Apr 9, 2026 | Intercom
April 9, 2026
The public can now take an illustrated walk down NMC’s memory lane, with the publication of a digital timeline to celebrate the college’s 75th anniversary.
The timeline covers 110 “milestones” spanning the founding of Northwestern Michigan College as Michigan’s first community college in 1951 to this year’s 75th anniversary celebration. It was created by a history-focused workgroup with representation from across the college.
The group endeavored to show the people who created NMC history as much as the establishment of programs and construction of the physical campus. The timeline also offers present-day context to help viewers understand NMC’s growth and impact. For example, text about the college’s first Commencement in 1953, when 28 students graduated, notes that in 2025, 565 students earned degrees and certificates, a twentyfold increase. A 2018 milestone, awarding $1 million in scholarships, notes that just a few years later, in 2024-25, NMC would double that achievement, awarding $2 million in scholarships.
“The timeline depicts both NMC’s lasting legacy and the bold future ahead,” said Stephen Siciliano, NMC Vice President of Educational Services and chair of the history work group. “Throughout the years, we’ve been proud to be the community’s college, helping to transform the lives of our learners and their families.”
Led by Ryan Bernstein, NMC Curriculum and Instructional designer, the group curated the timeline from thousands of historical images, documents and artifacts. Longtime college archivist Ann Swaney is also a member of the history workgroup, providing valuable institutional memory and guidance through the process.
Milestones are spread fairly evenly through the decades. The timeline is available at nmc.edu/75.
NMC will also celebrate its history at a daylong anniversary special event Saturday, July 25. It will include:
- 10 a.m. History Showcase, Milliken Auditorium: Debut screening of 75th anniversary video; panel discussion of NMC history, opening of 50th anniversary time capsule
- 11 a.m.–2 p.m.: Self-guided history walk to activity stations around NMC’s Front Street campus; opportunity to contribute to centennial time capsule; lunch in the NMC Innovation Center
- 7 p.m. (tentative time): NMC Music Department Concert, Milliken Auditorium
NMC has published three history books covering 20-year segments of its history. The most recent ends in 2011. In addition there are Maritime and Art Department history books. All are available to check out at the NMC Library.
Apr 8, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) Extended Education & Training invites the community to a day of educational exploration at Campus Day 2026 on Friday, May 8, at NMC’s Front Street Campus. This community event is geared towards those 50 and better, though all ages are welcome to attend. Registration is open now at nmc.edu/campus-day.
Attendees personalize their learning experience by selecting three sessions from a diverse offering of over forty topics. The event will feature time for ‘Coffee & Connection’ before the sessions commence, followed by a hosted lunch for all attendees.
Campus Day 2026 features a wide range of sessions, from “Rocking Your World” to “The Edmund Fitzgerald: The Stories, The Song” to “NMC at 75”, and many more. Sessions will be presented by NMC instructors and other local subject matter experts. Sessions are filled on a first come, first served basis, so early registration is recommended.
Cost for attendance is $75, which includes coffee and donuts, attendance at three 75-minute sessions, and lunch. Students may register online at nmc.edu/campus-day, by calling (231) 995-1700, or stopping into the NMC Extended Education & Training office. The office is located on NMC’s Boardman Lake Campus at 2200 Dendrinos Drive, Traverse City, MI.
Release date: April 9, 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
Apr 8, 2026 | Announcements & News, Intercom
We appreciate the faculty and staff at NMC! Stop by the Campus Bookstore or the Dennos Museum store April 14–16 for 25% off your entire purchase!
Excludes consignment and clearance. Cannot be combined with any other discounts.
Apr 8, 2026 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Registration is now open for all NMC Extended Education & Training summer adult classes. Community members are invited to enroll in classes ranging in topics from culinary and creative arts to Northern Naturalist, recreation, fitness, and more. Some classes may fill quickly, so early registration for all classes is recommended.
New this summer are expanded offerings to get out and enjoy nature in northern Michigan. Classes include rowing, kayaking, boating, charter fishing, and more. Students are encouraged to enroll online at nmc.edu/ees.
Additional community education options include nearly 80 in-person classes from delicious culinary adventures like “Under the Tuscan Spoon” and “Rice to the Occasion” to exploratory Northern Naturalist offerings, like “Wetland Wildflowers.” Additional classes are offered in fitness, art, music, global, yoga, and recreation. Adult & Child and Date Night classes are perfect for those looking to share quality time and learn new skills with their partners, parents, or friends. Visit nmc.edu/ees to see all categories and class options.
Release date: April 8, 2026
For more information:
Laura Stevens
NMC Extended Education & Training
lstevens@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1704
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
Apr 8, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Recent high school graduates in the five-county area kept more than $1.68 million in their pockets this academic year by using the Community College Guarantee at NMC.
The state scholarship offers free tuition to in-district (Grand Traverse County) high school graduates, with no GPA or income requirements. Tuition is significantly discounted to graduates outside the district, with other scholarships often making up the difference.
“We definitely get the word out. We just want kids to take advantage of it because it’s such a great deal,” said Kalkaska High School counselor Ciara McCullough.
The amount awarded across Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Antrim and Kalkaska counties was up from $1.04 million awarded in 2024–25, the first year of the CCG.
The amount awarded across Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Antrim and Kalkaska counties was up from $1.04 million awarded in 2024–25, the first year of the CCG. While amounts were highest in Grand Traverse County, growth increased most in Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Dollars awarded to Kalkaska high school graduates more than doubled. Dollars awarded to Leelanau high school graduates nearly tripled.
|
County
|
2024–25 amount
|
2025–26 amount
|
|
Antrim
|
$49,996
|
$69,373
|
|
Benzie
|
$56,104
|
$87,786
|
|
Grand Traverse
|
$854,156
|
$1,317,185
|
|
Kalkaska
|
$32,950
|
$68,194
|
|
Leelanau
|
$48,891
|
$141,847
|
|
TOTAL
|
$1.04 million
|
$1.68 million
|
2025 Kalkaska graduate Kylee Moore is studying elementary education at NMC. She considered Ferris, but chose NMC in order to save money. Now with her first year nearly complete, she’s found the advantages to be more than financial.
“”I’m really happy with it. At NMC, I really love my instructor (Cheryl Bloomquist),” Moore said. NMC’s scheduling also allowed her to keep her job at Pitter Patter daycare in Kalkaska.
“It’s more flexible and I really like that,” said Moore, who has used NMC campus services like the Writing Center and the library. She expects to complete her bachelor’s through Central Michigan University.
Moore chose education as her field after attending the Teacher Academy at the regional Career Tech Center in high school. McCullough said that more than half of Kalkaska juniors and seniors attend the CTC, which dovetails well with NMC programs like Construction Technology, Automotive Technology, Engineering Technology, surveying, renewable energy and welding.
“Going into the trades is very popular with our kids (and) NMC offers a lot of (skilled) trades programs,” she said.
The Community College Guarantee must be used within 15 months of high school graduation. Class of 2025 graduates can still enroll for NMC’s summer or fall 2026 semesters. The class of 2026 will also be eligible through the fall 2027 semester. Find out more at nmc.edu/guarantee.
Release date: April 8, 2026
For more information:
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
Apr 7, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
Versiti is holding a blood drive from 12:30 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 9 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 104/105 on NMC’s Front Street Campus. Do your part to help save lives during a vital time of need!
Make sure you eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Walk-ins are welcome, though scheduling an appointment is recommended.
Donors will receive a pair of flannel pajama pants and a coupon for a free sandwich from Jimmy John’s (while supplies last).
Apr 7, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College invites the public to help welcome Swoop, its new mascot, at a special 75th anniversary Student and Community Block Party from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, April 25 on the Front Street campus.
The event coincides with the end of the spring semester. Students, alumni, staff, faculty, neighbors and friends are all invited to join the festivities, including free carnival rides, activities and live music. Food from several local food trucks will be available to purchase.
Swoop, the newest member of the NMC community, will make his debut at 3:30 p.m. and will then make the rounds of the party for photo opportunities.
NMC adopted the northern hawk owl as a nickname in 2013, and the concept was embraced by the college. Swoop was first visualized as a two-dimensional logo character in 2014. Each graduate receives a Hawk Owl alumni” T-shirt. The student cafeteria is named the Hawk Owl Cafe.
The occasion of NMC’s 75th anniversary this year was a fitting time to embody Swoop as an official mascot, and planning for Swoop’s arrival started in late 2024.
Hawk owls are typically found further north than Traverse City, but Swoop’s journey reflects the diverse and unexpected paths of NMC students. Just as they come from various backgrounds and places to find their purpose at NMC, Swoop was drawn by the college’s unique blend of natural beauty, hands-on learning and welcoming community.
“We want NMC to feel vibrant and alive for our students and our community, and finally having Swoop home is a big part of bringing this vision to life.” said Zach Whitaker, manager of NMC Alumni Relations, where Swoop makes his home in between event appearances. He’s here to cheer on our students and learners as they navigate challenges and celebrate all their accomplishments through their time with us and beyond.”
NMC President Nick Nissley will introduce Swoop at the block party. Mascots from NMC’s University Partners, including Louie the GVSU Laker, Brutus the Ferris bulldog, and Pounce the Davenport panther, will join the welcome party, too. A rain date has been set for Sunday, April 26. For more information, visit nmc.edu/75
Release date: April 7, 2026
For more information:
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
Apr 6, 2026 | Intercom, President Updates, Student News
Dear NMC faculty, staff, and students,
Put on your best superhero costume and come support an amazing cause. BUS 231 Professional Communications class has been hard at work this semester rebranding our NMC Hero Race (formally known as the Big Little Hero Race). This event helps students develop real-world professional communication skills while raising funds for our very own College for Kids program. We would love for our fellow Hawk Owls to come and support our NMC community and us this year at the NMC Hero Race!
11th Annual NMC Hero Race
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Festivities begin at 9:00 AM at NMC Main Campus, including:
- FREE one-mile Fun Run featuring a special appearance from Captain Hawk Owl!
- 5K/10K timed walk or run (discounts for NMC students, staff, and faculty for $20 off registration)
- Carnival Games
- Silent Auction
- Prizes for best dressed male/female/duo/pet
- Cake Walk
- Bake Sale
- Awards Ceremony
Along with all the exciting events happening on the day of the race, our culinary team will be hard at work the day before, on April 17, 2026, to bring you a carb-fueled pasta dinner. Dinner will begin at 5pm and go until 6:30pm. We are offering pasta, meatballs, and breadsticks. As a student, you only pay $5 for a NMC (our home during the school year) cooked meal.
The fun doesn’t stop there. We are also having a birthday party! This year, NMC is celebrating its 75th birthday. In honor of that, we are excited to announce that this year’s local hero award will be presented to our NMC Outstanding Alumni. This group has continued to pave the way for fellow Hawk Owls for the last 75 years.
If you would like to sign up for the race, head over to our website nmcherorace.com and apply code: student26 (students) or teacher26 (faculty and staff) to receive $20 off your registration.
Even if you are unable to attend, you can still support the cause by entering our prize giveaway for a chance to win: A two-night stay at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac with breakfast included!
To enter:
- Visit https://www.nmc.edu/about/foundation/giving/give.html
- Select “other amount” ($20 minimum)
- Select “NMC Hero Race” in the drop-down tab for “designate my gift to”
One entry per person. The drawing will take place after the race.
I hope to see you there!
Nick
Apr 6, 2026 | Hawk Owl Helpers and Heroes, Intercom
Thanks to the Great Lakes Maritime Academy for hosting its annual spring “open ship” from 1-4 p.m. this Saturday. Last year’s event drew more than 1,000 guests aboard the T/S State of Michigan. In recognition of NMC’s 75th anniversary, this year’s event will include a GLMA history display inside the Great Lakes campus..
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
Apr 6, 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.
College Connection Fair for high school juniors
WILX TV, April 5
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Apr 6, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
NMC will host a Graduation Fair on April 15 from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center. This is your one-stop shop for all things Commencement—from finalizing your graduation application and learning about the ceremony to purchasing your gear and decorating your grad cap.
- Decorate your cap and shop at the Bookstore.
- Verify or submit your graduation app
- Meet with Career & Employee Readiness, Alumni Relations, and Student Financial Services
- Discover Direct Connect with University Partners.
- Get Free Popcorn!
It’s also a perfect time to connect with the Alumni Relations office, as you begin your journey from student to a lifelong Hawk Owl. NMC University Partners, Financial Aid, Advising, Career Services and the NMC Bookstore will also be on hand to help you prepare for your next steps forward.
Apr 6, 2026 | Intercom, Student News
To find these selections and many other new titles, see the NMC library catalog.
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Apr 6, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
The following employees are celebrating an anniversary soon. Please join us in congratulating them!
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Apr 6, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
Kudos to Michael Anderson! Huge kudos to Michael Anderson for his exceptional leadership of the English Faculty recruitment committee. Michael managed to lead us through one of the most efficient and successful faculty searches yet. His organization and clear communication turned a typically complex process into a seamless experience. Thank you, Michael, for setting a new gold standard for hiring! Your leadership is simply outstanding!
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!
Apr 6, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
These colleagues have moved on to a new chapter in their lives. We wish them the very best as they navigate a new adventure, and we thank them for their time and dedication to NMC!
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- Kirk Rose, student employee – Engineering Tech Lab Assistant
- Alexander Lane, supplemental employee – Test Proctor
- Luis Qian – Adjunct Certified Flight Instructor
- Steven Schmitt – Adjunct Certified Flight Instructor
Apr 6, 2026 | HR Corner, Intercom
Mariam Alavidze recently started working at the college as a student Tutor. Welcome to the NMC community!
Apr 6, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 at the Dennos Museum! Students will receive exclusive access to these events from 10 to 11 a.m. and again from 4 to 5 p.m.
Clothing Swap
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dennos Museum
The Dennos Museum’s annual clothing swap returns! Clothing can be dropped off at the Dennos Museum from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 17–21. Faculty and staff are encouraged to sign up as volunteers ahead or during the event to sort clothing. Those interested in volunteering should fill out the Earth Day Clothing Swap volunteer form. Pro tip: anyone who signs up to sort also gets first view and dibs on finds!
Plant sale
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dennos Museum
NMC’s Green Team will host a plant sale with about 500 starter plants, including herbs, flowers and houseplants. Every purchase helps fund campus vibrancy and beautification projects.
Gear & rec swap
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dennos Museum
The Grand Traverse Conservation District will host a gear & rec swap. Gear can be dropped off Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through April 21 at the Boardman River Nature Center.
Apr 6, 2026 | Intercom, Student Events
NMC host a mobile food pantry on Monday, April 6 from 3–5 p.m. in the Maple Lot on the Front Street campus. We have 4,500 pounds of goods including lettuce, onions, potatoes, beans, cereal, oranges, cottage cheese, applesauce and frozen pizzas.
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.
Free and open to all students and their families. Interested in volunteering? Email Cathy Warner at cwarner@nmc.edu.
