Kalamazoo College students build community through events like Milwood Middle School’s Milwood Around the World celebration and Phoenix High School’s Newcomer Program visit. They lead campus tours, share meals, and engage in cultural activities—fostering connection, inclusion, and inspiration. These experiences celebrate diversity and encourage youth to imagine themselves in higher education.

Milwood Around the World

Milwood Around the World is a cultural celebration hosted by Milwood Middle School. The event highlights and honors diverse cultures through performances, interactive activities, local vendors, and international cuisine. It brings together students, families, and community members to celebrate multiculturalism. Kalamazoo College students participated by offering creative activities like photography, face painting, and beading, while also engaging with attendees in multiple languages, fostering connection and community spirit.

Phoenix Visits K

Phoenix High School in Kalamazoo offers a Newcomer Program designed to support recently immigrated students and their families as they transition into the U.S. educational system and community. This program provides academic, social, and cultural tools to help students become successful community members. Newcomer Centers are located at Lincoln International Studies School, Milwood Magnet School, and Phoenix High School. ​

Kalamazoo College students actively engage with the Newcomer Program by volunteering in classrooms at Phoenix High School and other sites, supporting Newcomer families through community-based coursework and civic engagement programs. ​cce.kzoo.edu

Additionally, students from the Newcomer Program visit Kalamazoo College every spring, fostering connections and providing opportunities for cultural exchange between the college community and Newcomer families.