TRAVERSE CITY — Employers are now invited to register for NMC’s 2026 Career & Majors Fair, to be held 1-5 p.m. Friday, April 10 at the Hagerty Center on NMC’s Great Lakes campus.
Employer registration is $50 ($25 for non-profits) to host a table at the region’s only career fair, which utilizes a guided pathway format. Employers will be clustered with faculty and staff from NMC’s relevant academic areas to showcase how NMC programs can lead to employment opportunities in northern Michigan.
Several hundred students and community members are expected to attend. The fair will also showcase Michigan’s two 60 x 30 initiatives – the student scholarships aimed at helping the state reach the goal of 60 percent of adult residents earning a degree or certificate by 2030. The Michigan Reconnect scholarship offers free in-district tuition to students 25 and up who don’t already have a degree. The Community College Guarantee makes the same offer to students in the high school classes of 2025 and 2026.
The for-credit academic areas attending are:
Automotive Technology
Culinary
Computer Information Technology/ Business
Construction Technology/ Electrical
Engineering (Transfer)
Great Lakes Water Studies Institute
Health Occupations (Nursing, Dental Assisting, Surgical Technology)
Manufacturing Technology, Welding Technology, and Apprenticeship programs
Uncrewed Aerial Systems
Visual Communications
The Career & Majors Fair will also feature a dedicated space for veterans and military members offering services such as resume review, as well as information from NMC’s Financial Aid and Extended Education and Training (noncredit) offices. It is free to attend. Shuttle service will be offered from NMC’s Front Street campus.
Cari Noga NMC Communications Director cnoga@nmc.edu (231) 392-1800 (Call or text)
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-discrimination
NMC Marine Technology students conduct sonar operations aboard the R/V Northwestern
February 4, 2026
Around the world, Detroit is synonymous with the automotive industry. Now, as Michigan sets its course for the maritime industry, NMC has become a key player in a region that will be vital to statewide success.
Last week the state released its first-ever Michigan Maritime Strategy, six draft goals to guide state policy and investment. NMC is one of just two Michigan community colleges called out in the report. NMC Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Jason Slade participated in two input sessions and provided online input.
The Great Lakes Maritime Academy and Great Lakes Water Studies Institute each have a role in goal 4, “lead the nation in recruitment, training, and retention of the maritime workforce.” GLMA graduates pilot and maintain ships on the Great Lakes, while Marine Technology graduates work in hydrographic surveying, part of port inspections. The under-construction Freshwater Research & Innovation Center is ahead of the curve on goal 5, “cultivate a thriving maritime innovation ecosystem.”
“Northern Michigan has a lot of capabilities in a number of these goals,” Slade said. “I think it was critical that the strategy document listed the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center.”
Construction is on schedule for the anticipated spring 2027 opening of the $29.8 million collaborative blue tech innovation hub, with concrete work completed and steel delivery expected this month. One tenant, NV5, is confirmed. A second, the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, which includes the Fishpass project underway in downtown Traverse City, is nearly finalized. NMC has partnered with Discovery Pier, Traverse Connect, 20Fathoms and Michigan Technological University to build FRIC. The state also invested $15 million in the 40,000 square-foot facility.
Projects like FRIC ultimately broaden Michigan’s economy.
“Michigan is prepared to lead the future of maritime innovation while protecting the waters that define us,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in a news release accompanying the strategy. “The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a long-term plan for us to create good-paying local jobs and attract cutting-edge investments while protecting our Great Lakes.”
“It’s really a diversification to complement the auto industry,” Slade said. He added that NMC also brings experience and expertise on aerial mobility initiatives with drones, and can apply that to the new strategy.
“We have a reputation with the state for being at the forefront for mobility areas. We need to push that for maritime as well,” he said.
Public comment on the draft strategy is open until Feb. 27. The strategy is expected to be formally adopted later this year.
I am writing today to share the news of the passing of Jack Segal, a deeply respected member of the NMC community whose influence extended well beyond our campus and into the life of our region.
Jack was a retired senior U.S. diplomat who served his country at the White House and in challenging overseas posts including Russia, Israel, Palestine, and Afghanistan. Of his many accomplishments, he took particular pride in being the primary author of the US-USSR Agreement on Nuclear Risk Reduction, and in his work as a negotiator of the START nuclear arms control treaty. With his wife Karen, they opened the first western diplomatic mission to the 40 million people of Central Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
For more than 15 years, Jack brought this experience as a senior U.S. diplomat and foreign service officer into our NMC classrooms and community learning spaces, teaching courses and leading conversations on world affairs through Extended Education & Training and the International Affairs Forum. Through his teaching, Jack helped students and community members alike understand global issues not as abstractions, but as human, complex, and consequential realities.
Jack was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in the Vietnam War. His military experience was life altering, both in terms of combat experience and in deciding to pursue a career in foreign diplomacy. He was a voice of calm reason through his 35 years as a diplomat, in part because he witnessed the ravages of war.
Jack and Karen co-led the International Affairs Forum through a period of significant growth. Under their leadership, IAF expanded its programming, partnerships and reach, strengthening civic dialogue across the region and elevating NMC’s role as a trusted convener of thoughtful conversation on national and global issues.
What defined Jack was not the prominence of the roles he held, but the humility and curiosity he brought to every interaction. Over a distinguished career, he served at the highest levels of the U.S. Department of State, the National Security Council, and NATO. Yet he was always more interested in listening than in being recognized.
That commitment was evident earlier this month when Jack met with the International Affairs Forum Student Leadership Team. Rather than speaking at the students, he took time to speak with each of them individually, listening carefully and engaging with genuine interest. It was a simple moment that reflected a belief Jack carried throughout his life: that real understanding comes from listening to those closest to the work.
In 2024, Jack and Karen were named NMC Fellows, the college’s highest honor, in recognition of their extraordinary service, leadership and generosity. They have also been devoted supporters of the NMC Foundation for more than 15 years, investing in programs that strengthen learning, dialogue, and civic engagement.
Jack Segal believed deeply in education, public service, and the power of informed conversation. Northwestern Michigan College and the broader community it serves are better because of his presence, his leadership and his example.
On behalf of Northwestern Michigan College, I extend my deepest condolences to Karen, their family and all who were fortunate to learn from Jack, work alongside him or know him as a friend.
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media recently. We want to share your media involvement too. Please send information about your NMC-related interview or appearance to publicrelations@nmc.edu. If possible, please include a link to the piece and information about where and when it was used.
Please note access to some stories may be limited by paywalls set up by the media outlet. This includes the Traverse City Record-Eagle, which limits free clicks to five per month. You may also read Record-Eagle articles in the print edition at the NMC Library.
The next lunch and learn will be held at noon on Wednesday, February 11. Bring your lunch and join Brittany Hanbury on Zoom to explore the importance of carving out “me time” and getting creative. Together, we’ll discover free and easy ways to try new hobbies and explore the latest trends, including analog bags. There will also be a giveaway for a hobby starter kit—one lucky attendee will get the supplies needed to try three new hobbies including a Woobles crochet kit. This is event is open to all employees.
Looking for easy, affordable recipes? Our colleague, Brittany Hanbury, has been testing a few crockpot recipes that can be added to your recipe rotation.
The first is a Chickpea Tortilla Soup from LiveEatLearn. When Brittany tested this recipe she used the tip from the original blog post and froze most of the ingredients aside from the broth, cream cheese, cilantro and lime in a ziploc bag and then added the frozen ingredients to the crock pot the day of with the broth and cooked on low for 6 hours before finishing the dish with the cream cheese, cilantro and lime. She also added extra jalapeños because they love a little extra spice. She says that her family are not typically soup people but this has become a staple in their household.
The second recipe is Lentil Sloppy Joes from Thyme and Love. Brittany has been a pescatarian for about 15 years and forgot how much she used to enjoy sloppy joes until she tried this recipe. She used regular Worcestershire sauce instead of vegan and says it still turned out great.
See something that you’re not sure is right? Help keep NMC safe and say something. If you notice suspicious activity, call Campus Safety at (231) 995-1111. In case of an emergency, call 911 immediately.
NMC is a large, open campus with multiple locations. It’s important to know what to do in an emergency situation. Campus Safety would like for employees to watch the FBI’s Run. Hide. Fight. — Safe in Schools video.
Wednesday, February 4, 12–1 p.m.
Instructor: Alison Thornton
Flyers, newsletters, presentations, infographics, mind maps—you name it, Canva can help you design it. With thousands of beautifully crafted templates and intuitive drag-and-drop tools, Canva makes it easy to bring your ideas to life. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to customize layouts, edit images, work with text and make the most of Canva’s built-in magic. Whether you’re designing for your classroom, your team or your next big idea, you’ll walk away with creative tools and confidence to match.
Canva Presentations and Canva AI
Monday, February 9, 12–1 p.m.
Instructor: Alison Thornton
Focusing on presentations and the use of AI, you will learn to apply the skills you have learned in Canva Basics to develop graphically pleasing presentations including video and audio, as well as using features such as drawing, resizing designs, magic features, text-to-image features, instant styles and layouts. You will learn how to use AI to start the development of your presentations and how to upload existing presentations for further development in Canva. This is for use in class, on Instagram, on campus monitors and more!
Google Slides and Google Vids
Wednesday, February 11, 12–1 p.m.
Instructor: Alison Thornton
This hands-on course introduces Google Vids, an AI-powered video creation and editing application integrated with Google Workspace, to enhance teaching, professional development and campus communications. Participants will learn to quickly generate video drafts using Gemini AI from simple prompts or existing Drive documents, utilize built-in templates, record screen or camera content, integrate various media and employ editing tools for customizing and branding short-form video content up to 10 minutes in length, ultimately fostering more engaging and accessible learning experiences and internal announcements through streamlined video production.
CPR-AED Training
Tuesday, February 17, 5–6 p.m.
Osterlin Building, room 205
Instructor: Eric Darling, Fife Lake Fire Chief
Learn how to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) to respond to sudden cardiac arrest. This is a non-certification training that will provide attendees with hands-on learning opportunities. For questions, contact Garrett Croon at gcroon@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1747.
AI Prompting: Crafting Conversations with AI
Wednesday, February 18, 3–4 p.m.
Instructor: Alison Thornton
Are you curious about AI and how it can help you? Learn about working with the AI Large Language Models (LLM’s like Gemini, ChatGPT, and Perplexity.ai) to brainstorm, summarize, explain topics, find information on the web and respond to complex prompts. Come to this session where you will see a demonstration and get hands-on practice in AI Prompting!
Exploring the Evolving AI Landscape
Wednesday, February 25, 3–4 p.m.
Instructor: Alison Thornton
This advanced workshop is designed for employees who are already familiar with AI LLM’s and basic AI prompting but want to deepen their understanding of the newest developments in AI. Participants will explore powerful new tools and features—including Gemini Flash 2.5 Image, ChatGPT-5, Study and Learn, Agent Mode, storybooks, real-world applications that are reshaping education and productivity and other new launches. (Please take AI Prompting before signing up for this class or ask athornton@nmc.edu for a waiver, if you are familiar with AI Prompting.)
Monday, March 16, 4–6 p.m.
Osterlin Building, room 205
Instructor: Eric Darling, Fife Lake Fire Chief
When acts of violence occur, you can’t always wait for EMS to arrive. AVIRT Training was developed with law enforcement and medical experts to empower everyone to become an immediate responder. This course is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively to active violence and emergency situations. AVIRT teaches both active shooter response skills and emergency bleeding techniques. Certification period: 2 years. For questions, contact Garrett Croon at gcroon@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1747.
TRAVERSE CITY — Registration is now open for NMC’s College for Kids summer program, which provides weekly learning camps for students ages 4-17. These specialty, fun, experiential “college” learning classes run from June 15 through July 31. New this year, sessions for first through sixth graders will take place from 9 a.m. to noon, and from 1 to 4 p.m., allowing parents the option of full day programming when they join their child for lunch on campus. Register for all classes at nmc.edu/kids.
Held on NMC’s campuses or partner facilities, classes are taught by passionate, experienced instructors who provide a safe and exciting learning environment. Developing their own curriculum, teachers make each class unique, of high interest to students, and experiential with hands-on engagement. Young learners are introduced to college adventures in art, science, sewing, technology, culinary, dance, and more.
More than forty new classes will debut this summer, including Adventures in Loom Weaving, Writing & Drawing Comics, Mixed Media Lab and Phenomenal Physical Science, plus new partnerships with SEEDS and Great Lakes Children’s Museum. From early education classes to career exploration options – there is something for learners of every age and interest.
In addition to weekly enrichment classes, enrollment in the GRASP at-home summer bridge program also begins on February 2. Lessen summer learning loss with weekly reading lessons, math lessons, or both. Register now at nmc.edu/grasp.
Regular weekly classes start at $249. Parents can register their child for a morning and afternoon session and meet their child for lunch on campus. Thanks to generous donors and NMC’s Professional Communications students, $100 scholarships are available for those who qualify. See details at nmc.edu/kids.
To register or to learn more, visit nmc.edu/kids or contact NMC Extended Education at (231) 995-1700. A household profile must be created online before registering.
Release date: February 2, 2026
For more information:
NMC Extended Education & Training ees@nmc.edu (231) 995-1700
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-discrimination
We need your help! Click to view the list of photos needed of past NMC retirees for our 75th celebration. If you have photos of any of these retired employees, please scan or send links to Lori Hodek at lhodek@nmc.edu.
Photos will be added to the Awards & Recognition page on NMC’s website under the NMC Retiree Recognition section.
Did you know that your tuition waiver benefits extend beyond credit classes? Take a fitness class, learn a new hobby, or even enjoy a date night with your partner. Check out these exclusive employee passes and browse classes for you and yours this winter!
Want to eat well without emptying your wallet? Learn the art of transforming simple, inexpensive ingredients into bold, flavorful, and beautifully-balanced meals with simple elegance. Read more about Date Night: Gourmet on a Dime. Thursday, Feb. 5; 6–9 p.m. Tuition Waiver Price: $46 per person (public price $199)
Have you always wanted to dance, already love to dance, or have a wedding or event coming up where dancing is expected? Perhaps you’re looking for a new date night activity? Learn to connect with a partner and be able to dance to any kind of music—to listen, co-create, trust, and become a better dancer. Read more about Date Night: Social Partner Dance. 4 sessions; Fridays, Feb. 6–27; 6:15–8 p.m. Tuition Waiver Price: $32 per person (public price $199)
The colder months in northern Michigan are a winter wonderland! Learn how to create different shades and shapes that are specific to winter. Color mixing, color theory, and different brushes will also be discussed. Read more about Painting With Acrylics: Winter Landscapes. Saturday, Feb. 14; 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Tuition Waiver Price: $22 per person (public price $99)
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials during the fall and spring semesters from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:40 to 6:30 p.m. The protein option is $9.99, and the vegetarian option (V) is $7.99. Learn more at nmc.edu/dining.
Menu
Monday, February 2
Orange Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with spinach and mandarin oranges served with rice & Bosco stick
Orange Tofu & Broccoli Bowl (V) with spinach and mandarin oranges served with rice & Bosco stick
Tuesday, February 3
Beef Barbacoa Tacos with cheddar, sour cream and salsa served with Spanish rice, tortilla chips & queso blanco
Jackfruit Tacos (V) with sour cream and salsa served with Spanish rice, tortilla chips & queso blanco
Wednesday, February 4
Spaghetti & Meatballs with marinara and parmesan served with garlic bread & green beans
Tri-Color Tortellini (V) with pesto cream sauce served with garlic bread & green beans
Thursday, February 5
Food for the Soul $6 for NMC Students & Staff, $12 for Community Members
Rib Tips
BBQ Jackfruit (V)
Baked Beans
Mac & Cheese
Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Tea
Friday, February 6
Beer-Battered Cod Sandwich with tartar sauce served with French fries & asparagus
Roasted Sweet Potato (V) with kale served with French fries & asparagus
NMC is hosting a mobile pantry from 3–5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2 in the Maple Lot on the Front Street campus.
We have over 4,700 pounds of food to share with our students and community. The menu includes apples, potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, pasta, cottage cheese, beef sticks and dried beans. NMC’s mobile pantry program is designed specifically for NMC students and their families though all members of the community are welcome. Drive-thru and walk-up options are both available. If a student is unable to attend the distribution due to a class conflict, they may send a friend or family member to pick-up on their behalf.
We ask that recipients queue up in the car line in a counter-clockwise circle around the edge of the parking lot. Please do not block the main access roads, be aware of other students using the parking spaces and watch for children being picked up at the Oleson Learning Center adjacent to the Maple Lot.
Celebrate NMC’s 75th anniversary with a special Alumni Trivia Night at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Right Brain Brewery.
Beat the winter blues, reconnect, and reminisce with friends and fellow alumni. The questions will focus on NMC’s 75th year of operation, and the winning team or individual(s) will receive fantastic prizes.
Pizza will be provided and a cash bar with beer, wine, cider, mocktails, and seltzer will be available.
Please RSVP for yourself or your team (up to four people) if you plan to attend.
Failure is scary, but it isn’t the end—it is an opportunity to grow. Student Success will host a week of events dedicated to normalizing setbacks and building resilience so that students can use past missteps to lead to future success. Activities include:
Leveling Up! Adaptability Lunch & Learn with Student Life
Thursday, Feb. 12, 12-1 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 104/105 RSVP
Asking for Help & Ultimate Success Hacks with Student Success Coaches
Monday, Feb. 16, 12–1 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 106/107 RSVP
Student Success Fair
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center Lobby
Connect & learn more about your support services at NMC!
Keep an eye out for “fail” boards on each campus all week long, follow @nmcstudentsuccess on social to hear testimonials about how you can overcome past mistakes and don’t forget to get your Certificate of Failure from the Advising Center!
TRAVERSE CITY — The governing boards of both Northwestern Michigan College and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians have signed a purchase and sale agreement for the Band to buy NMC’s Boardman Lake Campus.
NMC trustees unanimously approved the $27 million sale Monday. Members of the Band’s tribal council signed the document Jan. 21. The actions follow a letter of intent signed previously.
The sale could be completely executed by spring. To allow for the relocation of college offices still on the campus, NMC will lease back space for one year. No NMC classes are currently held on the campus.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Band has committed to never using the property for gaming activities. The Band has also stated that they will use the property, part of their ancestral homeland, as a centralized governmental services center. They will maintain public access for recreation, including the Boardman Lake loop trail, and lake and river access.
The Greenspire School’s current lease through 2030, and its tenant option to renew through 2035, are included in the purchase sale agreement.
“We made this decision thoughtfully and deliberately,” said Mark Keely, NMC’s incoming board chair. “We assessed the Boardman Lake Campus’s past and potential future impact on both students and the community, and we are convinced this course of action most effectively bolsters the NMC mission.”
The NMC board resolution states that the sale proceeds will be directed toward priorities already identified in NMC’s strategic plan and campus master plan, all focused on strengthening student success and the region’s future workforce. Those priorities include converting the Osterlin Building into a one-stop Student Success hub, addressing essential campus infrastructure such as a new power plant, and expanding student housing, which is currently at capacity. Together, these long-term priorities represent well over $100 million in planned investments, meaning the sale allows NMC to make meaningful progress, but represents only a portion of what is required.
“This investment gives us momentum, but it doesn’t change the scale of the work ahead,” President Nick Nissley said. “Supporting student success and the region’s future will continue to require strong partnerships with donors and the state.”
NMC purchased the property in 1989. For 30 years it was the home of the University Center. More than 10,000 students earned advanced degrees from four-year partners located there between 1995 and 2025.
Today, however, with different dynamics in higher education and online and hybrid course delivery options, NMC’s University Partners wanted to be on the college’s Front Street campus. That was accomplished in August 2025. Nissley said now it is time for the property to enter its next era.
Also at Monday’s meeting, the board elected a new slate of officers. They are: Keely, chair; Jody Lundquist, vice chair; Pam Horne, secretary; and Andy Robitshek, treasurer.
Release date: January 27, 2026
For more information:
Cari Noga NMC Communications Director (231) 392-1800 (mobile – call or text) cnoga@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-discrimination
In collaboration with the Traverse City Curling Club, NMC is hosting an Olympic Curling watch party from 1–3 p.m. on Friday, February 13, in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 104/105. Come watch Sweden and Canada face off in one of the most anticipated matchups during round robin play of the men’s division.
There will be snacks representing each country and coffee during the match livestream.
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials during the fall and spring semesters from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:40 to 6:30 p.m. The protein option is $9.99, and the vegetarian option (V) is $7.99. Learn more at 
