WSW: KVCC President Says New Campus Will Offer Unique Program

Kalamazoo Valley Community College President Marilyn Schlack says a new "healthy living" campus in downtown Kalamazoo will offer programs not found anywhere else in the country. 

Schlack says the focus will be on training chefs for schools, nursing homes, hospitals and other places. She says instead of high-end chefs, they will be trained in the relationship between food and medical conditions. Schlack says that will include the connection between mental illness and substance abuse to diet. She says it will also focus on food safety. 

Schlack sat down with WMUK's Gordon Evans and Kalamazoo Gazette reporter Emily Monacelli for WestSouthwest. Some other highlights.

Affordability

President Obama has proposed a plan to make community college free for many students. Schlack says affording higher education is a major issue. She says the cost of going to school is only part of the equation. Schlack says transportation and other costs can be obstacles for someone going to college, especially older students who hold jobs, have families or both. But Schlack says there are still many unanswered questions about President Obama's proposal. She says that includes the resources that community colleges need to offer a quality education. 

Legacy

Schlack has been president of KVCC since 1982, asked about what she would like to remembered for, she says the people that have been attracted to the college, both students and faculty. Schlack says community colleges have been thriving with additional attention on technical education. But she says community college is also a good way to start toward a four-year degree. 

Skilled Trades

Governor Rick Snyder has made a push for more high-skilled workers. Schlack says the governor's proposal includes money for upgrading facilities. She says there may be many "entry points" for students who may want to come back for additional education. 

Tobacco Free Campus

Kalamazoo Valley Community College's campus went tobacco free January first. Schlack says there has been little push-back from students. She says smoking cessation programs are being offered to students. Similar programs have been offered for faculty and staff since KVCC made the decision not to hire employees who smoke.