Seniors on the Kalamazoo College swimming and diving teams recognized their Most Valuable Professors prior to the home meet on Saturday, Jan. 29.
Senior Katie Gierlach has selected Dr. Isabel Pena y Valenzuela from the Biology Department as her Most Valuable Professor. Katie attributes Dr. Pena as a big influence in her learning and development throughout her time at K. Katie has always enjoyed the positive and collaborative learning environment that Dr. Pena creates in her classroom. Katie appreciates Dr. Pena’s help outside of the classroom as well, helping her find research, internship, and job opportunities.
Our next MVP is Dr. Darshana Udayanganie from the Economics Department, selected by senior Griffin Halloran. Griffin appreciates Dr. Udayanganie for their help and guidance with his Senior Individualized Project, their influence on his pursuit of a degree in Economics, and all of the knowledge learned in the classroom.
Senior Mary Trimble has selected Dr. Regina Stevens-Truss from the Chemistry Department as her MVP. Mary credits Dr. Stevens-Truss with helping her through an incredibly challenging subject matter. Dr. Truss gave Mary the self-confidence she needed to be successful in class and even pursue her career as a physician’s assistant.
Our next MVP is Dr. Hannah Apps from the Economics Department, selected by senior Emily Tenniswood. Emily appreciates Dr. Apps for her encouragement and understanding when it comes to balancing academics with participating in collegiate sports. Emily has always enjoyed class with Dr. Apps because she keeps the environment interesting, engaging, and understandable.
Senior Nicholas Nerhood has selected Dr. Sandino Vargas-Perez from the Computer Science Department to recognize as his Most Valuable Professor. Nicholas commends Dr. Vargas-Perez for his efforts to make class entertaining. He appreciates that Dr. Vargas-Perez is always available for assistance and support, and is very understanding about having to miss class for a swim meet. Nicholas is thankful for all the help that Dr. Vargas-Perez has provided in regard to his academic success.
Our next MVP is Dr. Kathryn Sederberg from the German Department, selected by senior Ella Palacios. Ella appreciates Dr. Sederberg for always supporting students’ growth and excellence. She is readily available to meet outside of the classroom and offer help and guidance; and for that, Ella is very grateful.
Senior Eve Petrie has selected Dr. Eric Barth from the Math Department to recognize as her MVP. Eve credits Dr. Barth with restoring her confidence in her math skills, allowing her to achieve at a higher level in his classroom. She appreciates that his classes were always engaging and entertaining – she always looked forward to attending. She is beyond grateful for the inspiration that Dr. Barth provided for her to pursue a career in math.
Our next MVP is Dr. Maldonado-Estrada from the Religion Department, selected by senior Olivia Anderson. Olivia credits Dr. Maldonado-Estrada’s classes as ones that have challenged, rebuilt, and deepened her understanding of the human experience. Olivia appreciates her being understanding and supportive in other aspects of life – not just in the classroom. Olivia is grateful to have met Dr. Maldonado-Estrada; as she would not be who she is today without her.
And finally, senior Tyler Sakalys-Moore has selected Dr. Bruce Mills from the English Department as his Most Valuable Professor. Unfortunately, Dr. Mills had another commitment today and cannot be here. Tyler appreciates Dr. Mills for his kindness and his genuine care for each of his students. Tyler claims that Dr. Mills’ support and understanding have had an enormous impact on his college experience at Kalamazoo.
On behalf of the athletic department, THANK YOU to these Most Valuable Professors for being such positive influences for our student-athletes. Your work is greatly appreciated!
Kalamazoo College senior athletes have the opportunity to recognize their Most Valuable Professors throughout the 2021-22 season.