The 2023 Kalamazoo College football seniors have selected their Most Valuable Professors to recognize this season. These Most Valuable Professors were recognized before the home football game on Oct. 14.
The Hornets selected Dr. Regina Stevens-Truss, Dr. Karyn Boatwright, Dr. Richard Koenig, Dr. Diomedes Rabago, Dr. Robert Mowry, Dr. Dwight Williams, Dr. Josie Mitchell, Dr. Patrik Hultberg, Professor Amy MacMillan, and Dr. Blain Moore.
Madison Barch selected Dr. Regina Stevens-Truss from the Biochemistry Department as her MVP. Madison chose Dr. Stevens-Truss because not only is she an outstanding professor, but she is kind, funny, compassionate, and, most of all, truly cares about each student as an individual. Dr. Stevens-Truss has been a critical part of Barch's success at K, and people like her make K unique and memorable.
The next MVP was Dr. Karyn Boatwright from the Psychology Department, picked by senior Jon Brunette. Dr. Boatwright could not attend, but Brunette selected her because she is a fantastic teacher for several of his classes, and she agreed to be his senior integrated project advisor this summer.
Ian Burr chose Dr. Richard Koenig from the Art and Art History Department as his MVP. Dr. Koenig could not attend, but he has been a big part of Burr's film and photography journey. Dr. Koenig helped Burr discover the art form and sent him to the New York Arts program, where he got to work on a Netflix show and other productions.
The next MVP was Dr. Diomedes Rabago from the Spanish Department, selected by senior Connor Henney. Henney picked Dr. Rabago because his passion for the Spanish language and culture is contagious, and he truly makes every lecture period welcoming and fun for everyone in class. Henney's favorite memory of being in class with him was when Dr. Rabago had to correct Henney and a classmate for unknowingly using inappropriate language.
Sam Hughes chose Dr. Robert Mowry from the Anthropology and Sociology Department as his MVP. Hughes selected Dr. Mowry for his unparalleled enthusiasm for his curriculum, making every lecture not just a learning experience but a memorable event. Dr. Mowry's understanding and empathy towards students set him apart, ensuring that students always feel heard and supported.
The next MVP was Dr. Dwight Williams from the Chemistry Department, picked by Blake Kelsey. Kelsey selected Dr. Williams because of his unwavering commitment and passion in all his endeavors. Dr. Williams has taught Kelsey more than just about organic reactions, but how to be an active critical scientist and do things correctly. He has shown inspiring care for all his students and his family.
Hunter Kiesling chose Dr. Josie Mitchell from the Chemistry Department as his MVP. Dr. Mitchell could not attend, but Kiesling selected her because she always made the class fun and engaging. Dr. Mitchell genuinely cares about the students' success, which is what makes her so unique. She is special and so many students love her and her values.
The next MVP was Dr. Patrik Hultberg from the Economics Department, whom Jack Miller selected. Miller picked Dr. Hultberg because he constantly challenges his students to think critically in his courses and is highly effective as a professor. Dr. Hultberg is excellent at breaking down concepts to make them easier to understand, making his lessons enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Dustin Noble chose Professor Amy MacMillan from the Business Department as his MVP. Noble selected Professor MacMillan because she always goes above and beyond in the classroom, being an excellent resource for career advice. Professor MacMillan's classes have always been Noble's favorite at K, but she also has done a fantastic job helping him plan out his K Plan in the role of academic advisor.
The final MVP was Dr. Blain Moore from the Biology Department, picked by Jacob Zeller. Zeller chose Dr. Moore because he appreciates how much help he has given him during class and with his senior integrated project. Dr. Moore helped Zeller devise a plan of action with instructors from other institutions to complete his research and find a supervisor to complete his SIP. His extra efforts were appreciated beyond measure.
On behalf of the athletic department, THANK YOU to these Most Valuable Professors for positively influencing our student-athletes. Your work is greatly appreciated!
Kalamazoo College senior athletes have the opportunity to recognize their Most Valuable Professors throughout the 2023-24 season.