May 12, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good afternoon, NMC community –
I’m writing to share the May 11th passing of former NMC President Tim Quinn, a leader whose influence continues to shape our college and community. His thoughtful leadership, deep commitment to student opportunity, and belief in collaborative governance left an enduring mark on NMC.
President Quinn led the college from 1989-1996, a tenure which would prove pivotal for NMC. During his presidency the college established the shared governance structure we continue to use today. It was also under Quinn that NMC successfully passed a Grand Traverse County property tax millage in perpetuity. This stable source of funding is an invaluable resource as the college continues to thrive, thirty years after his presidency.
According to his partner, Shelley Keith, Quinn’s proudest achievements at NMC were the formation of the University Center and the Commitment Scholarship for first-generation college students, back-to-back accomplishments in 1995 and 1996. Since 1996, more than $2.2 million has been awarded to more than 600 Commitment students. Also under his leadership, the Dennos Museum Center opened in 1991. These cultural and community assets continue to benefit all of northern Michigan.
President Quinn came to NMC in 1988 as vice president of instructional services. In addition to his NMC service, he was active in the community, serving on the Munson Healthcare board and as president of the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce board.Following his retirement from NMC, Quinn founded the Michigan Leadership Institute, which developed and led the SUPES Academy, an eight-day superintendent preparation program which trained over 435 education leaders in Michigan between 1998-2008.
Quinn earned a Ph.D. from The University of Michigan and was recognized with honorary doctoral degrees from Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan and Grand Valley State Universities for his statewide leadership in the field of education. Most recently, he accepted the volunteer role of Director of Donor Engagement for Northwest Ed’s foundation, just established in 2024. The Foundation partnered with NMC and other colleges to provide scholarships for Northwest Ed’s career-tech and special education students.
We are grateful for President Quinn’s many contributions and the vision he brought to NMC. His legacy endures through the programs he launched, the lives he touched, and the community he helped strengthen.
On behalf of the college, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and all who knew and worked alongside him. An informal gathering and celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, June 14, from 1-3 pm, at the Hagerty Center. You can read his full obituary here.
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Apr 25, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good afternoon NMC Community,
This week, President Trump issued several executive orders related to higher education. These directives focus on federal accreditation rules, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and reporting requirements for foreign funding. While these national-level changes are still new and evolving, I want to take a moment to connect with you directly, because how we respond, together, matters.
Let me start by saying this clearly: there are no immediate changes required of Northwestern Michigan College today. Our accreditors and federal partners are still assessing the implications, and we are in close contact with the organizations that guide our work. We will continue to monitor developments closely, as we always do, and keep you informed as more becomes known.
You may remember our previous communications during the Trump administration when we shared our commitment to staying informed, upholding our values, and supporting our students and employees through uncertain policy shifts. This moment is no different.
We remain:
- Steadfast in our commitment to student access, success, and belonging
- Attentive to the policies that affect our ability to serve you
- Grounded in NMC’s mission and the trust we have in each other
As of today:
- Your financial aid remains secure
- Our DEIB-related programs and supports in place today continue as they are
- There is no disruption to our operations
If and when that changes, you will hear from us directly. In the meantime, I know the end of the semester is a stressful time for many of you. I want to reassure you that the college leadership team is on top of this, asking the right questions, and connected to the right resources. You do not need to worry or take any action at this time.
Thank you for all you bring to this community. Please take care of yourselves and each other as we move toward the close of another academic year.
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Apr 24, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good afternoon NMC community,
Since 1995, the University Center has helped thousands of students “start here and stay here,” completing bachelor’s and advanced degrees through NMC’s university partnerships.
Now, we’re beginning the next chapter.
Starting later this spring, our university partners will begin relocating to the Front Street campus, with classes beginning there this fall. This move, informed by our Campus Master Plan, creates a more integrated, student-centered experience that reflects how students access education today.
As part of this transition, the NMC Board of Trustees will consider renaming the University Center to the Boardman Lake Campus at an upcoming meeting. The proposed name reflects the building’s location and will make it clearer to students that university partner offices and classes are now located on the Front Street campus. The name change supports our ongoing evolution from a physical hub to a stronger, more flexible partnership model. This is about partnership, not place.
Some NMC departments will continue to operate at the University Center in the near term. As we shared in our recent all-employee Zoom, we’re also beginning to move some NMC teams out of the Beckett Building and into other spaces like Scholars Hall. At the same time, we’re thoughtfully evaluating the long-term future of the Boardman Lake Campus in ways that reflect both student needs and community stewardship.
Thank you for all you do to support students and help move NMC forward.
Warmly,
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Mar 18, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good afternoon NMC community,
By now, many of you have likely heard about the significant reductions at the U.S. Department of Education, where nearly 1,300 employees — almost half the department — were affected by a workforce reduction announced last week. Since the news broke, we have been working to understand the full scope of these changes and what they mean for our students, faculty and staff.
Let me be clear: there are no immediate changes to federal student aid. The Department has confirmed that FAFSA processing, Pell Grants and student loan servicing remain fully operational. Our Financial Aid Office continues to monitor the situation, and if anything changes, students will be notified directly.
At NMC, we are committed to staying ahead of changes that may impact our students. Some federal offices responsible for program oversight and compliance are being restructured, and we are keeping a close eye on any potential long-term effects. Our priority remains the same: ensuring every student has the support they need to succeed.
We recognize that change — even at the federal level — can bring uncertainty. But as always, NMC will continue to adapt, innovate and put students first. If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Aid team at SFS@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1035.
Thank you for being part of NMC. Together, we will navigate these changes with the same commitment to excellence and student success that has always defined our college.
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Mar 12, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Dear NMC faculty, staff and students,
Support a great cause while having fun at this year’s Big Little Hero Race, an experiential learning project led by students in NMC’s BUS 231 class. This event helps students develop real-world professional communication skills while raising funds for scholarships that allow children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program to attend NMC’s College for Kids.
10th Annual Big Little Hero Race Saturday, April 19
9:00 AM – Kickoff @ Northwestern Michigan College
FREE Costumed Fun Run (featuring Captain Hawk Owl!)
5K & 10K Run/Walk – Prizes for best costume and speed
Carnival Games
Hero Egg Hunt (1,000 eggs!)
Award Ceremony
Special Discounts for Educators & Students
This year’s Local Hero Award will honor educators in our community! Teachers and students can register for just $15 using the following discount codes at checkout:
- 5K Student: 5kstudent25
- 10K Student: 10kstudent25
- 5K Teacher: 5kteach25
- 10K Teacher: 10kteach25
Click here to register
Even if you can’t attend, you can still support the cause by entering our prize giveaway for a chance to win: A two-night stay at the Grand Hotel, breakfast for two and two rounds of golf at The Jewel!
To enter:
- Visit Give: NMC Foundation at Northwestern Michigan College.
- Select “designate my gift to other” and enter your donation amount ($20 minimum).
- Type “Big Little Hero Race” in the designation field.
One entry per person. The drawing will take place after the race.
Grab your capes, have fun, and make a difference in a child’s life. I am signed up, and looking forward to the event. I hope to see you there!
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Feb 4, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good afternoon NMC community,
As we navigate recent federal policy changes, I want to take a moment to address another issue that may be on the minds of many in our community. Following new executive orders related to immigration enforcement, we recognize that students and employees may have questions about how these policies could impact NMC and what to do if federal law enforcement officers visit campus.
Just as I shared in my message earlier today about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), NMC remains committed to student success, open access, and fostering a welcoming environment for all members of our community. Changes in federal policy can create uncertainty, but our guiding principles remain the same: we will continue supporting students and employees, ensuring compliance with the law, and upholding our values of open access to education.
NMC’s Approach to Federal Law Enforcement Requests
NMC follows established procedures to balance three key responsibilities:
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Compliance with Federal & State Laws: NMC follows all legally required procedures while ensuring due process is observed.
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Protection of Student & Employee Privacy: Student records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and NMC does not track or disclose immigration status unless legally required to do so.
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Access to Education Without Discrimination: NMC is an open-access institution, meaning that all students, regardless of their citizenship status, can enroll and attend classes in a supportive environment.
What to Do If Approached by Federal Law Enforcement
If a federal law enforcement officer (ICE, FBI, DHS, etc.) comes to campus requesting access to student or employee records or whereabouts, or access to nonpublic areas such as residence halls or classrooms, please follow these steps to ensure a safe and consistent response:
- Refer all inquiries to NMC Security.
- Inform the officer that all such requests must go through NMC Security.
- Direct officers to the Security desk at the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center at (231-995-1111).
- For phone or email inquiries, contact Garrett Croon, Campus Safety Coordinator at (231-715-0003) (cell) or (231-995-1747) (desk), or via email at gcroon@nmc.edu.
- Do not take possession of or sign any legal documents.
- Do not accept service of a subpoena, warrant, or other legal document.
- Instead, refer the officer to Security, who will review the request and coordinate the appropriate response.
- Prioritize safety and cooperation.
- Do not physically interfere with law enforcement actions.
- NMC is considered a Sensitive Location under ICE policy, meaning enforcement actions on campus are generally discouraged unless exceptional circumstances exist.
- Let Security handle the next steps.
- Security is trained to manage these situations in compliance with federal and state laws while ensuring student and employee privacy.
Staying Informed & Moving Forward Together
We know that federal policies may continue to change, and we will remain vigilant in monitoring developments. NMC will continue to work closely with our state and national partners, including the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), to stay informed and advocate for policies that support student success and open access to education.
As we navigate these evolving issues together, I encourage open, respectful conversations and remind you that NMC remains committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning and working environment. If you have any questions about these policies, please reach out to NMC Security, Student Services (students) or Human Resources (employees).
Thank you for being part of our mission-driven and values-grounded NMC community.
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Feb 4, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Good morning NMC community,
I want to take a moment to address the recent Trump administration executive orders related to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) programs. I know that many of you have questions about how these changes impact Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and our ongoing commitment to student success and belonging.
The direct impact of these orders on NMC is minimal. The only adjustments required are within the Great Lakes Maritime Academy (GLMA) to align one course with U.S. Navy curriculum updates. No other programs, policies, or funding at NMC are affected, given the federal-focus of the orders. Our mission remains unchanged: We are committed to open access, student success, and ensuring that everyone at NMC feels a sense of belonging. These commitments reflect the history and purpose of community colleges in general, as well as NMC’s specific mission, values, and strategic plan. Our strategic plan reflects our college’s and community’s priorities (that we shaped together), and we’ll continue to deliver on those priorities.
As we continue finalizing our current strategic plan and looking ahead, we are focusing on engagement and belonging—because research shows that when students feel connected, they persist and succeed. This commitment extends to our employees as well, making NMC a welcoming and supportive place to learn and work.
We recognize that shifts in federal policy can create uncertainty. That’s why we remain engaged with state and national partners, including the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). We will continue monitoring developments, advocating for policies that support student success, and making decisions that align with NMC’s mission and values.
To be clear: NMC is not phasing out DEIB initiatives or preemptively making changes beyond what is required for compliance. We will continue investing in student success, scholarships, and accessibility services to ensure all learners have the resources they need to thrive.
I know these topics can spark strong feelings, and I encourage open, respectful conversations as we navigate changes together. Above all, I want to reaffirm that NMC remains committed to being a place where all students and employees feel valued and supported.
Thank you for being part of our NMC community.
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
Jan 2, 2025 | Intercom, President Updates
Dear colleagues:
Following are our institutional priorities for professional development for 2025-2026.
It is encouraged to link your sabbatical and professional development leave proposals to one or more of the college strategies and/or the college mission.
Faculty Sabbatical Leave Requests – Faculty must submit endorsed requests electronically to the Center for Instructional Excellence (CIE) by January 31, 2025. Endorsements required: three peers and the appropriate academic chair. The application form can be found here.
The CIE board will evaluate and approve applications using the criteria laid out in the guidelines. CIE will make its decision no later than February 28. CIE-approved applications go to the VP for Educational Services and the college President for final approval. CIE forwards the applications to the Vice President for Educational Services for prioritization by ESIMT. The Vice President of Educational Services will then make a recommendation to the President no later than March 1, 2025.
Staff Sabbatical Leave – Salaried staff must submit endorsed requests to Hollie DeWalt, Associate Vice President of Human Resources, by January 31, 2025. Endorsement required: appropriate executive staff officer.
The Associate Vice President of Human Resources will review staff applications in consultation with executive staff by March 1, 2025, and make a recommendation to the President.
Professional Development Project and Leave Requests – Faculty and staff requests should be reviewed as a part of annual goal planning. For both faculty and staff, professional development activities may only be approved as funds are available and budgeted for this purpose.
For more information regarding sabbatical and professional development policies and procedures see Staff HR Policies D-753.00, D-753.01, and D-753.02, and Faculty Chair and Faculty Collective Bargaining Agreements.
Any additional questions can be addressed to Human Resources (ext. 5-2612) or the Center for Instructional Excellence (ext. 5-1046).
Additional Resources:
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Nov 26, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Folks,
Thanksgiving always gives me pause, offering an invitation to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for—and to say thanks to you. An attitude of gratitude seems to be woven into the fabric of our NMC culture. Just this past week, I saw it expressed by students, faculty, and staff alike.
I saw thankful student mentors offering friendship to the Blair Elementary mentees and others engaging in the Walk for Health and Homelessness, showing compassion for those experiencing housing insecurity. I saw Kristy McDonald’s service-learning class handing out Thanksgiving meals, providing members of our community—including NMC students and their families—an opportunity to enjoy a Thanksgiving celebration. I also saw our faculty and staff welcoming TCAPS 5th graders to explore our campus and learn about health occupations. These efforts help young students begin to imagine themselves at NMC and perhaps in a future career in health care.
Day in and day out, students enter our doors. By choosing NMC, they are making an investment in a college education, believing that their time, effort, and resources will pay off in the form of greater opportunities and improved lives for themselves and their families. They trust us to help them move from where they are today to where they hope to be tomorrow. There’s no more meaningful and fulfilling job than ours: to support that hope and help ensure they succeed in that investment.
An added benefit of our community college mission, as you know, is that we not only transform students’ lives but also enrich our community. Community and regional prosperity are central to our work. We have the privilege of serving as leaders in fulfilling this mission: transforming lives and enriching our community.
Lastly, while many issues may divide people today, at NMC, we remain united by our shared values: Learning, Integrity, Collaboration, Respect, Inclusion, Innovation, Stewardship, and Excellence. I am deeply grateful for how our NMC family exemplifies these values. It’s one more reason to give thanks this season.
Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!
Nick
Nov 6, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates
The NMC Board of Trustees Fellows Selection Committee is seeking nominations for the 2025 Northwestern Michigan College “Fellow” award. The Fellow is NMC’s highest honor and the following criteria are taken into consideration during the selection process.
- Demonstrated influential networking on behalf of the College – Exercising helpful influence among their resource networks in public life, academe or business and industry with those who can positively affect the mission of the College.
- Financial contribution – Demonstration of pattern of outstanding contributions over time to NMC.
- Time devoted in the interest of NMC – Exemplifying dedicated and loyal volunteer service over a period of years.
- Retirees – In addition to service deemed extraordinary during their active careers as members of the faculty and staff, retirees who continue to contribute to their academic or professional fields and provide exemplary service back to NMC as volunteers, mentors or advisors shall be considered.
Exceptional contributions in one or more of these areas may justify nomination. No staff, faculty, or trustee shall be named a Fellow while still employed or in office. A list of previously selected Fellows can be found here for your reference.
Please complete the nomination form to nominate a worthy candidate. Nominations may be submitted to the President’s Office and via e-mail to nmcpresident@nmc.edu by Monday, December 2, 2024.
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Nov 1, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Dear NMC Students, Faculty and Staff:
I hope you are having a successful fall semester! As we welcome November, I look forward to spending time with friends and family over a Thanksgiving meal. I am asking for your help to ensure we can all share in this important tradition.
Recently, instructor Kristy McDonald invited me to a business communications class to see their experiential learning project in action. These students are improving their professional communication skills while making a real difference in the lives of others in our community, helping feed the hungry (and affording a bit of Thanksgiving joy).
They believe everyone should experience Thanksgiving, and with our help, we can help make this come true. They are asking us – the NMC family – to join in the efforts and fill the red bins by November 20. You can donate individually or join with your classmates or co-workers to share in the spirit of gratitude! Red collection bins are located in the lobby of the following buildings: Osterlin Building, Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, Parsons-Stulen, and the Great Lakes Campus. The class aims to collect:
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- Cans of Sweet Potatoes (29 oz)
- Granola Bars (boxes)
Community members can help by donating $10 or more to win a variety of prizes, including a Cheese Lady gift basket, a one-night stay at the Great Wolf Lodge with water park passes and a $250 gift card, a one-night stay at the Delamar Resort, a $50 gift certificate to Lobdell’s, and other local prizes.
Donations can be made online at nmc.edu/give (Choose the amount, select “designate my gift to others,” and type in “Thanks-for-Giving”). Any additional local companies interested in becoming sponsors of this project are encouraged to contact the students. Employees can also help students apply for a free meal by completing this Google Form (NMC Thanks-for-Giving).
Students are hosting a glow skate event on November 8 at the Howe Ice Arena located in the Traverse City Civic Center from 7 to 9 p.m. Entry is $10 with a $5 skate rental fee.
Having experienced homelessness and food insecurity in my life, I know firsthand what a difference your donation can make for a family in need. I admire these students’ desire to help others this Thanksgiving. Please join me in supporting this effort. For more information or if you have any questions, please email Lily Moon at moon35@mail.nmc.edu or Kristy McDonald at kmcdonald@nmc.edu
Thank you for your help. Together, we can ensure all Hawk Owls have a memorable Thanksgiving!
Nick
Sep 18, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates
Good afternoon NMC community,
I am writing to inform you about an important change in how Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) will manage its facilities operations moving forward. After careful consideration, NMC has decided to end its long-standing contract with Sodexo, which has provided facilities management services for our college since 2006. Effective November 30, 2024, we will transition to an internal facilities management model, with NMC directly hiring employees to fill these roles and oversee these essential operations.
Why are we making this change?
This decision reflects our ongoing commitment to agility, responsiveness, and alignment with NMC’s strategic goals. By bringing the facilities management team in-house, NMC will be better positioned to adapt to the evolving needs of our students, staff, and campus. This move will also allow us to focus more directly on professional development, ensure stronger alignment with our mission, vision, and values, and enhance communication across all levels of facilities operations.
Additionally, we are excited to announce that we will be hiring two new critical positions as part of this reorganization:
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Campus Safety Coordinator: This new full-time role will report directly to the Vice President for Finance and Administration and be responsible for safety, security, emergency management, occupational and environmental health and safety, and more. Previously, this position reported through facilities and was provided through our Sodexo contract in a half-time capacity.
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Facilities Project Manager: This new full-time role will report to the Director of Facilities and focus on the execution of our recently approved campus master plan, ensuring that we are prepared to meet the challenges of the future.
We are able to add these new positions with no additional costs to the college due to the savings we will realize from ending the Sodexo contract as well as savings from project management/owner’s representative consulting services that would otherwise be necessary for our large construction projects.
What does this mean for Sodexo employees?
Our contract with Sodexo will end on November 30, 2024, and with it, the roles of five Sodexo employees who have served NMC will conclude. We recognize and are grateful for their contributions to our college community over the years. These individuals have played a valuable role in keeping our campus running smoothly, and while their next steps will be managed by Sodexo, we wish them the very best in their future endeavors.
What’s next?
We understand that there may be some concerns about service disruption during this transition. While there may be some temporary slowdowns, we are working diligently to prioritize the hiring of these positions to ensure minimal disruption. Our facilities and security teams will continue to manage day-to-day operations, and we remain committed to providing the best possible experience for everyone on campus.
We appreciate the work that Sodexo and its employees have done for NMC over the years. However, as we look ahead, we are confident that this transition will position the college for long-term success, allowing for greater control, improved efficiency, and alignment with our strategic objectives.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work through this transition. I’d like to thank Troy Kierczynski and Hollie DeWalt for their leadership of this change. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Aug 28, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates
Dear NMC community,
With a mixture of disappointment and pride, I am writing to inform you that on Thursday, NMC’s Board of Trustees will consider a resolution requesting that the Benzie County Clerk withdraw the annexation questions previously approved for the Nov. 5 ballot.
I am disappointed that Benzie voters will not have the opportunity to access more affordable — even free in many cases — education and skills training via annexation. However, I am proud to recommend this action to the Board based upon our shared NMC values of integrity and respect.
Last Wednesday, Aug. 21, NMC learned we cannot expand our Board of Trustees to include two Benzie residents, which was stated in the ballot language. This language had undergone review at multiple points at the state and local levels. Upon learning of the error, we attempted to correct the language in collaboration with the Benzie County Clerk so voters could make the best decision for themselves based on accurate information. We were not successful.
For the entire 73 years of our history, NMC has built a reputation of trust and honesty. I am not willing to risk that reputation by continuing an annexation effort that included inaccurate information. Therefore I am recommending to the Board that we suspend our effort and withdraw the proposals. Tomorrow, they will consider a resolution to do so formally.
Following that decision, NMC intends to step back, regroup, and determine how to best move forward, in Benzie and beyond, since northern Michigan families deserve the same access to higher education as the rest of the state. We extend our thanks to the leaders and supporters of Yes 4 Benzie, many of whom have been involved with the effort for more than a year. Northwestern Michigan College is an oasis in a higher education desert, and remains committed to bringing affordable, accessible higher education and skills training to our entire region.
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Jan 23, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates
Dear NMC community,
Trustee Rachel Johnson shared with the Board of Trustees last night she is resigning from her position for personal reasons.
Trustee Johnson first joined the board in November 2016. During her tenure she served as Chair and Vice Chair, as well as a member of the Presidential Search Committee, Presidential Performance & Compensation Committee, Executive Committee, Strategic Planning Steering Committee and Foundation Board. During this time she has exemplified our NMC values, especially those of integrity, respect and stewardship. Please join me in thanking her for her service to our college community.
Michigan law requires the Board to appoint a replacement trustee within 30 days, who will fill the term until the next regular community college election. That election is in November 2024. Registered voters of Grand Traverse County are eligible to apply for the vacancy.
Commitments for the non-compensated trustee position include but are not limited to the following:
- Regular board meeting, typically the fourth Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
- Board study sessions and committee meetings scheduled as required
- Annual Board retreat—sometimes overnight
- Participation in other college functions including commencement, receptions, ceremonies, events
- Travel periodically for purposes of professional development and representing the college at various state and national association meetings. Trustee travel is paid by NMC
Applicants should submit a letter of interest and materials explaining their qualifications for the position. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. February 6, 2024. They may be submitted online, emailed to lmoritz@nmc.edu or sent or delivered to:
Trustee Search
Office of the President
Northwestern Michigan College
1701 East Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Application materials are subject to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Interviews will be conducted in special public meetings according to the Michigan Open Meetings Act. Final appointment will be made by the full NMC Board of Trustees at a special meeting on Monday, February 19, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.
Additional materials are available upon request and questions may be directed to the President’s Office at Northwestern Michigan College at (231) 995-1010.
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Jan 2, 2024 | Intercom, President Updates
Dear colleagues:
Following are our institutional priorities for professional development for 2024-2025.
It is encouraged to link your sabbatical and professional development leave proposals to one or more of the college strategies and/or the college mission.
Faculty Sabbatical Leave Requests – Faculty must submit endorsed requests electronically to the Center for Instructional Excellence (CIE) by January 31, 2024. Endorsements required: three peers and the appropriate academic chair. The application form can be found here.
The CIE board will evaluate and approve applications using the criteria laid out in the guidelines. CIE will make its decision no later than February 28. CIE-approved applications go to the VP for Educational Services and the college President for final approval. CIE forwards the applications to the Vice President for Educational Services for prioritization by ESIMT. The Vice President of Educational Services will then make a recommendation to the President no later than March 1, 2024.
Staff Sabbatical Leave – Salaried staff must submit endorsed requests to Hollie DeWalt, Associate Vice President of Human Resources, by January 31, 2024. Endorsement required: appropriate executive staff officer.
The Associate Vice President of Human Resources will review staff applications in consultation with executive staff by March 1, 2024, and make a recommendation to the President.
Professional Development Project and Leave Requests – Faculty and staff requests should be reviewed as a part of annual goal planning. For both faculty and staff, professional development activities may only be approved as funds are available and budgeted for this purpose.
For more information regarding sabbatical and professional development policies and procedures see Staff HR Policies D-753.00, D-753.01, and D-753.02, and Faculty Chair and Faculty Collective Bargaining Agreements.
Any additional questions can be addressed to Human Resources (ext. 5-2612) or the Center for Instructional Excellence (ext. 5-1046).
Additional Resources:
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Dec 4, 2023 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Advocates for Benzie County is sponsoring several listening sessions to hear residents’ needs and concerns regarding higher education access in Benzie County. As the group has been promoting the sessions, NMC wanted to ensure that our students and employees have also heard about the sessions. The dates, times, and locations are listed below.
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- Monday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m., Frankfort (City Hall)
- Tuesday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m., Benzonia (Mills Community House)
- Thursday, Dec. 7, 3 p.m., Honor (The Gathering Place)
- Saturday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m., Lake Ann (United Methodist Community Center)
- Wednesday, Dec. 13, 12 p.m., Frankfort Rotary (Hotel Frankfort) (NMC President Nissley Presenting)
- Thursday, Jan. 11, 2 p.m., Eagles Club of Interlochen
- Thursday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m., United Methodist Church in Elberta
- Tuesday, Jan. 23 7:30 a.m., Benzie Sunrise Rotary (Lucky Dog Bar) (NMC President Nissley Nick Presenting)
Please do not hesitate to reach out to the NMC Presidents Office at nmcpresident@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1010 with any questions or concerns.
Dec 1, 2023 | Intercom, President Updates
The NMC Board of Trustees Fellows Selection Committee is seeking nominations for the 2024 Northwestern Michigan College “Fellow” award. The Fellow is NMC’s highest honor and the following criteria are taken into consideration during the selection process.
- Demonstrated influential networking on behalf of the College – Exercising helpful influence among their resource networks in public life, academe or business and industry with those who can positively affect the mission of the College.
- Financial contribution – Demonstration of pattern of outstanding contributions over time to NMC.
- Time devoted in the interest of NMC – Exemplifying dedicated and loyal volunteer service over a period of years.
- Retirees – In addition to service deemed extraordinary during their active careers as members of the faculty and staff, retirees who continue to contribute to their academic or professional fields and provide exemplary service back to NMC as volunteers, mentors or advisors shall be considered.
Exceptional contributions in one or more of these areas may justify nomination. No staff, faculty, or trustee shall be named a Fellow while still employed or in office. A list of previously selected Fellows is here for your reference.
Please complete the nomination form to nominate a worthy candidate. Nominations may be submitted to the President’s Office and via e-mail to nmcpresident@nmc.edu by Thursday, December 21, 2023.
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Nov 1, 2023 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Dear NMC Students, Faculty and Staff:
I hope you are having a successful fall semester! As we welcome November, I hope you are looking forward to Thanksgiving as much as I am. To make sure we can all share in this important tradition I am asking for your help.
For the tenth annual year, Kristy McDonald’s Professional Communications class is partnering with the NMC Food Pantry and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan to donate to 125 families in the Traverse City community. Boxes–each of which feeding approximately six people–will be distributed at the NMC gym on November 20.
If you are enrolled at NMC as a student (part-time or full-time), you can apply to receive a full Thanksgiving meal for you and your family. The process will be confidential and convenient. The boxes also supplement for the days after the holiday itself, easing any uncertainty families might have.
Any monetary contributions that are collected in our month-long drive results in donors having the chance to win prizes like a weekend stay at the Delamar Hotel, an Elev8 family climbing package, a wine tasting for six at Chateau Chantal, and other prizes by donating $10 or more at nmc.edu/give. (Choose the amount, select “designate my gift to other,” and type in “Thanks For Giving.”) Donors can only enter the prize drawing once. Winners will be announced after the Thanksgiving holiday.
Community members also have the option to donate at a glow skate event hosted by our class on November 3 between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at the Howe Ice Arena in the Traverse City Civic Center. Admission will be $10 to enter and $5 to rent ice skates.
The final option to assist is to donate pop cans in their marked bins, found in NMC’s North Hall, East Hall, Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center and Parsons-Stulen Building. The bins will be collected twice a week from now until November 13. If any departments are interested in donating items, please contact Meredith Kilbourn at kilbou14@mail.nmc.edu.
Thank you for your help. Together we can ensure all Hawk Owls have a memorable Thanksgiving!
Nick
