students

K Honors First-Generation Students

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Kalamazoo College is proud to celebrate the successes of its first-generation college students, faculty and staff today on National First-Generation Day. November 8 was identified as the date because it honors the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded college opportunities for low-income and first-generation populations. 

Championed by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Center for First-Generation Student Success, the day brings awareness to the strengths of first-generation students. At Kalamazoo College, we seek to affirm those strengths and the assets they bring to us by supporting, elevating and increasing their visibility on campus. 

Here are a few stories of our students. We asked them about their involvement and activities, why they chose K and their advice for other first-generation students.

Anahi Barajas ’26

Involvements and activities: During my time at K, I actively engage in some student organizations, as treasurer for Latinx Student Organization (LSO), actively attending Women of Color Association (WOCA) and ¡Qué Chévere! Aside from student organizations, I am a career ambassador at the Center for Career and Professional Development, and I work at Media Services as a front desk assistant. I also participate in the Career Launch Internship Prep Program (CLIPP) to increase the probability of getting a summer internship.

Why I chose K: Visiting Kalamazoo College on top of hearing about the experiences from my high school’s alumni who came to K. Their experiences, with the beauty of the campus, alongside the financial aid package reassured me that moves from Texas would be worth it. 

My advice to other first-generation students: Coming from Texas all the way to Kalamazoo has been a hard transition. But I would suggest being involved in different clubs and putting yourself out there so you can make friends, especially during orientation events. That’s when I met my best friend. I think you should put yourself out there and try new things. During winter try to keep yourself active and busy so that seasonal depression doesn’t affect you. There are so many resources out there, take advantage of them 

Anahi Barajas
Anahi Barajas ’26

Vanessa Barranco ’25

Involvements and activities: I am currently one of the co-presidents of ¡Qué Chévere!, a student organization dedicated to representing and celebrating diverse identities within Latino cultures. Additionally, as this year’s funding board coordinator, I assist in budget management and purchasing for all student organizations, working to ensure funds are allocated equitably across student organizations. 

Why I chose K: As a senior in high school, I was nominated for the Posse Scholarship, and after multiple interview rounds, I was chosen along with nine other students to attend Kalamazoo College. Along with that, I was drawn to K’s open curriculum as well as the small class sizes that would allow me to receive more personalized attention from professors and be more involved with campus life. 

My advice to other first-generation students: My advice to students is to go to school events and different clubs. It’s so important to find your people and your community, especially when you are away from home. Also, make sure to take advantage of the resources K has to offer! 

First-generation student Vanessa Barranco
Vanessa Barranco ’25

Camila Benavides ’27

Involvements and activities: During my time here at K, I have been actively involved in several organizations that allow me to give back and connect with the campus community. I am a member of the Latinx Student Organization (LSO), where I help foster a supportive and inclusive space for Latinx students, creating a strong sense of community among peers who share similar backgrounds and values. Additionally, I am part of the Alpha Omega chapter of the Spanish Honor Society, which has deepened my appreciation for Hispanic culture and language, providing opportunities to connect with others passionate about our heritage. I am also involved in Kalamazoo Language Intercultural Partners (KLIP), where I volunteer at Lincoln International Studies School to help newcomers learn English, supporting them as they build confidence in their language skills and adapt to a new environment. Lastly, I am a member of the Kalamazoo Dance Team (KDT), which allows me to express myself creatively and connect with others through a shared love of dance. Each of these experiences has enriched my time at K in unique and meaningful ways.

Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College for its commitment to diversity, social justice and a personalized education. The college’s unique K-Plan, with its emphasis on flexibility and hands-on learning, provides the perfect environment for me to explore my interests while remaining rooted in my values. I was also drawn to Kalamazoo’s small campus, which creates a close-knit, supportive community and allows for more personalized connections with faculty and peers. This focus on individualized academic paths and meaningful relationships made K the ideal place for my educational journey.

My advice to other first-generation students: My advice for other first-generation students is to seek support early on and build connections with faculty, advisors and peers. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and make full use of the resources available, like tutoring or career counseling. Remember that you belong here and there’s a community ready to support you every step of the way. Be proud of who you are and where you come from; your unique background is a strength and it brings valuable perspectives to the campus. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and know that your resilience and determination will help you succeed.

First Generation Student Camila Benavides
Camila Benavides ’27

Abigail Gutierrez ’25

Involvement and activities: As an active member on campus, I regularly attend ACAPOC (an all People-of-Color a capella group on campus), Asian Pacific Islander Student Association (APISA) and Philipino American Student Association (PASA) meetings and participate in various campus events.

Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College for its intimate community and the exceptional support I received during the admission process. This early experience reinforced my belief in the power of campus resources and the potential for meaningful connections.

My advice to other first-generation students: My advice to incoming students is to seize opportunities and take initiative. By proactively seeking out experiences, I recently landed an internship that allowed me to develop a new skill under the guidance of a supportive mentor. One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was moving out of state for college. This bold decision has fostered my independence and courage. I’m grateful for the personal growth it has enabled and the positive impact it will have on my family. I’m excited to apply the skills and connections I’ve gained at K to uplift my community.

First-Generation student Abi Gutierrez
Abigail Gutierrez ’25

Grace Leahey ’25

Involvement and activities: I am involved with Student Development as a First-Year Experience mentor and I’m the co-president of both the Hacky Sack Club and Kalamazoo College’s student chapter of the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). I work for the chemistry and biochemistry department as a lab teaching assistant and grader. Additionally, I’ll be volunteering with Sisters in Science starting this winter.

Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College because I really wanted to have the opportunity to foster connections with my professors and peers in a way I knew wouldn’t be available at a larger university. The interpersonal connections I have created during my time at K will continue to help me succeed in my future educational and career endeavors.

My advice to other first-generation students: I would advise any first-gen students to always ask questions. There are so many resources just waiting to be tapped into. Sometimes, it’s scary to ask for help, but K has taught me that there will always be someone in your corner. You do not have to do it alone and asking for help 100% does not invalidate your successes.

First-Generation Student Grace Leahy
Grace Leahey ’25

Micahaia Reynolds ’27

Involvements and activities: During my time here at K, I have participated in many organizations and volunteer opportunities on and off campus. I am vice president of Kalamazoo Bible Club, a member of the Black Student Organization (BSO) and the K College Cheer team, and have participated in the Women of Color Association (WOCA) and Sister Circle. I have performed in Afro Desi Sol (AFDS), an event that comes once a year to celebrate the collaboration and showcasing of different cultures and heritages, and spoken on a first-generation panel as part of our orientation week. I have also volunteered at El Concilio and Kalamazoo Central High School, working with elementary students as well as high school students who are new to the United States and learning English. I work with Community Advocates for Parents and Students (CAPS) and travel to a nearby community center to tutor students and help guide them toward achieving the Kalamazoo Promise. I am also a First-Year Experience mentor, where I assist first-year students through orientation and their first term at K as they begin navigating the college experience. Finally, I am currently on the Dean’s List, and have been selected to receive the departmental prize from the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at the Honors Day Convocation on November 8.

Why I chose K: I chose to attend Kalamazoo College for several reasons. One reason is that its reputation preceded itself in the recommendations I received. Another is its endless opportunities to get involved with nearby communities and build personal connections with the professors. Since coming to K, I have discovered so many more opportunities that I didn’t even know about before enrolling, such as the ability to network with people from many different fields regularly, the number of possibilities available for studying abroad and away, and the opportunity to explore different classes and career paths.

My advice to other first-generation students: To other first-gen students, I would say to never believe they’re alone because there’s always someone willing to help and support them. I would also tell them to not try to carry the world on their shoulders, that the people who helped get us to this point are so proud of us already, and there’s nothing we can do to disappoint them. Our presence is an inspiration to others whether we are always aware of it or not. Congratulations, you did it!

Micahaia Reynolds
Micahaia Reynolds ’27

Michael Robertson II ’25

Involvement and activities: During my time at K, I have been involved with the Department of Theatre Arts since my sophomore year. I have been a member of Young Men of Color (YMC) for all four years and I am currently the vice president and treasurer. I am also a First-Year Experience mentor and a former collegiate football player for the Hornets.

Why I chose K: I chose K because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. I also appreciate how small the campus is. It is extremely easy for me to find the resources that I need on campus. I am also fortunate enough to build relationships with my fellow students and professors due to how small the courses are. The school also has a great appreciation for art, which is a beautiful thing to see. It is also important to recognize how the school emphasizes academic success and how they promote their alumni networking, which has been extremely beneficial for me.

My advice to other first-generation students: My advice for first-generation students is to keep an open mind and always try new things. Do not be afraid to ask for help; there are so many great people and resources that are willing to assist you. I also encourage them to hang out with people different from you, because you can always learn from everyone. Be yourself, and embrace being different.

First-generation student Michael Robertson
Michael Robertson II ’25

Leslie Santos ’25

Involvements and activities: My on-campus activities throughout my time at K have included 3 years as a resident assistant in the campus halls, two years as a career ambassador for the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD), and one year working for the Office of Student Activities. I have also been on the e-boards for the Alpha Lambda Delta and Biochemistry Clubs. Lastly, when possible, I volunteer with the Food Recovery Network Club to take unused food from our campus cafeteria to give to community pantries.

Why I chose K: I was initially drawn to Kalamazoo College because of the Posse L.A. Scholarship which brought it to my attention and offered a financial and peer mentorship-based support system. I also largely chose to attend Kalamazoo College because of the small class sizes that allow for more one-on-one time with professors and a sense of close campus community. Lastly, there seems to be strong support for students in STEM such as the Math and Physics Center, learning support, and teaching assistant and student-instruction sessions.

My advice to other first-generation students: My main advice for first-generation students is to find mentors in a variety of areas (teachers, employers, upperclassmen and peers in your own grade). It’s important to get multiple perspectives for guidance and to help in the process of developing your character by modeling characteristics and habits from those you admire and surround yourself with. Also, it’s worth it to take the time to find (and use) the resources available to you based on your identities and needs.

Leslie Santos
Leslie Santos ’25

Horse Sense Guides K’s Equestrian Team

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Five Students at Cedar Lodge Stables
Kalamazoo College’s Equestrian Team consists of (from left) Libby McFarlen ’26, Sydney Myszenski ’25, Ella Varnhagen ’25, Shannon Dopp ’28 and Emily Spelson ’28. They are co-hosting a two-day equestrian meet starting Saturday, October 19, with Grand Valley State University at Cedar Lodge Stables near Lawrence, Michigan.

You might be chomping at the bit to attend a football or soccer game during Homecoming weekend, but hold your horses. Find out first about some student-athletes in another sport, who are just as proud as their peers to be representing Kalamazoo College.

K’s Equestrian Team is co-hosting a two-day meet beginning this Saturday, October 19, alongside Grand Valley State University at their home barn, Cedar Lodge Stables. The facility is near Lawrence, Michigan, about a half-hour drive west of Kalamazoo. Although sometimes dark horses when facing riders from bigger schools, the College’s representatives participate in meets through the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA), a nonprofit organization supporting individuals and teams at a variety of equine sports experience levels.

Libby McFarlen ’26—a Kalamazoo native and Loy Norrix High School graduate—is one of K’s equestrian competitors. She got the bug to start horseback riding when she was 8 years old. Although her grandma wanted to buy her a pony for her birthday, grandma chose instead to provide her granddaughter with riding lessons after comparing the costs between the two options.

Find K’s Equestrian Team
on Social Media

Kalamazoo College has several student organizations that focus on athletic endeavors including Equestrian Team. Find more on the Equestrian Team on these social media platforms:

Equestrian Team: Libby McFarlen with Ethan the horse
McFarlen has been riding horses since she was about 8 years old when her grandma purchased riding lessons for her.
Emily Spelson ’28 of the Equestrian Team holds a Kalamazoo College flag in front of a horse named Elliot
Spelson holds a Kalamazoo College flag in front of a horse named Elliot at Cedar Lodge Stables.
Equestrian Team: Shannon Dopp ’28 holds a Kalamazoo College flag in front of
Dopp, pictured with a horse named Dozer, is among five students who will compete in equestrian events this weekend.

“I was only supposed to ride for a couple of lessons, but I absolutely fell in love with it,” McFarlen said. “I’ve been involved in riding hunter-jumper, so I joined the team at K because I wanted to continue to ride in college. I wanted to put all the effort I could into this sport because I’ve been in love with it for about 10 years now.”

McFarlen and her teammates—including Sydney Myszenski ’25, Shannon Dopp ’28, Emily Spelson ’28, and Ella Varnhagen ’25—participate in either showjumping—an event that includes the horses leaping over obstacles and fences—or flat riding, which includes walking and cantering. Divisions are split based on each rider’s experience level, usually with five or six students from around Michigan in each. The host barn provides horses, and riders are randomly paired with them through a method such as drawing numbered popsicle sticks, which can be an intimidating experience.

“If you’re not at your home barn, chances are you’ve never ridden the horse you get paired with,” McFarlen said. “The captain has a brochure with a list of the horses, their name, breed and height. Some of them will have distinctive characteristics, too. Some horses will need a riding crop and some don’t. Others might not like handsy riders who pull. The horses have as much personality as people do.”

Sydney Myszenski stands with a Kalamazoo College flag next to Dozer
Myszenski ’25 stands with a Kalamazoo College flag next to a horse named Dozer.
Ella Varnhagen stands with a horse named Percy
Ella Varnhagen ’25, pictured with a horse named Percy, will represent K with her equestrian teammates in a meet this weekend at Cedar Lodge Stables.

For such reasons, McFarlen recommends students have a little background in horseback riding before joining the Equestrian Team. K offers an equestrian physical education class for beginning riders, although a cost is involved. McFarlen recognizes that costs also can be an obstacle for students wanting to participate with the Equestrian Team, with a $45 IHSA registration required yearly and competitions away from Kalamazoo typically involving the cost of an overnight stay.

However, K’s instructors will often lend team members the clothes they need to participate in shows—including boots, helmets, breeches, gloves and a navy blue or black jacket—and the team hopes they will have some fundraising efforts in the near future that will help more students join.  

“We’ve started going out on Saturday morning trail rides, so it’s nice to have a chill time, too, without worry for whether your leg is positioned right or your hands are perfect like you would while competing,” McFarlen said. “It allows us to go around and talk together as a team. The solid group we have is what makes the club special to me and we would love to grow. Even though there are more standard sports, I think we’re just as cool because we’re unique. We’re valid student-athletes, too, and we do this because we love our sport.”

Two First-Year Equestrian Student-Athletes
Dopp and Spelson enjoy time together at Cedar Lodge Stables.
Two Equestrian Team Seniors
Myszenski and Vernhagen are the two seniors on K’s Equestrian Team.

K Joins Network Focused on First-Generation Student Success

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The FirstGen Forward Network—an organization that partners with colleges and universities, philanthropists, businesses and the public sector to catalyze first-generation student success in higher education—has selected Kalamazoo College to be among its newest members this year.

K joins 80 new members and more than 400 other institutions nationwide in their commitment to first-generation student success by boosting student experiences, enhancing academic and co-curricular outcomes, and building more inclusive institutional environments.

The recognition stems from a host of services the College offers first-generation students, which include:

  • The Career Launch Internship Prep Program (CLIPP), which guides students from their first-year through their senior year and empowers them to take control of their career paths.
  • Dinners and group discussions that help build networking opportunities while bolstering success in higher education.
  • A welcome event during Orientation that allows new students to hear from continuing first-generation students who speak about their K experiences.
  • A chance to participate in events related to National First-Generation Day, marking the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The legislation expanded college opportunities for first-generation populations.
First-Generation Student Success Panel at Orientation
A panel of first-generation students welcomed more first-generation students to Kalamazoo College during Orientation in September 2024.

Additionally, a portion of a historic $30 million gift received by the College in 2023 will be used to coordinate campus efforts and focus on a student success model that includes a full-time staff member dedicated to providing support for first-generation students. Currently, 22% of K’s student body identify as first-generation college students, with recent incoming classes ranging from 25–30% first-generation. Understanding how K can best adapt to meet the needs of first-generation students as the population continues to grow at the College and nationally, while providing an environment where they can thrive and achieve their educational goals, has been an on-going strategic goal for the College.

“A Kalamazoo College education provides our graduates with many benefits, skills and experiences that help them lead successful and meaningful lives,” Associate Vice President for Student Development Brian Dietz said. “Ensuring that each one of our students prospers from the full array of these benefits is critical to the work we do as a College, and understanding the unique experiences of our first-generation college students enhances this work. Being a member of the FirstGen Forward Network gives us access to evidence-based practices and resources, and enables us to better identify, understand, and most importantly, remedy the challenges which hinder first-gen students from realizing all they want to achieve at K and beyond.”

Community Breakfast Celebrates Student-Community Connections

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At the College’s annual Community Breakfast on October 1, Kalamazoo College President Jorge G. Gonzalez highlighted the dynamic relationship between the College and the city of Kalamazoo, focusing on the contributions of K students and the shared successes fostered through local partnerships. The event brought together leaders from nearly 40 organizations, including state and local officials, business professionals and nonprofits, all committed to strengthening these vital community connections.

Gonzalez recapped some of the College’s 2024 achievements and emphasized that Kalamazoo College continues to attract outstanding students from across the United States and around the globe, as well as from the local area.

This fall, the College welcomed 314 first-year students and 24 transfer students from 16 states and 10 countries. Diverse in academic interests and passions, he noted that 31 percent of the first-year class is comprised of domestic students of color, 30 percent are Pell Grant eligible, and 25 percent are first generation college students. Among the College’s 1,335 total students, K counts 90 Kalamazoo Promise Scholars and 28 Heyl scholars; last June the College graduated its largest Promise cohort since joining the list of participating Michigan higher education institutions.

Gonzalez highlighted the many ways that K students become an integral part of the Kalamazoo community, working in local businesses, volunteering in schools and participating in community projects. He cited Professor Amy MacMillan’s Principles of Marketing class, which is working this fall with Greenleaf Hospitality Group to build student awareness and interest in their businesses as a potential employer after graduation. He also cited the nonprofit organization Building Blocks of Kalamazoo, which promotes vibrant neighborhoods through resident-led group projects. Originally founded by Professor Emeritus Kim Cummings, Building Blocks is now led by Kalamazoo College alumna Katie McPherson ’08, who as executive director, continues to foster this partnership through summer internships, volunteer opportunities and collaborations with faculty.

Another highlight of K students’ civic engagement is its partnerships with the City of Kalamazoo. City Planner Christina Anderson ’98 is leading the strategic planning process for Imagine Kalamazoo 2035, kicking off with a community read of the book Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design, an activity supported by the City’s outreach and engagement intern, K senior Emerson Wesselhoff.

“The relationships formed through these community projects are transformational,” Gonzalez said, “not only for our students, but for the entire community.”

He also noted that K is proud to stand alongside Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Valley Community College “as part of Kalamazoo’s vision to be an education city.”

After Gonzalez’s remarks, senior Alex Nam, a double major in international studies and German, spoke about his experiences at K. The flexible curriculum allowed Nam to explore across disciplines, from political science to fundamentals of acting. During study abroad in Germany, he taught English at a local business school through an internship. His involvement in the Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Center for Civic Engagement and the Center for International Programs led him to tutor students at Kalamazoo Central High School through the Refugee Outreach Collective. He also taught German lessons at Woodward elementary school with the German department and most recently, he interned at Read and Write Kalamazoo. He told the audience that while he was born in Louisiana, and has lived in Los Angeles, Houston, and Connecticut, after four years at K, he now considers Kalamazoo his home.

President Jorge G. Gonzalez speaks at the Community Breakfast.
Kalamazoo College President Jorge G. Gonzalez speaks at the Community Breakfast. on Tuesday, October 1.
Alex Nam at the President's Community Breakfast
Alex Nam ’25 spoke at the Community Breakfast on Tuesday, October 1, about his experiences within K’s flexible curriculum.

Of his experiences at K, he said, “I saw first-hand how important it was for higher-ed institutions to be closely connected to the communities that sustain them. From tutoring refugee students, to gaining substantial behind-the-scenes pedagogical experience at a non-profit, the robustness of my teaching resume is a testament to the access that K College ensures for its students and the weight placed upon community engagement and civic help…Although four years at K College may fly by —and as a senior I can testify to this—my teaching experiences have made me feel more connected to this community—my community—than I have anywhere else in my life.”

Driving Success: K, Toyota Support First-Gen Students

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This story was written by Kalamazoo College Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations Maria Newhouse.

Kalamazoo College is taking a major step toward providing equal access for talented, first-generation students from South Texas through a new $250,000 endowed fund created in collaboration with Toyota Motor North America. The College has established the Toyota Success Fund to provide critical financial support to these students, helping remove barriers to pursuing higher education. This fund represents an important collaboration between K and Toyota North America, united in their commitment to opening doors for underrepresented students with significant potential.

Over the past few years, the College has seen a substantial increase in applications and enrollment from students in South Texas, particularly from the IDEA schools in the region, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. However, national and local data has shown that retention rates for first-generation students—who made up 30% of the incoming class at the College in 2023—are lower than that of their peers, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support systems.

“At Kalamazoo College, we are committed to providing a transformative liberal arts experience that prepares our students to understand, thrive in, and lead our complex world,” said President Jorge G. Gonzalez. “This endowment—and others like it—will ensure that our doors remain open to students from all walks of life, regardless of socioeconomic background.”

The Toyota Success Fund stems from a pilot program begun in 2019. Since inception, the program has supported three cohorts of Toyota Scholars from South Texas. Toyota’s North American headquarters are located in Plano, Texas. The pilot program provided important insights from students about unexpected hurdles to their success.

“The pandemic, which occurred during the pilot program, really highlighted some previously unseen needs,” said Bob Batsell, a Kalamazoo College psychology professor from South Texas who mentored many of the Toyota Scholars. “Unfortunately, the College wasn’t prepared initially. No one was. Watching the pilot program evolve to truly listen and support students was vital to relieving at least some of their financial burdens so they could focus on being students.”

Toyota Scholars have had the opportunity to meet with their mentors and program staff during their time at K and provide insights and feedback. Based on this feedback, the newly established Toyota Success Fund will offer health insurance and book stipends to qualifying, first-generation students from Texas beginning in fall 2025—forms of aid not covered by other financial assistance yet identified as crucial for student success.

“This program has really benefited me,” shared Tracy Galeana, a member of the Class of 2025. “Without it, I don’t even think I’d be in college.” Galeana, an art history major, recently accepted an internship at an art museum in Brownsville, Texas—an internship that her Toyota Scholars scholarship will help fund.

Classmate Caleb Allen, a history major, echoed Galeana’s experience.  “I don’t think I would have been able to afford this school without it,” said Allen, who is also heavily involved in the College’s theatre department. Allen plans to write an original script to present at a theatre festival this fall before staging a reading as part of his Senior Integrated Project (SIP) in 2025.

“The Toyota Scholars program definitely helped eliminate economic stress,” said Luis Ayala ’24, an avid race fan and recent graduate, who joined a local Porsche racing league in Texas this summer. He was recently hired as an ophthalmic technician at a retina clinic in Austin where he will be training to become a retinal angiographer. Of his time at K as a Toyota Scholar he said, “I am grateful for everything the program offered. I really was able to have a smooth college experience thanks to this scholarship program.”

The endowment is part of Kalamazoo College’s broader efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds, which is also a priority for Toyota North America. “The Toyota Success Fund at Kalamazoo College aligns perfectly with our core values,” said D’Juan Randolph, manager, Multicultural Business Alliance and Strategy, TMNA. “We know that an investment in students today is an investment in the diverse leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow, and we are excited to see what these students accomplish.”

The current scholarship is just the beginning. Leveraging funds raised during the College’s ongoing $190 million comprehensive fundraising effort, the Brighter Light Campaign, Kalamazoo College will continue building on the pilot program’s success to expand support for first-generation students. “The Toyota Success Fund lays a powerful foundation, but our vision extends much further,” Gonzalez said. “We will continue to build an increasingly robust support system so that a Kalamazoo College education is accessible to any qualified student who desires this transformative experience, regardless of financial means.”

Toyota Scholars Year End Dinner 2023
Kalamazoo College’s Toyota Scholars celebrated a year-end dinner in 2023 with Bob Batsell, a Kalamazoo College psychology professor from South Texas who mentored many of the scholars.
Toyota Scholars visit the Stryker corporation
Kalamazoo College’s Toyota Scholars toured the Stryker Corporation in 2023.
Angela Hernandez at Commencement
Angela Hernandez ’23 (left) participates in Commencement ceremonies in 2023.

Grant Seeds Petroleum Byproduct Research at K

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A new grant awarded to a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will provide seed money for new research and support Kalamazoo College students performing lab work over the next two years.

Roger F. and Harriet G. Varney Assistant Professor of Chemistry Daniela Arias-Rotondo, affectionately known to her students as Dr. DAR, has earned an American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund award. The honor bestows $50,000 to her work while backing her lab’s upcoming research regarding petroleum byproducts.

Arias-Rotondo’s lab traditionally develops molecules that absorb energy from light while transforming that energy into electricity. The grant will allow her and her students to take molecules they have designed to act as catalysts and unlock chemical transformations through a process called photoredox catalysis. In this case, those transformations involve petroleum byproducts and how they might be used.

“When you extract petroleum, you get crude oil, and crude oil gets refined to make things like diesel fuel and the gasoline that you put in your car,” Arias-Rotondo said. “The petroleum byproducts that come with it are compounds that we cannot use in our cars or to generate electricity. But if we can turn those molecules into plastics, pesticides or medicines, for example, we would add value to the byproducts. It’s a highly desirable research avenue because we can potentially turn this waste into something we can use.”

Roger F. and Harriet G. Varney Assistant Professor of Chemistry Daniela Arias-Rotondo, pictured with her lab students this summer, has earned an American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund award. The honor bestows $50,000 to her work while backing her lab’s upcoming research regarding petroleum byproducts for the next two years.

The grant requires that at least 40% of the funds be used to support students. Some students currently working in Arias-Rotondo’s lab note how grateful they are, not only to work alongside her, but to be paid for their efforts thanks to similar grants. Will Tocco ’26, for example, said that being able to do summer lab work prepares him for classes and labs during the academic year and can set him apart on grad school applications when institutions look for research experience.

“The grants that Dr. DAR has received in the past have made it possible to be here this summer,” Tocco said. “They paid for me to attend the national American Chemical Society Conference this last spring and present a poster there. They have sponsored my research and all of the expenses that go along with that. They’re the reason why I’m able to be do this work.”

Unayza Anika ’26 added that the lab work reflects the kind of experience students can expect at K.

“It’s obviously rigorous, and it’s teaching me so much more than what I would have learned in classrooms,” Anika said. “It also involves a lot more personal attention that I can get from a faculty member who has a Ph.D. I’ve personally grown a lot.”

“What I really appreciate about this grant is how much of a focus there is on supporting students,” Arias-Rotondo said. “It’s going to help us give students the chance to be in the lab and not have to decide between that and affording something else. The grant helps them do exciting research, and they will learn a lot that’s not just about chemistry. It will also teach them how to conduct themselves in a lab, how to manage their time and how to think like scientists. That’s going to be super important for the future.”

Trout Unlimited Communication Director to Speak at Convocation

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Nicholas Gann ’12 will deliver the keynote at Kalamazoo College’s 2024 Convocation on Thursday, September 12, at 3 p.m. on the Quad.

Throughout jobs as wide-ranging as substitute teacher in Detroit, laborer at a maraschino cherry manufacturing facility, political researcher, roofer, public relations, and tourism manager, and in environments as different as the forests of northern Michigan, the big sky of Montana, the hustle and bustle of Chicago, and the wild west of Wyoming, Gann has recognized how his liberal arts education at K prepared him by developing an open mind, critical thinking skills, and a deep curiosity.

Gann graduated from K with a B.A. in political science and has worked in Montana with Project Vote Smart, a non-partisan candidate research nonprofit; in Chicago with ASGK Public Strategies (later Kivvit, now Avoq), including work on projects for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Fortune 500 companies; and as strategic partnerships manager for the Wyoming Office of Tourism, where he  organized more than a dozen state and federal agencies to develop a shared responsible recreation campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic, and served as part of the larger agency efforts led by the executive director to help Wyoming weather the economic and tourism effects better than many other states.

Since 2022, Gann has worked as a communications director for Trout Unlimited, a nonprofit dedicated to conservation of freshwater streams, rivers and associated habitats for trout, salmon, other aquatic species and people. The organization’s mission is “to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon.”

Convocation marks the start of the academic year and formally welcomes the matriculating class of 2028 into the Kalamazoo College community. President Jorge G. Gonzalez, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students J. Malcolm Smith, Provost Danette Ifert Johnson, Director of Admission Shannon Milan, Chaplain Elizabeth Candido, the Convocation speaker, faculty, staff and President’s Student Ambassadors will welcome students and their families. All students, families, faculty and staff are invited to attend in person or via livestream.

Trout Unlimited Communication Director Nichols Gann
Nicholas Gann hikes in the Snowy Range of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, near Centennial, Wyoming, October 15, 2021. Gann ’12 will deliver the keynote at Convocation on Thursday, September 12, at 3 p.m. on the Quad. Photo by David Lienemann.

Orientation Begins September 11 with Move-In Day

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As much as we love summer, the coming of fall brings an anticipation of new beginnings at Kalamazoo College starting with orientation. Events begin with move-in day on Wednesday, September 11, and run throughout the week with the following highlights as you arrive on your first day. 

Move in 

Resident Assistants and First-Year Experience (FYE) mentors will welcome new students at each residence hall from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Arriving students should collect their orientation folder from the FYE mentors, then see the Residential Life staff to get their student ID and room key before getting settled. Students must finish their health verifications before checking in. Students with incomplete requirements will be guided to the Health Center at the Hicks Student Center. Tip: The morning traditionally is busy, so families are encouraged to arrive later to ensure faster processes.  

Find information 

Stop by the atrium at the Hicks Student Center from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. for schedules, maps, directions, dining recommendations and answers to your questions. The Kalamazoo College Bookstore, in the lower level of Hicks, will be open during that time and offer 20 percent off K imprinted items. If you have questions about connecting to K’s network, Information Services staff will be available in the Harmon, Hoben and Trowbridge main lounges to answer questions from 1–4 p.m. 

Female student arranges her residence hall room during move-in day of orientation
Orientation will begin Wednesday, September 11, with move-in day.

Build community 

First-year students are required to attend three sessions Wednesday evening. First, make your way to Dalton Theatre at Light Fine Arts with your orientation folder by 7 p.m. for the Hornet Student Welcome. The College’s president, dean of students, provost, first-year class dean, college chaplain, FYE mentors and the Office of Student Activities will welcome you to campus. 

Next, meet your seminar group and FYE mentors at 8 p.m. outside Light Fine Arts for introductions. Learn more about the orientation schedule for the rest of the week and get answers to your questions. 

Then, meet with resident assistants and your fellow residents at 9 p.m. to talk about community expectations, living in residence halls, and college policies, and get to know your new neighbors. Trowbridge residents will meet in Stetson Chapel, Hoben residents in the Hoben lounge and Harmon residents in their building’s main lounge. After, take some time to get your room set up, relax and get ready for a full day on Thursday. 

But wait … there’s more! 

Athletic practices for fall sports—including football, men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, golf, and men’s and women’s cross country—have already begun and will continue through orientation week. Feel free to attend at various locations. A program for first-generation students and their families will also be held on Wednesday. Check your K email for an invitation and information. 

We’ll keep you busy the rest of the week with social opportunities, advising appointments, shared first-year experiences and discussions, and information on a variety of important topics to help you start your first year at K. Expect to learn a lot and have fun. For more information on the orientation schedule and move-in day, visit the First-Year Experience website. 

Fulbright Selects Four Recent Grads for U.S. Student Program

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Four members of Kalamazoo College’s class of 2024 have been selected for prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program grants for the 2024-25 academic year. 

Julia Holt, of Owatonna, Minnesota; Teresa Lucas, of Mattawan, Michigan; Ally Noel, of Midland, Michigan; and Danielle Treyger, of West Bloomfield, Michigan; are among the students, artists and young professionals who will represent the U.S. in about 140 countries for one academic year. Chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential, these students and recent alumni will participate in the English Teaching Assistant (ETA) program, which places grantees in primary and secondary schools or universities overseas to supplement local English language instruction and to provide a native speaker presence in the classrooms. 

Since its inception in 1946, Fulbright has provided more than 400,000 participants with opportunities to exchange ideas and contribute to solutions to shared international concerns. The program is funded by an annual appropriation from Congress to the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and managed through the U.S. Department of State. 

For the last five consecutive years, K has been named a Top Producing Institution for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Here’s what K’s representatives plan to do abroad.

Julia Holt

Holt was a studio art major and Chinese minor who studied abroad in Seoul, South Korea, in her time at K. Beginning in August, she will teach English in Taiwan for her Fulbright award.

“Since I had such a great experience studying abroad as an undergraduate, I wanted to travel again and continue making new cross-cultural conversation,” Holt said. “I also wanted to apply the Chinese language skills I learned at K. I am so excited to be an ETA in Taiwan because I hope to utilize not only my Mandarin, but also my artistic and creative skills while teaching. I’m curious to learn how art and language work together as I assist in the classroom. In the future, I can see myself building on my Fulbright with my aspiring career goal of working in exhibit or scenic design, nurturing visual storytelling and intercultural education.”

Portrait of Fulbright recipient Julia Holt
Julia Holt ’24

Teresa Lucas

Lucas, who was a German and psychology double major at K, will spend 10 months in Waltrop, Germany. She had spent six months on study abroad in Erlangen, Germany, where she completed an Integrative Cultural Research Project (ICRP) at a middle school where she fell in love with teaching.

“With the long-term goal of working in education, I hope to gain further knowledge on teaching strategies in international language classrooms,” Lucas said. “I also look forward to continuing to improve my German language skills and exploring the parts of the country I have not yet seen.”

Portrait of Fulbright recipient Teresa Lucas
Teresa Lucas ’24

Ally Noel

Noel was a double major in anthropology/sociology and English at K. She will travel to Savannakhet, Laos, for 11 months to fulfill her Fulbright service at Savannakhet High School.

Noel decided not to study abroad as an undergrad, opting instead to work as a substitute teacher through Kalamazoo Public Schools and as a youth development coach in an afterschool program through Communities in Schools. Fulbright, however, represents an opportunity to learn abroad about global education systems, which are constantly growing, changing and adapting.

“In order to be the teacher that I strive to be one day—one who is receptive, sensitive and present inside and outside the classroom—I knew pursuing an immersive international experience as an ETA was necessary,” Noel said. “My goals while abroad are to expand my understanding of inclusive and equitable pedagogical approaches in an international context while participating and engaging in meaningful cultural exchange.”

Portrait of Fulbright recipient Ally Noel
Ally Noel ’24

Danielle Treyger

Treyger was a business and Spanish double major at K. She studied abroad in Cáceres, Spain, where she tutored children of all ages in English. She also volunteered at a local elementary school and at a nonprofit organization where she taught refugees to speak English. For about 10 months, Treyger will return to Spain through Fulbright to build relationships with students and teachers in a multilingual setting and make a difference in the community. 

“I developed a passion for teaching and working in a multilingual setting in Spain,” Treyger said. “After that, I just knew that my future was there. I felt like it was the most practical next step for me, as I would like to pursue a career that involves teaching, languages, traveling and immersing myself in different cultures. I feel very grateful and lucky to have received this prestigious opportunity.”

Portrait of Fulbright recipient Danielle Treyger
Danielle Treyger ’24