Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) Extended Education & Training is excited to announce the release of its Winter-Spring Catalog, offering more than 150 diverse classes for personal and professional growth. The catalog is now available online at www.nmc.edu/ees, and registration is open for all learners.
This season, NMC is offering a wide range of in-person, livestream, and online courses in both life enrichment and professional and workforce training. Community members can explore topics such as cooking, painting, fitness, gardening, global cultures, technology, and more. New courses this winter include Drawing Fundamentals, One Day Journal, Maple Sugaring, and Sharpen & Shine: Building Leaders.
For a unique holiday gift, the Learn Together program offers a variety of classes designed for couples, families, and friends. Whether it’s a Date Night or Adult & Child format, participants can bond while learning new skills in areas like painting, cooking, wine tasting, partner dancing, and more.
In addition to individual courses, NMC Extended Education & Training also supports local businesses with custom training programs and corporate retreats tailored to meet specific organizational needs. For more information, businesses can contact NMC at ees@nmc.edu.
To explore the full catalog and secure your spot, visit nmc.edu/ees. To request a printed catalog, email ees@nmc.edu.
About Northwestern Michigan College Extended Education & Training
Northwestern Michigan College Extended Education & Training is a leading provider of lifelong and professional learning opportunities in the region. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, NMC Extended Education & Training strives to empower individuals and businesses to achieve their goals through high-quality educational programs and customized training solutions.
Release date: December 10, 2025
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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Regional and state leaders will gather Friday, Sept. 12 to break ground on the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center, a landmark project establishing Northern Michigan as the epicenter of water innovation and a globally relevant hub for the blue economy.
The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. at 13240 S. West Bay Shore Drive, the future site of the center on Discovery Pier’s campus.
The $28.9 million project is a collaborative effort of Discovery Pier, Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse Connect, Michigan Technological University, and 20Fathoms. By co-locating working pier space, advanced laboratories, and business incubation under one roof, the center will serve as the home for water technology and marine mobility, where ideas become solutions, technologies become ventures, and opportunities become careers.
“The Freshwater Research & Innovation Center is not only a Michigan asset, it’s a global platform for blue tech innovation,” said the center’s Board Chair Greg Luyt. “We invite companies, researchers, and funders from around the world to join us as we move ideas from lab to market, build the workforce of tomorrow, and protect our freshwater resources for future generations through innovation.”
The 38,000-square-foot facility will feature advanced laboratories, business incubation space, and working pier access for research vessels. Areas of focus include autonomous and remote systems, AI, acoustic and observation platforms, water quality technologies, and sustainable marine mobility.
“Traverse Connect is proud to help launch a center that will put Michigan on the map for blue tech investment,” said Warren Call, president and CEO of Traverse Connect. “By combining world-class research with entrepreneurial support, the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center will develop and attract companies and capital, creating jobs and driving economic growth across the region.”
The project has already secured more than $26 million in commitments from federal, state, and private funders, with fundraising ongoing. Once complete, the center is expected to draw national and international tenants, create high-wage jobs, and generate research with global applications.
About the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center
The Freshwater Research & Innovation Center is a joint venture of Discovery Pier and Northwestern Michigan College with support from Traverse Connect, Michigan Technological University, and 20Fathoms. Located on Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City, Mich., the center will serve as the epicenter of water innovation by connecting education, research, industry, and community for sustainable growth in the blue tech sector. Visit freshwatercenter.org to learn more.
Release date: September 3, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College will celebrate the completion of its new aviation hangar Sept. 15, marking a significant milestone that illustrates NMC’s commitment to meeting the growing needs of the Grand Traverse region and the aviation industry.
NMC is the only Michigan two-year college to offer an aviation program. Until this fall, it typically enrolled 30 new students each fall, and had up to a two-year waitlist. By expanding the college’s aviation facilities, the hangar increases NMC’s capacity to train pilots significantly. This fall, 50 new students started, a 66% increase.
The hangar was expanded by 16,500 square feet, which enabled NMC to add eight new planes to its fleet of 19 total aircraft, including a sea plane and an aerobatics plane. It is now 33,530 square feet.
Aviation students take to the skies in their first semester and can earn private, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, and flight instructor ratings, preparing them for successful careers.
“There’s never been a better time to launch your aviation career — with rising salaries, signing and retention bonuses, travel perks, and a pilot shortage projected to last another 10 to 15 years,” said Aviation director Alex Bloye.
Total project cost for the hangar is $7 million. NMC matched a $3.75 million state grant. The project also received $550,000 in federal funding. The hangar is also the first project in NMC’s 10-year campus master plan, NMC Thrive.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our state and federal legislators, donors, and community partners who have made this project possible,” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “This expansion demonstrates NMC’s responsiveness to the needs of our region and our ability to deliver results.”
NMC Aviation has a proven track record of success, with graduates experiencing 100 percent job placement. The college is also a leader in the growing field of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
Release date: August 27, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
CMU, Davenport, FSU, GVSU now located on Front Street Campus
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC’s University Partners will celebrate their new location in the James Beckett Building on the Front Street Campus, enabling them to more closely serve NMC students, with an open house from 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23.
“Partners in Possibility: Opening doors to stronger collaboration, greater access, and a shared future” will celebrate the move to Beckett in August, in conjunction with the start of the fall semester. About half of NMC students transfer to complete a four-year degree.
“We’re evolving from a physical hub to a more integrated partnership model, one that reflects how students learn today,” said President Nick Nissley. “Students increasingly seek flexibility: hybrid options, online support and services across multiple locations, not just in a single building.”
Representatives from each partner – Central Michigan University, Davenport University, Ferris State University, Grand Valley State University and Michigan State’s Institute of Agricultural Technology – will speak at the event. University Partner programs are concentrated in the areas of business, education and health and human services.
The physical move builds upon programmatic changes the universities and NMC have already made to create more seamless degree pathways. NMC offers Direct Connect programs with Davenport, Ferris and Grand Valley, for instance. These students are admitted to both the university and NMC simultaneously, with comprehensive, collaborative support, and guaranteed credit transfer.
“The building may change, but the opportunity stays right here in Traverse City,” Nissley said. More than 10,000 area students have earned a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree since the University Partners were established in 1995, in response to the community’s desire for advanced degree options in Traverse City.
NMC’s former University Center campus on the west side of Boardman Lake has been renamed the Boardman Lake campus, in alignment with the geography-based identity used for other campuses. It remains the home of NMC’s business and human resources offices, Extended Education & Training, the NMC Foundation and Strategic Initiatives office. Greenspire High School has a lease through 2030 for much of the second floor.
As part of NMC’s campus master plan, trustees will determine longer-term plans for the Boardman Lake campus property.
Release date: September 8, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College’s surveying program has been named the top two-year program in the nation by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying.
For the distinction, NMC earned a $25,000 grand prize. The NCEES award jury praised NMC’s program for being industry-driven and providing a variety of professional pathways to students. Jurors considered criteria such as student outcomes and involvement, outreach and recruitment, and the promotion of licensure. The four-year university winner was Penn State University.
NMC began offering an associate degree in surveying in 2019. By collaborating with other college programs, students gain experience in both aerial and underwater surveying as well as traditional land surveying.
“It is a pretty significant award in the industry. We are one of the few schools that actually incorporate the aspects of land, sea and air,” said Ryan Deering, NMC surveying recruiter.
Deering thanked surveying program sponsors including Leica Geosystems, Inc., which has donated state of the art equipment, Atwell, and an anonymous donor who made his position possible.
NCEES is a nonprofit organization made up of engineering and surveying licensing boards from all 50 U.S. states. Founded in 1920, NCEES has been committed to advancing licensure for engineers and surveyors in order to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the U.S. public.
Release date: September 4, 2025
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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
The NMC Board of Trustees will hold a study session Monday, September 22 at 3:30 p.m. in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center room 106/107. More information is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
Stephen Siciliano (download high-resolution photo)TRAVERSE CITY — Stephen Siciliano, NMC’s vice president for Educational Services, has been selected to serve as a member of the newly launched statewide Advisory Council on Transfer Success (ACTS).
Convened by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP), ACTS will guide statewide efforts to expand pathways to degree completion, strengthen collaboration across Michigan’s colleges and universities, and prepare more students for in-demand careers.
NMC President Nick Nissley stated: “Dr. Siciliano’s participation reflects NMC’s deep commitment to the strong and effective transfer of our students to their choice of university.” About half of NMC students enroll seeking to transfer to a four-year college or university where they will complete a bachelor’s and/or other advanced degree.
“The ability to transfer should be a bridge, not a barrier,” said Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “The Advisory Council on Transfer Success brings together leaders from across Michigan’s education institutions to drive bold, student-centered change, simplify pathways, and create a system where every student has the opportunity to finish their degree and access meaningful, in-demand jobs.”
Through their service, ACTS will help advance ongoing efforts to reach Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal, which seeks to increase the number of working-age adults with a postsecondary degree or certificate to 60% by 2030.
The council’s 16 members will play guide and oversee the state’s Transfer Success Project while also supporting MiLEAP’s efforts to navigate the transfer landscape, engage partners and advocate for productive change. Together, they will help streamline credit transfers, expand pathways in high-demand fields and make the process more transparent for students.
“Streamlined transfer pathways are critical to helping students stay on track and complete their degrees,” said Katie Giardello, Transfer Success Project Manager within MiLEAP’s Office of Higher Education. “With the Advisory Council’s leadership, we can make transfer simpler and more predictable so that more students can achieve their educational and career goals.”
About MiLEAP:
Established by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2023, MiLEAP’s mission is to improve outcomes from preschool to postsecondary so anyone can ‘make it in Michigan’ with a solid education and a path to a good-paying job. To learn more about MiLEAP, go to Michigan.gov/MiLEAP.
Release date: OCTOBER 28, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
The NMC Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday, September 22 at 5:30 p.m. in Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center room 106/107. More information is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
Laura Stevens (download high-resolution photo)TRAVERSE CITY — Laura Stevens, director of Extended Education and Training at Northwestern Michigan College, has been named one of the top 20 continuing educators in the country for 2026 by the Learning Resources Network (LERN).
She is the only individual recognized in Michigan. The recognition is for her pioneering research and work in documenting new financial contributions to the college, including continuing education student alumni donations.
“Ms. Stevens is on the cutting of our field and is making a significant contribution to the field,” said William A. Draves, president of LERN.
Stevens’ work will be showcased in a session, Know Your Value to the Institution, at the LERN 2025 annual conference Nov. 17–20, the largest conference in continuing education, with 1,500 attendees.
Release date: October 16, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College welcomes community input on the future of the college at a strategic planning input session Wednesday, Oct. 15 as well as via an online survey.
The meeting will be held from 6–7:30 p.m. in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center rooms 106/107. The survey will be open until Oct. 29.
The strategic planning process will engage all college stakeholders — faculty, staff, students, alumni, board and community members — in focusing energies and resources for 2026–2029. It will build on the success of NMC Next, the strategic plan that ran from 2022–25.
“The voices and critical insights of our entire community, beyond the campus borders, are important to the success of our efforts, and we value everyone’s participation as we engage in this collaborative process,” said NMC President Nick Nissley.
The final strategic plan document is expected to be presented to the Board of Trustees at its December meeting and then launched to the campus community in January 2026.
Release date: October 2, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) Professional Communications students are supporting local families this Thanksgiving through the 12th annual BUS 231 Thanks-for-Giving experiential learning project.
Students strive to alleviate food insecurity within the area by providing 175 Thanksgiving meal boxes to families in need. In collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters, 50 of the meals will be donated to families selected by the organization, while the remaining meals will be given to NMC families.
With the help of local organizations, the students are raising funds and collecting food donations to provide dinner boxes containing a turkey and all the traditional side dishes to serve a family of six. Each box includes a pan for cooking the turkey, along with a family activity. To become a donor, email the student contact listed below.
“We are excited to give back to our community while learning and improving our business communication skills.” said business student Kally Sluiter.
To fund this community project, the BUS 231 class is hosting a Halloween-themed Spooky Glow Skate at Howe Ice Arena in the Grand Traverse County Civic Center on October 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. There will be a $10 entrance fee and a $5 ice skate rental fee for the event. There will be prizes for the best costumes and a bake sale put on by NMC culinary arts students.
A prize giveaway is also available for donors who contribute $10 or more. Prizes consist of a two-night stay at the Great Wolf Lodge (along with a $250 gift card); a six-course wine dinner for two at Chateau Chantal; brunch for two in the Aerie Restaurant at the Grand Traverse Resort; and lunch for two at Lobdell’s, NMC’s teaching restaurant.
Donations can be made as follows:
● Visit nmc.edu/give
● Choose an amount to donate
● Select ”designate my gift to other”
● Enter “Thanks-for-Giving
In addition to monetary donation the community can donate boxes of granola bars or jars of peanut butter. Students are also stocking the boxes with a few healthy snacks for the Thanksgiving break. Donations can be dropped off in any red bin located on NMC’s Front Street campus in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center lobby or at the Great Lakes campus through Nov. 18.
Meal boxes will be distributed on Monday, November 24.
Release date: OCTOBER 15, 2025
For more information:
Tyler Kastens
Marketing Team Leader
Thanks-for-Giving 2025
Northwestern Michigan College
kastent@mail.nmc.edu
(616) 377-9111 (Call or text)
Kristy McDonald
Business Instructor
kmcdonald@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1059
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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — The International Affairs Forum (IAF) is pleased to announce its inaugural annual Gala event, scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the prestigious Hagerty Center on Northwestern Michigan College’s Great Lakes Campus. This landmark event will bring together community members passionate about global affairs for an evening of meaningful dialogue and celebration.
Distinguished Keynote Speaker
The gala will feature Peter Meijer, former Michigan Congressman and military veteran, as the evening’s keynote speaker. Meijer will share his unique perspectives on the value of service to our nation and provide insights into current global challenges facing the U.S. and the international community.
“We are honored to welcome Congressman Meijer to our inaugural gala,” said Major General Michael Lehnert, USMC Ret., Co-chair of the IAF Advisory Board. “His experience in both military service and congressional leadership provides invaluable perspective on the global issues that impact our local community.”
Event Highlights
The evening will begin with a cocktail reception from 6:00-7:00 PM, followed by dinner and the main program from 7:00-9:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to dress in cocktail or semi-formal attire for this special occasion.
“This special evening represents more than just a celebration – it’s an investment in fostering greater understanding of critical global issues through education and thoughtful dialogue. We’re nurturing a tradition of civic engagement – now into our 3rd decade of service – bringing expert insight to northern Michigan. At Northwestern Michigan College, IAF is part of an ecosystem of great value to our present and our future as a highly-informed community – starting with students, reaching working professionals, and folks enjoying the next phase of their lives in our region,” noted Alex Tank, Director of the International Affairs Forum. “Our goal is to welcome more Grand Traverse area citizens into our community of globally-minded individuals.”
Community Impact
Proceeds from the gala will directly support IAF’s exceptional programming and enhance the organization’s educational impact throughout Northern Michigan. Since 1994, the International Affairs Forum has been instrumental in bringing world-class speakers, educational programs, and global perspectives to the region.
Ticket Information & Sponsorship Opportunities
Individual tickets and tables are now available for purchase at tciaf.com/gala2025. The event is expected to attract significant interest from the community. Early ticket / table purchases are recommended. Gala sponsorships are available at various levels. Contact iaf@nmc.edu for sponsorship details.
About the International Affairs Forum
The International Affairs Forum is dedicated to advancing the understanding of critical global issues through education and public dialogue. The organization serves the northern Michigan community by bringing together citizens interested in international affairs and global perspectives.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Hagerty Center, Northwestern Michigan College Great Lakes Campus, Traverse City
Attire: Cocktail Dress/Semi-formal Attire
For tickets and information: tciaf.com/gala2025
For more information:
Alex Tank
Director, International Affairs Forum
atank@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1844
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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — The community is invited to join NMC students on Wednesday, Nov. 19 for the tenth 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.
Ryan Hannon, leader of Central Outreach, will lead participants on the 90-minute walk departing from the rear entrance of Central United Methodist Church, 222 Cass St., at 6 p.m. Nov. 19. Central Outreach is a hub of services for people without housing in the area. 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. 16-20. 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 the walk, this year’s activities include individual and group community service, an underwear/sock drive, development of awareness posters and engagement with community leaders in a series of panel discussions on understanding homelessness, housing insecurity and food insecurity. All activities are examples of Experiential Learning at NMC. EL actively engages the learner through relevant and ongoing experiences, critical problem solving and reflective practices.
In addition to NMC and CUMC, the walk is sponsored by the Northwest Michigan Coalition to End Homelessness.
Release date: November 5, 2025
For more information:
Lisa Blackford
Faculty, Social Sciences Area
lblackford@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1294
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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — The International Affairs Forum (IAF) at Northwestern Michigan College launches its 32nd season of events, inviting expert speakers to address global issues. Upcoming events include:
September 4 @ 7:00 PM | Breaking the Engagement: How China Won & Lost America with Prof. David Shambaugh, Professor of International Affairs & Director of the China Policy Program, George Washington University, Distinguished Visiting Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University.
October 23 @ 7:00 PM | Putting The Global Order Back Together with Christopher Preble, Senior Fellow and Director of the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center, and co-host of the “Net Assessment” podcast
November 12 @ 7:00 PM | Fighting For Girls’ Education: Creating A Future Where Girls Are Free To Learn & Lead with Ziauddin Yousafzai, Co-founder of The Malala Fund, educator & activist, father of Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai; and Sue Gunawardena-Vaughn, Senior Director of Grants at The Malala Fund, Human Rights Activist
More details | View events lineup
September 4, 7:00 PM | Breaking the Engagement: How China Won & Lost America
Hybrid event, in person at Dennos Museum Center & online
Books available for sale by Brilliant Books
IAF welcomes David Shambaugh, internationally recognized authority and award-winning author on contemporary China and the international relations of Asia. He is the Gaston Sigur Professor of Asian Studies, Political Science & International Affairs, and the founding Director of the China Policy Program in the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University, and Distinguished Visiting Fellow with the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. As an author, Shambaugh has published 35 books, including most recently Breaking the Engagement: How China Won & Lost America (Oxford University Press, 2025). Shambaugh received his B.A. in East Asian Studies from the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University, M.A. in International Affairs from Johns Hopkins University Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Michigan. Read David Shambaugh’s full bio here.
Shambaugh’s book will be available for purchase and signing at the event, courtesy of Brilliant Books, independent bookseller located at 118 E. Front St. in downtown Traverse City.
October 23, 7:00 PM | Putting The Global Order Back Together
Hybrid event, in person at Dennos Museum Center & online
IAF welcomes Christopher Preble, Senior Fellow and Director of the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center, and co-host of the “Net Assessment” podcast. At the Stimson Center, he leads a team of scholars who challenge prevailing assumptions surrounding US foreign policy, and who offer a range of policy options that go beyond the use of force and coercion. His own work focuses on the history of US foreign policy, contemporary US grand strategy and military force posture, alliance relations, and the intersection of trade and national security. Preble is the author of four books, including Peace, War, and Liberty: Understanding U.S. Foreign Policy (Cato Institute, 2019); and The Power Problem: How American Military Dominance Makes Us Less Safe, Less Prosperous, and Less Free (Cornell University Press, 2009). Read Christopher Preble’s full bio here.
This event is presented in partnership with The Quincy Institute Better Order Project and is part of the World Affairs Councils of America Engage America Series. IAF is a member affiliate of the World Affairs Councils of America.
November 12, 7:00 PM | Fighting For Girls’ Education: Creating A Future Where Girls Are Free To Learn & Lead
Hybrid event, in person at Dennos Museum Center & online
IAF will host a conversation on the education of girls and women, empowering action to change the world, featuring two expert guest speakers representing the Malala Fund:
Ziauddin Yousafzai, is co-founder and board member of Malala Fund and is the father of Malala Yousafzai, recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. He is world renowned for his outspoken support for girls’ rights to education, equality and human rights. In Pakistan, he was an educator, founder and administrator of several schools. Mr. Yousafzai is UN Special Adviser on Global Education and Education Attaché at Pakistan’s Consulate in Birmingham, UK.
Sue Gunawardena-Vaughn serves as the Seniors Grants Officer for the Malala Fund. She is a longtime human rights activist who centers her work around the maxim “that the people have the power to redeem the work of fools.” She has held a number of leadership roles at Amnesty International USA, Freedom House, Open Society Foundations (OSF), and MADRE, where in her various capacities, she has led global advocacy campaigns, mobilized resources for racial and ethnic justice movements and frontline defenders, and built and led strong bi-partisan issue-based coalitions on a range of human rights issues.
Event Details
Programs are open to the public, starting at 7:00 PM Eastern at the Dennos Museum Center Milliken Auditorium, 1701 E. Front St., Traverse City with a welcome reception at 6:00 P.M.
Events are presented in hybrid format; in-person events are available to livestream online. Programming continues throughout the academic year through June 2026. All IAF events on campus at NMC are free for students and educators, including all NMC employees and employees of all local schools. Find more information at TCIAF.com.
IAF events on campus at NMC are supported by gifts from community members and sponsors. Learn more about event sponsorship and opportunities to support here: tciaf.com/support
IAF’s educational programming at NMC is free for students and educators, and open to the public thanks to its supporting members, regional partners, business sponsors, and Northwestern Michigan College. For press inquiries, including speaker interview requests, contact via information below.
About the International Affairs Forum at Northwestern Michigan College
Mission
The mission of the International Affairs Forum is to advance the understanding of critical global issues through education and public dialogue. IAF is a community-supported program of Northwestern Michigan College and an affiliate of the World Affairs Councils of America.
Events
All regular season events are open to the public. Tickets are required. Presentations begin at 7:00 PM & receptions begin at 6:00 PM, unless otherwise noted. Visit TCIAF.com for advance in-person tickets and online livestream access: $15 per person purchased in advance, $20 per person at the door, or $10 for online livestream access. For in-person tickets on event days, purchase at the door while seats remain. Current students, educators, and active-duty military members receive free admission with required check in. For in-person tickets, online livestream tickets, and all event details, visit TCIAF.com.
Community Support | Membership
The International Affairs Forum is a member-supported global affairs education series and a program of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC). The organization was founded in 1994 by a group of citizens eager to learn more about our nuanced world through speaker events with invited experts. IAF welcomes new members and sponsors for its 32nd season September 2025–June 2026.
Memberships start at $100 for individuals or $200 for two people. All memberships include in-person admission and online access to all regular season events. Learn more about IAF membership, event sponsorship, and student outreach at TCIAF.com.
Release date: AUGUST 20, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College today revealed a refreshed brand designed for NMC to stand out, connect strongly with students, and, as higher education grows more competitive, enable it to thrive and serve the community for years to come.
The research-based, grant-funded brand includes a new logo that builds on the decades of history of NMC’s iconic pine tree logo, and an updated and expanded color palette. The multiple shades of blue illustrate NMC’s leadership in freshwater research and careers, including two unique community college bachelor’s degrees, in marine technology and maritime technology.
“A strong NMC brand – what makes us unique and valuable in a challenging higher ed landscape – is an asset, just like our faculty and staff and our campus buildings,” said President Nick Nissley. “Unifying around the NMC brand will enable us to better serve students and attract new ones. We have always been proud of our work; we now have new ways to show and tell our story.”
NMC was awarded a $100,000 grant from Indianapolis-based Lumina Foundation in June 2023 to fund the brand assessment and strategy work. More than 600 college stakeholders contributed input via a survey, including current and prospective students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and community/business partners.
In addition, more than 60 interviews were conducted with the same groups, plus local high school counselors and staff. Since COVID, a significant new enrollment challenge has been fewer high school graduates choosing to attend college at all, especially men. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer highlighted this challenge to Michigan’s talent pool and economy in her 2025 State of the State address.
The first phase of the refreshed brand implementation is timed to the start of the fall semester and includes new signage on all five campuses, completely redesigned admissions materials, and Welcome Week materials for new and current students. New NMC apparel and other logo gear is also available for sale in the NMC Bookstore.
Future phases of implementation will extend the brand to academic division and department levels, with priorities shaped by NMC’s new strategic plan, now in development for 2026-29. The new brand also comes in time for NMC to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2026.
“Higher education is evolving rapidly, with more choices, shifting student expectations, and growing competition,” said Diana Fairbanks, associate vice president of strategic communications and change initiatives. “We took a wide-angle view, listening to our community and studying how other colleges position themselves. This brand reflects what makes NMC truly distinctive and equips us to compete more effectively, connect with the next generation of learners, and grow with purpose in the years ahead.”
To find out more, visit nmc.edu/brandnew.
Release date: AUgust 19, 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 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
Sep 9, 2026 | Intercom
An NMC student prepares to deploy a remotely-operated vehicle aboard the research vessel Northwestern
September 9, 2026
Mapping the Great Lakes has taken a Grand Canyon-sized leap since the last Lakebed 2030 conference, and NMC students are a part of it.
When the effort to map all five Great Lakes at high resolution started five years ago, such data existed for less than 15 percent of the lakes. Next week, when 175 professionals from science, research, policy, government and industry gather again at the Hagerty Center, 17 percent of the U.S. waters will be mapped. The increase of 1,885 square miles roughly equals Grand Canyon National Park.
U.S. Senator Gary Peters speaks via video at a Lakebed 2030 event in 2022.That data is critical to keeping the lakes drinkable, fishable and swimmable. It’s also vital to creating new jobs and industries based around water resources –the essence of the blue economy that NMC is advancing in multiple ways. From seed funding for new entrepreneurs to collaborating with community and academic partners to experiential learning opportunities for NMC students, Lakebed will showcase all of it Sept. 15–17.
- Naming the 2026 Great Lakes Blue Tech Challenge winner. The starting field of 48 early-stage companies has been narrowed to three finalists: Lacuum, Naiad Technologies and NS2, who will compete Sept. 17 in a pitch competition for $55,000. All three are developing innovative products that use autonomous technology to monitor, preserve and improve water quality.
“All three are examples of the kinds of tenants – and employers – NMC wants to see for the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center,” said Jason Slade, vice president for Strategic Initiatives at NMC. “Their work dovetails with NMC programs like Marine Technology and uncrewed aerial systems, where students learn proficiency in autonomous technology.”
- Tour of the under-construction, 40,000 square foot FRIC facility on West Grand Traverse Bay Sept. 16. Scheduled for completion in spring 2027, marking another milestone for the blue economy, the Center will unite education, research and economic development under one roof, making it a collaborative hub for freshwater unique in the Great Lakes region.
- NMC Marine Technology students have mapped the Lake Michigan lakebed off the tip of the Leelanau peninsula since 2023, using industry-standard multibeam sonar and hydrographic survey techniques aboard NMC’s research vessel, the Northwestern. NMC Great Lakes Water Studies Institute director John Lutchko, recently named the Early Career Ocean Professional by the Marine Technical Society, who teaches the capstone course, will moderate an industry panel discussion Sept. 16.
- NMC President Nick Nissley will sign the Presidents for Entrepreneur Pledge Sept. 17. A project of the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship, NMC has actively worked to advance entrepreneurship among students for several years, from offering a maker’s space to funding for innovative student projects and ideas. The pledge is a natural next step.
- In another collaboration, the University of Michigan has approved NMC’s application to join the Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research. This consortium is now seeking grant funding for research and workforce training.
“NMC is committed to future-focused learning and to being a community cornerstone,” Nissley said. “Both the entrepreneurship pledge and joining CIGLR illustrate those commitments, and how they benefit our students and region.”
Sep 9, 2026 | Cyber Minute, Intercom
Phishing emails ramp up with the semester. Watch for fake financial aid notices, IT account warnings, and urgent password reset requests. When in doubt, go directly to the source — don’t click the link.
Sep 8, 2026 | Hawk Owl Helpers and Heroes, Intercom
Thanks the organizers and volunteers of the 20th annual Mike McIntosh Memorial Car & Truck Show & Block Party, set for this Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the Aero Park campus. Aero Park Drive will close to through traffic for a full day of classic cars, food trucks, music and family-friendly activities. Find out more and plan to attend!
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
