Top Achievements of Kalamazoo College Students Revealed
Kalamazoo, MI - The accomplishments of Kalamazoo College students have once again left an indelible mark on the community and the world at large. In a year filled with numerous achievements, our top stories take you through the diverse efforts of student athletes, researchers, artists, and leaders making waves around campus and globally.
One of the standout moments came in equestrian sports, where Libby McFarlen '26, Sydney Myszenski '25, Ella Varnhagen '25, Shannon Dopp '28, and Emily Spelson '28 showcased their skills. Representing Kalamazoo College's Equestrian Team is a testament to dedication, discipline, and personal excellence.
Meanwhile, computer science students, Chau Ta ’25, Benjamin Whitsett ’27, and Cole Koryto ’25, made international headlines after impressing their peers in the International Collegiate Programming Contest regional competition. Their victories not only solidified their bond as colleagues but also put their skills on par with the world's top programming talents.
The College community came together for a creative explosion when Grace Cancro '25 produced an award-winning short film, "A Deadly Affair," at the International Youth Silent Film Festival Detroit regional. Her commitment to filmmaking reflects Kalamazoo College's values of creativity and self-discovery.
Other students have been making waves in their chosen fields as recent discoveries suggest Vivian Schmidt ’25 may play a significant role in advancing research on neurological disorders by studying in Hungary, thanks to a scholarship that supported her travels abroad. Her determination embodies the very heart of what makes Kalamazoo College exceptional - fostering creativity and passion among its students.
At conferences around the country, students represented their campus with pride. In the Midwest Model UN conference in St. Louis, the team took home several awards for their participation and negotiation skills. Similarly, at the National Model United Nations competition in New York, the team secured an Honorable Mention Delegation award - highlighting the students' dedication to learning diplomacy.
In supporting student potential, Kalamazoo College offers Heyl scholarships to outstanding local high school graduates interested in pursuing STEM majors or nursing education. A group of successful 2024 Heyl Scholars has once again set a standard for excellence among graduates from across Kalamazoo County and beyond.
Another inspiring individual is Ian Burr '24, now exploring filmmaking as a potential lifelong passion - an unexpected turning point influenced by his flexible curriculum at K. Their unique journey emphasizes the importance of exploration in making one's aspirations unfold.
Through these stories, we have revealed just how extraordinary our student body truly is. As another remarkable year comes to a close for Kalamazoo College, each new chapter presents a celebration of potential that invites everyone to learn from and inspire the achievements of individuals around us.