Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
TRAVERSE CITY — The community is invited to attend the 51st annual Mariners Memorial service, to take place Nov. 10 in the courtyard of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy on NMC’s Great Lakes Campus, 715 E. Front Street.
Held to remember and honor mariners who have perished on the Great Lakes and oceans, the memorial service is sponsored by the Student Propeller Club, Port 150, of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy.
The service begins at noon on Tuesday, November 10. Guests are invited to enter the facility through the glass exhibition hall and proceed into the outdoor courtyard on the north side (harbor side) of the Academy. Car pooling is encouraged due to limited parking on site.
For more information, call the Great Lakes Maritime Academy at (231) 995-1200.
Release date: October 21, 2026
For more information:
Scott Fairbank
Great Lakes Maritime Academy
sfairbank@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1200
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
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
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College invites the campus and community to attend its annual Veterans Day ceremonies beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. The ceremony will include:
- 8 a.m. – Coffee and doughnuts for all veterans in the Osterlin Building.
- 8:30 a.m.- Flag-raising ceremony by VFW honor guard, including three-volley salute, “Taps” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” performed by the Traverse City Central High School Band
- Post-ceremony – Coffee and doughnuts in the Osterlin Building.
In addition, NMC’s Aurora choral group will perform a Veterans Day concert at 7:30 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church. The program will feature patriotic music, American folk music and the world premiere of a new concert work: “American Mosaic.” This new piece, with text by Laura Knight Cobb and music by NMC Music Director Jeffrey Cobb, is a portrait of three strong women who helped shape the heart and soul of the United States: Sacagawea, Helen Keller and Sojourner Truth. Admission is by donation.
Serving those who have served is a year-round priority for NMC, currently recognized as a gold level Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and a silver level Military Friendly School by the online community Miltary-Friendly.com. Among the services NMC offers to veteran students are:
- Priority class registration
- Veteran-specific career services
- On-campus veteran’s coordinator
- Active student veteran organization/club
- Veteran’s lounge
- Veteran-specific scholarships / grants
- Veteran graduation recognition
In addition NMC offers opportunities to convert military service to academic credit. Find out more at nmc.edu/veterans.
Release date: November 2, 2026
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
cnoga@nmc.edu
(231) 392-1800 (mobile – 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
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Media Mentions
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.
NMC campus to see new blooms next spring after student-led bulb planting
UpNorthLive, Nov.1
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Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
The community is invited to join NMC students on Wednesday, Nov. 18 for the eleventh annual Walk for Health and Housing, a guided tour of downtown Traverse City from the perspective of people experiencing homelessness and the providers who serve them.
The 90-minute walk will depart from the rear entrance of Central United Methodist Church, 222 Cass St., at 6 p.m. Nov. 18. Tour stops will highlight service and volunteering opportunities, including the Government Center, where participants will learn ways citizens can provide input and get involved.
Free parking will be available beginning at 5 p.m. in Municipal Parking Lot B on North Cass Street.
The walk is a part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, happening Nov. 15-22. Led by NMC faculty Lisa Blackford, Brandon Everest and Melissa Sprenkle, students in NMC social work, sociology and English classes have collaborated on projects to support the week since 2015.
In addition to NMC and CUMC, the walk is sponsored by the Northwest Michigan Coalition to End Homelessness.
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is November 15-22. The community is invited to attend a powerful documentary screening that explores the challenges and systemic barriers facing unhoused older adults.
No Place To Grow Old examines issues that contribute to housing insecurity, including the lack of affordable housing, predatory lending practices and societal stigmas surrounding unhoused seniors. Through powerful stories and perspectives, the film encourages viewers to look beyond common misconceptions and better understand the complex realities of homelessness among older adults.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, November 17
- Time: 6 p.m.
- Location: Scholars Hall, room 109
Following the screening, attendees are invited to participate in a facilitated discussion to reflect on the film.
Nov 2, 2026 | Announcements & News, Intercom
We appreciate the employees at NMC! Enjoy an extra discount at the NMC Campus Bookstore and the Dennos Museum Store November 17-19! All regular priced items are 25% off for all employees. Sale does not include clearance or consignment items.
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
The NMC Jazz Bands are partnering with Toys for Tots for our Swingin’ For The Season concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5. We’ll be Swingin’ For The Season with special guest vocalists Kristi Fish, Rheanna Gilzene, and Kevin LaRose! We’re also continuing our partnership with Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Both the Lab Band and Big Band will be playing great holiday and seasonal Jazz, including music from Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and more!

Each TOY DONATION for Toys for Tots gives you one free admission to the concert. You don’t need to purchase a ticket with a toy donation, and it’s a great opportunity to spread some holiday cheer for those less fortunate! Your new, unwrapped toy can be donated at the door, and we will have people collecting those toys in the lobby. Our event will take place in the magnificent Milliken Auditorium. Known for its state-of-the-art acoustics and comfortable seating, the Milliken Auditorium provides the perfect backdrop for this musical extravaganza. The NMC Jazz Bands, a conglomerate of talented NMC students and community musicians, are all set to dazzle the audience with their musical prowess.
NO TOY? NO PROBLEM!
Tickets are available in advance for a discount at NMC Music Department Events. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors/students. Exact change cash purchases at the door are appreciated! Contact the NMC Box Office line at (231) 995-1340 for questions or assistance purchasing tickets.
Nov 2, 2026 | Cyber Minute, Intercom
Free PDF downloads and pirated software from peer-to-peer sharing sites frequently bundle malware in the background. Stick to campus-approved resources — and remind your students of the same.
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
Join us for an interactive Pitch Coaching Workshop led by Nick Beadleston, Executive Director of the Grove Community Incubator. Learn how to speak with confidence, handle spontaneous questions under pressure and pitch ideas successfully.
When: Monday, November 2, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Where: Scholars Hall, room 209
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student News
To find these selections and many other new titles, see the NMC library catalog.
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Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom, Student News
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials during the fall and spring semesters from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and from 4:30–6 p.m. The protein option is $10.99, and the vegetarian option (V) is $9.99. Learn more at nmc.edu/dining.
Menu
Monday, November 2
Chicken Fettuccine w/ Pesto Cream Sauce w/ Garlic Crostini & Broccoli
Roasted Veg (V) w/ Pesto Cream Sauce w/ Garlic Crostini & Broccoli
Tuesday, November 3
Beef BarbacoaTacos w/ Spanish Rice & Refried Beans
Jackfruit (V) w/ Spanish Rice & Refried Beans
Wednesday, November 4
Steak Stir Fry w/ Peppers & Onions & Jasmine Rice & Egg Roll
Tofu Stir Fry (V) w/ Peppers & Onions & Jasmine Rice & Egg Roll
Thursday, November 5
Potato Gnocchi w/ Italian Sausage & Alfredo Sauce w/ Garlic Bread & Green Beans
Roasted Veg (V) w/ Alfredo Sauce w/ Garlic Bread & Green Beans
Friday, November 6
BBQ Pulled Pork on Brioche w/ Mac & Cheese & Asparagus
BBQ Jackfruit (V) on Brioche w/ Mac & Cheese & Asparagus
Nov 2, 2026 | Accessibility in Action, Intercom
People often scan a page or listen to a screen reader’s list of links to find what they need. When several links say “learn more” or “click here,” their destinations are unclear. Descriptive link text saves time and supports everyone. Read more about how to add descriptive link text.
Nov 2, 2026 | Intercom
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 (remember, you must be logged into your student account to view) and browse classes for you and yours this spring!
Big bakery fun comes in tiny, tasty packages! Measure, mix, scoop, and shape your way to adorable mini muffins, crisp apple crumbles, and fruit pies. These bite-sized bakes feature real fruit, oats, and whole grains, providing all the rich bakery flavor with less sugar. Read more about Mini Bakery Magic.
Saturday, November 7; 1–3 p.m.
Tuition waiver price: $46 for two people (Public price: $149)
Do you ever wonder why your cup of coffee tastes amazing some days, and some days it’s just not quite right? Learn how to dial in your at-home brewing game to ensure a consistent cup every time, by understanding the variables impacting your coffee. Read more about Brew Better Coffee at Home.
Saturday, November 7; 12-1:30 p.m.
Tuition waiver price: $30 per person (Public price: $65)
When the dust settles on the 2026 midterms, this session will analyze results through a long lens. What do they reveal about the tectonic pressures fissuring American democracy? Will polarization keep hardening our schisms, or will the tension snap and reshape the terrain for 2028 and beyond? Read more about Understanding the 2026 Midterm Results.
Saturday, November 7; 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Tuition waiver price: $22 per person (Public price: $49)
Oct 30, 2026 | Announcements & News, Intercom, Student News
The Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center room 106-107 serves as a polling location within the city of Traverse City. Voting hours are 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Parking spots will be blocked off for voters in the Cedar Lot in front of the building and ticketing will be paused for the day. Please welcome voters to NMC. Thanks for your cooperation.
Oct 30, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
Human Resources is excited to connect with our talented employees and learn more about the unique skills and qualifications that make our college community so special! We invite you to share any professional credentials, organizational memberships or language skills that may not currently be reflected in your employee profile.
We are looking for the following information:
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- License or Certification: Any credential awarded by an official body that confers a level of authority and indicates that an individual’s ability meets certain standards. (e.g., Certified Public Accountant, Attorney, Registered Nurse, Certified Flight Instructor, Emergency Medical Technician, Master Auto Technician, etc.)
- Membership: Status of belonging to any formal group or organization. This could include boards, committees, councils, commissions, task forces, trade or professional associations, and the like. (e.g., Rotary Club, Honors Committee, NMC Foundation Board, NMC Green Team, Father Fred Board of Directors, advisory boards/councils, etc.)
- Language: Any language that you have any level of spoken or written proficiency in. (e.g., English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, Mandarin, etc.)
Please consider completing the Google Form for Employee’s ADP Talent Profile Update. This information will help us see the full range of talent and skills across the college, and will be stored in ADP’s Talent Profile.
Note: Employees may complete this form more than once or email hr@nmc.edu to share more information.
Oct 30, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
ADP will be open for elections November 11 through November 20, 2026.
Medical Plan Q&A Sessions via Zoom
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- October 26 at 3 p.m.
- October 30 at 10 a.m.
- November 3 at 10:30 a.m.
Open Enrollment Overview Meetings (all benefits) via Zoom
This session will be recorded if you can’t attend.
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- November 11 at 11 a.m.
- November 11 at 2 p.m.
Open Computer Labs in TJNIC 123
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- November 18, 8 a.m.–Noon
- November 19, Noon–3:30 p.m.
Oct 30, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
NMC is proud to offer a new benefit to employees who are eligible for Sick Leave. Focusing on our strategic driver of “People First”, this new offering allows NMC to emphasize our values of respect, inclusion, innovation, stewardship and excellence!
Please review the newly approved Sick Leave Donation Policy when you have time.
Highlights of the policy
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- Available to all employees who have a sick leave bank, with the exception of the SEIU contract members. The SEIU contract pays out unused sick leave at the end of the year and therefore is not eligible.
- Human Resources will email employees when a need is identified.
- Recipients of the donated sick leave must have exhausted all sick and vacation time and be approved for FMLA leave.
- You are not able to donate ahead of time, but in response to a specific need.
- All donations are anonymous, and you will not know who is receiving the donation.
- If the donation is not used, it will be returned to your bank.
- Please reference the policy for specific limits on receiving and donating sick leave.
Oct 30, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
Kudos to Betsy Emdin! Betsy always helps Alex and the Foundation staff with IAF events at The Dennos. Betsy is exceedingly helpful, easy to work with, always kind and respectful, makes everyone feel welcome and is always willing to share ideas to make things easier.
Kudos to Betsy Boris! Betsy, along with one of her students, held an “alternative” Halloween party for Nursing students in the TJNIC. There were games, funny jokes, costumes and food! It was a nice opportunity for students to connect and have fun. They even included the Introduction to Teaching class and shared their food!
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!