Success Story: Culinary grad turns down the heat

March 21, 2018

Susan Patterson

After graduating from the Great Lakes Culinary Institute and working in three of Traverse City’s top restaurants, chef Susan Patterson knew her way around a kitchen.

But the one she picked to launch her career doesn’t have any ovens, traditional stoves or microwave. In fact there’s only one heat source at Press On Juice – a single induction burner where Patterson concocts soups and quinoa. They’re virtually the only cooked items on the menu at the 95-percent raw food establishment, unique in Traverse City’s ever-expanding restaurant scene.

Owner Kris Rockwood said Patterson, 24, has played a key role in helping Press On flourish in that niche, taking the business from primarily a take-out juice and smoothie operation to a full-fledged café offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts. The café side of Press On Juice, 1125 E. Eighth St., opened in December and seats about 30.

“Susan really owned it,” Rockwood said. “The skill set she has that she came with from the college, I wouldn’t know those small, minute things that make a serious difference.”

Things like how to make walnut taco meat live up to the expectation of taco lovers.

“Raw food is so unique. It needs to be excellent. It needs to be off-the-charts good,” Patterson said.

Patterson views the “steep learning curve” as a challenge, however. She did an internship at Press On Juice last summer, and became convinced it was the place to begin her career.

“We’re trying to help people live happier and healthier lives,” Patterson said, of the restaurant’s mission. For her, that translates to “a lot of research and development, which is a fancy way of saying tasting a lot of food, my favorite part.”

She also prides herself on her efficiency. Time management and organization are major factors in keeping any kitchen running smoothly, and it’s even more true at Press On Juice, where Patterson’s imposed a short shelf life for many items in order to keep quality high.

“The culinary school really helped me build confidence in my abilities,” Patterson said.

She thinks there’s room in the curriculum for one more course, however.

“I think it would be fun down the road to see the culinary school offer an extra class on raw food and these techniques,” she said.

Press on Juice juices are also expected to be on the menu at Café Lobdell’s when it opens June 18 as a morning bakery/café operation.

GVSU Healthcare Programs Showcase April 21

The healthcare industry is filled with endless opportunities when choosing a career path. Grand Valley State University has proudly partnered with Northwestern Michigan College to showcase programs available in Traverse City that will lead you to your dream job in healthcare.

From 10 a.m. – noon in NMC’s Health & Science building, individuals will have the opportunity to meet local practitioners, advisors and faculty that work in specialized health fields from physicians to physical therapists and many more. Onsite academic advising, as well as financial aid information will be available. Join us April 21 to learn how you can become a part of the largest growing career field in Traverse City!

More information can be found at our website here

Success Story: Culinary grad turns down the heat

March 21, 2018

Susan Patterson

After graduating from the Great Lakes Culinary Institute and working in three of Traverse City’s top restaurants, chef Susan Patterson knew her way around a kitchen.

But the one she picked to launch her career doesn’t have any ovens, traditional stoves or microwave. In fact there’s only one heat source at Press On Juice – a single induction burner where Patterson concocts soups and quinoa. They’re virtually the only cooked items on the menu at the 95-percent raw food establishment, unique in Traverse City’s ever-expanding restaurant scene.

Owner Kris Rockwood said Patterson, 24, has played a key role in helping Press On flourish in that niche, taking the business from primarily a take-out juice and smoothie operation to a full-fledged café offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts. The café side of Press On Juice, 1125 E. Eighth St., opened in December and seats about 30.

“Susan really owned it,” Rockwood said. “The skill set she has that she came with from the college, I wouldn’t know those small, minute things that make a serious difference.”

Things like how to make walnut taco meat live up to the expectation of taco lovers.

“Raw food is so unique. It needs to be excellent. It needs to be off-the-charts good,” Patterson said.

Patterson views the “steep learning curve” as a challenge, however. She did an internship at Press On Juice last summer, and became convinced it was the place to begin her career.

“We’re trying to help people live happier and healthier lives,” Patterson said, of the restaurant’s mission. For her, that translates to “a lot of research and development, which is a fancy way of saying tasting a lot of food, my favorite part.”

She also prides herself on her efficiency. Time management and organization are major factors in keeping any kitchen running smoothly, and it’s even more true at Press On Juice, where Patterson’s imposed a short shelf life for many items in order to keep quality high.

“The culinary school really helped me build confidence in my abilities,” Patterson said.

She thinks there’s room in the curriculum for one more course, however.

“I think it would be fun down the road to see the culinary school offer an extra class on raw food and these techniques,” she said.

Press on Juice juices are also expected to be on the menu at Café Lobdell’s when it opens June 18 as a morning bakery/café operation.

NMC Fitness Center Repairs

The NMC Fitness Center would like students and employees to be aware that this week some minor drywall repair and painting will take place in the fitness center. Sorry for any inconveniences this may cause.

2nd Annual Hit Your Stride Challenge is coming!

How do I get started?

  • Log in to your Blue Cross® Blue Cross Blue Shield® of Michigan account or the Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Michigan mobile app on April 2, 2018
  • Select Blue Cross Health & Wellness
  • Register using the prompts on the home screen
  • Start your team!
  • Contact Chris Barr or Hollie DeWalt for instructions if you did not elect medical benefits through NMC

How many people can be on a team?

  • There is a limit of 3 people per team

How do I log my steps?

  • You can sync a compatible device or manually enter the steps under Health Information and Device and App Connection Center within the Blue Cross® Health & Wellness Website
  • Those that do not have medical benefits through NMC should contact Chris Barr or Hollie DeWalt for instructions

When do my steps count?

  • Steps count toward your average beginning April 9, 2018 until May 11, 2018

Position Vacancies & Supplemental Employment

Are you looking for career opportunities? Find them here! jobs.nmc.edu. Current openings include:

Position Vacancies

  • Manager of Great Lakes Continuing Education
  • Curriculum and Instructional Designer
  • Flight Instructor-Adjunct Faculty
  • Clinical Nursing Adjunct Faculty
  • GLMA Adjunct Faculty
  • Surgical Technology Adjunct Faculty

Supplemental Employment

  • Technology Support Assistant
  • Custodian
  • Banquet Server – Hagerty center
  • Banquet Cook – Hagerty Center
  • Kitchen Steward – Hagerty Center

NMC student is top Michigan community college scholar

TRAVERSE CITY — Alexandra Briggs, a liberal arts student at Northwestern Michigan College, has been named Michigan’s 2018 New Century Scholar, the top community college student in the state.

Briggs, 21, of Elk Rapids, will graduate this spring with a degree in liberal arts. She will receive a $2,250 scholarship to continue her education in leadership studies. She is NMC’s sixth New Century Scholar since 2004.

Briggs is president of NMC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international community college honor society, a resident adviser in North Hall and also works on campus in the advising office. She is a NMC Commitment Scholar, one of a cohort of promising, mostly first-generation college students awarded full NMC scholarships while in high school.

“I found such a sense of community here,” said Briggs, a 2015 graduate of Elk Rapids High School. “It was the best decision I’ve ever made, going to NMC.”

She is considering moving to Texas and completing her bachelor’s degree online

“I kind of want to spread my wings and see what opportunities I can make for myself,” said Briggs, who switched from computer information technology to liberal arts while at NMC. “I’m really excited to see where it goes from here.”

Briggs was recognized this week at the All-Michigan Academic Team event in Lansing. She will also be recognized at Phi Theta Kappa’s convention in Kansas City in mid-April, and she has been invited to be recognized at the American Association of Community Colleges conference April 28 in Dallas, Texas.

The New Century Scholars Program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation and Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and recognizes outstanding community college students. More than 2,000 students were nominated, two from each community college in the U.S. NMC’s second nominee, Shelby Christensen, was named a bronze scholar and receives a $1,000 scholarship. She completed her NMC courses in December and is now enrolled at the University of Michigan.

Previous NMC New Century Scholar winners are Roxanne Scrivener, 2016; Kathy Tahtinen, 2015; Jessica Abfalter, 2013; Nicholeen Frusti, 2005 and Sally Beemon, 2004

Release date: March 16, 2018

For more information:

Kari Kahler
Dean of Learning Services/PTK Adviser
kkahler@nmc.edu
(
231) 995-1228

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 Dance Department presents Imagine Dance

The Dance Department of Northwestern Michigan College will present a concert of dance entitled Imagine Dance at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 15 in the Milliken Auditorium of the Dennos Museum Center on NMC’s main campus.The concert, directed by Dorothy Eisenstein, will feature choreography and performances by NMC faculty and students. Modern dance, improvisation, hip hop, and partner dance will be presented through solo and ensemble forms. 

Tickets for Imagine Dance are $12 for adults, and $7 for students and seniors. Tickets are available from MyNorthTickets.com or at the door. Call (800) 836-0717 for more information.

GeoCache for College

NMC is participating in GeoCache for College Cash on April 12, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. starting in the Health & Science Building Lobby. GeoCache for College is a Scavenger Hunt to 7 different locations on campus to answer a Financial Literacy question. The Scavenger Hunt will only take about 25 minutes to complete so you may begin at any time before 1:45 p.m.

Why should you participate?

For a wide variety of prizes of course! The Federal Reserve will be offering a $1,500 statewide prize/scholarship. NMC will be offering a variety of prizes ($25 and $10 gift cards). Also enjoy the snack station at the end!

If you have any questions please contact Student Financial Services at 231-995-1035.
We look forward to seeing you there!

NMC Wellness Happenings!

March Newsletter is here!

March is National Nutrition Month, so it’s a great time to review your diet. We’ll provide weekly information to help you identify small changes you can make to meet your 2018 health goals. 

Choosing the right foods can affect your health. Sounds simple, right? So why are chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer on the rise? It may be because of the lack of proper nutrition. Check out the attached infographic to learn more about chronic conditions related to diet.

Try this: Track your meals for a day

  • How much salt, sugar and fiber are you eating?
  • How many times per day do you eat raw fruit and vegetables?
  • How much of each meal was from a box?
  • At the end of the day, review what you ate, and choose one thing you can improve.

Making lifestyle changes can take time. Our Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Michigan wellness coordinator recommends picking one change per week over the next month. Take a look at eatright.org and choosemyplate.gov to learn more. You can also email our wellness coordinator, Chris Barr, at cbarr@bcbsm.com.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is a nonprofit corporation and independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Kudos

KUDOS – (praise or respect that you get because of something you have done or achieved) defined by Merriam-Webster.com

Submit a Kudos here.

Kudos to Deb Glauch:  Deb hosted our entire class at the Student Health Center. With nurse, Crystal, we toured every aspect of the facility and services. The students gave helpful suggestions for making the center even better. Most had never been there nor knew this was available to them.

Later that day, Deb personally walked one of the students to another office across campus….the student was confused and anxious as to where she needed to be. Such kindness! When our class heard about Deb’s efforts, they were all impressed. It matters to our students that they are truly cared about. Deb is one of our NMC stars.

Position Vacancies & Supplemental Employment

Are you looking for career opportunities? Find them here! jobs.nmc.edu. Current openings include:

Position Vacancies

  • Manager of Great Lakes Continuing Education
  • Flight Instructor-Adjunct Faculty
  • Clinical Nursing Adjunct Faculty
  • GLMA Adjunct Faculty
  • Surgical Technology Adjunct Faculty

Supplemental Employment

  • Technology Support Assistant
  • Custodian

A Taste of Success

TRAVERSE CITY — Tickets are now on sale for the April 6 Taste of Success, the premier annual fundraiser for students at NMC’s Great Lakes Culinary Institute.

Patrons will enjoy a strolling dinner of international cuisine prepared and served by culinary students along with local wine, craft beer, and spirits. A Taste of Success also includes a silent auction with unique events and items, offering another opportunity to support student scholarships.

The 2017 event raised more than $89,000 for student scholarships. GLCI Director Fred Laughlin said the funds raised by the event, first held at the Park Place Hotel in 1994, are vital to many students.

“The event goes a long way to showcase the talent of our students and providing them with needed funds to continue their education,” he said.

The Great Lakes Culinary Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is designed to provide rigorous and concentrated study for students planning careers in the rapidly growing food service industry. The program’s main emphasis is to prepare students for entry-level chef and kitchen-management positions. It is accredited by the American Culinary Federation, one of fewer than 200 U.S. colleges to receive that distinction. Students are eligible to become ACF Certified Culinarians upon graduation.

Tickets are $100 each. Table sponsorships are also available. Call (231) 995-2021 or buy online at nmc.edu/taste-of-success

Release date: march 12, 2018

For more information:

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

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

Take Back the Night

NMC Student Life in collaboration with NMC Voices will host a Take Back the Night march and rally on Tuesday, April 10.

Take Back the Night is a worldwide movement to support and empower survivors of sexual violence, and to spread community awareness about the prevailing issue. Every 98 seconds, another person experiences sexual assault. The event is free and open to the campus community and general public. Participants will meet at 5:15 p.m. outside of the Hagerty Center on NMC’s Great Lake’s campus to rally and march (march beginning at 5:30 p.m.) through downtown Traverse City and back to the Hagerty Center.

The march will conclude at the Hagerty Center around 6:30 p.m., where participants will gather for music, conversation, and most importantly, the speak out. The speak out gives survivors the opportunity to share their voices and experiences with sexual assault in a safe environment. The speak out is also a place for allies to share positive words of encouragement and support. Professional counselors will be present and available to help maintain a safe and supportive environment.