Academic World Quest

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — NMC’s International Affairs Forum will host 18 area high school teams at its annual Academic WorldQuest from noon-5 p.m. February 6, at the Hagerty Center.

The teams will compete for the chance to participate in the national competition, the flagship youth education program of the World Affairs Councils, to be held in Washington, D.C. in April. Topics in the 2020 competition include preventing violent extremism, ocean protection and US-Russia Relations.

“Academic WorldQuest has a great atmosphere of friendly competition. Studying current topics in foreign affairs helped me expand my view of the world, and traveling to Washington, D.C. was a fantastic experience,” said Ted Roe, a 2019 Traverse City Central High School graduate and member of the Trojans’ winning team. Currently a freshman at the University of Notre Dame, Roe participated in AWQ for three years.

The event is free and open to the public. Sponsors include: The Traverse City Record-Eagle, Jimmy John’s, Shanty Creek Resort, Target, Best Buy, Common Good Bakery, Mundos Roasting & Co, Cicero’s Pizza. State Theater, Cherry Republic, Grand Traverse Pie Co. and Paesano’s Pizza.

Release date: JANUARY 27, 2020

For more information:

Julie Doyal
juliedoyal@yahoo.com
(231) 649-1781

Record $1.28 million in NMC scholarships awarded

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

Number of student recipients rises 45 percent

Traverse City — Northwestern Michigan College has awarded a record amount of scholarship dollars to a record number of recipients this academic year, another example of NMC’s commitment to break down barriers to education, including financial.

As of Feb. 3, the college had awarded $1.28 million in scholarships to 964 recipients for the 2019-20 school year. That’s a 12-percent increase in dollars awarded and a whopping 45 percent increase in recipients. In 2018-19 the college awarded $1.14 million to 662 recipients.

NMC Director of Financial Aid Linda Berlin said the increase is the result of process enhancements undertaken to encourage more scholarship applications, so that available funds are fully awarded. Enhancements included a second application cycle, a communication plan to students and a reformatted, more user-friendly application.

As a result, applications grew from 22 percent of students in 2016-17 to 28 percent last year. Simultaneously, scholarship funds awarded rose from 74 percent of available to 82 percent. Berlin expects to see those numbers continue to improve this year and next.

“We’re trying to make (scholarships) more accessible to all our students, and we’re trying to get the message out, it’s not just about merit,” Berlin said. Financial need, area of study, and hometown are all common scholarship award criteria.

Scholarship funds are donated through the NMC Foundation, which has made scholarships one of four priority areas in its current $35 million Be What’s Possible comprehensive fundraising campaign. Read more.

Recipient Dani Valentine, 26, is in her second semester at NMC. For the fall 2019 semester, she got a $500 scholarship. This spring, she was awarded two more totaling $1,500. After earning her associate’s degree at NMC, Valentine plans to complete her bachelor’s through NMC’s University Center, and then complete a graduate degree in optometry at Ferris State.

“It’s definitely a long road, but because of scholarships I feel like I can do this,” Valentine said.

One of her spring scholarships is the Global Opportunities scholarship for students studying abroad. Valentine will use the $1,000 to participate in NMC’s first-ever trip to Iceland. She plans to earn NMC’s Global Endorsement in addition to her degree.

“I think it will help set me apart for anything I apply for in the future, as far as jobs or grad school,” she said.

The average 2019-20 scholarship award is $1,327. Berlin said that her office is trying to keep the average above $1,000. Tuition and fees for a student like Valentine — a Grand Traverse County resident enrolled in 12 contact hours per semester and studying an NMC general program — total $1,714 per semester.

“I’m really just super grateful for all these scholarships, not just for me, but anybody,” Valentine said. ‘It really does make a huge difference. Any small amount really helps.”

• To help students and families learn how to pay for college, NMC will hold its annual Financial Aid Fair from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12 in the Osterlin Building. This event is a comprehensive overview of the cost of college, types of financial aid, finding and applying for scholarships, and a special session for Native American students. Individual assistance is also offered.
• A culinary scholarship-specific workshop will be held from noon-2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at Lobdell’s Teaching Restaurant on the Great Lakes campus.
• A tech-aviation scholarship-specific workshop will be held from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 in Parsons-Stulen 217/219 on the Aero Park Campus.

Release date: February 5, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

New Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center Construction Complete Ahead of Fall Semester

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

Entrance (download a high-resolution version here)TRAVERSE CITY — The Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center on Northwestern Michigan College’s main campus is substantially complete and ready for the Fall 2020 semester. The building is now open to NMC employees and students after receiving its letter of occupancy from the state fire marshal.

The building’s Hawk Owl Café food court is expected to open by Thursday, August 20 for the college’s Welcome Weekend for new and returning students, following a July 29 county health department inspection.

The building will be limited to about 50 percent of its maximum capacity for now, along with other NMC facilities, as the college reopens. NMC is in Stage 2 of its 4-Stage Reopening Plan, which allows employees and students on campus Monday through Thursday and others on campus by appointment.

Due to stay-at-home orders caused by the coronavirus pandemic, work on the building was paused for a month beginning March 24. As restrictions eased, outdoor landscaping work began April 24. Construction on the building itself resumed May 7. The NMC Library was the first department to occupy the 54,000-square-foot facility, moving into its second-floor space June 9. Radio station WNMC will follow later this summer.

Atrium (download a high-resolution version here)Work on the $14.4 million project began in the late summer of 2018. The project combines state investments of more than $7 million for important renovations and modernizations of the 50-year-old West Hall building with NMC-funded investments of more than $7 million to create a multi-story facility with innovative and transformative learning environments and multiple academic and simulation spaces. An additional $6 million was involved in moving the library from its location in the Osterlin Building to the building and constructing that part of the building, where it will offer expanded services and hours.

The project has received extensive campus, community and legislative support. NMC is planning a virtual ribbon cutting ceremony and tour during the fall semester.

Release date: August 5, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communication
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

Futures for Frontliners could drive “huge surge” in NMC enrollment

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — More than 1,000 frontline workers have applied to NMC in the three weeks since the free tuition program was announced.

Futures for Frontliners offers free in-district tuition to community colleges to Michiganders who worked in essential industries between April 1 and June 30 but do not have a college degree. They may pursue an associate degree or a skills certificate on a full-time or part-time basis while they continue to work. NMC’s in-district tuition rates apply to Grand Traverse County residents. Those who qualify but live outside the district may still take advantage of the scholarship by paying the difference.

NMC Director of Admissions Cathryn Claerhout said 1,038 applicants had been filed as of Sept. 30. Many of those still need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, if conversion from application to enrollment conforms to NMC’s patterns (79 percent this fall) it could translate into a significant enrollment increase in January.

“We’re delighted,” Claerhout said. “There’s a huge surge we could be seeing.”

Essential industries include health care, financial services, food and agriculture, law enforcement and first responders, water and wastewater, transportation and more. NMC is also offering virtual information sessions on completing the FAFSA Oct. 20, Nov. 7 and 20 and Dec. 10. Applicants can also schedule a one-on-one FAFSA completion appointment.

Announced Sept. 10 by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Futures for Frontliners has drawn more than 60,000 applicants statewide. The application period runs through December 31, 2020, with enrollment available beginning in January of 2021. Scholarship recipients may also choose to start in the summer or fall 2021 semesters.

In addition, NMC is also participating in Michigan Reconnect, another statewide program aimed at filling the state’s skills gap by helping adults over age 25 earn a degree or certificate. Beyond these two programs, NMC has more than 650 institutional scholarships available.

Claerhout said in the Grand Traverse region there are 19,000 adults over age 25 who do not have a degree. “We’ve got pockets of students, typically older students, that we have great potential (aid) for,” she said.

Those without a high school diploma or equivalency are eligible for services to help them prepare for and complete this credential and go on to a community college or job training program.

To apply and learn more about Futures for Frontliners, visit nmc.edu/frontliners.

Release date: October 6, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & Communications
(231) 995-1019
dfairbanks@nmc.edu

COVID-19 update: Region now in Phase 4, NMC remains at Stage 2

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — The Traverse City region and the state have recently set new record highs in cumulative coronavirus cases, new daily cases and active cases. In an effort to curb this increase, and the health impact on the people in our communities, the state has moved our region from phase 5 to phase 4 and increased restrictions across Michigan on gathering size and masks. Please note NMC remains at stage 2 of its reopening plan and continues all safety protocols including requiring masks and social distancing on all campuses.

Since the start of the pandemic we have remained committed to two main goals: keeping our students and employees safe and limiting the disruption to learning. With the increase of cases in the region and on our campuses, it is critical that each of us continues to do everything we can to keep the virus from spreading at NMC, at home and in the community. In addition to wearing face masks and practicing social distancing and good hygiene, please make sure you do the daily health self-screening and please stay home if you believe you might be sick with any illness or have been in close contact with a positive case. Instructors and supervisors are ready and willing to work with you on this and know it will take all of us together to limit the spread of the disease.

We only have 3 ½ weeks to go before Thanksgiving break where we will pivot to remote learning as planned. We will continue to monitor the spread of the virus and will adjust our response as needed to work to keep you safe. Our hope is that we can continue to deliver learning and services as we are now without increasing restrictions.

We will also continue to communicate with you about cases on campus. You can find more information on NMC’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, resources, safety guidelines and feedback form at nmc.edu/covid-19.

Release date: October 30, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

Virtual help available for filing the FAFSA

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — FAFSA gotcha frustrated? Confused? Stuck?

NMC’s Office of Student Financial Services will offer five virtual information sessions on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, the first step to receive any kind of federal financial aid. About 80 percent of scholarships require the FAFSA as well.

Dates are Oct. 20 at 10 a.m., Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m., Nov. 7 at 10 a.m., Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Register online for each 30-minute session. Applicants can also schedule a one-on-one FAFSA completion appointment.

Student Financial Services will also hold two virtual scholarship workshops: Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. and Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Register online for these as well.

Release date: October 8, 2020

For more information:

Student Financial Services
sfs@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1035

Great Lakes Water Studies Institute Director honored with Marine Technology Society award

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — Hans Van Sumeren, the Director of the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), has been honored with the 2020 Outstanding Service Award by the Marine Technology Society (MTS).

The award recognizes Van Sumeren’s outstanding accomplishments in fulfilling the objectives and missions of the Society. Highlights include:

• Serving as chair of the MTS Great Lakes Section
• Creating the Marine Technology student section within the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College
• Partnering with MTS to create the first Marine Technology Camp in 2016 and continuing to host the camp every year since
• Hosting the first TechSurge – Lakebed 2030 – to establish the parallels from the Seabed 2030 effort and promote the mapping of the Great Lakes as equal importance to the global mapping initiative
• Serving as the guest editor for the most recent issue of the Marine Technology Society Journal devoted to LakeBed 2030

MTS will formally present the award to Van Sumeren on October 8 at its Global OCEANS 2020: Singapore – U.S. Gulf Coast conference.

“Marine technology has an impact upon virtually every aspect of our global society,” said MTS President Zdenka Willis. “This year’s awardees represent the ‘best of the best’ in our field and their efforts are helping to advance the goals of the marine technology community while inspiring all of us to meet some of the greatest scientific, educational, and political challenges of our time.”

“Hans has been a true visionary in his work through the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute since its inception, including the creation of the first and only Bachelor’s of Science degree in Marine Technology in the country,” said Dr. Nick Nissley, president of NMC. “We are fortunate to have his leadership at our College, in our region and increasingly throughout the world.”

Van Sumeren will also help lead Great Lakes TechSurge LakeBed 2030’s virtual conference September 30 – October 2, 2020. The event will bring together science and research, policy, government, and industry professionals to focus on Great Lakes marine mapping and observation data, develop a strategy to catalog new and existing lakebed information for shared use and share the latest technology advancements with the Great Lakes community and advance business development in the region.

The Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is strategically positioned to engage individuals and organizations, both locally and globally, in advancing skills, knowledge and understanding of the world’s dynamic water resources. Areas of expertise include marine technology and freshwater studies.

The Marine Technology Society promotes awareness, understanding, and the advancement and application of marine technology. Incorporated in 1963, the international society brings together businesses, institutions, professionals, academics, and students who are ocean engineers, technologists, policy makers, and educators.

Release date: August 27, 2020

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

NMC selected for new FAA UAS training program

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected Northwestern Michigan College’s UAS (drone) training program for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Program, or the UAS-CTI.

To be selected, a college/school had to meet criteria including; having an accredited Associate degree focusing on UAS, FAA certification of UAS pilots, operation of both multi-rotor and airplane style systems, training in functional areas including agriculture, environmental services, infrastructure and utility inspections, petroleum, oil and gas inspections, and public safety.

According to the FAA, the purpose of the UAS-CTI program is to create long-term relationships with institutions of higher education that focus on preparing candidates for careers in all aspects of UAS. The UAS-CTI program’s goal is to collaborate with schools to deliver up-to-date UAS training that matches the requirements of the National Airspace System (NAS) and helps prepare qualified applicants for careers involving UAS. In addition, these new UAS-CTI institutions will support the FAA’s efforts to expand the aviation workforce of the future while providing additional opportunities for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students.

“NMC has been on the forefront of UAS education since we launched the program ten years ago,” said NMC UAS Director Tony Sauerbrey. “This is another great example of how the program continues to innovate and lead for the benefit of our students.”

The FAA UAS-CTI designation allows NMC to participate with the FAA in shaping the future UAS training environment including training methods and standards through workshops, seminars and other programs. The FAA will also be a resource to help students with job placement, internships and other opportunities.

In addition to the CTI program, the FAA is asking two-year institutions like NMC to participate in the Consortium for Small UAS Technology Training. Sauerbrey says the UAS industry and FAA have seen programs like NMC’s offer responsive, agile, hands-on technical training that prepares students to enter the workforce faster and better prepared.

NMC’s UAS program celebrates its 10-year anniversary in September 2020. Since it began, the program has produced graduates who are currently working in all aspects of the industry including launching startup companies and assisting private businesses and public institutions. NMC operates a fleet of unmanned aerial systems that rivals much larger universities. NMC’s small class size allows the program to innovate and remain responsive to the ever changing industry of Unmanned Aerial Systems.

Release date: August 26, 2020

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Tony Sauerbrey
Director, Unmanned Aerial Systems
tsauerbrey@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2925

NMC’s Scholarship Open golf outing raises more than $100,000 for scholarships

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — Supporters of Northwestern Michigan College raised more than $100,000 for student scholarships on Thursday, August 6 at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa during the 39th annual Scholarship Open. This year’s event was in memory of long-time college volunteer and community leader Jim Beckett.

More than 234 golfers and volunteers participated, and more than 120 sponsors made donations ranging from $250 to $10,000.

“The funds raised at this event are critical for NMC students,” said Rebecca Teahen, Executive Director, NMC Foundation. “Especially now, scholarships make it possible for students to stay in school.”

The NMC Scholarship Open, one of northern Michigan’s premier golf outings, provides access to higher education through Honors, Presidential, Academic Area, and other scholarships. This tournament has raised more than $2 million since its inception in 1982.

This year’s event was modified to meet the health and safety guidelines established by the College and the Resort to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Individuals and organizations can support students any time of year, with gifts of any size, at nmc.edu/give. Gifts to the Scholarship Open are part of the NMC Foundation’s Be What’s Possible campaign, which aims to raise $35 million to support NMC students.

Release date: August 7, 2020

For more information:

Paris Morse
NMC Foundation
pmorse@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2822

Community invited to new president reception

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College invites the community to meet its 11th president, Nick Nissley, at a welcome reception from 5–7 p.m. Friday Jan. 17, at the Hagerty Center at NMC’s Great Lakes campus.

Nissley, an education executive with more than 25 years of experience, says there’s no place he’d rather be than NMC. While his first day in the office was Jan. 2,  Nissley said he’s been doing his homework on the college since his contract was finalized in October 2019.

“It’s obvious to me, NMC is a strong college in a strong community – it has a proud history and a future of possibilities,” he said. “Being here at NMC is a calling. It’s a calling for me to share my strengths.”

Those strengths are broad and diverse. Nissley’s career includes experience in K-12, community college and university settings. He has leadership experience in fundraising, professional development, human resources, teaching and the arts. His areas of focus include helping build individual and organization capabilities that support organizational effectiveness and innovation cultures in support of educational excellence.  Nissley describes himself as a collaborative servant leader and “possibilitarian.”

“I believe in NMC’s role that we have played historically, and that we must imagine together as we look to the future – our role in improving the lives of people and strengthening the fabric of our community. Together, let’s be driven to think and act beyond boundaries, and to achieve more than was originally imagined. That’s the possibilitarian spirit of NMC,” he said.

RSVPs are not required and there is no cost to attend the reception, which will include hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Nissley’s most recent position was Executive Director of Cincinnati’s School for Creative & Performing Arts (SCPA) — the first K-12 public creative and performing arts magnet school in the country, recognized as a model magnet arts school and a crown jewel of Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS). He previously served as Dean of the Business Division of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, one of Ohio’s largest community colleges.

Release date: January 7, 2019

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

NMC joins basic needs initiative to support students

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — NMC this month joins a statewide initiative to help students connect with resources to support basic needs. The Michigan Community College Association was awarded a $442,000 grant to launch the initiative focused on improving student completion and success by addressing economic instability among students including access to food, housing, transportation, childcare and other basic needs.

The Michigan – Building Economic Stability Today (MI-BEST) effort is funded through June 2022 by a grant from the Los Angeles-based ECMC Foundation as part of its Basic Needs Initiative, designed to address and alleviate basic needs insecurity among students. National survey findings reported that 45 percent of respondents had been food insecure in the past 30 days, 56 percent had been housing insecure in the previous year and 17 percent had been homeless during that year.

NMC will begin by forming a team of college personnel and community leaders. Dean of Students Lisa Thomas, NMC’s project lead, said members will include executive leadership, advisers, faculty, development/fundraising staff, financial aid staff and community partners.

“What I would hope is we learn some ways to better structure or provide internal supports to our students,” Thomas said.

NMC has offered a food pantry since November 2017. It serves between 80 and 90 people per month. This year’s usage is on pace to equal the 2018 academic year, the first full year of operation, when 1,087 total people were served.
In addition to the food pantry, Thomas also has emergency textbook funds available, as well as gas cards and BATA passes for students with transportation issues. Now, accessing those resources is handled on a case by case basis, rather than systematically.

“We’re going to take a deep dive to see what are the structures and processes in place at NMC to see what is supporting or what is a barrier to students completing their education,” Thomas said.

The Michigan Center for Student Success is leading the initiative for the MCCA and will partner with nationally-recognized organizations including the National Center for Inquiry and Improvement and Trellis Research along with Michigan-based organizations including the Michigan Association of United Ways, MiBridges, and Public Policy Associates to support Michigan’s participating community colleges.

“We know that the lack of access to basic needs is frequently the reason that students leave college,” said Erica Lee Orians, executive director of the Michigan Center for Student Success at the MCCA. “NMC’s participation in this initiative is a critical component of our student success efforts.”

The Michigan Center for Student Success, founded in 2011, serves as a hub connecting leadership, administrators, faculty, and staff in their emerging and ongoing efforts to improve student outcomes, emphasizing linkages between practice, research, and policy. The Center has led statewide initiatives focused on reengaging adults, developmental education, transfer, veterans, and advising. The Center is part of the 16-state Student Success Center Network working with over half of the community colleges across the nation.

Release date: January 14, 2019

For more information:

Lisa Thomas
Dean of Students
lthomas@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1043

NMC earns gold-level distinction for service to veterans

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — For the third year in a row, Northwestern Michigan College has been named a gold-level Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.

The designation was awarded for the 2019–2020 academic year.

“Your commitment to helping student veterans succeed was evident in your application,” said Sarah M. Mellon of the Michigan Department of Military & Veterans Affairs. “We commend your institution on its hard work and dedication to student veterans and dependents.”

To earn the gold designation, an institution must meet at least six of seven criteria. NMC met all seven:

• Established process for identification of current student veterans
• Veteran-specific website
• Active student veteran organization or club
• Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising, and/or outcome monitoring
• On-campus veterans’ coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
• System to evaluate and award academic credit based on prior military training and experience
• Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, progress, and graduation rates

Scott Herzberg, POC, Military & Veteran Services, credited the broader NMC campus community for the distinction.

“This standard of excellence is a reflection of their endless contributions that reach far beyond my efforts,” Herzberg said.

About 5 percent of NMC’s student body are veterans or active duty military. Serving those who have served the nation has long been a priority for NMC, which established the office of Military & Veterans Services in 2012. For the last two years, Military Times has ranked NMC second in the nation among community colleges for its service to veterans.

RELEASE DATE: MAY 4, 2020

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Scott Herzberg
POC, Military & Veteran Services/Advisor
(231) 995-2526
sherzberg@nmc.edu

Police Academy, dental assisting classes resume under rigorous health and safety guidelines

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

Police Academy recruit Monte White takes a defensive driving course at Camp Grayling May 18 (download a high-resolution version here)TRAVERSE CITY — Following strict health and safety protocols, police academy and dental assisting students resumed face-to-face training at Northwestern Michigan College this week in accordance with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s latest executive order, which amends the scope of previous orders to allow training for first responders and healthcare workers.

This instructional delivery began today and will allow 13 police academy recruits to complete their training in time for a state licensing exam on June 9, after which they will be eligible to go to work, increasing the ranks of first responders in communities across Michigan.

“I’m thrilled that we’re reopening,” said Police Academy Director Gail Kurowski “Most of these recruits have jobs waiting. A lot of area law enforcement agencies are hurting for new hires.”

Dental assisting students, meanwhile, began to make up 30 hours of chairside lab time lost when NMC shifted classes from face-to-face to online formats in mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Divided into two five-hour shifts, the 13 students will complete their lab time by May 26. They will then have one clinical class remaining in June, in addition to summer internships, before taking board exams, now set for August.

“There are lots of safety protocols before they even come in the door,” said Health Occupations Academic Chair and Dental Assisting Instructor Beckie Wooters, who plans to work at least 12-hour days in order to compress the lab training into one week.

Dental students will use an app to check their symptoms at home. On campus, their temperatures will be taken and documented. They will be given masks, gloves, safety glasses and shields. Students would normally practice some procedures on each other, but not this year.

“We are only working on mannequins,” Wooters said. She said it’s important for students to make up the lab time now in order to be prepared for internships required this summer. Some students already are working at offices on the emergency procedures now allowed by the state. Wooters expects more to begin once elective dental procedures resume.

Police Academy recruits resumed their training at Camp Grayling, and will complete a four-day defensive driving class by Thursday. As with dental assisting, safety protocols include basic symptom screening for each recruit and instructor, and temperature readings using a no-touch digital infrared thermometer. In driving courses, recruits must also wear masks and gloves.

“I followed both OSHA and CDC guidelines and recommendations in forming my COVID-19 preparedness plan,” said Kurowski.

On May 26 recruits will return to NMC’s main campus for two more weeks of training in three areas: speed measurement, defensive tactics and criminal investigation. Some class days will stretch as long as 11 or 12 hours in order to complete the training as efficiently as possible.

For Defensive Tactics, where keeping a six-foot social distance is not possible, an N-95 mask will be required, as well as gloves and goggles. Except for that course and when in a vehicle, recruits and instructors must remain six feet apart during all training, including at meals and during breaks. They will occupy the same seats every day and work with the same partners to further minimize the opportunity for spread. Instructors will stagger break times to ensure the hallway and restrooms are not overcrowded.

“We are fortunate that the Governor’s order allowed these two programs to resume their activities,” said Stephen Siciliano, NMC Vice President for Educational Services. “Our Law Enforcement and Dental Assisting program students will be able to safely complete their course work, stay on track to complete their certificates and degrees, and fill needed professional positions in our communities.”

For more information on NMC’s Police Academy, visit nmc.edu/police.

For more information on NMC’s Dental Assisting program, visit nmc.edu/dental.

Release date: may 18, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

Campus Closure Extended

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

Dear NMC Community,

As our state continues efforts to mitigate the health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has extended the Stay Home, Stay Safe order through June 12. To support this effort, and comply with the order, Northwestern Michigan College will extend the closure of all five of its campuses in Traverse City through June 12.

The Governor allowed some retail businesses and restaurants in northern Michigan to open May 22 as the state continues its phased approach to re-opening following a decline in new COVID-19 cases. This phased reopening also allows office work that cannot be done remotely to resume. If you have work that must be completed on campus please contact your supervisor and coordinate with Human Resources to ensure all safety protocols are followed. All work that can be done remotely, should be. Schools remain closed and there is no guidance for institutions of higher education.

NMC’s campuses will remain closed until further notice while the College continues to develop plans to return to campus work and face-to-face learning safely. Two committees are meeting regularly to assist with this effort. The College is also continuing to collaborate with the Grand Traverse County Joint Operations Center on a coordinated regional approach to managing the impact of COVID-19.

If you must come to campus, please wear a face mask, as specified in the Governor’s order. For more information and resources for working while campuses are closed, including instructions on campus mail pickup and delivery, please visit the “keep working” section of nmc.edu/coronavirus.

Following the Governor’s guidance, the college will begin taking a slow and deliberate approach to phased re-starting of some functions on campus. For the safety of our students, employees and community, it is essential that these guidelines are followed.

Summer semester is being delivered virtually with no course/lab work permitted on campus except for the police academy and dental assisting classes, which are allowed under the Governor’s order. You can see a list of canceled events here. The College is currently planning several possible scenarios for fall delivery of instruction including face-to-face, hybrid and virtual options. The goal is to communicate the finalized plans with you in early June.

This is an unprecedented and rapidly-evolving situation. We will continue to communicate with you to keep you safe and limit the disruption to learning as much as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your supervisor.

As we get updates and changes, we post them first on nmc.edu/coronavirus. Please continue to check here for the latest information.

Release date: May 26, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

NMC Foundation seeks $1M to meet emergency needs of students, college

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — The Northwestern Michigan College Foundation will seek to raise $1 million to meet the emergency needs of both students and the college in response to challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

These funds will come from donor support and enable student success by meeting immediate needs in three categories:

• Student support, including scholarships, food pantry access and flexible funding for emergency needs;
• Academic support, increasing capacity of key areas including the Writing & Reading Center and Educational Media Technology;
• Program stabilization, including flexible funds to ensure programs will be able to continue to operate for the benefit of students and the greater community.

Since mid-March, when COVID-19 closed campuses and shifted spring semester classes from face-to-face to online, NMC has received more than 350 requests for emergency support from students. NMC has increased critical academic support and programs that benefit students — from lending computers and Wi-Fi hotspots to stocking the NMC Food Pantry.

“I have seen the incredible fortitude of our NMC community. The faculty and staff have stepped up to provide support to our students in new and unprecedented ways. Yet the need is still great,” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “Emergency funding will ensure the continuity of education for students facing tremendous adversity during these challenging times.”

Northwestern Michigan College has received some emergency funding that will be distributed to students through the federal CARES Act. However, this funding is significantly restricted. For example, CARES Act funding cannot cover tuition expenses.

“NMC has a longstanding history of being supported by the community. This college exists because the community decided that education is important to the well-being of the region,” said Rebecca Teahen, Executive Director of the NMC Foundation. “I am hopeful that our community will once again step up to ensure that an NMC education will remain accessible for all.”

All gifts to this effort will be included as part of the $35 million Be What’s Possible campaign launched publicly by the NMC Foundation in October 2019. To date, over $29 million has been raised.

The NMC Foundation was established in 1981 as the philanthropic arm of Northwestern Michigan College. To help meet the immediate, emergency needs of NMC students and the college, make a gift at nmc.edu/give.

Release date: May 13, 2020

For more information:

Rebecca Teahen
Executive Director, NMC Foundation
rteahen@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1855

Campus Closure Continues

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

Dear NMC Community,

This afternoon Governor Whitmer announced some businesses in northern Michigan will be allowed to re-open Friday as the state continues its phased approach to opening the state following a decline in new COVID-19 cases.

This order is primarily aimed at retail and restaurant businesses and offices where work cannot be done remotely. Work that can be done remotely, should be. Schools remain closed and there is no guidance for institutions of higher education. NMC’s campuses will remain closed until further notice while the College continues to develop plans to return to campus work and face-to-face learning safely. Two committees are meeting regularly to assist with this effort. The College is also continuing to collaborate with the Grand Traverse County Joint Operations Center on a coordinated regional approach to managing the impact of COVID-19.

If you must come to campus, please wear a face mask, as specified in the Governor’s order. For more information and resources for working while campuses are closed, including instructions on campus mail pickup and delivery for NMC employees and information for NMC students, please visit the “keep learning” and “keep working”sections of nmc.edu/coronavirus.

Following the Governor’s guidance, the College will begin taking a slow and deliberate approach to phased re-starting of some functions on campus. For the safety of our students, employees and community it is essential that these guidelines are followed.

Summer semester will be delivered virtually, as announced on April 8. You can see a list of canceled events here. The College is currently planning several possible scenarios for fall delivery of instruction including face-to-face, hybrid and virtual options. The goal is to communicate the finalized plans with you in early June.

This is an unprecedented and rapidly-evolving situation. We will continue to communicate with you to keep you safe and limit the disruption to learning as much as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your supervisor.

As we get updates and changes, we post them first on nmc.edu/coronavirus. Please continue to check here for the latest information.

Release date: May 18, 2020

For more information:

Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019

A Taste of Success raises more than $100,000 for scholarships despite cancellation for COVID-19

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

TRAVERSE CITY — Supporters of the Great Lakes Culinary Institute’s Taste of Success raised more than $100,000 for student scholarships, despite the event’s cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event is the premier annual fundraiser for culinary students at Northwestern Michigan College and was scheduled for April 17, 2020. 

Thanks to the community’s support, the Great Lakes Culinary Institute awarded 17 scholarships to students in April. Scholarship award amounts ranged from $1,500 to $5,000.

“These scholarships are more important than ever for students,” says Chef Les Eckert, Director of the Great Lakes Culinary Institute. “In these challenging times, scholarships will enable students to stay in school and complete their degrees positioning them well for the future.”

The 2019 event raised more than $117,000 for student scholarships. The event was first held at the Park Place Hotel in 1994.

The Great Lakes Culinary Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is designed to provide rigorous and concentrated areas of study for students planning careers in the hospitality and food-service industry. The Institute offers both degrees and certificate programs, including its newest baking certificate. Many of the Institute’s programs are accredited by the American Culinary Federation, one of fewer than 200 U.S. colleges to receive that distinction. Students are eligible to become ACF Certified Culinarians upon graduation. 

Community members are still able to support Great Lakes Culinary Institute students by making gifts to the Taste of Success scholarship fund at nmc.edu/give.

RELEASE DATE: May 1, 2020

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Paris Morse
NMC Foundation
pmorse@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2822

Tugboat to expand GLMA’s sea time options and credentials

May 16, 2024 | Intercom, Student News

The GLMA tugboat Mississippi crew in Cleveland about to get underway. From left to right: Ryan Anderson (Engine), Zach Drenth (Deck), Dan Zassick (Mate), Cary Godwin (Captain). (download a high-resolution version here)TRAVERSE CITY — A new vessel, the tugboat Mississippi, will join the Great Lakes Maritime Academy’s fleet on a leased basis next week, increasing cadet options for completing sea time requirements as well as the credentials they receive at graduation.

Captained by Cary Godwin, a GLMA crew of four departed from Cleveland today aboard the tugboat and are expected to arrive Sunday or Monday at NMC’s Great Lakes campus harbor.

Adding the Mississippi to the Academy’s fleet will offer greater assurance to Maritime cadets that they will be able to complete their required 360 days of sea time before graduation. Cadets complete their sea time requirements during three sea projects, the first of which is completed aboard the T/S State of Michigan, GLMA’s flagship vessel since 2002.

Many cadets accrue the remaining sea time aboard commercial vessels. However, berths on commercial vessels are increasingly difficult to obtain, said GLMA superintendent Jerry Achenbach. This is due to GLMA being at full enrollment, with at least 21 students on a waiting list for admission this fall.

The Mississippi will provide another option for cadets to earn sea time. It will also allow Maritime deck cadets to earn an additional endorsement enabling them to serve as a licensed officer on a tow vessel. This will substantially increase their post-graduation employment options.

“It would be great to come out of the Academy with pilotage and a towing endorsement. That’s going to be amazing in terms of job opportunities,” said Margaret Handel, a 2020 Maritime graduate who needs to complete just 35 days of sea time.

She had hoped to do so aboard a commercial vessel, but said the tugboat would be a great substitute, especially since the coronavirus pandemic has made it even more difficult to get sea time.

Cadet Zachary Ferguson agreed. He is set to graduate in 2021 and needs 96 more days of sea time.

“There’s lots of days we’re behind (due to the pandemic.) The tug is really going to help to try and make up those days. Every day counts,” he said.

In March, NMC trustees unanimously approved leasing the Mississippi for six months at a cost of $73,800. Including fuel ($100,000), insurance and instructor salaries, it will cost an estimated $188,000 to operate the tugboat this year.

As the state maritime academy of Michigan, the Great Lakes Maritime Academy at Northwestern Michigan College educates and trains deck and engineering officers for the U.S. Merchant Marine. Graduates earn a bachelor’s degree, and an unlimited tonnage/ horsepower merchant marine license. Read more about the Academy at nmc.edu/maritime.

Editors: If you would like to cover the arrival of the tugboat in Traverse City, text (231) 392-1800 to receive a more specific arrival time when it is known.

Release date: May 29, 2020

For more information:

RADM Jerry Achenbach
Great Lakes Maritime Academy Superintendent
(231) 995-1203
gachenbach@nmc.edu