Category: HR Buzz

Springing into warmer weather

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

The snow is melted and scarves are put aside. After months of low temperatures and dark skies, isn’t it delightful to celebrate spring again?

For many people, this wonderful season of new life is a real morale booster. The arrival of spring means more light, and for most of us, possibly a more cheerful mood. Here are a few suggestions on ways to take advantage of spring sunshine.

  • Grab a sandwich and water. Enjoy them at your favorite outdoor resting spot.
  • Consider planting a garden. Bonus: Fresh and tasty fruits and vegetables.
  • Take a brisk walk.

While you are outdoors, why not plan some tasks to ready your home for the warmer months with some spring cleaning? Before you get started, make plan so that you don’t feel overwhelmed by taking on too much—know that you don’t need to do everything in one day or even in one weekend.

  • Scrub Walls, Baseboards and Outlets
    Scrub all the walls — in the bathroom, kitchen, bedrooms and living areas — with a sponge or brush and mild soap and water. This includes baseboards and outlets. Make sure to completely dry outlet covers before replacing.
  • Replace Filters
    Replace all filters including water, range hood and air vent filters. Filters should be replaced every 3-6 months depending on the type of filter you have.
  • Clean Faucets and Showerheads
    Unscrew the faucet aerators, sink sprayers and showerheads, and soak them in equal parts vinegar and water solution. Let them soak for an hour, then rinse with warm water.
  • Clean Out the Dryer Vent
    A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. To clean it, disconnect the vent from the back of the machine and use a dryer vent brush to remove lint. Outside your house, remove the dryer vent cover and use the brush to remove lint from the other end of the vent line. Make sure the vent cover flap moves freely.
  • De-Clutter for Spring!
    Spring is the perfect time to pare down the clutter that’s been accumulating in your home. Before you get started, make a room-by-room plan so that you don’t feel overwhelmed by the prospect of de-cluttering your entire home—know that you don’t need to do everything in one day or even in one weekend.
  • Test Smoke Alarms
    Test smoke alarms and CO detectors and change out batteries as needed. It only takes a few minutes and can save lives.

HR Buzz: Did you know?

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Did you know that there are plenty of resources located on the Employee Relations page of the HR site? These resources are intended to support each of us as a whole person, both inside and outside of the workplace.

Examples of available resources include:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP is a free, confidential service available to help with life’s matters including child/elder care, financial services, wills and directives, and access to counseling services.
  • Paid time off. Information about vacation, bereavement, holidays, and more. By the way, the 2021-22 holiday calendar is posted.
  • Ambrose Prize. Submit a nomination for a staff colleague for this prestigious award. Nominations are accepted through Friday, April 2.
  • Family and Life. Explore the region, locate childcare resources, and other items of possible interest.

If you have a resource suggestion for our colleagues, please contact Renee Boelcke at renee.boelcke@kzoo.edu.

HR Buzz: Spotlight on Human Resources

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Kalamazoo College is comprised of many dedicated and talented people. Each month, HR Buzz will focus on a group of our colleagues in an effort to learn more about the brilliant, wonderful individuals with whom we work. Kicking things off, we will focus on the Office of Human Resources.

Number of unit members: Three – Jenn Williams, Miasha Wilson, Renee Boelcke

Member with longest service
Jenn has the most time at K while Miasha has the most time in K’s Office of Human Resources.

Surprising facts
Jenn: My first degree was in drafting and design.  I still love to design, build and repurpose things in my free time!
Miasha: I don’t have a favorite color. I love them all equally.
Renee: I find great joy in creative socks – the more unexpected, the better. My Fruit Loop socks are my favorite!

How would you describe your unit in three words?
Miasha: Approachable, Knowledgeable, Discreet
Jenn: Caring, Understanding, Supportive
Renee: Creative, Dedicated, Thoughtful

Message for K community:
Renee: I look forward to the day when we can see each other in person and celebrate the amazing accomplishments that we collectively achieved.
Jenn: My message to my K community is a message of H.O.P.E. after what we’ve endured the last year!  I wish you all a future of Happiness, Optimism, Positivity, and Enthusiasm! Be well and see you all soon!
Miasha: Stay Safe! Looking forward to see you all soon.

Human Resources

State of Michigan offers free education

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

If you (or someone you know) is age 25 or older, and thinking about going back to school to pursue an associate’s degree or a skills certificate, now might be the time!

The State of Michigan is offering free tuition at in-district community colleges to those who qualify.

Visit Michigan Reconnect to find a list of eligible colleges, to apply, and more. The online application process is relatively short and award results are typically provided immediately after submission.

Check out the Michigan Reconnect FAQ page or contact the Customer Care Center at 517-636-7000 with questions.

COVID-19 Vaccination Interest Survey

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Kalamazoo College faculty and staff may be able to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination on campus when the vaccine is more widely available. Understanding the interest and questions of our community will help inform the next steps.

Visit to participate. All responses are anonymous.