Category: Uncategorized

It’s Black Joy Week – You are Invited!

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Mark your calendars for a week of community, fun, and JOY!

Black Joy Week Fundraiser

This year’s celebration will also include a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible work and recent successes of Cradle Kalamazoo, whose mission is to “reduce infant death and promote respect for families, women, and their children.”

We are inviting members of our community to make a donation to this worthy cause to support this important and meaningful work. Every contribution, big or small, helps sustain efforts to reduce Black infant mortality in our county and ensure that all babies, especially Black babies, can thrive in our community. Make your gift by June 19 and receive a Black Joy Week tshirt!

Learn more about the Cradle Kalamazoo Fundraiser.

Select the dates below for more details

Monday, June 1: Black Joy Week Picnic

Lower Quad: 11am – 1pm

Like years past, kick-off Black Joy Week with music, good food, and more! Hamburgers, hot dogs, and some sides. 

Tuesday, June 2: 3 v 3 Basketball Game (Register now!)

Anderson Athletic Center: 4:30pm

Sign-up or come watch! 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals and prizes will be awarded to the winning teams + bragging rights!

Rules: 3-4 people per co-ed team with at least 1 female on the court at all times.

Sign-up by June 1, 2026

Wednesday, June 3: Paint, Punch, Popsicles

Quad (rain: Hicks): 11am – 1pm

Spark joy and rejuvenate yourself through art and somatic movement! 

Join us for painting or joyful movement with Heather Mitchell. Students are welcome to paint a canvas, small flowerpot, or tote bag.

Thursday, June 4: Throwback Thursday

Quad: 11am – 1pm

Don’t miss dancing with the Black Student Organization (BSO)! Music will be provided by our very own Dr. Ron Dillard.

Friday, June 5: Scavenger Hunt

All over campus: All day

Start The Hunt!

Team up and take on a campus‑wide scavenger hunt filled with clues, challenges, and surprises. Whether you’re in it to win or just to explore, this is all about connection, laughter, and discovery.

Hot tip: there may be some great prizes in store for scavenger hunt winners!

THANK YOU for making Black Joy Week happen!

Black Joy Week could not be accomplished without the hard work, love, and care from our community.

  • Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Department
  • Black Student Organization (BSO)
  • Center for Civic Engagement
  • Coach Nick Giard
  • Human Resources
  • Information Services
  • Intercultural Center
  • President’s Office

Final Reminder: Help Shape Future Faculty/Staff Engagement

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

THANK YOU to the 80+ faculty and staff who already participated in the campus engagement survey

This survey is an opportunity to share your perspective on faculty and staff activities—what’s working, what’s not, and where we can make engagement more meaningful, accessible, and cost‑effective. Your feedback directly helps inform future decisions that shape our campus experience.

A few things to know:

  • The survey takes about 5–7 minutes to complete
  • Participation is voluntary and all questions are optional
  • Responses are anonymous, unless you choose to share identifying information
  • Ideas of all sizes are welcome and valued


The survey closes May 1, 2026. You are encouraged to add your voice and help guide future engagement efforts.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and for everything that you contribute to our community.

Human Resources

2026–27 Holiday Schedule Now Available

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

We’re happy to share that the 2026–27 Kalamazoo College Holiday Schedule is now available on the Human Resources website.

The holiday schedule outlines all College‑observed paid holidays and holiday break days for the upcoming fiscal year. Employees are encouraged to review the schedule when planning time off, coverage, and personal calendars for 2026–27.

👉 View the full 2026–27 Holiday Schedule

A Few Helpful Reminders

  • Paid holidays apply to benefit‑eligible employees who are scheduled to work on the day the holiday is observed.
  • Holiday eligibility and pay follow the College’s Holiday Policy and Procedures.
  • Holidays that occur during approved vacation time do not count against vacation balances.

As always, the Human Resources team is here to help. If you have questions about holiday eligibility, scheduling, or paid time off, please contact HR at human.resources@kzoo.edu.

We wish you a wonderful year ahead at K!

Celebration of Life Scheduled for Hardy Fuchs

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

On behalf of his family, Kalamazoo College shares details of the Life Celebration for Professor Emeritus of German Language and Literature Hardy Fuchs, who passed away on February 3, 2026. Dr. Fuchs served the College for more than three decades as a faculty member, department chair and soccer coach, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues.

A Life Celebration will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. EDT in Stetson Chapel at Kalamazoo College. A reception will follow in the Olmsted Room in Mandelle Hall.

Learn more about Dr. Fuchs’ rich life by reading his obituary.

Re-Connection After the Break: Belonging, Check-Ins, and Easing Back Into Routines

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Returning to work after an extended break—whether for winter holidays, term transitions, or planned time away—can feel both refreshing and disorienting. While time off supports rest and recovery, re-entry often brings emotional, cognitive, and social adjustments. Focusing intentionally on re-connection after the break helps employees regain a sense of belonging, re-establish routines, and transition back into work with greater ease and wellbeing.

Develop A Sense of Belonging

A sense of belonging is a foundational component of workplace wellness. Research shows that employees who feel connected and valued are more engaged, resilient, and productive. According to the American Psychological Association, social connection and psychological safety are key contributors to our mental health, particularly during periods of transition. After time away, even familiar environments can feel momentarily unfamiliar, making deliberate efforts toward inclusion and re-connection especially important.

Use Intentional Check-ins

One simple but powerful strategy is the use of intentional check-ins. Brief team or one-on-one check-ins provide space for you to share how you are doing, clarify priorities, and re-anchor in shared goals. These conversations need not be lengthy or overly personal; even a few minutes of genuine acknowledgment can help individuals feel seen and supported. Regular check-ins have been linked to improved morale and trust, especially when leaders model openness and empathy (Gallup, 2023).

Re-establish A Routine

Easing back into routines is another critical aspect of post-break wellness. Productivity often dips temporarily after time off, which is both normal and expected. Rather than pushing for immediate peak performance, wellness-centered workplaces encourage gradual re-engagement. Re-establishing daily rhythms—such as consistent start times, prioritized task lists, and scheduled breaks—supports cognitive focus and reduces stress. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health emphasizes that predictable routines and manageable workloads play an important role in reducing burnout and supporting sustained performance.

Restore Social Ties

Re-connection also includes restoring social ties. Informal interactions—such as greeting colleagues, sharing brief updates, or participating in team gatherings or staff meetings—help rebuild relational continuity after time away. These moments reinforce the idea that we are not just workers, but members of a community. Even small gestures, like welcoming messages or team acknowledgments, can meaningfully signal belonging and appreciation.

Ultimately, re-connection after a break is not about rushing forward, but about grounding ourselves again—individually and collectively. By prioritizing belonging, engaging in meaningful check-ins, and allowing space to ease back into routines, we can support both well-being and effectiveness. A thoughtful re-entry sets the tone for the months ahead and fosters a workplace culture that values humanity as much as productivity.

Reflection: What’s one small thing you could do today to help your future self feel more connected to our community?

References
  1. American Psychological Association. (2023). Workplace well-being: What it is and how to build it. https://www.apa.org
  2. Gallup. (2023). State of the global workplace: 2023 report. https://www.gallup.com
  3. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (2022). Stress at work. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh

Prioritizing You This June: How to Celebrate Professional Wellness Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

June is Professional Wellness Month, a time for all of us to take a step back and focus on our overall well-being. Whether you’re working on campus, remotely, or in a hybrid setting, this month is about more than just your job performance—it’s about your health and happiness at work.

What Is Professional Wellness?

Professional wellness means feeling balanced, supported, and fulfilled in your job—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. It’s about building strong relationships with coworkers, practicing healthy habits, and creating boundaries that support your well-being. According to the NWF Health Network, celebrating this month includes making positive changes like choosing healthier snacks, standing more during the day, and engaging in workplace connections that bring joy and support.

Mental and Emotional Health: Your Foundation

Mental and emotional wellness are at the heart of how we show up at work each day. If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected, it’s okay—and important—to acknowledge it. You can take small steps like:

  • Talking to a trusted coworker, mentor, or a professional using our free employee assistance program (EAP) benefit
  • Using your paid time-off without guilt
  • Practicing mindfulness during breaks (even 5 minutes helps!)
  • Journaling or checking in with yourself emotionally

Remember, healthy communication and asking for support isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. When you take care of your mind first, everything else becomes more manageable.

Social Wellness: Relationships Matter

A big part of wellness is the people around you. Positive work relationships can improve your job satisfaction and reduce stress. This month, challenge yourself to:

  • Reach out to a colleague you don’t usually talk to
  • Join a committee or group at work, like a wellness or engagement team
  • Say “thank you” more often—gratitude creates connection
  • Eat lunch with someone instead of alone at your desk (when possible)

The NWF Health Network points out that social connections can actually improve your physical and mental health, so building community at work is worth the effort (NWF Health Network, 2024).

Karnival 2024
Your Physical Health Deserves Attention Too

Let’s be honest—work can be sedentary. But movement, nutrition, and hydration are essential, even during a busy day. Try these quick wellness wins:

  • Use a standing desk or stretch once an hour
  • Bring healthier snacks or plan balanced meals
  • Set a water reminder to stay hydrated
  • Walk during meetings or breaks

Even small changes can have a big impact on your energy levels and focus. Your body will thank you!

Taking Ownership of Your Wellness

This month is a great time to reflect: What’s working for you, and what’s draining you? Think about what boundaries or habits you might need to protect your wellness. That could mean saying “no” to non-essential tasks, taking a real lunch break, or building time into your calendar for self-care.

Wellness Is a Team Effort

While the College plays a role in offering benefits and resources, you are your best advocate. Use this month to explore what resources are available—like wellness challenges, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or staff social events—and actually make use of them.

If your team doesn’t have a strong wellness culture yet, consider being the spark. You might be surprised at how many of your colleagues are craving the same support and balance.

Final Thought

Professional Wellness Month is about one thing: you. Your health, your happiness, your peace of mind. Take the time to check in with yourself, build better habits, and connect more meaningfully with those around you. Because when you feel good, you do good—in life, at work and everywhere else.

References
NWF Health Network. (2024). Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/professional-wellness-month/
NWF Health Network. (2024). June is Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/june-is-profession-wellness-month/

Summer Hours 2025

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Spring term has started, snow is gone, and trees are waking from their slumber. It must be time to announce 2025 Summer Hours!

Regular business hours between June 16, 2025 through August 29, 2025 will be:
Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. – 2:00 p.m + 3 paid hours

There is no reduction in the amount of paid time, however the workweek is reduced by 3 hours during summer hours.
Visit the link below for more details.

sunblock, hat, sunglasses, beach

Summer Hours

🕒 Take 6 Minutes for Your Future!🕒 

Posted on by Renee Boelcke
How will you use your time and finances in retirement

Definition of “retiree” at Kalamazoo College

Why You Should Try The TIAA 6 Minute Check-Up

  • Fast & Easy: Only 6 minutes to get a snapshot of your retirement readiness.
  • Personalized Insights: Tailored recommendations to help you stay on track.
  • Peace of Mind: Ensure your retirement plan is aligned with your goals.
  • Don’t Stop There: How you will use your time in retirement.

How to Get Started:

  1. Log In: Access your TIAA account online.
  2. Find the Check-Up Tool: Look for the 6-minute check-up tool.
    • Select: Plan & Learn/Take our 6-minute check up, or
    • A 6-minute check up box may appear in the center of your screen, if it’s been a while since you logged in to your TIAA account.
  3. Review & Adjust: Follow the steps to review your current plan and make any necessary adjustments.
  4. Optional Individual Counseling Sessions: Experts through TIAA are available to assist you, at no charge to you, through a few different avenues.
    • In-person/virtual sessions may be scheduled on the TIAA site.
      • Ryan Hallowell will be on campus on January 28, February 11, and March 11.
    • On-demand sessions may be initiated by logging in to your TIAA account.
    • TIAA representatives are available every weekday from 8:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (ET) at 1.800.842.2252.

Don’t Wait! Your future self will thank you. 🌟

Important considerations when developing your retirement routine

Key ideas to fill your time in retirement
Develop hobbies

Revisit old hobbies or explore new ones like gardening, painting, reading, playing music, crafting, cooking, photography, or birdwatching.

Travel

Plan trips to places you’ve always wanted to visit, whether it’s a local getaway or an international adventure.

Volunteer

Give back to your community by volunteering at a local charity, school, or organization that aligns with your passions.

Learn new skills

Take classes to learn a new language, play an instrument, or delve into a subject you’ve always been curious about.

Stay active

Engage in regular exercise like walking, swimming, biking, or joining a fitness class to maintain your health and well-being.

Spend time with loved ones

Dedicate more time to connecting with family and friends, attending gatherings, or planning special outings.

Part-time work

Consider a part-time job that is fulfilling and allows you to use your skills while maintaining a flexible schedule.

Community involvement

Join local clubs or groups based on your interests, such as book clubs, gardening clubs, or art groups.

Creative pursuits

Explore artistic endeavors like writing, drawing, painting, or pottery making.

Relaxation and self-care

Make time for activities that help you unwind and de-stress, like meditation, yoga, or simply reading a book.

Set a routine

Establish a structured schedule that includes time for activities you enjoy while still allowing for flexibility. 

Balance is key

Ensure to mix up your activities to include both physical, mental, and social engagement. 

Reflect on your goals

Think about what you want to achieve in retirement and choose activities that align with your personal aspirations.

Seek support

Consider talking to a counselor or joining a support group. Employees can start with our Employee Assistance Program.

HR Buzz: Vaccination Clinic

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

The Student Health Center, Human Resources, and Meijer Pharmacy partner to offer the final on-campus vaccination clinic of the season for faculty, staff, and students.

COVID and Flu Vaccinations

Save the Date!
Wednesday, November 13
11am – 1pm
Health Center
Hicks Student Center, Second Floor
No appointment is necessary – Walk-ins only

The day of your vaccination

  • Bring your completed Consent Form and your health/prescription insurance card
  • Consider wearing short sleeves, or dressing in layers with short sleeves underneath.
  • Check-in when you arrive at the Student Health Center on the second level of the Hicks Student Center.
  • Drink lots of water before and after getting your vaccination(s).

After getting vaccinated

  • Continue to drink plenty of water
  • Eat a balanced meal
  • Consider an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if experiencing injection site tenderness.

Related information

In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter. While influenza viruses spread year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, but activity can last as late as May. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza. A full listing of people at Higher Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications is available. Check out more guidance to prevent seasonal flu (CDC).

HR Buzz: Time to fall back

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Daylight savings time ends at 2am on Sunday, November 3.

This is a good time to

  • Change the batteries in smoke detectors.
  • Pay additional attention to the messages that your body is sending to you. Daylight savings time disrupts the body’s natural rhythms.
  • Examine your sleep hygiene.
    • Maintain a fixed sleep schedule throughout the week
    • Have a regular routine to get ready for bed each night
    • Go “device free” for at least thirty minutes before bed
    • Block out unwanted noise and light
    • Consider limiting your intake of alcohol and caffeine