Employee Relations

U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week: Using Antibiotics Wisely to Protect Our Future

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week (November 18–24) to promote understanding about the proper use of antibiotics and the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance. The campaign encourages healthcare providers, patients, and communities to work together to preserve the effectiveness of these life-saving medications.

Why Antibiotic Awareness Matters

Antibiotics are powerful drugs that fight bacterial infections—such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and bacterial pneumonia. However, they are ineffective against viruses like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. When antibiotics are used incorrectly—such as for viral illnesses, taken without a prescription, or stopped too soon—bacteria can adapt and become resistant. This means future infections may be harder to treat, requiring stronger or more costly medications.

The CDC estimates that more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the United States each year, causing over 35,000 deaths (CDC, 2023). Responsible antibiotic use protects not only individual patients but also the wider community by reducing the spread of resistant bacteria.

Smart Steps for Antibiotic Use

Awareness begins with informed choices. Here are a few key steps everyone can take:

  • Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Never pressure your provider for antibiotics if they determine they aren’t needed.
  • Take every dose exactly as prescribed. Stopping treatment early allows bacteria to survive and grow stronger.
  • Never share leftover medication. Different infections require specific antibiotics and dosages.
  • Practice infection prevention. Frequent handwashing, staying up to date on vaccines, and practicing good hygiene can reduce your need for antibiotics in the first place.

Healthcare professionals also play a critical role by prescribing antibiotics only when necessary and educating patients about appropriate use.

The Bigger Picture

Antibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time. The more we use antibiotics incorrectly, the less effective they become for everyone. The good news: resistance can be slowed through coordinated action. By practicing antibiotic stewardship—using these medications wisely and only when needed—we preserve their power for future generations.

Your Health Benefits

Your healthcare plan includes preventive care and medical consultations to help you stay healthy and manage infections appropriately. If you’re feeling unwell, reach out to your primary care provider or telehealth service before taking antibiotics. They can help determine whether your illness is bacterial or viral and recommend the best course of treatment. If you use Amwell, please remember to enter the code ASRCOPAYWAIVED to receive this telehealth service at no cost.

Remember: Not every infection needs an antibiotic—but every decision to use one wisely helps protect your long-term health.

References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November). U.S. antibiotic awareness week. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use
  2. World Health Organization. (2023). Antimicrobial resistance fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance
  3. National Institutes of Health. (2022). Antibiotic resistance: Understanding and responding to a global health threat.https://www.nih.gov

COPD Awareness Month: Breathing Better, Living Stronger

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Each November, health organizations and communities observe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month—a time dedicated to education, early detection, and support for the millions of people affected by chronic lung disease. COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a progressive condition that makes it difficult to breathe and can limit daily activities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and millions more may live with the condition without knowing it.

Understanding the Disease

COPD develops slowly, often after years of exposure to irritants that damage the lungs and airways. The most common cause is long-term cigarette smoking, but exposure to air pollutants, secondhand smoke, and occupational dust or chemicals can also contribute. Typical symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent respiratory infections. Because these signs can be mistaken for normal aging or a lingering cold, many people are not diagnosed until the disease has advanced.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early identification of COPD can significantly improve quality of life and slow disease progression. A simple breathing test known as spirometry can measure how well the lungs work and help providers confirm a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, individuals can partner with healthcare professionals to create a management plan that includes medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and smoking cessation.

Living Well with COPD

While COPD currently has no cure, many people live active, meaningful lives with proper treatment and self-care. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs—which combine education, exercise training, and counseling—are proven to improve endurance, reduce symptoms, and increase confidence. Nutrition, hydration, and stress management also play important roles. Avoiding triggers like cold air, pollution, and respiratory infections can prevent symptom flare-ups.

Support from friends, family, and peers is essential. Community resources, such as the COPD Foundation’s online networks and local Better Breathers Clubs, connect patients and caregivers with education and encouragement. For those living with COPD, staying current with vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 is another key step toward protecting respiratory health.

Raising Awareness

COPD Awareness Month encourages everyone to take a moment to appreciate the simple act of breathing—and to protect it. By understanding the risk factors, promoting early testing, and supporting those who live with chronic lung disease, we help ensure that every breath counts.

Your Health Benefits: Preventive Screenings Matter

Your health plan includes free annual preventive screenings—an important resource designed to help you stay healthy and detect potential conditions early. Early detection gives you the best opportunity for effective treatment and long-term quality of life. Take advantage of this benefit by scheduling your preventive screenings with your healthcare provider today. A few minutes of prevention can make a lasting difference for your well-being.

References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/copd
  2. COPD Foundation. (2024). COPD awareness and education resources. https://www.copdfoundation.org
  3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2023). COPD: Learn more, breathe better. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/breathebetter

Small Steps. Big Change.

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

🩺 November is American Diabetes Awareness Month!!!

Did you know? More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and another 98 million have prediabetes—many without even knowing it (CDC, 2024). This November, we’re focusing on awareness, prevention, and the small daily choices that help protect our health.

💡 Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body can’t properly produce or use insulin, causing high blood sugar levels.

  • Type 1 Diabetes – An autoimmune condition that stops the body from making insulin.
  • Type 2 Diabetes – The most common form, often linked to lifestyle and family history.
  • Gestational Diabetes – Occurs during pregnancy and increases later risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Even prediabetes—slightly elevated blood sugar—can be reversed through early action.

🧘 Small Changes Make a Big Impact

The American Diabetes Association recommends a few achievable habits:

  • Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Move your body at least 150 minutes per week.
  • Reduce stress and prioritize rest.
  • Schedule regular checkups and lab screenings.

Even losing 5-7 % of body weight can significantly lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Pro Tip!

Swap one sugary drink for water each day—over a year, that small step could prevent several pounds of weight gain and lower your blood sugar levels.

💼 Your Benefits in Action

Managing or preventing diabetes starts with awareness—and the right support. As part of our health benefits, employees who have been diagnosed with diabetes have access to Teladoc’s Chronic Condition Management program, offering personalized guidance from certified professionals in nutrition, fitness, and blood-sugar management.

Through this program, participants can:

  • Connect virtually with licensed physicians, diabetes educators, and dietitians.
  • Receive ongoing coaching, education, and progress tracking.
  • Access 24/7 support from the convenience of home.

This valuable resource helps employees better manage their condition, stay on track with treatment plans, and make informed choices about their overall health.

🩵 Convenient care from anywhere—Teladoc brings healthcare to you.

Even if you don’t have a diagnosis, prevention is the best medicine. All employees are encouraged to schedule their free annual preventive screening with their primary care provider. This simple checkup can detect early warning signs and help you take proactive steps toward long-term health.

Pro Tip!

🩵 Small steps—like completing your annual screening—can make a lasting difference in your well-being.

❤️ Together Toward Wellness

Diabetes Awareness Month isn’t just about statistics; it’s about empowerment. Every choice—every healthy meal, walk, or doctor visit—moves us closer to lasting well-being. Let’s use this month as a reminder to care for ourselves and support one another on the journey toward better health.

References
  • American Diabetes Association. (2024). Diabetes basics. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). National diabetes statistics report, 2024. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
  • National Institutes of Health. (2023). Preventing type 2 diabetes: Steps you can take.
  • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-type-2-diabetes

Finish Cybersecurity Awareness Month Strong: Protect Your Benefits Logins

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Open enrollment draws many of us to health and financial benefits portals—and that makes October a prime time for phishers and account-takeover attempts. A few evidence-based habits can significantly reduce risk.

Go direct; don’t click through emails.

When you receive a benefits message, open a new tab and type the portal URL or use a saved bookmark. Before signing in, confirm you see https:// and the padlock, which indicates an encrypted connection. This simple step sidesteps look-alike phishing pages and protects credentials in transit (CISA, 2025; FTC, n.d.).

Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA).

MFA adds a second proof of identity (e.g., an app code or security key) so a stolen password alone cannot unlock your account. Federal guidance consistently recommends enabling MFA on email, benefits, and financial portals; where available, prefer phishing-resistant methods (e.g., FIDO security keys or passkeys) (CISA, 2025; HHS OCR, 2023).

Use long, unique passwords (or passphrases) and a password manager.

Reused or short passwords let one breach cascade into others. NIST’s digital identity guidelines emphasize allowing users to create long passphrases and encourage the use of password managers to maintain uniqueness across accounts (Grassi et al., 2020).

Avoid sensitive logins on public Wi-Fi.

Café or airport networks can expose traffic to eavesdropping. If you must connect, use a personal hotspot or trusted VPN, and always verify the lock icon/https before entering credentials (FTC, n.d.).

Keep software current.

Updates patch known vulnerabilities actively exploited by attackers. Make it a habit to update your device and browser before visiting benefits sites; automatic updates reduce the chance you’ll forget (CISA, 2025).

Slow down on “urgent” messages.

Phishing often uses urgency (“Your benefits were suspended—click now”). Red flags include generic greetings, mismatched sender addresses, or unexpected attachments. When in doubt, don’t click; report to IT and visit the site directly via a known URL (CISA, 2025; HHS OCR, 2024).

Treat health portals like online banking.

HIPAA security guidance highlights MFA, secure remote access, and ongoing risk analysis to protect electronic protected health information (ePHI). Even outside HIPAA-covered settings, applying these safeguards to your insurer, HSA/FSA, and retirement portals is prudent (HHS OCR, 2023; HHS, 2024).

If something looks off:

  1. Stop before entering your password.
  2. Screenshot and forward to Help.Desk@kzoo.edu.
  3. For benefits-account concerns, contact HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu and/or the vendor using a verified phone number or URL.

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up, make your benefits logins the safest places you visit online: go direct, use MFA, favor long unique passphrases, avoid risky networks, keep software updated, and report suspicious messages. These habits take seconds—and can prevent hours of recovery later.

References

Health Literacy Month — Your Bridge into Open Enrollment

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Health Literacy Month is about more than reading medical terms—it’s about having the confidence, skills, and tools to make informed choices. That makes Week 4 the perfect on-ramp to Open Enrollment. A little clarity now can save money, stress, and time when it’s time to pick your 2026 benefits.

What “health literacy” really means.

Health literacy isn’t just a patient trait; it’s also how clearly information is designed and delivered. When plan documents, provider portals, and pharmacy tools use plain language, everyone makes better decisions. Your goal this week: turn complex benefits lingo into actionable steps.

Decode your core documents.

Start with the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) for each plan you’re considering.

Focus on:

  • Total cost picture: premium (what you pay each paycheck) + expected out-of-pocket costs.
  • Deductible, copays, coinsurance: what triggers each, and for which services.
  • Out-of-pocket maximum: your financial “ceiling” for the year.
  • Network rules: which hospitals, clinics, therapists, and specialists are “in-network.” Staying in-network is the fastest way to reduce surprise bills.
Use last year to plan next year.

Pull a quick snapshot of your 2025 healthcare use: office visits, urgent care/ER, therapy, prescriptions, imaging, and any upcoming procedures. Then ask:
Will these continue in 2026?
Are your current providers in the new plan’s network?
Do your current medications appear on the plan’s formulary (and at what tier)?
Do you anticipate life changes (adding a dependent, new diagnosis, surgery, or more mental health visits) that could shift your costs?

Translate features into choices.

Preventive care: Confirm annual physicals, vaccines, mammograms, and other screenings are covered at $0 when in-network.
Primary vs. specialty care: If you see specialists often, compare coinsurance and referral requirements.
Behavioral health & telehealth: Check visit limits, copays, and whether your preferred platform is covered.
Pharmacy: Look for mail-order savings, 90-day fills, and preferred pharmacies to cut costs.
HSAs/FSAs: If your plan is HSA-eligible, consider funding it for tax savings and future care; for FSAs, set a realistic election based on last year’s spending.

Make information work for you.

Plain-language summary: Write a one-page “benefits cheat sheet” for yourself with your plan name, deductible, copays, OOP max, and key phone numbers/links.
Teach-back (for yourself): Could you explain your plan to a friend in under two minutes? If not, circle the confusing parts and call the plan’s member services.
Portal power: Log in now, update contact info, turn on two-step verification, and bookmark cost-estimator and provider-search tools.
Ask three: Before enrolling, ask: (1) What will I pay for my typical care? (2) Are my doctors and meds covered? (3) What’s my worst-case OOP cost?

A five-step checklist for this week
  • Download SBCs for your plan options.
  • List your 2026 likely visits, therapies, and meds.
  • Confirm provider networks and drug tiers.
  • Compare total costs (premium + expected care).
  • Decide on HSA/FSA amounts and note deadlines.

Health literacy is a practice, not a personality trait. By turning plan language into a clear, personal game plan, you set yourself up for a confident—and cost-smart—Open Enrollment.

Reference

  1. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Health literacy in Healthy People 2030. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/our-work/healthy-people/healthy-people-2030/health-literacy

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Screening Reminders & Support for Survivors

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

October is a timely moment to put our health first. Breast cancer caught early is more treatable, and national guidance has recently shifted to make screening more consistent and accessible.

Who should get screened—and when?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) now recommends that people at average risk begin screening mammography at age 40, every other year through age 74. This 2024 update responds to rising diagnoses in people in their 40s and aims to reduce mortality, especially among Black women, who face higher death rates. If you’re 40–74 and at average risk, talk with your clinician about getting (or staying) on a biennial schedule. Those with higher-than-average risk (e.g., certain gene variants, strong family history, prior high-dose chest radiation) should discuss earlier or additional screening with their providers.

How does this compare with other guidance?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that people ages 40–44 may choose annual mammography; ages 45–54 should get annual mammograms; and ages 55+ may continue annual screening or switch to every two years as long as they are in good health and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. If you previously followed ACS’s annual schedule, it’s reasonable to continue—what matters most is that you and your clinician align on a plan that fits your risk and preferences.

Why mammograms—and what should I expect?

For most people of screening age, mammograms are the best tool to find cancer early, before it’s large enough to feel or cause symptoms; regular screening lowers the risk of dying from breast cancer. Expect brief compression that can be uncomfortable, but it typically lasts only moments. Scheduling shortly after your period may reduce tenderness.

Know the warning signs between screenings.

Contact your primary care provider or clinician if you notice a new lump, swelling, skin dimpling or irritation, nipple changes (inversion, discharge, or pain), redness/flaking, a change in breast size/shape, or pain that doesn’t go away. Screening is vital, but knowing your baseline—and speaking up when something is different—matters too.

Benefits resources

Kalamazoo College provides a rich, comprehensive benefits package to help you stay healthy and well—but it only helps if you use it. Leveraging your benefits can save you money, and in some cases, save your life.

  • Preventive screenings at no cost: Screening mammograms are covered at 100% on both the Black and Orange medical plans (when billed as preventive care and using in-network providers).
  • $50 screening reward: Earn a $50 reward for mammograms when you enroll in ASR’s Healthcare Choices + Rewards program and schedule with a provider marked by the green trophy. (Program terms apply. Please click on the link for more information)
  • Support for you and your family: If you’re caring for someone with a diagnosis—or navigating your own treatment—contact our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling, caregiver resources, and referrals.
Support for survivors and those in treatment.

Life after a breast cancer diagnosis involves medical follow-up and whole-person support. Survivorship care plans help you track appointments, late effects, and healthy lifestyle goals; reputable tools and guidance are available through the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and American Cancer Society. Peer communities like Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) offer helplines and online groups to connect you with trained volunteers and others who understand the journey. Consider sharing these resources with a colleague or loved one.

What to do this month
  • If you’re 40+ and due (or never started), book a screening mammogram.
  • If you’re at higher risk, ask your clinician about an individualized plan.
  • If you’re a survivor, request a written survivorship care plan and share it with all your providers.
  • Share vetted resources with friends and family; your encouragement can make the difference in someone scheduling their screening.

Early detection saves lives. Whether you are scheduling your first mammogram, staying on track with regular screenings, or navigating life after treatment, you’re not alone—and support is available.

References

  1. American Cancer Society. (2023, November 1). American Cancer Society guidelines for the early detection of cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, September 16). Screening for breast cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/screening/index.html
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, September 11). About mammograms. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/about/mammograms.html
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, July 30). Symptoms of breast cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html
  5. Living Beyond Breast Cancer. (n.d.). Breast Cancer Helpline. https://www.lbbc.org/community/breast-cancer-helpline
  6. National Cancer Institute. (2024, December 2). Follow-up medical care for cancer survivors. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/survivorship/follow-up-care
  7. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2024, April 30). Final recommendation statement: Screening for breast cancer. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/announcements/final-recommendation-statement-screening-breast-cancer-0
  8. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2024). Recommendation: Breast cancer: Screening. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening

Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness: Why Early Action Matters

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Week 2 (October 6–12) is dedicated to Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness, with National Depression Screening Day taking place on October 9. This week serves as a critical reminder that just as we schedule annual physical exams, we should also prioritize mental health check-ins.

Why Mental Health Screenings Matter

Mental health conditions are far more common than many realize. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2023), nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness. Depression alone affects an estimated 21 million American adults annually, making it one of the most prevalent mental health challenges (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2022).

Unlike physical health conditions, depression can be harder to detect. Symptoms often include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep or appetite. Left unaddressed, depression can impact work performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. In severe cases, it may increase the risk of suicide. Early detection is key to preventing escalation and supporting recovery.

Mental health screenings are confidential, brief questionnaires that help identify symptoms of depression and related conditions. While they are not diagnostic tools, they can serve as a first step in recognizing when professional help may be needed. Much like a blood pressure test signals whether someone should seek further evaluation, screenings provide valuable insight into whether follow-up care could be beneficial.

The Role of Awareness and Stigma Reduction

Despite progress in recent years, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking help. Too often, individuals dismiss their symptoms as “stress” or believe they must “tough it out.” Campaigns like National Depression Screening Day aim to break down those barriers by normalizing conversations around mental health and encouraging people to treat it as seriously as physical health.

Raising awareness within our communities—whether at work, at home, or among friends—creates a supportive environment where people feel less alone. Sharing resources, promoting open dialogue, and highlighting the benefits of early action are powerful ways to foster resilience.

Depression in the Workplace

The workplace is often where symptoms of depression become visible. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2022) estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. For employees, depression can manifest as missed deadlines, frequent absences, or difficulty engaging with colleagues.

Employers play an important role by offering education, supportive policies, and access to care. Initiatives such as flexible scheduling, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and comprehensive health benefits can help you navigate your mental health journey without fear of stigma or penalty.

Maximize Our Benefits

Kalamazoo College provides a robust Employee Assistance Program in which all employees receive access to six (6) free sessions with a licensed counselor. Should you like to learn more about the program or use any of its resources, please click the link provided above.

Additionally, employees enrolled in our health plans may access inpatient and outpatient benefits with copayments as low as $10.00 (Orange plan) and $25 (Black plan).  Copayments, Coinsurance and Deductibles on our mental health and substance abuse services match our medical plan equivalent, so there are no surprise prices when you need care.

In addition to health benefits, the College provide wellness programs and initiatives on a periodic basis with the goal of creating a resilient, vibrant and health community. Please click the link provided above to learn more about how you may participate or become involved.

Act This October

As we recognize Mental Health Screening & Depression Awareness Week, here are a few ways to engage and support your well-being:

  • Take a Screening: Online and in-person screenings are widely available. Mental Health America and other organizations offer free, confidential assessments.
  • Talk to Someone: If you notice symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional.
  • Use Your Benefits: Schedule an appointment with a counselor, therapist, or primary care provider to discuss your mental health needs. Kalamazoo College employees can also use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and health plan benefits for support.
  • Attend a Wellness Event: Take part in Mindful Mondays or other campus wellness activities to prioritize your mental health during the workday.
  • Spread Awareness: Share resources in your workplace, community, or on social media to help others access support.

Mental health is health. By prioritizing screenings, reducing stigma, and making full use of available benefits, we can create a culture of care that empowers individuals to seek help early and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

References
  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Mental illness. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/
  3. World Health Organization. (2022). Mental health in the workplace: Information sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-in-the-workplace
  4. Mental Health America. (n.d.). Take a mental health test. https://screening.mhanational.org/

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

October is observed nationally as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), an important time to shine a light on intimate partner violence, its impacts, and how individuals can seek help. It’s a month to raise awareness, break the silence, and ensure those affected know that support is available.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence) can include physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse, stalking, or controlling behaviors. It is not limited to one gender, age, or background—although statistics show women are disproportionately affected.

Why This Matters: Key Facts & Statistics
  • More than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
  • Every month, an average of over 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner. Access to firearms increases the risk of fatal outcomes in domestic violence situations.
  • Almost 6 million women report having had a gun used on them by a current or former intimate partner at some point.
  • Domestic violence affects children, too—many children live in homes where they have witnessed or been directly affected by intimate partner violence.

These numbers show how common domestic violence is, and how far-reaching its effects are—not just on physical safety, but on emotional well-being, finances, and community health.

How to Recognize the Signs

Some warning signs include:

  • Isolation from friends, family, or support networks
  • Frequent fearful behavior or anxiety around a partner’s reactions
  • Unexplained injuries, or repeated “accidents”
  • Extreme jealousy, controlling financial or social decisions
  • Verbal threats, intimidation, or emotional manipulation

Recognizing signs early can help someone seek help before the situation escalates.

Support & Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available and you are not alone.

  • Call The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for online chat support.
  • Local shelters, community programs, and advocacy organizations often provide counseling, legal support, and safe housing.
  • Confidential healthcare and mental health providers can assist with injury treatment, emotional support, and connecting you to resources.
Your Employee Benefits: How We Can Help

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package to ensure survivors have access to meaningful support during difficult times. Please consider taking advantage of the following resources:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Kalamazoo College has partnered with Behavioral Health Systems (1.800.245.1150) to provide a wide range of assistance programs, from legal support to confidential mental health counseling.
  • Care Coordination: Reach out to Stacey Grayson, Care Coordinator, to discuss which options best suit your needs and to receive guidance on next steps.

These benefits are confidential and available to help you or a loved one find the right path to safety and healing.

What Each of Us Can Do

Even if you’re not directly affected, all of us can play a role:

  • Listen and believe when someone discloses their experience
  • Share resources and information
  • Encourage safe spaces in your community or workplace where people feel supported
  • Support policies and practices that protect survivors (e.g. confidentiality, safety planning, protections for employees)
Conclusion

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is more than just marking a date—it’s a time to stand together, inform ourselves, and act. If you or someone you know is facing abuse, please seek help. Support is out there, and everyone deserves safety, respect, and peace.

References
  1. Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. (2024, October). October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Everytown Support Fund. https://everytownsupportfund.org/october-is-domestic-violence-awareness-month
  2. Fairleigh Dickinson University. (n.d.). October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Fairleigh Dickinson University. https://www.fdu.edu/tcc/national-awareness-observances/october-domestic-violence-awareness
  3. The Hotline. (n.d.). Domestic violence statistics. National Domestic Violence Hotline. https://www.thehotline.org/stakeholders/domestic-violence-statistics

🐝 HR Buzz: Don’t Miss Your Chance to Be Part of the 2025 Wellness Fair!

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

The countdown is on! There’s still time to join this year’s Wellness Fair and share your department’s unique contribution to our campus well-being.

This year’s theme is Wellness Passport: A Journey to Health — and we would like every participant to bring something that helps our K community thrive! Big or small, your ideas make an impact.

A few ways you could get involved:

  • Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership: Share ways to strengthen community wellness through equity and inclusion initiatives, dialogue circles, or advocacy resources.
  • Business Office: Share tips for understanding departmental budgets and how they support our priorities.
  • Campus Safety: Provide personal safety tips or emergency preparedness information.
  • Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD): Review any mentoring opportunities for faculty/staff to take a Hornet student “under their wing.”
  • Center for International Programs (CIP): Highlight opportunities to host an international student or participate in faculty/staff travel programs.
  • Facilities Management: Offer winter sidewalk safety tips and seasonal maintenance updates.
  • Fitness and Wellness Department: Provide a listing of physical wellness programs and campus wellness initiatives.
  • Library: Feature inspiring reads or campus borrowing perks.
  • Natatorium: Share information on swim lessons, water safety practices, or aquatic fitness programs.

📌 New Sign-Up Deadline: Friday, August 22, 2025
Email HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu to reserve your table.

Let’s make this year’s Wellness Fair the most engaging one yet — and show how many ways we support each other at K!

Managing Change in the Workplace

Posted on by Renee Boelcke
two people walking away from reader

Whether it is called downsizing or reorganization, the result is the same: some employees are now former employees and those that remain employed must continue with the day‐to‐day operation of the college. The now former employees are faced with the challenge of determining what they will do next. The remaining workforce is left to determine how to proceed.

It is not hard to imagine the range of emotion associated with an unexpected change in employment but we sometimes forget the emotional reaction of staying at the organization. Remaining workers often experience sadness for their co‐workers that are not longer employed and concern regarding their own future. During this time of adjustment, workers are often faced with the additional challenge of changing job requirements, workgroups, and reporting structure.

Some tips for coping during this time of transition

  • Allow yourself the opportunity to grieve the loss of the old. Acknowledging that change has occurred and things will not be the same provides the opportunity to look toward the future.
  • Recognize that new and different do not necessarily equate to less than or bad. The change may offer opportunities. Former employees may find the change to be a personal opportunity.
  • Be prepared for discomfort that may come with change. Many of us are uncomfortable with change and will experience some anxiety as our routines and feelings of normalcy are challenged. Anticipating these feelings and reminding ourselves that it is normal can help us to cope until we develop a new routine.
  • Use the resources available to you. Use your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to find resources to help cope with the emotions of the unexpected changes.

Work/Life ASSIST

BHS MemberAccess’ Work/Life ASSIST multi-media platform provides content to help individuals find resources for their lives. Accessed via the web portal or app, members can explore topics such as mental health, well-being, parenting and more at their convenience.

Accessing Work/Life resources
Member Access QR code

Accessing Online Work/Life Resources

  • Visit behavioralhealthsystems.com and login to MemberAccess using your Employer ID: KZC.
  • Select “Online Work/Life” to access articles, videos, presentations on various topics.

Work/Life ASSIST Features

  • Available in Multiple Languages
  • Wellbeing Articles & Resources
  • Live & On-Demand Webinars & Audio
  • Free Access to TaxSlayer & Quicken WillMaker & Trust
Image of wellbeing dimensions

Your EAP is a free and confidential benefit. Contact BHS by calling 800‐245‐1150 to speak to your designated Care Coordinator about options for support and schedule an appointment with a professional.