WNMC CD sale

The WNMC radio station is holding a CD sale on August 18-19. Stop by their studio, located in the basement of  the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, from 11 a.m. to  6 p.m. on August 18 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on August 19 to look through the collection. Prices are low; music standards are high! 

In Memoriam: Dr. Kari Kahler

Kari KahlerIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the Aug. 12 passing of Dr. Kari Kahler, a cherished member of our Northwestern Michigan College community for more than 40 years. Many of you knew she had been fighting cancer for several months. Today, we remember her incredible career and contributions to NMC. Kari’s journey began as a Conference Center Coordinator in 1982 and grew to embody our NMC value of lifelong learning. Over the years, her unwavering dedication and passion for student success left an indelible mark on our institution. Her career at NMC culminated with becoming Associate Dean of Learning Services in 2012. For more than a decade she oversaw Academic & Career Advising, Disability Support Services, Honors, Phi Theta Kappa, Student Success, and Tutoring.

Kari’s commitment to Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) as the advisor of the Alpha Rho Pi chapter was truly remarkable. Since assuming this role on May 12,1997, she became a true PTK ambassador for Northwestern Michigan College. She embodied the spirit of PTK by ensuring its visibility on campus, attending events, and sharing her unyielding passion with students. Under her guidance, the Alpha Rho Pi Chapter thrived and grew, becoming a beacon of excellence.

Her legacy shines brightly through her tireless efforts to nurture student leadership. Kari’s collaborative spirit and boundless enthusiasm led to initiatives that impacted not only PTK students but the entire student body. She spearheaded the establishment of the first-ever “Student Leadership Luncheon,” creating a platform to recognize and celebrate student leaders across campus. Her involvement extended beyond PTK, as she co-founded the College’s inaugural Rotaract group, providing students with opportunities to develop leadership and professional skills through service. Kari’s impact resonated throughout the campus, with her students assuming leadership roles in various student organizations.

One of her most cherished accomplishments was the Blair Mentoring Project, which she co-founded with Emily Witte at Blair Elementary School. Through this project, Kari and her team paired NMC student mentors with Blair fifth graders, nurturing their leadership potential and fostering resilience. She helped these students see themselves as future leaders and college students.

Kari’s dedication went beyond PTK. She played an instrumental role in keeping the Food Pantry operational during the pandemic, served on the BBQ board for many years, led the Developmental Education Committee, and managed the honors program at NMC. Her commitment to student success was palpable, and she supported numerous students who faced challenges, always striving to provide them with the help they needed to thrive.

Her impact extended to the regional level, where she served as Michigan’s regional coordinator for PTK. She provided guidance and insight to the regional officer team, acting as a liaison to PTK headquarters. Her dedication was recognized in April 2015 when she received the distinguished regional coordinator award from headquarters.

Kari Kahler Outside of her professional commitments, Kari found solace in camping and cherished her little piece of heaven on earth in Leelanau County. Her family, including her husband Chad and her children Cori and Casey, held a special place in her heart.

Kari’s passion for fostering student leadership, her dedication to Phi Theta Kappa, and her immense contributions to Northwestern Michigan College will forever be remembered. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate her legacy and the positive impact she had on countless lives.

Human Resources will be sending out further communications regarding grief support services available on campus later this week. Do not hesitate to reach out for resources. The true impact of her work is with the countless lives she touched. But I also want to shine a light on just how dedicated she was to our College and all that we represent. A true servant leader, we are all better for knowing her and having her be part of our community.

Kari and her family established the Dr. Kari Kahler Scholarship at Northwestern Michigan College and have asked that gifts be directed to this scholarship in her memory. This scholarship will honor her legacy by providing financial assistance to former Blair Elementary students as they pursue their education at NMC. Learn more about the scholarship and donate here.

NMC Positions (42 years of service as of 2023)

  • Conference Center Coordinator 1982–1986
  • Residence Hall Supervisor 1981–1987
  • Career Planning and Placement Specialist 1985–1990
  • Assistant Director, Housing/Student Activities/Campus Activities 1987–1990
  • Director of Housing & Student Life 1991–1996
  • Adjunct – Psychology – 1998–2021
  • Coordinator – Center and Employment Services – 1997–2006
  • Director of Learning Services 2006–2012
  • Associate Dean of Learning Services 2012–Present

NMC Leadership/Engagement

  • Classification Review Team Member
  • Honors Committee – Honors Director
  • Food Pantry Team Member
  • Barbecue Board – College Liaison
  • PDI Advisory Board – Member
  • Crucial Accountability Instructor 

NMC Recognitions

  • Employee of the Term – 1989 Winter Term – Awarded
  • Foundation Excellence Award 1995 – Awarded
  • Foundation Excellence Award 2005 – Awarded
  • Foundation Excellence Award 2012 – Awarded
  • Team Excellence Award 2021 – Nominee (Learning Services) 

Phi Theta Kappa Roles & Recognition

  • PTK – Alpha Rho Pi Chapter Advisor
  • Michigan Regional Coordinator
  • Student Development Representative – PTK Honors Program Council 2020–2024
  • PTK Leadership Studies Curriculum Instructor
  • Recognition: PTK Faculty Scholar – 2020 
  • Recognition: Continued Excellence Award for Advisors 2022

Registration open for fall Extended Education & Training classes

NMC EES fall 2023 catalogNorthwestern Michigan College Extended Education & Training announces the release of its fall catalog, featuring over 220 diverse learning options. The catalog is now accessible online at www.nmc.edu/ees and registration is open for all interested learners.

This season, NMC Extended Education & Training presents a dynamic collection of in-person, livestream, and online classes. Led by local experts, these informal and short courses span an array of captivating topics including cooking, art, recreation, global issues, music, fitness, technology and more. Exciting new additions to the curriculum include Honey Tasting, Make Your Own Jewelry, Pickling & Fermenting Masterclass, Comic Book Creation and Supercharge Your Workplace: ChatGPT. Additionally, the popular series Coffee Chats will be returning for its fifth season.

Beyond the enriching short classes, this fall marks the launch of expanded career training certificates and micro-credentials. Accelerated Solutions are fast-track programs that provide needed credentials in a timely fashion to aspiring professionals seeking to launch, advance or transition their careers. Training is available in specialized areas such as innovation, business, manufacturing, healthcare, construction/skilled trades and more. By providing practical and cutting-edge training, NMC Extended Education & Training empowers individuals to achieve their career goals effectively. To explore these career-enhancing opportunities, visit nmc.edu/pd.

For more information or to request a printed catalog, email ees@nmc.edu.

Advising Center drop-in sessions

NMC advisingDo you still need to register for the fall semester? If so, NMC’s advising team is here to help!

Drop-in sessions are available starting on Monday, August 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To connect with an advisor, stop by the NMC Advising Center in the Osterlin Building or join virtually via Zoom. If you plan to join virtually, please join the meeting using a computer to ensure the best experience.

You can also connect with our advising team during Walk-In Wednesdays which are being held each week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in room 116 of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center.

If you have any questions, please contact a member of our advising team at (231) 995-1040 or advising@nmc.edu.

Mike McIntosh Memorial Car & Truck Show

TRAVERSE CITY — See cool cars and trucks and support students at NMC’s 17th annual Mike McIntosh Memorial Car and Truck Show Saturday, September 9.

Car enthusiasts will display their classic cars, 4X4s, dragsters, sports cars, modified late models, motorcycles and more from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at NMC’s Automotive Services Building, 2510 Aero Park Drive.

Admission is free for spectators. There is a $15 entry fee per vehicle for contestants. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Trophies are awarded for best of show in each class. Enjoy food, music, prizes and a silent auction. Student projects and vehicles will also be on display. Proceeds benefit NMC’s Automotive Program and scholarships.

The show is named for the late NMC Automotive instructor Mike McIntosh, who retired in 2004 after 34 years of service. McIntosh organized the first car show for the Automotive Program in 2004. Learn more here.

Release date: Aug. 9, 2023

For more information:

Wayne Moody
NMC Automotive Chair
(231) 995-1316
wmoody@nmc.edu

 

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-discrimination

Janis wins statewide community college alumnus award

Susie Janis Michigan Community College Association 2023 Outstanding AlumnusTRAVERSE CITY — Susie Janis, NMC alumnus, supporter and longtime Traverse City area community leader, received the 2023 Outstanding Alumnus award from the Michigan Community College Association Thursday.

High-resolution image of Susie Janis

A Traverse City native, Janis attended NMC from 1965–1967. Since then, as the Grand Traverse region has evolved and grown, she has become a key player in many different facets of the community affecting quality of life. Development of the arts and culture, education, child development, and health care have all been central issues Janis has nurtured and supported over the decades as a consummate volunteer, mentor and philanthropist.

A tireless advocate for the opportunities provided by community colleges and a spokesperson for the benefit that the community college experience had on her own life, most recently Janis served as co-chair of NMC’s Be What’s Possible comprehensive campaign, one of the largest campaigns undertaken by an independent community college. It raised $40.3 million over a goal of $35 million during the five-year campaign (2016–2021).

“NMC is so fortunate to have someone like Susie behind us. Her high-powered combination of enthusiasm and dedication to the mission of community colleges is virtually unmatched,” said NMC President Nick Nissley.

Janis also served as a leader on several other major fundraising projects for the college, including the capital campaign in the 1980s to build the Dennos Museum Center, a cultural centerpiece and landmark for the college. She is a past member and former president of the NMC Foundation board.

At NMC, she earned both the Outstanding Alumnus award, in 2010, and the NMC Fellow award, the college’s highest honor, in 1992. The NMC Foundation has instituted an award in her honor, the Susanne M. Janis Award, to be given for volunteer service and leadership. She was also honored by the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce with a Distinguished Service award.

Statewide, Janis served as a governor’s appointee to the Michigan Community Economic Excellence Board from 1988–1991. She served as a commissioner on Michigan’s Bureau of History from 1993–1999 and on the Michigan Humanities Council from 2005–2009.

The MCCA Outstanding Alumnus Award was first presented in 1985. The award is presented to a Michigan community college alumnus based upon achievement in their professional career, service to humanity, honors received and a strong commitment to the purpose and philosophy of the community college mission.

 

Release date: July 28, 2023

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-discrimination

Legislation grants 25+ Maritime cadets eligibility for incentive payments

TRAVERSE CITY — Great Lakes Maritime Academy cadets older than 25 who agree to enlist in the U.S. Navy Reserve upon graduation are now eligible for incentives of up to $32,000 over four years, due to bipartisan legislation signed by President Joe Biden last week.

Cadet Rick Ramos, 37, will be among the first to benefit. He comes from a military family and had already committed to the Navy Reserve after his expected 2024 graduation. The new legislation will help him pay tuition and other expenses and allow him to go from two to one job.

“I have been working since I started the program,” said Ramos, who is in GLMA’s engine program. “I can finally breathe and focus on my classes, especially now that I’m getting into the license prep semester.”

Previously, the incentive payments to attend the six state maritime academies in the U.S., including GLMA, were limited to cadets under age 25. The Changing Age-Determined Eligibility to Student Incentive Payments (CADETS) Act removes that age cap. The legislation was introduced by two members of Michigan’s congressional delegation in their respective chambers, Sen. Gary Peters and U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman.

The incentive payments can be spent on tuition, uniforms, books, and living costs. In return, cadets commit to eight years in the U.S. Navy Reserve, which can be fulfilled while working in the commercial shipping industry. Peters originally introduced the CADETS Act in 2021. It passed the Senate in 2022. He reintroduced it in March and it passed both chambers of Congress this spring.

“It’s a great relief to hear it has actually gone through,” Ramos said.

The change is anticipated to help student veterans in particular.

“The CADETS Act is greatly appreciated, and will benefit veterans and non-traditional students not only in Michigan, but across the nation,” said GLMA superintendent Admiral Jerry P. Achenbach. “Additionally, it addresses the current shortage of licensed officers in the U.S. Merchant Marine.”

Upon earning their licenses, graduates must sail commercially for three years.

“Those men and women who delayed college to serve their country should not be denied opportunities given to younger, more recent high school graduates,” said Jim Weakley, President, Lake Carriers’ Association, which represents companies that ship on the Great Lakes.

“The bill will incentivize more cadets to continue serving their country after graduation, while helping them receive a high-quality, affordable education,” Peters said.

“This common sense bipartisan solution will expand opportunities for veterans and older students who wish to become mariners — a crucial national security need — and will greatly benefit Michigan’s maritime industry,” said Bergman, who was the guest speaker at the 2023 GLMA graduation in May.

 

Release date: July 13, 2023

For more information:

Rear Adm. Jerry Achenbach
GLMA Superintendent
(231) 995-1200
gachenbach@nmc.edu

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-discrimination

Davenport University BSN informational sessions

NMC recently partnered with Davenport University to offer a seamless transfer for those interested in earning their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Applications are currently open for fall 2023.

Join one of the upcoming informational sessions to learn how to transfer to Davenport University and earn a BSN in 10 courses.

    • In-person, July 18, 2023, 5:30 p.m., Beckett Building, room 149, NMC main campus. Register
    • Virtual: July 19, 2023, 12 p.m. Register

Benefits of completing your BSN at Davenport University include:

If you have questions, please contact Zach Whitaker, Campus Director and Nursing Advisor, at zwhitaker@davenport.edu or (616)732-1180.

Davenport logo

James Webb space telescope results shown

TRAVERSE CITY — Community members are invited to a presentation of the first science results from the James Webb space telescope, to be held from 6–8 p.m. Monday, July 10, at the State Theater, 235 E. Front St., Traverse City.

The event is sponsored by NMC’s Astronomy Department, the University of Michigan Astronomy Department and the International Astronomical Union, which is holding its annual symposium in Traverse City July 10-14.

Speakers are astrophysicists Jonathan Gardner, deputy senior project scientist for the James Webb space telescope at NASA and Ewine van Dishoeck, professor of molecular astrophysics at Leiden University, the Netherlands. A past IAU president, her work unites the world of chemistry with that of physics and astronomy, and she has been heavily involved in planning major new telescopes.

The James Webb space telescope was launched on Christmas Day 2021 after 25 years of planning, design, development, integration, and testing. Its first science results have engaged the public and surprised the scientists. Webb has already found the most distant galaxies ever seen. Its goals address the origins and history of the universe: the first stars and galaxies that formed after the Big Bang; the morphological and dynamical buildup of galaxies; the formation of stars and planetary systems; and exoplanets, the solar system and the conditions for life.

Gardner will review Webb’s construction, launch and deployments, He will describe what scientists have learned in the first year of science results from the telescope on the deep universe. van Dishoeck will focus on the new insights that Webb has provided on the formation of new stars and planets and the habitability of other worlds. She will highlight the chemical richness of the Webb data, with water and other molecules seen throughout the universe.

A question and answer session will follow the presentation.

Release date: July 7, 2023

For more information:

Jerry Dobek
jdobek@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1271

Other questions:
Cari Noga
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-discrimination

NMC joins coalition in applauding $15M in state funding for Freshwater Research & Innovation Center

TRAVERSE CITY — The Traverse City Freshwater Research & Innovation Center on West Grand Traverse Bay is set to receive $15 million as part of Michigan’s fiscal year 2024 budget passed by the Legislature on June 28. The budget now heads to Governor Gretchen Whitmer for a likely signature.

Once complete, the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center will establish the Grand Traverse region as a global hub for applied freshwater innovation, offering research, education, commercialization, new business incubation, and startup accelerator programs. Housing the Research and Innovation Center on the geographic epicenter of the Great Lakes will further solidify Michigan’s leadership in the freshwater blue economy, which for NMC traces back to 2004, when the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute opened at NMC’s Great Lakes campus on West Grand Traverse Bay, southeast of the planned Innovation Center location.

The project is a collaborative effort of 20Fathoms, Discovery Center & Pier, Michigan Technological University, Northwestern Michigan College, and Traverse Connect. Last month, NMC named a three-person team to explore a joint venture structure with the Discovery Center for the project as it moves forward.

The Discovery Center and Pier owns the land, and is the fiduciary of already-secured private, public, and federal funding, as well as the $15 million. NMC and Discovery Center & Pier plan to be the fiduciary of future federal and other public monies. Other entities could potentially buy into the joint venture, which would:

  • Own the Dockside Learning Center building and new Freshwater Center building(s), which will be used by NMC for its Marine Technology bachelor’s degree program as well as professional development training
  • Develop business plans for Dockside Learning Center and Freshwater Center
  • Continue to pursue funding for the Freshwater Center Phase 2 of the property

“This is an exciting opportunity to build upon the expertise and proud history of NMC’s Great Lakes Water Studies Institute. By taking a regional and collaborative approach, we are able to leverage all of our strengths for the benefit of the community and make a difference on a global scale,” said Jason Slade, NMC vice president for strategic initiatives and a member of the joint venture team. It also includes Vice President for Finance & Administration Troy Kierczynski and Board of Trustees Vice Chair Rachel Johnson.

Matt McDonough, CEO of Discovery Center & Pier, said, “This level of support from our local legislators and the Governor is really remarkable. The State’s investment gets us significantly to our goal for the Center’s first and main facility which will get us up and running.”

The $15 million secured this week will be used to launch the first phase of the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center facility housing research, lab, and business incubation space, as well as the completion of Discovery Pier, which will provide dockage for research and education vessels and a four-season marine technology classroom and laboratory. The research and development of freshwater technology, combined with private sector investment, incubation, and acceleration of startup companies will generate significant return on investment from regional and state economic growth, the formation of new advanced technology businesses and the creation of high-paying scientific, technical, and professional jobs for Michigan.

“By co-locating research, education and commercialization partners, this new facility will generate tremendous opportunity for job creation, business development, and economic growth,” said Warren Call, president and CEO of Traverse Connect.

“In recent years, 20Fathoms and our partners have proven that Traverse City can incubate successful, growing startups,” said Eric Roberts, Executive Director of 20Fathoms. “The Freshwater Research and Innovation Center will generate significant research, leading to additional startup and small business opportunities that will allow our community to build a robust startup ecosystem and accelerate the growth of new businesses.”

“Michigan Tech is pleased to collaborate with the team in Traverse City in the creation of the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center,” said Rick Koubek, President of Michigan Technological University. “This new center represents another step forward in our growing relationship with the Traverse City region in support of our Great Lakes.”

 

Release Date: June 29, 2023

For more information:

Jason Slade
Vice President for Strategic Initiatives
jslade@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1995

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-discrimination

Board approves budget, tuition rates for FY 24

TRAVERSE CITY — A balanced budget and tuition rates and fees for the 2023-24 academic year were approved unanimously by the Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees Monday.

In-district tuition rates will increase by 3 percent, to $122 per contact hour for in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents.) Tuition rates for out-of-district and out of state students will rise 6 percent. The general fee will rise by $1 per contact hour, from $32 to $33.

For the average in-district student taking 24 contact hours in a two-semester academic year, that means an increase of $120 ($96 in tuition, $24 in fees.) A table of tuition rates for all residencies and programs is available here (p. 41). NMC tuition is about one-quarter the cost of in-state tuition at a four-year public university.

“NMC is committed to offering a strong educational value,” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “This year that includes keeping our tuition increase below the rate of inflation.”

This year’s increase is below last year’s 5 percent increase. In 2021, a tuition increase was mostly offset by a fee decrease. The college held tuition flat in 2020. Tuition amounts to 45 percent of NMC’s budget and is the only revenue source the college controls. Property taxes (26 percent) and state aid (28 percent) are the two other primary revenue sources.

As of fall 2022 semester, NMC’s in-district tuition was the ninth lowest among Michigan’s 28 community colleges. Thanks to community donors the college also awards more than $1 million in institutional scholarships annually. Adults over 25 who don’t already have a degree are eligible for a state scholarship, Michigan Reconnect, which pays 100 percent of in-district tuition. The high school class of 2023 is also eligible for up to $2,750 per year through the Michigan Achievement scholarship. 

Release date: JUNE 27, 2023

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-discrimination

NMC Water Studies Institute earns two national firsts

Students’ bathymetric research published, Aquahacking challenge launching

TRAVERSE CITY — As northern Michigan works to become the hub of the blue economy, Northwestern Michigan College’s Great Lakes Water Studies Institute has earned two national firsts in water research and water entrepreneurism.

NMC’s two firsts contribute to the body of knowledge about freshwater in general and the Great Lakes specifically, which is the foundation of the blue economy. As a blue economy hub, Traverse City would become like a Silicon Valley for freshwater knowledge. That knowledge will lead to innovation, jobs and solutions for water challenges from contamination to climate change.

  • Last week, a team of six NMC Marine Technology students became the first undergraduates to publish underwater, or bathymetric, survey data to an online database run by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The data was collected from around the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula the week of May 15 as part of the students’ capstone course, taught by John Lutchko. Water depths, hazard locations and seafloor contours and elevations were among the data collected. Currently, only 15 percent of the Great Lakes have been mapped with high resolution technology. Only half of that amount is on the U.S. side of the lakes.

“The fact we know so little about it is a problem,” said Ed Bailey, director of NMC’s Marine Center and Project Management course instructor. “You cannot solve a lot of other problems around habitat, invasive species, and resilient communities without bathymetry. It’s all connected.”

“Huge congratulations on being the first multibeam dataset in the Great Lakes!”Jessica Nation, bathymetry data manager for NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information told the students via email.

  • In September, NMC will be the first binational partner for an Aquahacking challenge. Created in 2015 by AquaAction, a Canadian nonprofit, Aquahacking is a tech innovation program focused on developing solutions to pressing freshwater issues, including growing demand, life-threatening contaminants and climate change. AquaAction’s programs have spawned 50 start-ups across Canada since it was founded in 2015, creating 100 water jobs.

Participants in the nine-month Great Lakes challenge must be 18-35. The top three solutions will receive prizes of at least $35,000, $15,000 and $10,000. The challenge’s semifinal, where Aquahacking competitors pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, will be held in Traverse City in March 2024.

“By hosting this challenge here and the innovation that goes along with it, the hope is they’ll want to stay and spin those businesses up in Traverse City,” Bailey said. “This becomes the pipeline for the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center. It’s bringing blue tech, high tech jobs to Traverse City.”

Evidence of the demand for the knowledge lies in the fact that all four graduating Marine Technology students on the team working with NOAA had multiple job offers before they graduated, Bailey said.

NMC offers the only bachelor’s degree in Marine Technology in the United States. In addition, NMC will begin offering a Water Quality & Environmental Technology (WET Tech) associate degree this fall. The first in the state, the WET Tech program will train the skilled workforce needed to respond to this growing demand for monitoring and cleanup of waters within the Great Lakes watershed. NMC also offers three other water-related programs:

  • An associate degree in Freshwater Studies, the first in the nation when it was created in 2009.
  • The Marine Center — professional development and training in marine systems, geospatial technologies and land surveying.
  • Great Lakes Maritime Academy — Trains deck and engineering officers for the commercial shipping industry. Bachelor’s degree first granted in 2014; program founded in 1969.

Release date: June 19, 2023

For more information:

Hans Van Sumeren
Director, NMC Great Lakes Water Studies Institute
hvansumeren@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1793

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-discrimination

NMC announces 2023 Outstanding Alumni

TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College is proud to announce the 2023 recipients of the college’s Outstanding Alumni award.

Jerry Dobek 2023 outstanding alumniJerry Dobek (Mathematics & General Arts & Sciences 1998, faculty/staff 1989-present): As a student and as a faculty member, Dobek has played a pivotal role in the operations of NMC’s Rogers Observatory and his teaching at NMC extends into numerous school-based, community and national programs.

High-resolution image of
Jerry Dobek

He has written over 50 dark sky ordinances for Michigan cities, is a founding member of the International Dark Sky Association and regularly consults on exterior lighting projects. He’s been recognized with a distinguished service award from NASA for their Ambassadors program, and has received NMC’s Imogene Wise Faculty award both as an adjunct and full-time faculty member. As one nominator wrote, “Dr. Jerry Dobek’s exemplary leadership…aligns with NMC’s values, at the core of his volunteering and public outreach is to bring the community together. Jerry Dobek put ‘community’ into community college. His life’s work revolves around student success. His heart for teaching extends into his life where everyday has become a classroom for learning opportunities.” 

Tiffany McQueer 2023 NMC Outstanding Alumni winner

High-resolution image of
Tiffany McQueer

Tiffany Smith McQueer (General Studies 2012, Practical Nursing 2013): McQueer and her husband Jason McQueer have owned J&S Hamburg South in Traverse City since 2014. With the onset of COVID-19, Tiffany McQueer saw a need to support families beyond the pick-up meals provided to students through schools during the week.

What began as one cooler outside their restaurant stocked with a handful of meals has turned into a full-fledged nonprofit organization, with three locations providing food, as well as drives for holiday gifts, winter wear, and back-to-school support. Project Feed the Kids has distributed over 225,000 meals over the past three years.

One nominator explained, “Tiffany is the best example of a local person who saw an urgent need…she mobilized her family, using her own time and business as a base of operation to Feed the Kids and provide many with a normal Christmas and other celebrations. Why? Because she’s been hungry before–and her empathy for others in need is a perfect reason for nominating her as an NMC Outstanding Alumni.”

Since 1988, Northwestern Michigan College’s Outstanding Alumni award has recognized graduates and past students for professional achievement and/or exemplary leadership in the local or global community. Nominees for this award should have demonstrated accomplishments that also reflect the NMC values of dedication to life-long learning, innovation and integrity, and respect for and collaboration with others. Recognition is not solely contingent on having received a degree or certificate from NMC, but on the achievements of the nominee and positive perspective as to the role that NMC played in their lives. Visit nmc.edu/alumni for more information and a nomination form.

Release date: JUNE 13, 2023

For more information:

Carly McCall
Director of Alumni Engagement
alumni@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1834

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-discrimination

NASO pow wow honors graduates

2022 NMC Indigenous Peoples DaySaturday’s pow wow will be held south of the Osterlin
Building, where the 2022 Indigenous Peoples Day
was held. Download high-resolution image here.
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC’s Native American Student Organization will hold its 2023 pow wow honoring Native American graduates from 1–5 p.m. Saturday, June 17 on main campus. Grand Entry is at 2:30 p.m.

The pow wow will be held under the pines south of the Osterlin Building on main campus, 1701 E. Front St., Traverse City. Admission and parking are free. The event will include food and other vendors in addition to traditional dancing. All tribal vendors from any tribe are welcome. Honorariums are available to the first 50 dancers.

Release date: June 12, 2023

For more information:

Sally Smarsty
Student Success Coordinator
ssmarsty@nmc.edu
Non-deadline inquiries: (231) 995-3021

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-discrimination

NMC hosts Kids Free Fishing Day at Great Lakes campus

TRAVERSE CITY — More than 250 young anglers and their families are expected at the annual Kids Free Fishing Day, set from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, June 17 at Northwestern Michigan College’s Great Lakes Campus.

Kids accompanied by an adult are invited to join in the free fishing fun. Under the supervision of the Department of Natural Resources, 750 rainbow trout 10 inches or longer will be stocked in the campus harbor for the event. Fishing rods, reels and bait are all provided. Children may also bring their own fishing gear. Experienced volunteers will help with baiting hooks and fishing instruction, and clean the fish.

The Great Lakes Children’s Museum will host a free fish painting activity for kids waiting to fish. There will also be a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter flyover, contingent on availability. Parking is available at NMC’s Great Lakes Campus, located just east of the Delamar Hotel on U.S. 31.

Free Fishing Day is sponsored by Traverse City Rotary Clubs, Rotary Camps & Services, NMC, Friends of the Boardman, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, and the Northwest Michigan Fishing Club.

Release date: June 8, 2023

For more information:

Chris DeGood (Rotary)
cdegood@bria2.com
(231) 420-5601 (mobile)
(231) 933-8400 (office)

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-discrimination