New student-made products at the bookstore
Stop by the campus bookstore for new student-made products!
2025 calendars and holiday greeting cards are available until the end of the year—don’t wait! Limited quantities are available.
Learn to Swing Dance with the NMC Swing Dance Club
Have fun meeting new people while learning to swing dance with the NMC Swing Dance Club.
The club meets every Saturday from 7-9 pm in room 120 of the Rajkovich Physical Education Center on NMC’s Front Street Campus. All are welcome.
Success story: Real results shown in new Community Report
November 6, 2024
At Northwestern Michigan College, we’re proud to be a partner in building a stronger, more vibrant community. In a new publication arriving in Grand Traverse County mailboxes next week – our inaugural Community Report – we demonstrate how NMC is improving lives right here, from offering high-quality education and workforce training to supporting local innovation and leadership.
This report shares real stories of student success and community impact, showing how NMC is dedicated to making Grand Traverse County a better place to live, work, and grow. Whether you’re a local resident, business owner, partner or student, you’ll see how NMC is helping shape a brighter future for all of us. For example:
- A nursing pipeline of 160 students plus a partnership with Munson that means graduates can go straight from classroom to patient bedside.
- Six new Grand Traverse County sheriff’s deputies in the last 15 months, thanks to accelerated, high-quality law enforcement training, strengthening community safety
- A first-of-its kind study that identified microplastics in the Boardman River. NMC’s data will contribute to better decisions about how to manage the impact on this major feeder of Grand Traverse Bay.
- Ways you can explore, discover and connect locally and globally, from listening or streaming WNMC radio to attending an International Affairs Forum lecture at the Dennos Museum
The report will be mailed to Grand Traverse County residents and businesses mid-November. Read the online version here. Request a copy here.
Lutchko named Great Lakes Water Studies Institute director
TRAVERSE CITY — Following a national search, interim Great Lakes Water Studies Institute Director and NMC alumnus John Lutchko has been named the permanent GLWSI director, charged with leading the distinctive program forward at a critical juncture.
GLWSI houses NMC’s bachelor of science degree in Marine Technology, the only such degree in the world, along with the new Water Quality & Environmental Technology associate degree and the Freshwater Studies transfer pathway.
“GLWSI and the Great Lakes Maritime Academy represent the college’s commitment to water-based education and workforce development,” said Jason Slade, NMC vice president for strategic initiatives. “John made it clear during a robust national search and interview process that he had the passion, expertise, and vision to drive the Institute forward. I’m excited for what lies ahead under John’s leadership.”
Succeeding GLWSI’s first director Hans Van Sumeren, who left the college in July, Lutchko will lead efforts to enhance GLWSI’s sustainability and efficiency. His work will also include:
- Growing enrollment in Marine Technology and other key pathways
- Prioritizing workforce training and grant opportunities with the Marine Center, the noncredit, professional development arm of NMC’s water education repertoire
- Aligning with the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center in development in Greilickville. NMC is a founding partner of this initiative.
“I am thrilled to lead the next chapter of the GLWSI and to build upon our strong foundation. I’m fortunate to work alongside such a fantastic team at NMC and in the broader community as we aim to elevate the institute to new heights,” Lutchko said.
Lutchko has been part of the NMC community for almost 15 years, first as a student in the Freshwater Studies program, graduating in 2013. He served as GLWSI lab coordinator and manager, and has clocked more than 1,000 hours piloting and maintaining ROVs, captaining the R/V Northwestern, and presenting at national conferences on workforce training.
In that previous role, he co-taught many of Marine Tech’s key technical classes and delivered workforce and professional training. He has served on national organizations and at conferences, including the esteemed Marine Technology Society and Oceans 2025.
He has played a key part in the evolution of the Marine Technology program as its focus broadened from ROVs to include hydrographic surveying, remote sensing, and data analysis, resulting in outstanding job placement rates.
Lutchko has also supported numerous research projects, working with NOAA, the National Park Service, and the United States Geological Survey throughout the Great Lakes.
Demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning, earlier this year Lutchko completed a master of science degree in Geospatial Technology from Michigan Technological University.
Release date: November 6, 2024
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
cnoga@nmc.edu
(231) 392-1800 (Call or text)
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discriminationTrunk or Treat winners
Congratulations to our Trunk or Treat 2024 winners and a big thank you to all of our participants!
Overall Winner
Gone Fishing!
Tyler Kastens
Spookiest
Vampires
Becky Wooters
Most Creative
Women on the Water Pirates
Peyton Abney
On the menu: Hawk Owl Café specials for Nov. 4–8
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials daily on Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:40–6 p.m. The protein option is $9.99 and the vegetarian option is $7.99.
Monday, November 4
Chicken Fettuccine with pesto cream sauce. Served with crostini and broccoli.
Roasted Vegetables (V) with pesto cream sauce. Served with crostini and broccoli.
Tuesday, November 5
Chicken Enchiladas with peppers and onions. Served with Spanish rice and refried beans.
Roasted Vegetable Enchiladas (V) with peppers and onions. Served with Spanish rice and refried beans.
Wednesday, November 6
Sweet & Sour Stir Fry with roasted pork. Served with basmati rice and egg rolls.
Sweet & Sour Stir Fry (V) with tofu and pineapple. Served with basmati rice and egg rolls.
Thursday, November 7
Potato Gnocchi with Italian sausage. Served with roasted vegetables and garlic bread.
Potato Gnocchi (V) with alfredo sauce. Served with roasted vegetables and garlic bread.
Friday, November 8
BBQ Pulled Pork on brioche bun. Served with mac & cheese and creamy coleslaw.
BBQ Jackfruit (V) on brioche bun. Served with mac & cheese and creamy coleslaw.
Holiday Artist Market
The Dennos Museum Center warmly invites visitors to wander a festive marketplace and meet 30 talented juried artists at the 25th annual Holiday Artist Market on Friday, Nov. 1 and Saturday, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.. Come discover a unique variety of artful gifts and get a head start on your holiday shopping.
Admission and parking is free to all. Remember to bring a little cash for our beloved raffle benefiting children’s educational programming at the museum.
Treat yourself to something delicious from Merlyn’s Asian-French Patisserie which will be on site during the market.
More information including a list of participating artistis is available on the Museum Store Website.
NMC staff, faculty and students get 10% off in the Museum Store! Be sure to mention you’re an NMC employee or student at checkout.
Thanks-for-Giving 2024
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:
-
- 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
New books for November 2024
To find these selections and many other new titles, see the NMC library catalog.
On the menu: Hawk Owl Café specials for Oct. 28–Nov. 1
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials daily on Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:40–6 p.m. The protein option is $9.99 and the vegetarian option is $7.99.
Monday, October 28
Italian Pasta Bake with meatballs served with garlic crostini & roasted Brussels sprouts
Italian Pasta Bake (V) with roasted vegetables served with garlic crostini & roasted Brussels sprouts
Tuesday, October 29
Beef Tacos with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and chipotle ranch served with tortilla chips, queso blanco & refried beans
Tofu Tacos (V) with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and chipotle ranch served with tortilla chips, queso blanco & refried beans
Wednesday, October 30
Chicken Coconut Curry with onion and red pepper served with jasmine rice & naan bread
Tofu Coconut Curry (V) with onion and red pepper served with jasmine rice & naan bread
Thursday, October 31
Tandoori Grilled Chicken with rice served with broccoli & naan bread
Tandoori Tofu (V) with rice served with broccoli & naan bread
Friday, November 1
Crispy Chicken with buffalo sauce served with mac and cheese & asparagus
Roasted Cauliflower Steak (V) with chimichurri sauce served with mac and cheese & asparagus
Neurodiversity Support Center open house
TRAVERSE CITY — As NMC’s Neurodiversity Support Center prepares to expand services to more students, the community is invited to see what’s available at an open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4, in the lower level of Scholars Hall on NMC’s Front Street campus.
The NSC debuted in January and served a pilot cohort of seven students with a range of learning differences, including but not limited to anxiety, autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. This fall 10 students are enrolled in NSC services, which are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and expand upon what is provided by the college’s office of Disability Support Services.
Of the students in the original pilot, 100 percent succeeded in passing all their classes. Five of them are still enrolled at NMC. One graduated, and another transferred to a four-year university.
In the spring 2025 semester, NSC Coordinator Nancy Gray expects to more than double the number of students served to 15, and increase to 20 by fall 2025 semester.
“Neurodiverse students may need more than the accommodations offered through Disability Support Services, which address primarily academic needs. They may need help and support, in communication, advocacy, socialization and meeting their sensory needs,” Gray said.
“When I came to NMC I was very shy and wasn’t very talkative. The neurodiversity support has helped me with social skills in my everyday life,” said student Freya Simone. “Everyone is very welcoming here, especially the students. It’s a very positive environment.”
An English faculty member, Gray proposed the NSC after spending her 2022-23 sabbatical year researching neurodiversity support services provided by many other colleges and universities. A key component of the NSC, located in Scholars Hall on NMC’s Front Street campus, is training staff how to meet the specific needs of these learners.
An advisory body including neurodiverse students, NMC employees and community partners such as Michigan Rehabilitative Services and Northwest Educational Services assisted Gray in planning and implementing the NSC.
The prevalence of neurodiversity has increased significantly worldwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate autism spectrum disorder occurs in 1 of every 36 U.S. children, or 2.8 percent. In 2000 the prevalence was 1 in 150. About 11 percent of children have received an ADHD diagnosis, also per the CDC. Both are significantly more prevalent among boys. Anxiety prevalence is estimated at 31.9 percent among adolescents, with females more commonly affected. Co-occurrence of multiple conditions is also common.
“More neurodivergent students are attending college than ever before which is why this type of programming is necessary,” Gray said.
Release date: October 24, 2024
For more information:
Nancy Gray
Neurodiversity Support Center Coordinator
ngray@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2091
(505) 501-3258 (mobile)
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discriminationSuccess story: Students 21+, culinary, marine technology drive enrollment gains
October 23, 2024
NMC offers the only bachelor’s degree in Marine Technology in the nation.NMC emerged strong amid increased competition for a dwindling number of traditional college students this fall, posting increases in both student head count and contact hours.
The 3.4 percent increase in head count and 4.8 percent increase in contact hours recorded this fall marked the fourth consecutive semester of enrollment growth, a reversal of the trend that the pandemic had accelerated. For freshman students, a key indicator of future enrollment patterns, NMC outpaced the national trend with 4.7 percent growth. Nationwide, community colleges reported a 1.2 percent increase in freshmen enrollment, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.
“That is boots on the ground, hard work by the admissions team and is also tied to our marketing efforts,” Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Jason Slade said.
The Detroit Red Wings training camp held in Traverse City offers sports performance nutrition students a chance to practice their skills.Gains were especially strong in NMC’s culinary program, Water Studies Institute, and among students 21 and older. Culinary and Water Studies have both introduced new certificates and degrees in the last two years.
Also, Michigan Reconnect, which offers free tuition to in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents) who don’t have a college degree, was expanded to include students 21 and up last year. It was originally set at 25 in 2021.
The result of the Reconnect expansion is reason to believe that another state program, the Community College Guarantee for high school graduates, will soon yield enrollment increases. Many students had already made plans for the 2024–25 school year when the Community College Guarantee was announced in July. As awareness increases, NMC expects more students to choose to take advantage of the program, which offers free tuition and fees to in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents).
NMC also offers Quick Start, a drop-in event for prospective students, once each month. The next Quick Start date is Monday, Nov. 11, between 4–7 p.m.
11th annual Thanks-for-giving student fundraiser now underway
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC students have dedicated themselves to helping local families this fall with their annual Thanks-for-Giving food drive, an experiential learning project for the BUS 231 Professional Communications course.
The class hopes to provide 150-200 meal boxes to those facing food insecurity. In partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters, 50 of the meals will go towards families identified by their organization, with the remaining meals distributed to NMC families.
To fund this project, the class organized a prize giveaway for donations of $10 or more. Prizes include a one-night stay at the Great Wolf Lodge (along with a $250 gift card), a one-night stay at the Delmar, a Cheese Lady gift basket, and a $50 Lobdell’s gift certificate.
To enter the giveaway (one entry per person):
- Visit nmc.edu/give
- Choose the amount you would like to donate
- Select “designate my gift to other”
- Enter “Thanks-for-Giving”
Additionally, the students are holding a glow skate event at Howe Arena on November 8 from 7 to 9 pm. Entry is $10 with a $5 rental fee.
From October 23 to November 23, the class will also be collecting canned sweet potatoes (29 oz) and boxes of granola bars. To participate, look for the red bins in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center on NMC’s Front Street campus, as well as at the Aero Park campus and the Great Lakes campus.
“We are so excited to learn such important business skills while also giving back to the& community,” said student Kelly Chapman, a member of the creative team.
Students will begin packing meals on November 24, and distribute November 25. For other ways to get involved, call (231) 633-7926.
Release date: October 23, 2024
For more information:
Ryan Fryer
Marketing Leader
fryer13@mail.nmc.edu
(231) 633-7926
Kristy McDonald
Business Instructor
kmcdonald@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1059
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discriminationOn the menu: Hawk Owl Café specials for Oct. 21–25
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials daily on Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:40–6 p.m. The protein option is $9.99 and the vegetarian option is $7.99.
Monday, October 21
Lamb Gyros with pita bread served with lemon rice
Falafel Gyros (V) with pita bread served with lemon rice
Tuesday, October 22
Chicken & Cheese Quesadillas served with Spanish rice & refried beans
Roasted Poblano, Bean, and Cheese Quesadillas (V) served with Spanish rice & refried beans
Wednesday, October 23
Sesame Chicken Stir Fry served with basmati rice & egg rolls
Sesame Tofu Stir Fry (V) served with basmati rice & egg rolls
Thursday, October 24
Sun-Dried Tomato Rigatoni with Italian sausage served with garlic bread & broccolini
Sun-Dried Tomato Rigatoni (V) with roasted vegetables served with garlic bread & broccolini
Friday, October 18
HOC Smashburger with bacon & onion straws served with garlic aioli, sweet potato fries, and asparagus
Impossible Burger on Brioche (V) with cheese & onion straws served with garlic aioli, sweet potato fries, and asparagus
Spooky savings at the Bookstore!
Stop by the bookstore in your costume on Halloween for 31% off one apparel item!
Faculty Excellence Award nominations due by December 12
Faculty Excellence Awards nominations are due by Thursday, Dec. 12.
Award criteria includes teaching excellence, rapport with students, innovation in the classroom and a sense of dedication.
Nominate your favorite instructor!
Submit your nomination here
Student Health Services 2024 flu clinics
Flu season is upon us once again and Student Health Services will be hosting three more flu clinics this Fall. As a reminder, we are located in the Les Biederman Building, room 106 on the Front Street campus.
Our three clinics are as follows:
- Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 2–3 p.m.
- Monday, Oct. 28, from 1–2 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 1–2 p.m.
If you can’t make these dates please call us at (231) 995-1255 to schedule an appointment; we have limited walk-in availability.
For students the price of a flu shot is $15 and for staff without NMC insurance the cost is $20.
On the menu: Hawk Owl Café specials for Oct. 14–18
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials daily on Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:40–6 p.m. The protein option is $9.99 and the vegetarian option is $7.99.
Monday, October 14
Orange Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with mandarin oranges and ramen served with rice & Bosco sticks
Tofu & Broccoli Bowl (V) with mandarin oranges and ramen served with rice & Bosco sticks
Tuesday, October 15
Professional Development Day – No Special
Open 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Wednesday, October 16
Spaghetti & Meatballs with marinara sauce and parmesan served with garlic bread & broccoli
Roasted Vegetables (V) with marinara sauce and parmesan served with garlic bread & broccoli
Thursday, October 17
Breakfast for Dinner!
French Toast Sticks with Syrup
Sausage Patties
Veggie Egg Strata (V)
Fresh Fruit
Friday, October 18
Beer-Battered Cod Sandwich with tartar sauce served with creamy coleslaw & French fries
BBQ Jackfruit (V) with brioche bun served with creamy coleslaw & French fries