Here's What New Leaders are Saying about 2008

We are a community that is resilient and have the community resources and partnerships to make 2008 a great year. It is about having the will and commitment to work for the better...

It is important that we recognize the importance of not accepting that things can't be better and that each of us have the power to make our city even stronger. Specifically, I would like to see a community policing model that strengthens relationships with law enforcement officers and the entire community.
Newly elected Mayor Bobby Hopewell, City of Kalamazoo.

Sen. Tom George on health care

Our community's "safety net"

What's shaking downtown

More places to see and be seen

Want to be a leader?

My outlook for 2008 is very positive. Both school district employees and community members have a tremendous desire to improve what we provide and do for Kalamazoo children.
Approximately 220 people from the district and community are working to craft social and cognitive/academic expectations for children at each year of their development, from 0 to 18. These same individuals are crafting expectations for the adults that support children: our parents, educators, support staff, and community. Each of us has a responsibility in improving the lives of children.
At the same time, we will be completing a Phi Delta Kappa curriculum audit, to determine the extent to which we need to amend what we do in curriculum and instruction to meet the needs of Kalamazoo children.
Finally, we will be encouraging children to "Work hard in school... so you are ready for college and can take full advantage of the Promise." Freedom comes with responsibility; so too does success in life. Our children need to earn the Promise and the opportunities that it provides.
Kalamazoo is a progressive, active community. It is a pleasure to be a part of it!
Michael F. Rice, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Kalamazoo Public Schools

I was asked during the selection process if I have a vision for the Arts Council. Yes, I have ideas of where we can go as an organization and what we can accomplish as a community, but I feel that much depends on you. Can you envision the greater Kalamazoo area bringing the essence of the arts -- creativity, aesthetic enjoyment, personal fulfillment -- to the center of our community life? Can our wonderful arts organizations work together to garner greater funding, more support and more meaningful involvement of people throughout our region and state?
Will you be willing to work with us to find to new ways to develop new artists and take our existing artists to new heights? Will you help pass along to our children and grandchildren a meaningful appreciation for the arts and the role they play in community development?
Anne Berquist, new Executive Director
Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo

As we move into 2008, the importance of every child's life remains in our sights! Student achievement continues to be our highest priority. We plan to keep "raising the bar" with challenging learning experiences, and providing support for all of our young people to succeed. Our focus is to offer the best possible instruction and preparation for potential careers and for life beyond high school.
To get there, we know that quality is never an accident, but happens through intentional, deliberate, sustainable efforts. Along with several initiatives, we will be busy launching the recently approved bond projects which will play a major role in helping meet such future needs.
Marsha A. Wells, Superintendent
Portage Public Schools

The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency will maintain its focus on providing innovative and responsive services to educators and learners through leadership, collaboration and support.
We will continue to seek out every opportunity to work cooperatively with local schools and communities to offer high-quality educational experiences for all students.
As the state strives to emphasize the importance of inter-agency collaboration, educational service agencies must lead the way in building new partnerships.
Ron Fuller
KRESA

I'd like this to be a "year to remember" in joint promotions that include the University, city, region, and private sector. In 2008, I'd like Western Michigan University to see growth in the number of undergraduate, graduate and international students served; enhanced state and national recognition for our talented faculty and students; increased ability to translate our institutional mission and resources in a way that leads to local economic growth; and an acceleration of our efforts to create a WMU School of Medicine. I expect 2008 to be a year of tremendous growth and the start of some long-range developments that will reshape how we see and present ourselves as a community.
Dr. John M. Dunn
President
Western Michigan University