Employee anniversaries – June
The following employees are celebrating an anniversary soon. Please join us in congratulating them!
Kudos!
Kudos to our Enrollment Services Directors, Lisa vonReichbauer, Jim Patterson, Alyssa Irani and Lisa Eiden. The Directors in Enrollment Services are team players! They listened to staff’s request at our ES Department retreat, set expectations/goals for the department and are following though! Go team!!
Kudos to Ben Herman and Facilities. Ben and the entire Facilities team helped organize and execute the emptying and freshening up of faculty offices in Scholars Hall in anticipation of welcoming Business faculty and staff to the building. With Beckett undergoing similar changes, it became necessary to relocate Business, Social Science, and Communications faculty, especially moving instructors out of the SH115 pod and into their new offices. Ben was quick to answer questions, provide needed moving supplies like boxes and solve any problems that developed during the painting, refurbishing and moving process. He coordinated with other NMC staff to facilitate the moving of computers and telephones, and he made sure that everything was clearly and promptly communicated to all those involved. Such a labor-intensive and detailed task went smoothly with the guidance of Ben and the Facilities team.
Kudos to Jim Gullen. Jim was instrumental in helping to provide research and planning in our successful effort to secure our recent $120,000 workforce development contract with MI Works.
Experts suggest maintaining an “attitude of gratitude” increases positivity for yourself and for others. Please encourage your colleagues by submitting a KUDOS. Let them know you appreciate their hard work and are thinking of them!
Welcome our newest hires
These employees recently started working at the college. Let’s welcome them to the NMC community!
- Christina LaMie, supplemental employee — Learning Services Office Assistant
- Leah Waterstripe, student employee — Environmental Science Lab Assistant
- Evyn Morgan-Huchison, supplemental employee — Learning Services Office Assistant
Board of Trustees regular meeting
The NMC Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday, June 23 at 5:30 p.m. in Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, Room 106/107. At the meeting, a candidate will be chosen to fill the Board of Trustees seat vacated by former trustee Chris Bott earlier this month. The six eligible applicants, who must reside in Grand Traverse County, are:
- Brad Akers, Traverse City
- Lance Boehmer, Traverse City
- Myk Garn, Interlochen
- Jody Lundquist, Traverse City
- Leah Moskovitz, Traverse City
- Kevin Query. Traverse City
Bott resigned from NMC’s Board of Trustees effective June 9. The new trustee will serve until the next regular community college election in November 2026. At that time voters will choose a candidate to serve the remainder of the term held by Bott, which expires December 31, 2028.
More information is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Marvin named NMC VP of College Advancement
TRAVERSE CITY – Katharine Marvin has been named vice president of College Advancement at Northwestern Michigan College, leading the NMC Foundation, Dennos Museum Center, WNMC Radio and International Affairs Forum.
Katharine Marvin (download high-resolution photo)Marvin brings to the role a decade of experience at the NMC Foundation, most recently as director of Development & Alumni Relations. She was an integral part of the team that exceeded the $35 million goal of NMC’s first-ever comprehensive campaign, Be What’s Possible, by 14 percent. That campaign raised $40.3 million between 2016- 2021.
“Katharine’s leadership, relationships and deep college history will be critical to us as we execute our strategic plan, campus master plan, and brand strategy over the next several years.” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “As we ramp up for our next fundraising campaign, her proven results will drive our future successes.”
Marvin, 35, of Traverse City, was named this year’s recipient of the NMC Staff Excellence Award. Her achievements included securing $1.4 million in gifts for a wide range of programs, including Nursing, Culinary, Construction Technology, Aviation, WNMC and the International Affairs Forum. Notably, her proactive approach to fundraising has cultivated relationships that have blossomed into significant future investments, exemplified by a $500,000 planned gift made this year and designated for aviation scholarships.
“I’m thrilled to lead the teams of colleagues I know so well already, as well as to steward the college’s strong support from donors,” Marvin said. “It’s truly a privilege to be able to further NMC’s mission of delivering llifelong learning opportunities, commitment to student success, and legacy as a community cornerstone that will celebrate 75 years in 2026.”
Marvin joined NMC in 2016 as an annual giving specialist. She rose to director of annual giving in 2019, director of development in 2022 and director of development and alumni relations in 2024. She also taught as an adjunct faculty member at NMC from 2017-21. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Michigan in 2011 and 2015, respectively.
Release Date: June 18, 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-discriminationMedia mentions for June 16, 2025
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.
Glen Lake Woman’s Club awards $21K in college scholarships
Glen Arbor Sun, June 16 (more…)
Top 75 Alumni — Call for nominations
NMC’s 75th anniversary begins in 2026 and we’re taking the recognition of the Outstanding Alumni award tradition to the next level — by recognizing the Top 75 Alumni who’ve helped shape the legacy of our college over the past seven decades.
Do you know a remarkable NMC grad who’s made a difference? Whether they’re a recent graduate or a trailblazer from years past, we want to hear their story!
Nominations and self nominations are open through September 12, 2025. Final selections will be announced in late fall.
For more information or questions, please call (231) 995-2826 or email alumni@nmc.edu
What We’re Looking For:
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- Nominees must have completed at least one academic course, degree, or certificate at NMC
- Achieved notable professional success in their field or career
- Championed lifelong learning and used their NMC experience to benefit society or the college
- Demonstrated integrity, respect, and professionalism, living out the mission and values of NMC
When submitting your nomination, be sure to include as much detail as possible — including achievements, dates, roles held and any supporting information that tells their story.
Let’s shine a spotlight on the alumni who’ve made NMC proud — and inspire future generations to do the same.
Pit Spitters ticket promo code
Alumni Relations is postponing their annual outing to the TC Pit Spitters this summer, but we’ve got the next best thing!
NMC community members can grab a ticket to any Pit Spitters game that fits their schedule. Use promo code NMC to redeem a Pit Spitters ticket to a game of your choosing. Your seat’s waiting!
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!
Trustee Building and Site Committee meeting
The Board of Trustees Building and Site Committee will meet at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17 in the Parsons-Stulen Building, Room 106, on NMC’s Aero Park campus. The official meeting notice is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
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-discriminationEnjoy five free summer concerts
TRAVERSE CITY — The community is invited to five free concerts this summer, presented by Northwestern Michigan College’s Concert Band and Jazz Band. The schedule is as follows:
NMC Summer Concert Band
Thursday, June 26 – Traverse City Senior Center, 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 3 – Glen Arbor Township Park on M-22, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, July 18 – Milliken Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.
NMC Jazz Band
Saturday, July 5 – Grand Traverse Civic Center, 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 26 – Milliken Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.
Concert Band and Jazz Band are two of several performance ensembles open to both college students and community members. Find out more here.
RELEASE DATE: JUNE 13, 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-discriminationSuccess 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.
Register now for Scholarship Open Aug. 6
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College is excited to announce the return of the annual Scholarship Open golf tournament following a four-year hiatus on Wednesday, August 6 at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.
Presented by Bill and Susie Janis, the Scholarship Open is now open for golfer, sponsor and volunteer registration as well as raffle prize donors. It includes an 18-hole scramble on the award-winning Bear or Wolverine course at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme, food and prizes. Golfers may register as a team or individual at nmc.edu/golf.
First held in 1982, the Scholarship Open has raised over $2 million for scholarships, making higher education accessible for NMC students.
Release date: June 2, 2025
For more information:
Katharine Marvin
NMC Foundation
kmarvin@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1030
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-discriminationBoard of Trustees Executive Committee meeting June 12
The NMC Board of Trustees Executive Committee will meet Thursday, June 12 at 2 p.m. in the President’s Office Conference Room in the Tanis Building on NMC’s Front Street Campus. More information is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Applications for trustee vacancy due
TRAVERSE CITY — The Board of Trustees of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) is beginning the process of replacing Trustee Chris M. Bott after he resigned from his position this week.
Citing personal reasons, Bott announced Monday/June 9 he is stepping down from the board effective immediately. In a letter to Board Chair Laura Oblinger, Bott wrote, “Serving on the board has been a privilege and I will miss it. The opportunity to give back to the college that helped me and many in my family take their first steps to higher education has been rewarding.”
Bott was appointed in May of 2015 to fill a Board of Trustee term vacancy, elected to a six-year term in 2016, and re-elected in 2022. During his tenure he served as Chair for three years, from January 2019 to January 2022, as well as a member of the Michigan Community College Association Board of Directors.
He is also a 1983 NMC graduate, earning an associate degree in accountancy. Bott’s six siblings also earned their associate degrees from NMC, as did his three children. He is a partner at Hofstra, Bott & Kraft , P.C., Certified Public Accountants.
“NMC is better because of Trustee Bott’s decade of service,” Oblinger said. “His tenure as board chair spanned both a college presidential transition and the pandemic. His capable leadership and passionate dedication as an alumnus helped NMC move forward. We thank him and wish him all the best.”
Michigan law gives the college 30 days to fill this position. Registered voters of Grand Traverse County are eligible to apply for the vacancy and online applications are encouraged. Commitments for the non-compensated trustee position include but are not limited to the following:
- Regular board meeting, typically the fourth Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
- Board study sessions and committee meetings scheduled as required
- Annual Board retreat—sometimes overnight
- Participation in other college functions including commencement, receptions, ceremonies, events
- Travel periodically for purposes of professional development and representing the college at various state and national association meetings. Trustee travel is paid by NMC.
Applicants should submit a letter of interest and materials explaining their qualifications for the position via online submission. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. June 19, 2025. In addition to online submission, they may be emailed to lmoritz@nmc.edu or sent or delivered to:
Trustee Search
Office of the President
Northwestern Michigan College
1701 East Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Application materials are subject to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Interviews will be conducted in public meetings according to the Michigan Open Meetings Act.
At their next regularly scheduled meeting, to be held at 5:30 p.m. June 23 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center room 106/107 and via livestream, trustees will interview candidates and vote to fill the vacancy until the next NMC Board of Trustees election, set for November 2026. At that time, voters will choose a candidate to serve the remainder of the term held by Bott, which expires December 31, 2028.
Additional materials are available upon request and questions may be directed to the President’s Office at Northwestern Michigan College at (231) 995-1010.
Release date: June 10, 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-discriminationFY 26 Budget Town Hall video
Thank you for joining us for the June 3 Budget Town Hall meetings to discuss NMC’s FY 25 budget with Vice President for Finance & Administration Troy Kierczynski. Watch a video of the morning session here.
Juneteenth Celebration
Please join E3 for a very special Juneteenth Celebration with special guest speaker Byron Brooks, guest performer Crystal Woodward-Turner and DJ Chris Stone.
The celebration will be held Thursday, June 19 from 3 to 9:30 p.m.
FREEDOM EVENT SCHEDULE:
3–5 p.m.
“Who We Are” special screening
Dennos Milliken Auditorium
5–6 p.m.
Community gathering & youth activities
Outside Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center
Local Food Trucks
Chestnut lot
5:30–6 p.m.
Children’s storytime with TADL
Outside Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center
6–7:30 p.m.
Juneteenth program
Outside Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center
8–9:30 p.m.
E3 & T.C. roller derby & family freedom roller skating
Civic Center, 1213 W Civic Center Dr.
In the event of inclement weather, outdoor festivities will be held in the open space on the first floor of the Osterlin Building (#3 on campus map). For more information, contact Marcus Bennett mbennett@nmc.edu.
NMC Children’s Choir auditions June 10 and 12
TRAVERSE CITY — The Northwestern Michigan College Children’s Choir will hold placement auditions for third through ninth graders from 6–8 p.m. Tuesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 12 in the NMC Fine Arts Building, room 102.
Families can schedule a 5-minute audition time slot on either date online at nmcchildrenschoir.
Founded in 1990, the NMCC consists of six choirs involving over two hundred singers from kindergarten through the ninth grade. Performances are held several times a year. For more information, visit nmcchildrenschoir.com
Release date: May 21, 2025
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
(231) 392-1800 (mobile – call or text)
choga@nmc.edu