead a diverse group of peers as president of [the Kalamazoo College Council of Student Representatives].”

Ian Freshwater, nominated by Assistant Dean of Students Brian Dietz:

“Ian has done fantastic work serving on student government since his first year and has taken on key roles throughout.”

Sarah George, nominated by Women’s Soccer Coach Bryan Goyings:

“Sarah is an extraordinary individual excelling at K in the classroom, on the soccer field and in the community.”

Sharat Kamath, nominated by Chief Information Officer Greg Diment, Kalamazoo College Fund Associate Director Sandy Dugal, and Alison Geist, Teresa Denton, Moises Hernandez and Emily Kowey of the Center for Civic Engagement:

“He works respectfully to build a more accepting, inclusive community.”

Sabrina Leddy, nominated by Chemistry Professor Regina Stevens-Truss:

“Sabrina has been a leader/mentor of the [American Chemical Society] student group since her sophomore year.”

Joy Lim, nominated by Study Abroad Adviser Alayna Lewis:

“Joy stands out as a leader, from the roles she has held to the manner in which she conducts herself and encourages others.”

Nicholas Ludka, nominated by Men’s Golf Coach Mitch Wilson:

“Nick is one of the top ambassadors for K and the [Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) ]. … He’s a two-time co-captain of the golf team and will finish his career as one of the top three Hornet golfers of all time.”

Cydney Martell, nominated by Interim Provost Laura Furge:

“A highly gifted scientist. … Simply the best combination possible of compassion, empathy, kindness, ability and intelligence.”

Ian McKnight, nominated by Assistant Professor of Political Science Justin Berry, Residential Life Area Coordinator Erika Perry, Assistant Dean of Students Brian Dietz and Kalamazoo College Fund Associate Director Sandy Dugal:

“What makes Ian stand out beyond being a strong student is the degree to which he commits not only to his personal growth, but also the broader community.”

Hannah Meyers, nominated by Women’s Lacrosse Coach Jessica Smith:

“Hannah is a two-year captain of the lacrosse team and a fantastic leader…she is the first player to offer assistance to younger players on and off the field.”

Zachary Morales, nominated by Men’s Lacrosse Coach Vince Redko:

“He has been instrumental in launching lacrosse at the College and he was our first All-MIAA selection in program history.”

Amanda Moss, nominated by L. Lee Stryker Associate Professor of Business Management Amy MacMillan, Women’s Basketball Coach Katie Miller and Women’s Lacrosse Coach Jessica Smith:

“Amanda is a dedicated leader in the classroom, on the basketball court, on the lacrosse field, and in the community. … She co-founded Sports Business Club. … She is a tenacious go-getter who sets an example of excellence for other students.”

Nkatha Mwenda, nominated by Biology Assistant Professor Anne Engh and Kalamazoo College Fund Associate Director Sandy Dugal:

“She embodies the sort of inclusive, cooperative leadership that we need in the world.”

Marco Ponce, nominated by Biology Professor Ann Fraser:

“Marco demonstrates commitment, fortitude and perseverance in all that he does. … He is gifted and the longest serving research assistant I had over my 16 years at the College.”

Shivani Rana, nominated by Assistant Dean of Students Brian Dietz:

“Shivani always comes to the table with a positive disposition, a genuine care for others, and a strong desire to make things better.”

Cecilia Ringo, nominated by College Chaplain and Director of Religious and Spiritual Life Liz Candido:

“While always acting with integrity, she found ways to encourage others to expand their thinking and learn more about themselves.”

Sharif Shaker, nominated by Computer Science Chair Alyce Brady, Computer Science Associate Professor Pam Cutter, Swimming and Diving Coach Jay Daniels and Kalamazoo College Fund Associate Director Sandy Dugal:

“Sharif sets an example of dedicated and self-motivated learning … He is bright and is among the best writers we’ve ever seen.”

Regina Shaw, nominated by Center for Career and Professional Development Assistant Director Jackie Srodes:

“Regina is a professional, thoughtful student leader and our entire career development team appreciates her positive demeanor, facilitation skills, and willingness to represent the department.”

Allen Vinson, nominated by Men’s Tennis Coach Mark Riley:

“Allen pushes his teammates to do the little things to be outstanding student athletes.”

Jordan Wiley, nominated by Baseball Coach Michael Ott and Kalamazoo College Fund Associate Director Sandy Dugal:

“Jordan had flourished and become one of our top academic, athletic and leadership examples we have in the baseball program. … As a President’s Student Ambassador, he is gracious and possesses an outstanding attitude.”

JayLashay Young, nominated by Assistant Dean of Students Brian Dietz:

“Jay is the epitome of the type of enlightened leaders we hope all K graduates become. … She created the Kalamazoo Dance Team and is a leader in student activities. … She is a unique combination of dedication, perseverance and optimism.”

Posted in StudentsTagged biology, business, career development, chemistry, civic engagement, community reflection, computer science, East Asian studies, faculty, political science, students, study abroad

Voting Today: Get a Ride to the Polls

Posted on November 6, 2018March 22, 2022

Vote in the midterm election today with some help from K Votes, a non-partisan coalition that informs Kalamazoo College students, faculty and staff about voting and civic engagement.

Voting 2018 midterm election shuttle
Emily Kowey stands next to a Kalamazoo College shuttle that will take students to the Douglass Community Association today for voting in the midterm elections.

The coalition, offered through the Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Center for Civic Engagement, is offering a shuttle to the Douglass Community Association, where you will vote if you registered through your campus address. Faculty and staff are driving the shuttles, which will run until 8 p.m. with pickup at the Hoben Hall lounge. Enjoy hot chocolate and donuts while you wait for a shuttle. Students, faculty and staff registered to vote through an off-campus address may find their polling place online.

After you vote, join K Votes and the Political Science Department to watch returns. Political Science Professor Justin Berry will attend an election night watch party with students, faculty and staff from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Dewing Hall, Room 103.

For more information on these midterm election-related opportunities, contact Emily Kowey in the Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Center for Civic Engagement at 269.337.7565 or Emily.Kowey@kzoo.edu.

Posted in Institutional Announcements StudentsTagged civic engagement, political science

Key Black Lives Matter Voice to Speak at K

Posted on October 17, 2018October 30, 2023

A leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement and one of Fortune’s World’s Greatest Leaders is the 2018 William Weber Lecture speaker.

DeRay Mckesson of Black Lives Matter
DeRay Mckesson, a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement, will be the speaker Oct. 24 at the 2018 William Weber Lecture.

Civil-rights activist DeRay Mckesson will deliver his talk, titled “On the Other Side of Freedom: The Case for Hope,” at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, at Stetson Chapel. Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Mckesson will conduct a short book-signing event after the lecture. Some copies of his book will be available for sale in the lobby before and after the lecture.

The lecture is co-sponsored by Kalamazoo College’s Political Science Department and the Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Center for Civic Engagement.

As a civil-rights activist, Mckesson focuses on issues of innovation, equity and justice. He has advocated for issues related to children and families since he was a teenager. He is a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement and the co-founder of Campaign Zero and OurStates.org.

Mckesson has become a key voice in the effort to confront systems and structures of justice since the death of Mike Brown and the subsequent protests in Ferguson, Missouri. He is also the host of Pod Save the People, a weekly podcast focused on activism and social justice.

Mckesson was named as one of the World’s Greatest Leaders by Fortune Magazine in 2015 and one of the 30 Most Important People on the Internet by Time Magazine in 2016. Mckesson, a Baltimore native, graduated from Bowdoin College and has an honorary doctorate from The New School.

The William Weber Lecture in Government and Society was founded by Bill Weber, a 1939 graduate of Kalamazoo College. Weber also founded the William Weber Chair in Political Science at the College. Past lecturers in this series have included David Broder, Frances Moore Lappé, E. J. Dionne, Jeane Bethke Elshtain, William Greider, Ernesto Cortes Jr., John Esposito, Benjamin Ginsberg, Frances Fox Piven, Spencer Overton, Tamara Draut, Van Jones and Joan Mandle.

Posted in EventsTagged civic engagement, diversity, political science, social justice

K Ranks 11th Among Small Schools Sending Alumni to Teach for America

Posted on September 19, 2018April 5, 2023

Kalamazoo College tied for 11th in 2018 among small colleges and universities sending alumni to Teach for America, which recruits outstanding leaders to become lifelong advocates for educational equality in the U.S.

Stetson Chapel Teach for America
Kalamazoo College ranks 11th among small schools sending its alumni to Teach for America as seven from the class of 2018 joined the education organization’s corps.

Teach for America’s recruits work for at least two years in a low-income school district classroom, where they nurture students and build their own leadership skills. The experience helps recent graduates gain the context and clarity they need to move on to graduate school or continue developing educational equality in any sector. Recruits receive salaries and some receive student loan forgiveness.

The recruits, in 51 communities nationwide, will team up with more than 56,000 alumni leaders, who work as professional educators, policy makers, lawyers, business owners, nonprofit administrators, medical professionals and more, to expand children’s opportunities. Of the organization’s 3,600 recruits from more than 700 colleges and universities, seven recruits are 2018 K grads.

This year’s recruits are among Teach for America’s most diverse since its founding in 1990 with more than half the recruits identifying as people of color, about 45 percent coming from low-income backgrounds, and about a third being the first in their families to graduate from college.

Teach for America Recruitment Manager Jess Hernandez says K’s place in the rankings figures considering the sense the College’s students have for community engagement and the students’ highly respected educational achievements.

“We only accept about 14 percent of the recruits who apply, so Kalamazoo College should be proud it’s contributing such excellent numbers,” said Hernandez, who has worked with K students for about two years. “We’re looking for students who are leaders, and we’re looking for strong academics. Kalamazoo College students check off those boxes,” noting program and K alumni such as Michigan Rep. Darrin Camilleri.

“We see it in their civic engagement,” she added. “We see it in their orientation leaders. We know that (Teach for America) offers Kalamazoo College students an opportunity to continue their service work after college and that’s really attractive.”

For more information about Teach for America, visit its website.

Posted in Alumni Institutional AnnouncementsTagged career development, civic engagement, student life

K to Add 2 Intercultural Experience Options in 2019

Posted on August 9, 2018April 10, 2023

Two new study abroad programs in 2019 will provide Kalamazoo College students with intercultural experience opportunities in global internships and civic engagement.

Panoramic view of Shanghai reflects intercultural experience
One of two study abroad programs coming available in 2019 will provide Kalamazoo College students with an intercultural experience through a variety of internships in Shanghai. Photo source: PJT56 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0.

The first, available in winter term 2019, will allow students to work with museums and schools in Oaxaca, Mexico, through a partnership with K’s Center for Civic Engagement. Students will facilitate arts-focused projects that explore and amplify indigenous communities’ traditions while living with local families. In addition to promoting academic learning, this format will provide students with personal growth and an awareness of their global citizenship.

The second, available in fall 2019, will allow students to study Chinese while completing internships in a variety of industries in Shanghai. The program will follow a common K study abroad theme of allowing students to better understand the cultural influences that affect global industries while gaining practical experience in a work environment.

These programs will join 45 others in 22 countries accessible to K students. Other themes within the other programs include examinations of hardships among people of color in other countries, migration and global poverty.

Margaret Wiedenhoeft, director of the Center for International Programs says intercultural immersion is a key component of K education and encourages students to plan for an intercultural experience from the moment they step on campus. Here are six things first-year students can do when they arrive this fall to prepare for an international immersion and intercultural experience as juniors.

Build an Intercultural Experience into Your Academic Plan

When students arrive, they are assigned an adviser to help them develop academic plans compatible with their interests, abilities and goals, making the most of their undergraduate education.

As partners, students and advisers should envision how their academic plans and study abroad are compatible.

“Students should think about their four-year plan, but they should think broader than, ‘What course should I take?’ ” Wiedenhoeft said. “They should think about how to integrate and complement what they learn on campus with the experience and language they could gain from being abroad.”

Know Help is Available

Some students might think they can’t afford to study abroad. Others, during their time at K, encounter complications such as family financial hardship or a change of major. Yet they should realize study abroad is possible despite such obstacles.

“There are often things students can do to meet academic goals or requirements and get off campus when majors change,” Wiedenhoeft said. Also, “thanks to generous alumni, we have funds available to help with additional costs or plane tickets, for example,” she added. “It’s important that students know if they don’t feel they have access, they can still take advantage of study abroad.”

Get to Know International Students

According to the latest student census, about 8 percent of K’s degree-seeking students are international students. They can provide excellent information regarding intercultural experience opportunities.

“Students should make connections often because each is an opportunity to hear about new pathways they can take at K,” Wiedenhoeft said. “This also helps students make the most of their transition from high school to college. Take advantage and think about the experience you want by the time you’re done because the four years go quickly. Think intentionally about others’ experiences and how they can inform you.”

Seek a Fresh Perspective

Students apprehensive over international relations or global politics should take heart that an intercultural experience can change how they see the world and lead to greater understandings.

“When they travel, students will meet local people,” Wiedenhoeft said. “Students will understand, see and live from their point of view. It can be challenging, but it’s important we think about the future of ourselves in the world.”

Seek Your Passport Sept. 21

K, in collaboration with Western Michigan University, is helping students get their passports through a passport caravan. Students will have their portraits taken, and high financial-need students could be eligible to file their applications for free. Students only need a certified U.S. birth certificate and a copy of that certificate they can submit.

Stay tuned for more information on how to sign up for the passport caravan.

Visit CIP Staff

The Center for International Programs is filled with friendly, knowledgeable staff members who help students with study abroad planning, applications, policies, calendars and details about K-sponsored and approved programs. They can help students find their best intercultural experiences and keep them on track for those opportunities.

“Come in and see us early and often,” Wiedenhoeft said.

For more information on the CIP or to schedule an appointment with a staff member, call 269.337.7133.

Posted in Faculty & Staff StudentsTagged career development, Chinese, civic engagement, K-Plan, Spanish, study abroad

K Listed as a ‘Best College’ in Princeton Review

Posted on August 8, 2018April 5, 2023

Kalamazoo College is included in the newly published 2019 edition of “The Best 384 Colleges,” the annual college guide of the Princeton Review.

Stetson Chapel on a sunny day for the Princeton Review
Kalamazoo College is included in the newly published 2019 edition of “The Best 384 Colleges,” the annual college guide of the Princeton Review.

The guide says K “brings a personalized approach to education through a flexible, open curriculum featuring real-world experience, service learning, study abroad, and an independent senior year project.” Among praise from students quoted in the guide’s Kalamazoo College entry: K “allows students to really develop personal relationships with  their  peers  and  professors”  and  is  “a  campus  run  by  and  for  the  students.”

Students also tell the Princeton Review that K:

  • “Will try as hard as possible to get you to graduate in four years.”
  • Enables students, through its open curriculum, to “have more time to explore exactly what they want to learn, rather than being required to take classes in which they have no interest.”
  • Has “a huge culture” among alumni “of giving back to the school and being there for each other” and for current students.
  • Has professors who “view students as equals and peers, and are open to listening to everyone’s ideas in classes.”
  • Provides “good food and fun activities” for students and a wide array of clubs and athletics that are open to everyone.
  • Attracts students “who show creativity, ambition and motivation.” “You will never find any two students who are the same here,” one student says.

“Our students in the Princeton Review say it in their own words: Kalamazoo College provides a distinctive liberal arts education that is among the best available anywhere,” said Eric Staab, Kalamazoo College dean of admission and financial aid. “It’s a real testament to the enduring value of the K-Plan and the K experience.”

The Princeton Review says the college rankings are based on surveys of 138,000 students at 384 top colleges that includes a wide representation by region, size, selectivity and character.

Posted in Institutional AnnouncementsTagged career development, civic engagement, diversity, social justice, students, study abroad

2018 Senior Awards Ceremony Honors Students

Posted on June 18, 2018April 4, 2022

Congratulations to the following Kalamazoo College students who received awards during the 2018 Senior Awards Ceremony on June 16 at Stetson Chapel. The awards include all academic divisions, prestigious scholarships and special non-departmental awards. Again, congratulations to all graduates and members of the class of 2018.

2018 senior awards
Senior Aunye Scott-Anderson is the recipient of the first Charles Lewis Williams Jr. Award, awarded for oratory excellence at the English SIP Symposium. Scott-Anderson was among the students honored Saturday, June 16, at the 2018 Senior Awards Ceremony.

George Acker Award, awarded annually to a male athlete who in his participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.

  • Jonathan Nord

Alpha Lambda Delta Dr. Helen Clark Graduate Fellowship, given to the Alpha Lambda Delta member graduating with the highest GPA.

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia

American Chemical Society Certified Degree in Chemistry

  • Maria Elva Fujii
  • Sarah Marie Harnish
  • Phuong Nguyet Ha Le
  • Omar León Ruiz
  • Madeleine Grace Roberts
  • Caleb Sherwood
  • Kathryn Doral Thamann

James Bird Balch Prize in American History, for showing academic excellence in American history.

  • Angel Caranna

Lillian Pringle Baldauf Prize in Music, awarded to an outstanding music student

  • Lauren Landman

Lewis Batts Prize, awarded to seniors who have done the most to support the activities of the Biology Department and to further the spirit of collegiality among students and faculty.

  • Manbir Singh
  • Erika Kelly Waalkes

Bruce Baxter Memorial Award, awarded to a senior showing outstanding development in the field of political science.

  • Anselm Scheck

Gordon Beaumont Memorial Award, awarded to students who display qualities of selflessness, humanitarian concern and willingness to help others as exemplified in the life of Gordon Beaumont.

  • Rumsha Sajid
  • Cindy Xiao

Beeler Senior Projects Abroad Fellows

  • Lotte Louise Dunnell
  • Oluchi Amarachi Ebere
  • Alicia Gaitan
  • Jasmine Khin
  • Connor Webb

Larry Bell Scholar

  • Lee Ray Carter

Biology in Liberal Arts Prize

  • Rosemarie Nocita
  • Kathleen Elizabeth Brannan Russell

Marshall Hallock Brenner Prize, awarded to an outstanding student for excellence in the field of psychology.

  • Justin Thad Roop

Henry and Inez Brown Award, awarded in recognition of outstanding participation in the College community.

  • Alexandrea Esther Ambs
  • Emily Good
  • David Vanderkloot

Clara H. Buckley Prize for Excellence in Latin, awarded to an outstanding student of the language of the Romans.

  • Clayton James Meldrum

Mary Long Burch Award, for a senior woman who has manifested interest in sports activities and excelled in scholarship.

  • Christina Dandar

Robert Bzdyl Prize in Marine Biology, awarded to one or more students with demonstrated interest and ability in marine biology or related fields.

  • Claire Eleanor Howland

Annual Undergraduate Award in Analytical Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society Division of Analytical Chemistry, to an undergraduate student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Clay Wilkey

Annual Undergraduate Award in Inorganic Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society Division of Inorganic Chemistry, to an undergraduate student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Madeleine Grace Roberts

Annual Undergraduate Award in Physical Chemistry, sponsored by the American Chemical Society and subcommittee for the Division of Physical Chemistry, to an undergraduate student who displays significant aptitude for a career in organic chemistry.

  • Joyce Nguyen

Outstanding Chemistry Student from Kalamazoo College, sponsored by the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society and is given to the graduating senior who has demonstrated leadership in the chemistry department and plans to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.

  • Madeleine Grace Roberts

Lilia Chen Award in Art, awarded to students in their junior or senior year who distinguish themselves through their work in ceramics, sculpture, or painting, and who exhibit strong progress in their understanding of art.

  • Carlos Enrique Arellano
  • Dorothy Carpenter
  • Alicia Gaitan
  • Kelly Marie Haugland
  • Julia Madeline Koreman
  • Erin Sidney Reilly
  • Amber Sims

Ruth Scott Chenery Award, given to graduating seniors who have excelled academically in theatre and who plan to continue the study of theatre arts following graduation.

  • Johanna Keller Flores
  • Samuel Meyers

Chinese Outstanding Achievement Award, which recognizes seniors who have excelled in the study of the Chinese language and China-related subjects on campus and abroad in China.

  • AJ Convertino
  • Sharon Situ
  • Lia Williams

Provost Prize in Classics

  • Leah Elizabeth Finelli
  • Clayton James Meldrum

Provost Prize in Computer Science

  • Skyler Norgaard
  • Sivhaun Sera

H.P. and Genevieve Connable Scholarship

  • Hayley Beltz

C.W. “Opie” Davis Award, awarded to the outstanding senior male athlete

  • Ryan Orr

Diebold Scholar Award, given to one or more seniors in recognition of excellence in the oral or poster presentation of the SIP at the Diebold Symposium.

  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville
  • Emma Kristal
  • Matera Stuart

Marion H. Dunsmore Memorial Prize in Religion, awarded to graduating seniors for excellence in the major.

  • Hannah Bernice Berger
  • Emily Good
  • David Vanderkloot

Provost Prize in Economics

  • Thao Duong
  • Maria Franco
  • Logan Nicole Smith

George Eaton Errington Prize, awarded to outstanding senior art majors.

  • Charlotte Mary Gavin
  • Tulani Pryor

Alliance Francaise Prize in French, awarded for excellence in French by advanced students.

  • Laetitia Marie Ndiaye
  • Anselm Scheck

French Government Teaching Assistantships

  • Molly Elise Merkel
  • Zoe Johannsen

Joe Fugate Senior German Award, awarded to a senior for excellence in German.

  • Shelby Marie Hopper

Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship

  • Katherine Elizabeth Johnson

Departmental Prize in Greek

  • Samuel Meyers

Xarifa Greenquist Memorial Psychology Department Award, given in recognition of distinctive service to students and faculty in psychology by a student assistant.

  • Ethel Mogilevsky
  • Lorenzo Redmond
  • Gabrielle Alexis Shimko

Fred and Sarah Greer Endowed Scholarship/Lorinda Kay Sanford Memorial

  • Darryl Keyshaun Lewis
  • Sep’Tisha Starnika Riley
  • Austin Vance
  • Kierra Verdun

Griffin Prize, awarded to the senior English major who, like Professor Gail Griffin, demonstrates an exceptional ability to bridge his or her analytical and creative work in the English department.

  • Rumsha Sajid

Charles C. Hall Scholarship

  • Maria Elva Fujii

Ham Civic Engagement Scholar

  • Sep’Tisha Starnika Riley

W. and Elsie L. Heyl Scholars

  • Brice Calco
  • Rachel Sujin Chang
  • Emily Catherine Fletcher
  • Abhay Goel
  • Jacob Naranjo
  • Alexandria Kathleen Oswalt
  • Peter Rossi
  • Amber Salome
  • Anna Michele Roodbergen

The Raymond L. Hightower Award, given to a graduating senior for excellence in and commitment to the disciplines of sociology and anthropology and leadership in the Department of Anthropology and Sociology.

  • Monet Foster
  • Alejandro Antonio Jaramillo
  • Savannah Julia Kinchen
  • Kiavanne Abelardo Javier Williams

Virginia Hinkelman Memorial Award, awarded to a deserving student who displays a deep concern for the well-being of children, as demonstrated through career goals in the field of child welfare.

  • Sarafina Jeanette Milianti
  • Sep’Tisha Starnika Riley

History Department Award, given for outstanding work in the major

  • Franklin Meyer

Hodge Prize in Philosophy, awarded to members of the graduating class who have the highest standing in the field.

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia
  • Jasmine Khin
  • Federico Spalletti

John Wesley Hornbeck Prize, awarded to seniors with the highest achievement for the year’s work in advanced physics toward a major.

  • Hayley Beltz
  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville

Hornet Athletic Association Award, for a graduating senior who has most successfully combined high scholarship with athletic prowess.

  • David Vanderkloot

William G. Howard Memorial Prize, awarded to a senior for excellence in academic work in an economics or business major.

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia

William G. Howard Memorial Prize in Political Science

  • Alex Sitner

Japanese National Honor Society, College Chapter, awarded in recognition of student achievement in their study of the Japanese language and their overall academic excellence.

  • Miles McDowall
  • Laetitia Marie Ndiaye
  • Yilan Qiu

Kurt Kaufman Fellows, given annually to seniors who receive Honors in the Senior Individualized Project (SIP) conducted with faculty in the Chemistry Department.

  • Maria Elva Fujii
  • Sarah Marie Harnish
  • Christina Keramidas
  • Madeleine Grace Roberts

Knoechel Family Award, awarded to a member of the swimming team in recognition of demonstrated excellence in both intercollegiate swimming and academic performance.

  • Alexandrea Esther Ambs

Irmgard Kowatzki Theatre Award, awarded to the senior who has excelled both in academic areas and in theatrical productions during the four years at the College.

  • Lauren Landman

LaPlante Civic Engagement Student Scholars, for outstanding dedication to civic engagement while designing and leading community programs that promote a more just, equitable and sustainable world.

  • Alexandrea Esther Ambs
  • Delaney Fordell
  • Sarafina Jeanette Milianti
  • Khusbu Patel
  • David Vanderkloot

Tish Loveless Award, given by the Department of Physical Education to the outstanding senior female athlete.

  • Katherine Elizabeth Johnson
  • Madeline Woods

Music Department Certificate of Distinction

  • Georgetta Booker
  • Elan Dantus
  • Kelly Marie Haugland
  • Christian Kelley
  • Kelsey Amanda Matthews
  • Matthew Peters
  • Sydney Troost

National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship

  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville

Department of Philosophy Prize, awarded for excellence in any year’s work in philosophy.

  • Lee Ray Carter
  • Emiline Noel Chipman
  • Federico Spalletti

William E. Praeger Prize in Biology, established by the faculty in the Biology Department and awarded to the most outstanding senior majors in biology, based on academic achievement in the discipline.

  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville
  • Khusbu Patel

Robert and Karen Rhoa Prize in Business

  • Thomas Bryant
  • Phuong Nguyen
  • Jake Wasko

Robert and Karen Rhoa Prize for Outstanding SIP

  • Tuan Do
  • Monica Gorgas
  • Katherine Elizabeth Johnson

Elwood H. and Elizabeth H. Schneider Prize in English, awarded for outstanding and creative work in English done by a student who is not an English major.

  • Rosemarie Nocita
  • Tulani Pryor

Senior Leadership Recognition Award, awarded to students who have provided key elements of leadership in their organizations, athletic teams, academic departments, employment, and the wider Kalamazoo community.  Students were nominated by faculty and staff members in January.  Seniors eligible for this award also had to meet a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average requirement and be in good academic and social standing at the College.

  • Alexandrea Esther Ambs
  • Hannah Bernice Berger
  • Mary Elizabeth Burnett
  • Erin Elizabeth Butler
  • Elan Dantus
  • Leah Elizabeth Finelli
  • Emily Good
  • Andre Grayson
  • Griffin D. Hamel
  • Emily Marlies Kozal
  • Laetitia Marie Ndiaye
  • Alexandria Kathleen Oswalt
  • Khusbu Patel
  • Sean Peterkin
  • Sep’Tisha Starnika Riley
  • Benjamin Rivera
  • Rumsha Sajid
  • Sivhaun Sera
  • Elyse Tuennerman
  • David Vanderkloot
  • Kiavanne Abelardo Javier Williams
  • Lia Williams
  • Cindy Xiao

Fan E. Sherwood Memorial Prize

  • Jacqueline Mills

Sherwood Prize in Fine Arts, awarded for outstanding progress and ability on the violin, viola, cello or bass.

  • Cody Colvin

Catherine A. Smith Prize in Human Rights, awarded to a senior who has been active on campus in promoting human rights, furthering progressive social and cultural change, and combating violence, repression and bigotry.

  • Emiline Noel Chipman

Catherine A. Smith Prize in Women’s Athletics, awarded to a woman athlete who in her participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.

  • Danielle Louise Simon

Lemuel F. Smith Award, given to a student majoring in chemistry pursuing the American Chemical Society approved curriculum and having at the end of the junior year the highest average standing in courses taken in chemistry, physics and mathematics.

  • Maria Elva Fujii

Senior Spanish Award, given by the Department of Romance Languages for outstanding achievement in Spanish.

  • Emily Marlies Kozal
  • Claire Schertzing

Mary Clifford Stetson Prize, awarded for excellence in English essay writing by a senior.

David Vanderkloot

 

Dwight and Leola Stocker Prize, awarded for excellence in English writing, prose or poetry.

  • Margaret Doele
  • Elise Renée Houcek
  • Kate Liska
  • Ian Zigterman

Lucinda Hinsdale Stone Prize in Women’s Studies

  • Angel Caranna

Stowe Scholarship

  • Clay Wilkey

David Strauss Prize in American Studies, awarded for the best paper written by a graduating senior in his or her junior or senior year in any field of American Studies.

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia

TowerPinkster Sustainability Scholarship

  • Emiline Noel Chipman

Babette Trader Campus Citizenship and Leadership Award, awarded to members of the graduating class, who have most successfully combined campus citizenship and leadership with scholarship.

  • Emiline Noel Chipman
  • Maria Elva Fujii
  • Alexandria Kathleen Oswalt

Charles Tully Design Award, given annually to a senior who has achieved excellence in some aspect of theatre design.

  • Carlos Enrique Arellano
  • Stina Taylor

Donald W. VanLiere Prize Psychology in Coursework

  • Christina Dandar
  • Lia Williams
  • Cindy Xiao

Donald W. VanLiere Prize Psychology in Research

  • Christina Dandar
  • Ethel Mogilevsky
  • Gabrielle Alexis Shimko
  • Mariam Souweidane

Vibbert Civic Engagement Scholar, students who honor and exemplify the life and spirit of Stephanie Vibbert – scholar, activist, poet, feminist and artist – by leading programs that promote equity and justice through the arts and feminist organizing.

  • Rumsha Sajid

Voynovich Competitive Scholarship

  • Elise Renée Houcek

Michael Waskowsky Prize, awarded to outstanding junior or senior art majors.

  • Zoe Johannsen
  • Miranda Petersen

Charles Lewis Williams Jr. Award, awarded for oratory at the English SIP Symposium

  • Aunye Scott-Anderson

Clarke Benedict Williams Prize, awarded to that member of the graduating class who has the best record in mathematics and the allied sciences.

  • Hayley Beltz
  • Abhay Goel
  • Jacob Naranjo
  • Skyler Norgaard

Maynard Owen Williams Memorial Award, for the best student entry in the form of an essay, poetry, paintings, sketches, photographs or films derived from study abroad.

  • Alejandro Alaniz
  • Shelby Marie Hopper
  • Omar León Ruiz
  • Franklin Meyer
  • Michelle Orta
  • Aunye Scott-Anderson
  • Haley Elizabeth Wentz

Honors in the Major Department

Anthropology and Sociology

  • Logan Nicole Smith
  • Elyse Tuennerman

Art – Studio Art

  • Julia Madeline Koreman

Biology

  • Camille Kay Giacobone
  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville
  • Claire Eleanor Howland
  • Khusbu Patel
  • Amber Salome
  • Connor Webb

Business

  • Ryan Andrusz
  • Thomas Bryant
  • Jonathan Nord
  • Jake Wasko

Chemistry

  • Maria Elva Fujii
  • Alexandria Kathleen Oswalt
  • Gabriel Page Rice
  • Madeleine Grace Roberts

Classics

  • Julia K. Bartlett
  • Clayton James Meldrum

Computer Science

  • Emily Catherine Fletcher
  • Miles  McDowall
  • Daniel Clayton Michelin
  • Skyler Norgaard
  • Sivhaun Sera
  • Preston Wang-Stosur-Bassett

Economics

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia
  • Thao Duong
  • Logan Nicole Smith

English

  • Margaret Doele
  • Elise Renée Houcek
  • Jasmine Khin
  • Rumsha Sajid
  • David Vanderkloot

French and Francophone Studies

  • Molly Elise Merkel
  • Laetitia Marie Ndiaye

German Studies

  • Shelby Marie Hopper

History

  • Franklin Meyer

International and Area Studies

  • Yilan Qiu

Mathematics

  • Hayley Beltz
  • Abhay Goel
  • Jacob Naranjo

Music

  • Matthew Peters

Philosophy

  • Guillermo Dominguez Garcia
  • Jasmine Khin
  • Federico Spalletti

Physics

  • Hayley Beltz
  • Abhay Goel
  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville
  • Christian Kelley

Political Science

  • Anselm Scheck

Psychology

  • Christina Dandar
  • Cindy Xiao

Religion

  • Kalyn Marie Campbell
  • Elise Renée Houcek
  • Alicia Lauren Madgwick
  • David Vanderkloot

Theatre Arts

  • Johanna Keller Flores
  • Lauren Landman
  • Samuel Meyers
  • Stina Taylor

Members of Phi Beta Kappa

  • Ryan Andrusz
  • Hayley Beltz
  • Thomas Bryant
  • Brice Calco
  • Emiline Noel Chipman
  • Christina Dandar
  • Emily Catherine Fletcher
  • Maria Elva Fujii
  • Camille Kay Giacobone
  • Abhay Goel
  • Kelly Marie Haugland
  • Megan Elisabeth Hoinville
  • Claire Eleanor Howland
  • Emily Marlies Kozal
  • Miles McDowall
  • Samuel Meyers
  • Laetitia Marie Ndiaye
  • Rosemarie Nocita
  • Skyler Norgaard
  • Alexandria Kathleen Oswalt
  • Ty Robert Owens
  • Khusbu Patel
  • Emma Peters
  • Yilan Qiu
  • Anna Michele Roodbergen
  • Elinor Ruth Rubin-McGregor
  • Amber Salome
  • Logan Nicole Smith
  • David Vanderkloot
  • Connor Webb
  • Lia Williams
  • Madeline Woods
Posted in Events StudentsTagged anthropology, arts, awards, biology, civic engagement, classics, community reflection, economics, liberal arts, philosophy, phys ed, physical education, political science, psychology, religion, Senior Integrated Project, students, study abroad

Posts navigation

Older posts
Newer posts
Updated April 4, 2022
K logo
Contact Info

Kalamazoo College
1200 Academy Street
Kalamazoo, Michigan
49006-3295
USA

Information 269.337.7000
Admission 800.253.3602

Contact List
Directories

Search this site
Sitemap
Map and Directions
Academic Calendars
Employment
Departments and Programs
Library
Registrar
Bookstore
For Parents
Crisis Response
Nondiscrimination Policy
Title IX
Bias Reporting
Consumer Information
Web Accessibility Policy
Privacy Policy
Official Disclaimer

© Kalamazoo College All Rights Reserved 2018