TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College will suspend face-to-face classes starting Monday, March 16, 2020 until Monday, April 27, in an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and keep students, faculty and staff safe.
All NMC classes will be delivered via distance education if possible. Some courses may not be able to be delivered via distance education, including some occupational and lab classes (e.g. culinary and welding.) Detailed information and instructions pertaining to each individual class will be communicated to students directly from the instructor. Students should regularly monitor e-mail for updates.
“NMC is committed to keeping our communities safe, while working to limit the disruption to learning as much as possible,” NMC President Nick Nissley said.
NMC has been monitoring and preparing for the community spread of COVID-19 since February, with input from partners in the Grand Traverse County Health Department, Munson Healthcare and state and federal health and emergency response agencies. The move to suspend face-to-face classes supports Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s order late Thursday to close all Michigan K-12 schools from March 16- April 5. The governor identified that this is not only to protect the students and their families, but overall public health. As of today there are 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Michigan.
“We at NMC support these efforts to mitigate the impact of the virus in our community,” Nissley said. ”I am proud to see our faculty and staff work diligently together toward the goal of transitioning learning to distance education delivery where possible. There is still work to do and we will continue to keep you informed of changes.”
Given the highly fluid nature of the situation, the best place to find campus updates is nmc.edu/coronavirus. NMC plans to resume face-to-face classes on campus the week of April 27, in time for students to take final exams. Given the rapidly evolving nature of the pandemic, however, this may change and NMC will continue to communicate via online messages, email and social media.
While classes are transitioning to distance education delivery, NMC’s four campuses: main, Great Lakes, University Center and Aero Park, are still open at this time. This includes all services and offices, the Dennos Museum Center and the Hagerty Center. Many services are available via phone, email and video conference, and staff are actively working to expand those options. Counseling services are available for students feeling overwhelmed or anxious. NMC’s two residence halls, East Hall and North Hall, as well as the NMC apartments will remain open and food service will be available for those students who want to remain on campus.
“While one of our goals is to limit the disruption to learning, this is an historic event. Our college community has always proven itself to be resourceful with a history of overcoming challenges, and I am confident that together we will continue that proud tradition now and into the future,” Nissley said.
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019 (direct)
231) 995-1020 (office)
(231) 392-6082 (mobile)
TRAVERSE CITY — The Northwestern Michigan College Foundation will seek to raise $1 million to meet the emergency needs of both students and the college in response to challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
These funds will come from donor support and enable student success by meeting immediate needs in three categories:
Since mid-March, when COVID-19 closed campuses and shifted spring semester classes from face-to-face to online, NMC has received more than 350 requests for emergency support from students. NMC has increased critical academic support and programs that benefit students — from lending computers and Wi-Fi hotspots to stocking the NMC Food Pantry.
“I have seen the incredible fortitude of our NMC community. The faculty and staff have stepped up to provide support to our students in new and unprecedented ways. Yet the need is still great,” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “Emergency funding will ensure the continuity of education for students facing tremendous adversity during these challenging times.”
Northwestern Michigan College has received some emergency funding that will be distributed to students through the federal CARES Act. However, this funding is significantly restricted. For example, CARES Act funding cannot cover tuition expenses.
“NMC has a longstanding history of being supported by the community. This college exists because the community decided that education is important to the well-being of the region,” said Rebecca Teahen, Executive Director of the NMC Foundation. “I am hopeful that our community will once again step up to ensure that an NMC education will remain accessible for all.”
All gifts to this effort will be included as part of the $35 million Be What’s Possible campaign launched publicly by the NMC Foundation in October 2019. To date, over $29 million has been raised.
The NMC Foundation was established in 1981 as the philanthropic arm of Northwestern Michigan College. To help meet the immediate, emergency needs of NMC students and the college, make a gift at nmc.edu/give.
Rebecca Teahen
Executive Director, NMC Foundation
rteahen@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1855
Good morning NMC community,
As you know, we have been monitoring the rapidly changing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and are committed to keeping you safe, while working to limit the disruption to learning as much as possible. After careful consideration, with input from our partners in the Grand Traverse County Health Department, Munson Healthcare and state and federal health and emergency response agencies, NMC will suspend face-to-face classes starting Monday, March 16, 2020.
Late last night Governor Whitmer announced the closure of all Michigan K-12 schools to students starting March 16 in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Governor identified that this is not only to protect the students and their families, but overall public health. We at NMC support these efforts to mitigate the impact of the virus in our community.
All NMC classes will be delivered via distance education if possible. Some courses may not be able to be delivered via distance education, including some occupational and lab classes (e.g. culinary and welding.) Detailed information and instructions pertaining to each individual class will be communicated to students directly from the instructor. Please regularly monitor your email for updates.
I am proud to see our faculty and staff work diligently together toward the goal of transitioning learning to distance education delivery where possible. There is still work to do and we will continue to keep you informed of changes. Given the highly fluid nature of the situation, the best place to find updates is nmc.edu/coronavirus.
While classes are transitioning to distance education delivery, please note that campus is still open at this time. This includes all services and offices. We have many services available via phone, email and video conference, and are actively working to expand those options. We also have counseling services available, if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious at this time. NMC’s two residence halls, East Hall and North Hall, as well as the NMC apartments, will remain open and food service will be available for those students who want to remain on campus.
Our plan is to resume face-to-face classes on campus the week of April 27. Given the highly volatile nature of the pandemic, we recognize this situation may change and we will continue to communicate with you.
While one of our goals is to limit the disruption to learning, I recognize this is an historic event. Our college community has always proven itself to be resourceful with a history of overcoming challenges, and I am confident that together we will continue that proud tradition now and into the future.
Nick Nissley, President
For the latest information on NMC’s response to the coronavirus crisis as well as updated lists of frequently asked questions for NMC students, employees and the community, visit nmc.edu/coronavirus.
More than a year’s worth of efforts to ramp up student employment readiness and meet area employer needs will debut at a retooled Career Fair Thursday.
It’s the first fair since Employment Readiness Specialist Lisa Baldyga (right) joined NMC’s Academic and Career Advising Center last fall. Her addition to the advising staff — and her shared employment status with Michigan Works — was an intentional step to enable NMC to offer more comprehensive career preparation services.
“We are here to serve our community, not just community members but employers,” said director of advising Lindsey Dickinson. “Part of that is helping students become employed after they’re finished with us.”
Baldyga, who had five years of connections and contact with regional employers through Michigan Works, was the ideal person to take employment readiness to the next level, Dickinson said. Her work is on top of college-wide efforts to ensure students have the skills and credentials they need to become employed.
In her first semester Baldyga conducted more than 150 mock interviews with students, helping to prepare them for the real thing, which is expected to occur on-site Thursday, when more than 80 employers gather. For students with limited work experience, she also helps them translate skills learned in the classroom, such as time management or communication, onto a resume.
“It’s the soft skills the employer is looking for. They’re looking for that you’re going to work well in their work culture, that you’re going to be polite, prompt and on time,” Baldyga said.
Other changes to the 14th annual fair, to be held at the Hagerty Center on NMC’s Great Lakes campus from 3-6 p.m., are aimed at benefiting employers:
Also new at the fair: Students can get professional photos taken to use on a LinkedIn account. Baldyga, NMC advisers and student success coaches will staff an on-site resource room where students can get pep talks, print resumes or practice pitches before approaching an employer.
The fair is open to community members as well as students.
“Everybody we’re putting together is hiring right now,” Baldyga said.
The Health & Science Building atrium on NMC’s main campus will be used as a city polling place for Precinct 9 voters again this year, including on Tuesday, March 10. Some parking in the Cedar lot will be set aside for voters at those times.
(The NMC Bookstore will be closed that day as well, and will reopen with normal hours Wednesday, March 11.)
The deadline for this semester’s round of Innovation Grant applications is April 3, 2020. Applications must be submitted to your area Vice President by this date. It is strongly recommended that you discuss your proposal idea with your Vice President before developing the full proposal. VPs do have the authority to reject an application, but can also provide valuable feedback to help develop great proposals that are more likely to be successful! More information about Innovation grants can be found on the employee site under Forms>Resource Development & Foundation.
Please note that ALL applicants are required to do a 5-minute presentation for the committee plus plan 5 minutes for Q&A.
Join us for a free concert by Irish folk singer Karan Casey and her band Tuesday, March 10 between noon and 1:15 p.m. in the Scholars Hall auditorium in SH 109.
Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie will also be available for $8 cash, or you can use your NMC meal plan!
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media in the past week. 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 Osterlin Library.
Is TC Ready For Coronavirus? From Hospitals To Schools To Airports, Local Experts Talk Preparation & Advice
The Ticker, Feb. 29 (more…)
Make a difference in the lives of your colleagues. Nominate them here: *Staff Excellence Award or *Team Excellence Award!
We are seeking nominations for staff colleagues (full-time, part-time, or supplemental) whose work serves to inspire us all, and who:
Nominations must be received by Friday, March 20, 2020.
*Recipients will receive a monetary award and an engraved plaque to be awarded on April 22, 2020 at the NMC Retirement and Recognition Reception.
Thank you for helping us recognize the great work of our colleagues!
The Employee Recognition Committee:
Looking for online training for you and your employees? The NMC Technology Help Desk offers a number of eLearn Modules and Screencast videos covering a wide range of technology topics. Check them out!
This information is available to you for downloading from the Live Webinar Plan Sponsor Landing Page. The March line-up includes some fantastic topics highlighted below. By the way, the webinars are recorded and available on the live webinar platform for 30 days post event:
UPCOMING HOT TOPICS
Introduction to Social Security
Many people collect Social Security benefits but not all understand how benefits are calculated, how to apply or basic strategies for claiming benefits. Learn the basics about Social Security including eligibility, how to apply, how your benefit is calculated and strategies for claiming benefits.
March 17 at 12 p.m. (ET)
Market proof your retirement*
In retirement—and the years leading up to it—protecting your savings becomes just as important as growing it. Join us to learn how to create your own personal pension with TIAA Traditional, offered by Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA).**
March 18 at 12 p.m. (ET)
Understanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
You may know about the tax advantages of contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA), but did you know that HSAs are also a way to save for health care in retirement? This webinar will help you understand unique aspects of HSAs including how they help account owners to pay for current health care expenses and save for those in the future. We hope that you will join us for this educational event.
March 19 at 12 p.m. (ET)
One important note, please ensure that you only share the following link with NMC employees: www.tiaa.org/webinars. Both TIAA members and non-members can take advantage of the webinars. The registration link has a guest log in.
Members can opt for paperless Explanation of Benefit forms (EOB’s) by first logging in to their Member Portal, then selecting the “My profile” button in the top right hand corner:
Due to sudden and unexpected events, we are disappointed to announce that performances by Nive & The Deer Children on Friday, March 6, 2020 are cancelled.
To follow up on previous ticket purchases, please contact the Dennos Museum directly at (231) 995-1055.
TRAVERSE CITY — Grab your capes, put on your masks, and join local running legend Tony Anderson for the sixth annual Big Little Hero Race Saturday, April 18 on the main campus of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC).
NMC Professional Communications students host the event as an experiential learning project to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan (BBBS), which provides professionally supported mentoring services to at-risk children. This year’s race will honor Traverse City resident Tony Anderson, who will join the field and run his final race before his 51st marathon.
As 2020 marks the end of Anderson’s journey to run a marathon in each state, it represents the start of many children’s own journey alongside a Big Brother or Big Sister. Anderson’s endeavor has raised $500,000 for BBBS.
“Would I run 51 marathons to change the cycle of poverty for one kid? Absolutely, yes. There’s nothing more important than changing the cycle of poverty for one kid,” Anderson said.
With the 2020 event, the Big Little Hero Race is expected to surpass $100,000 in funds raised for BBBS.
All races will begin and finish near the Health & Science Building on NMC’s campus. Options include:
● One mile fun run/walk: Free. All participants will receive a gold cape
● 5K run/walk: $20 for students, $30 for adults
● 10K run: $20 for students, $30 for adults
The costume-encouraged Fun Run will begin at 9 a.m. and is followed by the 5K and 10K which simultaneously start at 9:30 a.m. Register by March 8 to receive a $5 discount and free race T-shirt. To register and for more information, please visit biglittleherorace.com.
Food, a children’s carnival and an awards ceremony will follow the races.
Kristy McDonald
NMC Instructor
kmcdonald@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1059
Molly Thomas
Student Marketing Leader
thoma593@mail.nmc.edu
(810) 335-7481
TRAVERSE CITY — Grab your capes, put on your masks, and join local running legend Tony Anderson for the sixth annual Big Little Hero Race Saturday, April 18 on the main campus of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC).
NMC Professional Communications students host the event as an experiential learning project to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan (BBBS), which provides professionally supported mentoring services to at-risk children. This year’s race will honor Traverse City resident Tony Anderson, who will join the field and run his final race before his 51st marathon.
As 2020 marks the end of Anderson’s journey to run a marathon in each state, it represents the start of many children’s own journey alongside a Big Brother or Big Sister. Anderson’s endeavor has raised $500,000 for BBBS.
“Would I run 51 marathons to change the cycle of poverty for one kid? Absolutely, yes. There’s nothing more important than changing the cycle of poverty for one kid,” Anderson said.
With the 2020 event, the Big Little Hero Race is expected to surpass $100,000 in funds raised for BBBS.
All races will begin and finish near the Health & Science Building on NMC’s campus. Options include:
● One mile fun run/walk: Free. All participants will receive a gold cape
● 5K run/walk: $20 for students, $30 for adults
● 10K run: $20 for students, $30 for adults
The costume-encouraged Fun Run will begin at 9 a.m. and is followed by the 5K and 10K which simultaneously start at 9:30 a.m. Register by March 8 to receive a $5 discount and free race T-shirt. To register and for more information, please visit biglittleherorace.com.
Food, a children’s carnival and an awards ceremony will follow the races.
Kristy McDonald
NMC Instructor
kmcdonald@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1059
Molly Thomas
Student Marketing Leader
thoma593@mail.nmc.edu
(810) 335-7481
NMC library and TADL collaborative programming, with support from the League of Women Voters – Grand Traverse Area, present a discussion featuring our own Nicco Pandolfi and TADL Director Michele Howard about news and (mis)information online.
The presentation and conversation will focus on how the news ecosystem has evolved, different types of misinformation campaigns, and tools and tips for evaluating information, with time dedicated for discussion.
Next week, March 2-6, the Student Success Center will have fur friends to help you stay calm through midterms!
The dogs will be here as follows: