New books for July 2025
To find these selections and many other new titles, see the NMC library catalog.
Success Story: Donated tugboat will expand GLMA job opportunities and save money
July 9, 2025
Graduates of the nation’s only freshwater maritime academy will see significantly expanded job opportunities thanks to training beginning this week aboard the first vessel to join its fleet in more than 20 years.
Donated to NMC’s Great Lakes Maritime Academy last fall, the Robinson Bay arrived in Traverse City June 19 fresh off a $500,000 overhaul paid for with federal and donor dollars. It passed U.S. Coast Guard inspection July 2. By the end of summer, up to 36 cadets may complete a 30-day training program aboard it, earning their mate of tow vessel license endorsement (TOAR).
“This will substantially increase their employment opportunities,” said GLMA Superintendent Jerry Achenbach. There are more than 5,000 tow vessels in the U.S. fleet, compared to 350 deep draft vessels where cadets traditionally have sought employment, he said.
The donation, valued at $300,000, will also save GLMA tow vessel leasing costs that have topped $50,000 per year, plus open the opportunity for new credentials. GLMA plans to work with the U.S. Coast Guard on approval for engine cadets to earn Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) license endorsement.
The goal is to eventually develop this into a two-year associate degree program to add to the bachelor’s degree in maritime technology that GLMA currently offers.
Joining the T/S State of Michigan, the research vessel Northwestern and two smaller vessels in NMC’s Great Lakes campus harbor, the Robinson Bay will increase the college’s strategic utilization of its unique location on Grand Traverse Bay.
“Most training will be in West Bay. We currently use our other small boats to practice towing with as well as the State of Michigan when available. Additionally, we utilize our simulator to meet program requirements,” said Cary Godwin, GLMA’s lead tow vessel instructor.
The Robinson Bay was constructed in 1958 and substantially rebuilt, including a new engine, in the early 1990s, Achenbach said.
GLMA cadets to begin tow vessel training aboard Robinson Bay
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC Great Lakes Maritime Academy cadets will begin training this week aboard the donated tugboat Robinson Bay, the first vessel the Academy has acquired in more than 20 years, expanding job opportunities for graduates of the nation’s only freshwater maritime academy as well as reducing operating costs.
By the end of the summer, up to 36 cadets will have completed a 30-day training program aboard the Robinson Bay, earning their mate of tow vessel license endorsement (TOAR). Most of the training in ship handling, watch standing and tow vessel operation will be conducted in West Bay, with additional trips to Mackinac Island. GLMA’s shoreside simulator, located at NMC’s Great Lakes Campus, will also be tapped so cadets can meet requirements.
“The acquisition of the vessel enables GLMA cadets to gain instruction in tow vessel ship handling and operations, and earn tow vessel license endorsements, in addition to unlimited third mate or unlimited third assistant engineer. This will substantially increase their employment opportunities,” said GLMA Superintendent Jerry Achenbach. There are more than 5,000 tow vessels in the U.S. fleet, compared to 350 deep draft vessels where cadets traditionally have sought employment, he said.
Donated by the U.S. Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, the acquisition of the Robinson Bay will save GLMA tow vessel leasing costs that have exceeded $50,000 per year. The Academy has leased a tugboat every summer since 2020.
Having the vessel available year round also means GLMA could offer additional credentials. Plans for later this year include working with the U.S. Coast Guard on approval for engine cadets to earn Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) license endorsement.
The goal is to eventually develop this into a two-year associate degree program. GLMA currently offers a bachelor’s degree in maritime technology. Also in development is a plan for a one-day event for professional mariners who have the 30 days sea time but need to complete the Tow Officer Assessment Record, which GLMA faculty can assess.
The Robinson Bay was constructed in 1958 and substantially rebuilt, including a new engine, in the early 1990s, Achenbach said. Valued at $300,000, it was formally acquired by GLMA in October 2024 and handed off in November.
In December 2024 it arrived at a Toledo, Ohio shipyard to undergo the work necessary to use it as a training vessel. The $500,000 cost of that work was covered by federal and donor funds.
In June, GLMA staff traveled to Ohio to sail the ship to Traverse City. On July 2 it passed U.S. Coast Guard inspection and became available for cadet training, the first new vessel to join the Academy’s fleet since the T/S State of Michigan in 2002.
Release date: July 7, 2025
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-discriminationFitness Center closed July 4
NMC’s Fitness Center will be closed on Friday, July 4, and will reopen on Saturday, July 5.
For more information contact Marcus Bennett at mbennett@nmc.edu.
Campus Safety Reminder — Bicycle Theft Alert
Over the past month, several bicycles have been reported stolen from campus. As a precaution, please remember to always lock your bicycle securely or, if possible, store it inside your residence.
If your bicycle is stolen, take the following steps:
- Report the theft to the Traverse City Police Department at (231) 922-4550.
- Notify NMC Security at (231) 995-1111 after filing your police report.
Your vigilance helps keep our campus community safe. Thank you for taking steps to protect your property.
TAHRA Intern Networking Event
Attention interns in Traverse City! Looking to make connections, explore career opportunities and have a great time doing it? Stop by the Traverse Area Human Resources Association (TAHRA) Intern Networking Event from 5–7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 30 at Chelsea Park West, 2054 Essex View Dr, Traverse City. Mingle with local professionals, chat with other interns and gain insights that can help launch your career.
If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Ewing at jaewing@nmc.edu. Open to all interns.
New additions to Library of Things collection
To find these selections and more, browse our full collection of Library of Things in the online catalog.
Outdoors & Recreation
Telescope
Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Gysker 80mm AZ Space Astronomical Refractor Telescope! This versatile and beginner-friendly telescope is designed to offer clear, detailed views of celestial objects, making it ideal for stargazers of all ages. This model offers an 80mm aperture and 400mm focal length for bright, crisp views of the moon, planets, and star clusters. The sturdy, adjustable tripod and easy-to-use mount make setup and tracking simple. Lightweight and portable, this telescope is perfect for backyard astronomy or taking on the go!
Laser tag set
Strap on your vest, grab a gun, and transform any space into a battle zone for a high-intensity laser tag war! Lives and team data are automatically synced, and LCDs on the vests and guns allow you to check your status, even in the heat of battle – without having to rely on lights or audio.The set also includes an innovative charging station to replenish all the gear at once easily. Run, hide, roll, take aim, and eliminate your enemies to win the game!
Pickleball set
Let’s face it – pickleball is a hot sport right now! Get in on the fun with this 4-person pickleball set, most suitable for beginner to intermediate players. Complete with paddles, outdoor balls, and a convenient carrying case, this set has everything you need to get your pickle on! Pair with our portable pickleball net to play your match anywhere with a hard, flat surface!
Portable pickleball net
This portable net system is perfect for pickleball enthusiasts who want the freedom to play anywhere! The included carrying bag makes it easy to transport the net to different locations and the lightweight design ensures that no heavy equipment will burden you with your gear. Enjoy the convenience of having everything you need in one place, with a straightforward set up that requires no tools and can be assembled in minutes!
Giant chess, checkers & chess tac toe
Play a classic game of checkers anywhere on this giant 4×4 ft vintage-style canvas checkerboard! Then, flip the discs to battle your opponent in chess. Finally, flip over the mat to play chess tac toe, a simple and strategic game, perfect for all ages!
Portable picnic table
The table is made with light-weight aluminum making it easy to pack up and carry – when folded the table forms a self-carry case that can be stored almost anywhere. It also comes with a built-in hole in the center of the table to hold an umbrella for shade. Whether planning a picnic in the park, camping or just enjoying your own backyard, this table makes it easy to provide seating for you and your crew!
Instant canopy pop-up tent
Experience quick and hassle-free assembly with this pop-up canopy, requiring just three simple steps for complete setup in less than 5 minutes! The waterproof canopy cover, fortified with UV protection coating, ensures not only protection from harmful sun rays but also creates a cool and relaxing haven on scorching summer days. Enjoy instant shade with ease, making every outdoor moment comfortable and sheltered!
Stargazing kit
This kit includes a powerful 600-lumen rechargeable headlamp for versatile, hands-free illumination, plus a red light option to preserve night vision. It also features a rechargeable red flashlight designed specifically for astronomy to maintain dark adaptation. A USB to USB-C charging cable keeps your devices powered on the go. Finally, the kit comes with a handy Pocket Guide to the Night Sky of North America, perfect for identifying constellations and celestial events. All items are neatly organized in a durable carrying case, making it easy to take your stargazing essentials anywhere.
Kubb
Often called Viking Chess, Kubb is a classic Swedish lawn game that blends strategy and skill. It can be played on grass, sand, or even snow, making it a versatile choice for outdoor gatherings! The objective is to knock down your opponent’s blocks and ultimately the King, but only after clearing all other blocks.
Tech
Mini projector
This projector delivers bright, clear images with 170 lumens of white brightness and native 1080p resolution, ensuring crisp visuals in various lighting conditions. Integrated WiFi and two-way Bluetooth 5.1 enable seamless wireless mirroring and high-quality audio through built-in speakers without extra equipment. The zoom function allows flexible image sizing from 40″ to 200″ screens, supported by a 600:1 contrast ratio for deeper blacks and vibrant colors. Its compact, portable design makes it easy to carry and set up anywhere!
Projection screen
This 100 inch portable projection screen is suitable for either indoor or outdoor use and can be assembled with ease – no tools required. Pair with our mini projector for on-the-go entertainment or presentations!
Success Story: EV training expands, next generation takes over D & W
June 11, 2025
Selling your small family business to the next generation may just be the apex of the American dream, but even though Wayne Moody (above right) has already achieved that, the road ahead still includes ambitions for the NMC Automotive Technology coordinator.
In his 20 years leading the program, Moody’s influence already extends to almost every car repair shop in the region, where his many graduates work. With his time and focus now exclusively on the program following the November 2023 sale of D & W Automotive, the shop he opened in 1986, to daughter Lynnett Vanderwal (right, with Wayne) and her husband Ben – both NMC grads – Moody’s influence is only poised to grow.
Automotive Technology is expecting its largest enrollment ever this fall. The program now leads NMC’s participation in the Baja endurance race series, competing alongside major four-year universities. And just this month Automotive Technology was awarded $120,000 in state workforce development funds to scale up its electrical vehicle (EV) training.
“That’s a big deal for us,” Moody said.
In fact, as EVs grow in popularity, it’s crucial to the whole northern Michigan economy, since NMC is the only provider of EV-specific training in the region, said Tami Wolverton, regional director of workforce programming at Northwest Michigan Works!, which collaborated with NMC to receive the funding.
“This partnership is a critical step toward preparing our region for the future of transportation,” Wolverton said. “This investment helps ensure that Northern Michigan remains at the forefront of automotive innovation.”
NMC also recently invested in a $40,000 tool for adjusting and aligning automatic driver assistance systems (ADAS), another newer vehicle technology, Moody said.
Meanwhile, as D&W approaches its 40th anniversary, the Vanderwals also are thriving. Last year, their first full year of ownership of the shop in Blair Township, it was named a top 100 independent repair shop.
“I’m just really proud of the legacy my dad has created here,” said Lynnett, a 2010 NMC alumnus who manages the office in addition to co-ownership. D&W’s reputation, especially for transmission service, draws customers from as far as Petoskey and Grand Rapids, she said.
Lynnett estimates the shop has hired between 7 and 10 NMC automotive students, one as recently as last month.
Moody also set an example for his students by earning his own degree at NMC. He was initially hired as an adjunct in 2002 directly from industry.
“I thought it was time to practice what I preached. I enrolled in NMC and in 2015 I got my degree from NMC. I actually walked with my own students,” he said.
Now 66, Moody says he has students ready for retirement, but he’s not. Besides his work at NMC, he handles the occasional vintage car repair back at D&W, and mentors the third generation. His 13-year-old granddaughter has helped him rebuild a transmission already, Lynnett said.
“He’s really created a culture and a legacy that lives on,” she said.
NMC Children’s Choir auditions June 10 & 12, 6–8 PM
Come join this award winning program! For students in 3-9, schedule a 5-minute audition by visiting nmcchildrenschoir.com/join.
For students in K-2, join Prelude (K/1) or Dolce (2nd) choir, no audition is needed. Register on our website.
For questions, email Stephanie Schall-Brazee at schallbrazee@gmail.com.
Cafe Lobdell’s opens
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College’s Great Lakes Culinary Institute will host and operate Cafe Lobdell’s from June 24-July 30.
Cafe Lobdell’s is the capstone course in GLCI’s one-year Baking Certificate program. Culinary students will make and serve fresh sweet and savory baked goods, quiche, yogurt parfaits, healthy breakfast bowls plus sandwiches and salads to go, as well as a wide variety of specialty coffee drinks.
No reservations are required. Counter service hours are 7:30–11 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Cafe Lobdell’s is on the second level of NMC’s Great Lakes campus, 715 E. Front St.
Find out more about culinary programs at nmc.edu/culinary.
Release date: JUNE 9, 2025
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
(231) 392-1800 (mobile – call or text)
choga@nmc.edu
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. nmc.edu/non-discriminationAero Park Drive closure starts June 9
Aero Park Drive will be blocked to through traffic from June 9–13 due to construction on NMC’s new aviation hangar. Entrances on both Three Mile Road and Parsons Road will remain open, but drivers will need to bypass construction using North Aero Park Court. Signage will be in place. See the map below for details. Thanks for your cooperation.
Aero Park Drive closure map
NMC hosts Kids Free Fishing Day June 14
TRAVERSE CITY — More than 250 young anglers and their families are expected at the annual Rotary Kids Free Fishing Day, set from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, June 14 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, 500 brown 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 including Rotarians and cadets from the Great Lakes Maritime Academy will help with baiting hooks and fishing skills. Members of the Northwest Michigan Fishing Club will clean the fish for the young anglers. 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.
Parking is available at NMC’s Great Lakes campus, 715 E. Front St., Traverse City, 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, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Mike and Rhonda Estes, Great Lakes Children’s Museum and the Northwest Michigan Fishing Club.
Release date: May 30, 2025
For more information:
Christopher DeGood
Traverse City Rotary Clubs
cdegood@bria2.com
(231) 420-5601
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-discriminationState grants to fund personalized skill and degree attainment pathways
From left to right: Laura Stevens Matchett, Director of NMC Extended Education & Training; Lisa Schut, Regional Director at Northwest Michigan Works!; and Lisa vonReichbauer, Director of NMC Admissions
(Download a high-resolution version here.)TRAVERSE CITY – NMC has received $1.19 million in state grants to pilot a first-of-its kind collaborative and team of navigators aimed at creating nontraditional pathways to credentials and degrees for adult learners between 2025 and 2028.
“These investments reflect our deep commitment to adult learners and the communities that support them,” said Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “By working with local colleges and community leaders, we are removing barriers to education and helping more Michiganders earn the credentials they need to thrive in today’s economy.”
The NoMi Attainment Collaborative, which includes more than 20 agencies, led by NMC and Northwest Michigan Works!, today opened to new students. The goal is that within three years about 2,000 more northern Michigan residents will possess the certificates or degrees they need to increase their paychecks, thus growing the middle class, and contributing to a thriving regional economy.
“This collaboration is a powerful example of what happens when we imagine more for our region: more opportunity, more access, and more futures unlocked. Together, we’re building a community where learning truly lasts a lifetime,” said NMC President Nick Nissley.
Key to the collaborative’s approach is blurring the line between non-credit and traditional credit classes at NMC. Students will meet with grant-funded navigators for personalized support and access to low-barrier, try-it-out skill attainment opportunities. This stepping stone approach is paired with a “no wrong door” philosophy under which all collaborative members commit to meeting students’ needs first and referring to programs offered within our 10-county region.
“You can start small and follow your curiosity; dip your toes in welding, construction technology, health care, IT or more, without committing to a semester-long class,” said Laura Stevens Matchett, director of NMC Extended Education and Training. In addition, students may be able to obtain credit for prior learning, a strategic initiative at NMC.
The aim of the initiatives supported by the grants is to increase the proportion of working age adults who hold certifications and degrees from 49% to 55% in an 10-county region: Antrim, Benzie, Emmet, Charlevoix, Kalkaska, Manistee, Missaukee, Leelanau, Grand Traverse and Wexford. That translates to 2,344 individuals. Statewide, Michigan has a goal of 60% of adults having a degree or certificate by 2030. The grants are from the office of Sixty by 30.
“This grant will empower more people to achieve industry-recognized credentials and degrees, opening doors to stable, high-wage careers,” said Lisa Schut, regional director at Northwest Michigan Works! “By providing personalized support and breaking down barriers to education and employment, we are strengthening our workforce, expanding the middle class, and fostering long-term economic growth in northern Michigan.”
To get started, contact NMC Extended Education & Training at ees@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1700. A navigator will assist you in choosing your class or program, and with seeking support for entering an educational training pathway, all at your own pace — with you in the driver’s seat.
Current Collaborative members are:
- 20 Fathoms
- BEST Benzie County (LCAN)
- BATA
- Century & Clark
- Char Em ISD
- Davenport University
- Goodwill Northern Michigan
- Grand Traverse County
- Grand Valley State University
- GROW Benzie
- Manistee County Community Foundation
- Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
- Michigan College Access Network
- Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
- North Central Michigan College
- Networks Northwest
- Northwest Education Services
- Northwest Michigan Works!
- Northwestern Michigan College
- Sara Lee Frozen Bakery
- SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers
- Traverse Connect
- United Way
- West Shore Community College
Release Date: May 29, 2025
For More Information
Laura Stevens Matchett
Director of NMC Extended Education & Training
lmatchett@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1704
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-discriminationGet an Edge on fall semester at NMC, free
Brush up on English, math, college readiness in 4-week session
TRAVERSE CITY — Registration is now open for Adult College Edge (ACE), a free program NMC is hosting July 7–31 to help college students 21+ prepare for their fall semester.
Adult College Edge is a four-week program to help prepare students to succeed in math, English and college skills before they start or continue college at NMC this fall. Edge uses a hybrid schedule. Students will attend on-campus Tuesdays and Thursdays complete other coursework online at their own pace. Two options are available:
- Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
- Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Upon successfully completing the program, students will earn a $250 scholarship toward NMC’s fall semester and a graphing calculator. Meals, class supplies and gas cards for transportation to campus are also included. To get started, fill out this online interest form.
College Edge debuted in 2023. It is part of the investment the state of Michigan is making in its adult student-age population. State scholarships available now include the Community College Guarantee for the high school class of 2025, and Michigan Reconnect for adults 25 and older who don’t already have a degree. Both programs make tuition free to in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents.)
Release date: May 27, 2025
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-discriminationNMC names 2025 excellence winners
TRAVERSE CITY – Northwestern Michigan College has recognized the following employees for excellence in the 2024–25 academic year:
Becca Richardson
(download high-resolution photo)Imogene Wise Faculty Excellence Award: Becca Richardson, mathematics. Chosen by a student selection committee, award criteria includes teaching excellence, rapport with students, innovation in the classroom and a sense of dedication. Student nominators said of Richardson, an NMC alumna who began teaching at NMC as an adjunct in 2013 and became full-time faculty in 2018:
- “She lays out everything a student could possibly need to excel in her class. Mathematics is very challenging, but because of her guidance, her availability whenever I text her (and I mean whenEVER), and her as a person is why I’m here.”
- “Becca uses several different learning styles to promote understanding of the material. She includes concepts that are applicable to personal needs such as; budgeting, saving for a house, retirement, investments. Applying the knowledge to the real world helped me truly understand and appreciate the math needed in these areas.”
Initiated by a contribution from longtime NMC benefactors Harold and Imogene Wise in 1970, the award was first made to a full-time faculty member in 1971.
John Lutchko
(download high-resolution photo)Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award: John Lutchko, Marine Technology. Chosen by a student selection committee, award criteria includes teaching excellence, rapport with students, innovation in the classroom and a sense of dedication. Lutchko is also an NMC alumnus. He graduated in 2013 and began his career as the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute lab coordinator and manager. Last year he was named GLWSI director. Student nominators said:
- “He really cares about the subject and his enthusiasm for it keeps our attention. He also goes above and beyond to help students keep up with coursework.”
- “He is also always there to help with students whether it be about class or even if you’re struggling with time management. He truly loves his job and is invested in getting students involved.”
The award was created in 1999 as a companion to the Imogene Wise Faculty Excellence Award. See a full list of all past faculty and adjunct faculty excellence winners at nmc.edu/cie.
Katharine Marvin
(download high-resolution photo)Staff Excellence Award: Katharine Marvin, Director of Development & Alumni Relations. Marvin, who joined the college in 2015, demonstrates an innate ability to lead with grace and collaborate with enthusiasm. Her achievements this year include securing $1.4 million in gifts for a wide range of programs, including Nursing, Culinary, Construction Technology, Aviation, WNMC and the International Affairs Forum. Her proactive approach to friendraising has cultivated relationships that have blossomed into significant future investments, exemplified specifically by a $500,000 planned gift designated for aviation scholarships. She has also stepped up to hire and mentor new colleagues, serving on no fewer than six search committees as NMC worked to build a strong and cohesive Advancement & Community Engagement (ACE) team.
Team Excellence Award: Public Relations, Marketing & Communications: Diana Fairbanks, Emily Crull, Steve Kellman, Cari Noga, Deanna Silkowski, Joan Sodini and Kelly Yauk (below, left to right). PRMC was cited for its work exemplifying the college values of innovation and collaboration. Over the past year PRMC developed a comprehensive brand strategy, a proactive, strategic endeavor that involved all internal stakeholders and external partners. Funded by a Lumina Foundation grant, the strategy forges alignment between NMC’s mission and messaging, empowering every employee to effectively communicate the college’s distinct value to all those it serves. In addition, PRMC’s strategic enrollment marketing efforts have significantly contributed to six straight semesters of enrollment growth. Finally, PRMC serves the entire college as a central hub for prioritizing and fulfilling all promotion, communication and marketing requests. (Select a photo below for a high-resolution version.)
Release Date: May 23, 2025
For more information:
Cari Noga
Communications Director
cnoga@nmc.edu
(231) 392-1800 (mobile – text preferred)
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-discriminationBookstore closed June 26-27
The NMC Bookstore will be closed June 26-27 for annual inventory and will reopen on Monday, June 30. All web orders placed between June 26-27 will be processed on Monday, June 30.
NMC to offer Ready for Life program Fall 2026
Program will serve students 18–26 with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC will become the first community college in Michigan to offer tailored and inclusive college programming for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities when it becomes a Ready for Life Academy site in fall 2026.
Ready for Life, a Grand Rapids non-profit, presently offers academies at Hope College and Ferris State University. The NMC site is expected to start with eight students ages 18–26. Autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and cognitive disabilities are the most common disabilities among Ready for Life (RFL) students.
NMC and RFL’s shared goal is to enable individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to work and live independently. Students will take life skills transition classes in independent living, personal finance, relationships and employment on NMC’s Front Street campus, taught by Ready for Life staff. In addition, they will enroll in or audit two NMC classes alongside typical peer students in high interest and/or skill-building classes. Academic and social support and internships and job opportunities are also provided by RFL.
“As a community college, NMC has a history and mission of open access to education. We are excited to find a partner like Ready for Life, which has translated that vision into meaningful reality for more than 100 students with disabilities,” said NMC president Nick Nissley.
Inclusive college programs are very limited in Michigan. NMC’s site will be the first north of Grand Rapids. Research, including a focus group, indicated a demand for such a program. NMC also hosted a one-week pilot program for RFL students in summer 2023.
“Ready For Life Academy is thrilled to partner with NMC to bring our programming to the Traverse City area. This collaboration responds to the growing need for post-secondary transition opportunities in the northern Lower Peninsula, increasing access to inclusive educational pathways,” RFL Director Toni Falk said. “By expanding our reach, we are better able to serve individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders—empowering them to pursue continued education, build independence, and reach their fullest potential close to home.”
RFL’s outcomes are significantly better than those for most adults with IDD. Among RFL graduates, 83 percent live independently with appropriate supports and more than 91 percent are employed, with few or no supports required. Nationally, more than 80 percent of adults with IDD live at home and are unemployed.
To improve those statistics locally, a few years ago NMC began exploring expanded programming for students with IDD. In January 2024, NMC’s Neurodiversity Support Center for traditionally-enrolled students opened. In its first year, demand for services more than doubled.
The RFL site at NMC will provide a college option for students who earn a high school certificate of completion instead of a diploma. These students are typically excluded from traditional college admission, even at community colleges.
To date, the most common path for those students locally is attendance at the regional Transition Campus programs, including the Life Skills Center and Adult Community Experience operated by Northwest Education Services. Currently 138 students 18–26 are enrolled in Transition Campus programs. The Ready for Life program will increase these students’ options. NMC will develop support staffing for the partnership over the next fiscal year.
Traverse City residents Jean and Brian Brooks had been exploring Ready for Life’s other sites for their daughter Sadie, 17. Currently enrolled at Greenspire High School, they’re excited she now has an option closer to home when she finishes high school.
“Many children with milder impairment fall through the cracks because they aren’t quite able to achieve a traditional high school diploma, but neither do they totally fit into the other programs,” Jean Brooks said. “These are children who have grown up in inclusion settings, with typical peer interactions, activities and friends. The RFL Academy is fantastic for these individuals.”
Northwest Ed Transition coordinator Mimi Kinney has been an active supporter of Ready for Life and the Neurodiversity Support Center since both were proposed.
“At North Ed, we are excited to have Ready For Life be an option at NMC. Our intermediate school district plans to support these efforts by connecting students and families to this innovative post-secondary learning opportunity. Creating more and varied options for students with learning differences is so important,” Kinney said.
NMC has a history of collaboration with Northwest Ed, including an Early College program that allows high school students to complete an associate degree in just one year.
The Ready for Life site at NMC will start as a commuter program. However, as NMC increases its on-campus housing inventory, as called for in the 10-year master plan approved last year, living on campus may become an option.
Ready for Life was founded in 2008 at Hope College. A second academy operated at Calvin University from 2017–2024. Calvin then took over the program, creating capacity for a new site. RFL’s third partnership with Ferris State University launched in 2021 and will celebrate its first graduating cohort of 6 students this month.
Ready for Life will host an open house on NMC’s campus Oct. 17. The program will handle all recruiting and admissions for the NMC site. To stay informed contact toni.falk@rflnetwork.org or (616) 330-8667.
Release date: May 20, 2025
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-discriminationVolunteers sought for NMC’s Scholarship Open
NMC is seeking volunteers for the Scholarship Open presented by Bill and Susie Janis on Wednesday, August 6 at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
Enjoy a wonderful day outdoors in northern Michigan supporting the community’s college and helping raise money for student scholarships. Volunteers will receive a polo to wear during the event and free food.
For more information, contact the NMC Foundation at foundation@nmc.edu.