Aug 20, 2013 | Intercom
Deb Pharo is an amazing instructor who has worked tirelessly over the summer to redesign courses to make learning more accessible and competency based for our students who do not qualify for Math 111 yet. She is always seeking out the best strategies for teaching, testing them, and sharing them with others around her. She is not only creative with her approaches but also extremely thoughtful as to what would work best for students and for other instructors who teach the same population. She always strives for the best, not only for herself, but for others around her.
Thank you to Amber Casey for stepping up to get the Fine Arts building in shape for the Fall semester. Amber exceeded expectations and did so with a smile and a great attitude!
On behalf of Wendy and Bilal, our international students from the UK, a BIG thank you to EVERYONE at NMC who helped them. They hope to be back with us for a full school year next year. Special mention to Shauna, Kayla, Elizabeth and Allison, Lindsey, Lisa and Marcus, Steve, Emily, Jerry Cannon and the summer on-campus international students. Many other students, volunteers, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees and community members showed them great kindness as well.
Aug 19, 2013 | Intercom, Student News
New Procedure for Late Registration
1) All new registration for fall 2013 will end at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2013, for any session that begins on August 24th. (NMC staff will be available in their offices until 5:00 p.m. for registration assistance.) Students who have not registered for any classes by that date will not be registered for classes starting in the normal 15 week session.
2) Students who register by the deadline will be able to add/switch classes during the first few days of classes provided the class has not met and there are seats still open in the class. Students adding classes in this fashion will not need approval from the academic areas and can register through visiting the Records and Registration Office. Online classes are considered to have started the first day of the session.(Please see the attached sheet for specific academic area guidelines.)
3) Students seeking to start at NMC after the August 23, 2013 deadline will have the opportunity to seek registration and enrollment in a limited number of late-start classes. (For students seeking full time enrollment, you may consider late start sections of: ENG 111, PSY 101, MTH 23, HST 111, MUS 110 and/or PHL 202 as well as other late start courses.) These courses will not be initially opened up in the course schedule until late in the registration period and/or when the other sections in these courses are closed.
An Additional Reminder:
Students are not allowed to attend a class they are not registered for!
Aug 19, 2013 | Intercom
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) lets you enjoy tax savings of up to 40% for every dollar you spend on health care. As you begin to think about your benefits enrollment for 2014, consider an FSA if the health plan you choose allows this. Why might this be a good idea for you? Health expenses may be turned in at any time during the plan year. You can spend the money you’re contributing all at the beginning of the year (even before you contribute enough funds to cover the expenses) or you can get reimbursed throughout the year.
There are two ways to receive payment for qualified medical expenses from your health care account. If you have any other insurance coverage, then you must have a manual reimbursement. If not, then the automatic reimbursement may be the best method for you.
Automatic reimbursement.
If you and your covered dependents are covered by Priority Health, your medical or prescription drug copays, coinsurance or deductible expenses will automatically be reimbursed. There’s no need to file a claim form.
Manual reimbursement.
For all other expenses, including vision and dental, just submit claim forms with proof of the expense and Priority Health will send you a check.
If you have questions about your FSA, you can call Priority Health at the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. You can also check the status of your FSA online at your Priority Health member account. For more information on flexible spending accounts, click here for thePriority Health FSA brochure.
If you have questions about this or any other NMC benefit, feel free to contact HR at 995-1362 or 995-1025.
Aug 18, 2013 | Intercom
The NMC Global Literature Reading Group meets twice a year to discuss a book about life in another culture. The group aims to bring together NMC faculty and staff from all departments and disciplines to stimulate critical thinking, literary pleasure, awareness of global diversity and cultural interconnections. These books and discussions help support NMC’s Strategic Direction that NMC learners are prepared for success in a global society and economy.
All faculty and staff are welcome to join.
Meetings held in November and April, on Friday from noon to 1:30 p.m. Location to be announced.
Meetings for 2013-2014:
Friday, November 15: Rez Life, by David Treuer
Friday, April 25: The Orphan Master’s Son, by Adam Johnson
Request a book:
Copies are available at a subsidized price of $5 (prepayment required). To secure your copy, please contact Tina Ulrich at 995-1063 or tulrich@nmc.edu.
The purchase of books is subsidized by the Center for Instructional Excellence and the Helen Osterlin Library Endowment.
For a list of past Global Literature Reading Group books click here!
Aug 18, 2013 | Intercom, Student News
The Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College will present a range of public programs in conjunction with the National Geographic exhibition, Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution. All programs are free with museum admission ($10 adults, $5 children, museum members, & NMC students).
The programs are a partnership between the Museum and local bird organizations in support of Birds of Paradise. Saving Birds Thru Habitat, located in Leelanau County, will offer a series of “Sundays are for the Birds” programs for families and adults at the Dennos Museum Center. Wings of Wonder, located in Empire, will present “A Bird’s-Eye View: An Interactive Raptor Experience” featuring live birds on July 15, August 15, and August 30, also at the Dennos.
“These programs represent the kind of partnership the Dennos Museum Center wants to make happen,” says Jason Dake, Curator of Education. “This is why the museum exists – to present engaging and educational programming for the community.”
“Our organization is delighted to partner with the Dennos on an exhibition centered on one of the most beautiful and fascinating avian families in the world. Partnering with other agencies and non-profit organizations helps us spread the word about the importance of bird conservation,” said Kay Charter, Executive Director of Saving Birds Thru Habitat.
“The WOW Ambassador Raptors and I invite our community to join us as we soar to new heights in education,” says Rebecca Lessard, Executive Director of locally operated Wings of Wonder. “It’s a real feather in the cap of the Dennos Museum Center to bring these fantastic programs to our area and we are thrilled to be appearing in such stellar company.”
All attendees are encouraged to call 231-995-1029 to reserve a space for each program.
SUNDAYS ARE FOR THE BIRDS
June 30, 1pm – Bird & Bugs Outdoor Explorers
Join SBTH for an exploration of NMC Main Campus in search of birds and the bugs they eat! Ages 4 and up, with adult. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.
July 21, 1pm – Birding at NMC
SBTH Director Kay Charter will lead a group on a birding expedition through NMC Main Campus. Binoculars provided. All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.
August 11, 2pm – Northern Michigan Birds of Paradise
SBTH will present an illustrated lecture about the migration and selection processes of Northern Michigan birds. Janis Room. Free with museum admission.
August 18, 1pm – Birding at NMC
SBTH Director Kay Charter will lead a group on a birding expedition through NMC Main Campus. Binoculars provided. All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.
August 25, 1pm – Bird & Bugs Outdoor Explorers
Since our migrating birds have finished with their nesting duties and the fledglings are all grown up, most have now begun that long flight back to their Tropical wintering grounds. Join us to take a virtual “Bird ‘n Bug Safari” by playing Saving Birds Thru Habitat’s Great Migration Game.” This game will help people of all ages learn about the challenges faced by migrating birds.
September 8, 2pm – Michigan’s Tropical Connections
Greg Butcher, Migratory Bird Program Coordinator at the US Forest Service, will present an illustrated lecture about Neotropical migratory patterns of birds that breed in Michigan. Janis Room. Free with museum admission.
A Bird’s-Eye View: An Interactive Raptor Experience
July 15, August 15, August 30 – 1pm: Visit the Dennos on these dates at 1pm for a special treat. Included with museum admission, Wings of Wonder’s Rebecca Lessard will present exciting and educational programming featuring live birds! All ages welcome. Meet in lobby. Free with museum admission.
All attendees are encouraged to call 231-995-1029 to reserve a space for each program.
The Dennos Museum Center is open daily 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursdays until 8 PM, and Sundays 1-5 PM. During Birds of Paradise, admission is $10.00 adults, $5.00 for children and museum members. For information on the Museum and its programs, go to www.dennosmuseum.org or call 231-995-1055. The Dennos Museum Center is located at 1410 College Dr., Traverse City, MI 49686, at the entrance to the campus of Northwestern Michigan College.
Aug 17, 2013 | Intercom
This is the list of current job postings. They can also be viewed on NMC’s website at https://jobs.nmc.edu/ Information on internal regular postings has been emailed.
Adjunct Faculty
Digital Graphic Design Adjunct Instructor (246-443)
Adjunct Faculty – History (231-443)
Adjunct Faculty – Humanities (227-443)
Adjunct Faculty-Biology (215-443)
Earth Science Adjunct Instructor (252-443)
Adjunct Instructor – Clinical Nursing Medical/Surgical and Obstetrics/Pediatrics (38-443)
Custodial Staff
Custodian – 3rd Shift (2 positions) (249-443)
Faculty
Maritime Engineering Instructor (228-443)
Student Employee
Student Ambassador (237-443)
Groundskeeper (233-443)
Lab Assistant/TCA Aero Park Professional Testing Center – Student Employee (223-443)
Science Lab Assistant – Student Employee (244-443)
Student Life Office Assistant (192-443)
Tutor-Student Employee (197-443)
Tutoring Center Office Assistant (232-443)
Student Employee – Writing and Reading Center Reader (200-443)
Supplemental Staff
Bakery Assistant (256-443)
Banquet Cook-Hagerty Center (248-443)
Banquet Server-Hagerty Center (250-443)
Bartender-Hagerty Center (251-443)
Supplemental Student Success Coach (255-443)
Aug 17, 2013 | Intercom
Track Jacket: This women’s jacket comes in orchid and black. It’s a little dressier because there is no hood. Retail price: $29.95
Women’s Crew Sweatshirt: Comes in 2 colors with a unique feature of front pockets. Retail $27.95
Women’s Relaxed Pants: Relaxed fit. Side pockets. Unfinished open bottom. Retail $ 22.95
Men’s Mesh Shorts: Available in forest or black. Nylon mesh, Side pockets.11″ inseam. Retail $27.95
Roll on bracelets: This is a fair trade item. Purchase helps the women of Nepal. retail $ 7.95
ID Holders: This holder comes on a 37″ silver chain with a breakaway magnetic clasp. Has that Pandora-like look. Retail $ 6.50.
Survival Items: This hottest new item comes in a key chain or bracelet. They are made from parachute cord. If unraveled in survival situations they provide 50 ft of cord. Retail $ 2.00
Scan safe wallets: Made from a material to prevent thieves from scanning your credit card numbers. Retail $4.75.
Flashlight: This flashlight requires no batteries. Recharge in direct sunlight or using incandescent light. Clips to purses, belt loops, book bags. Retail $ 5.00
These are just a few of the new items we have gotten in recently. Check out our new selection of Under Armour, water bottles, scarves, movies and other jewelry too. Get a jump start on Christmas because many of these items would make great stocking stuffers. Don’t forget you can use your employee discount.
Aug 14, 2013 | Intercom
Lockdown Alerts
Purpose
A Lockdown Alert is issued to temporarily restrict movement on a campus during a situation that could potentially endanger the welfare of the College community.
Situations may include an:
- Intruder
- An incident involving a violent or criminal act
- An active shooter or
- Hostage situation
A Lockdown is used when it may be more dangerous to evacuate a building than stay inside. Building exterior doors will be secured to prevent entry.
When notified of a Lockdown:
- Remain indoors and secure the entrance to your classroom or office
- Seek concealment away from windows and doors.
- Turn off lights
- Close the blinds
- Place cell phones on “vibrate only” and silence other electronic devices
- If you are in a hallway or a general open area, move into an enclosed room and secure the entrance
- Remain in a secure room until you are notified by the Office of Safety and Security, College officials, fire/rescue, or police that the situation has been resolved
- During the incident, the College will provide updates thru its multiple communications methods
- If you are outdoors, immediately take cover
- If you are commuting to a campus and receive a Lockdown Alert, remain off campus until notified the situation has been resolved
This information along with a comprehensive list of other topics can be found at
https://intranet.nmc.edu/depts/emergency-mngt-plan/
Please contact Jim White or Kay Hall if you have any concerns or questions.
Thank you!
Aug 14, 2013 | Intercom
Our sincere thanks to Chief Engineer Dave Sobolewski, Assistant Engineer Steph Sedlacek and the NMC custodians of the floor polish crew that have been an essential part of preparing the Training Ship, State of Michigan, for the incoming Fall 2013 Cadet Class. The ship has never looked better. Their efforts were apparent to all cadets and families as they boarded on Sunday.
Kudos to Sara Hartley! On two recent occasions she answered requests for historical materials promptly and with well-compiled information. Sara is a great addition to the NMC family.
Kudos to the HR Department for putting together yet another educational New Faculty/Staff Orientation Day. They continue to make this an extraordinary event through which to welcome new additions to our NMC family. All attendees enjoyed the introduction to NMC and the complete tour of our campuses. The excitement for their new positions here at the college was palpable amongst the group!
Aug 14, 2013 | Intercom
BEAT THE RUSH! Get your parking permit today!! If you do not already have your NMC parking permit, they are available in the Records and Registration office in the Tanis building. Please be sure to have the permit displayed in your car window before September 1, 2013. Please remove all past NMC parking decals. Thank you.
Aug 13, 2013 | Intercom
What does “Reasonable and Customary” mean in relation to your health care? Why do you see this term in relation to what you are being charged for your health and dental services? According to About.com, “A reasonable and customary fee is the amount that your health plan determines is the normal range of payment for a specific health-related service or medical procedure within a given geographic area. If the charges you (or your doctor) submit to your health plan are higher than what the health plan considers normal for the covered service, then your health plan may not allow the full amount charged to you.” As this applies to NMC’s medical and dental plans, you may have to pay an additional amount based on the reasonable and customary fee. For example, if the reasonable and customary fee for a medical procedure is $150 and your doctor charges $200, you may have to pay the additional $50. Our medical plan would pay for the $150 according to whichever plan you are in and whether or not you have met your deductible, but most likely your doctor would send you a bill which includes the remaining $50 that our plan did not approve.
This is another reason that using the Priority Health network providers will benefit you. The network providers have agreed with Priority Health to pay a set amount for a specific procedure. This set amount should be at or below the reasonable and customary fee, which means you will get a discount as well as not have to pay additional costs if your doctor charges them. To find a network provider, log into your Member Account at www.priorityhealth.com and click on “Find a Doctor”.
If you have any questions about this or other NMC benefits, please contact HR at 995-1362 or 995-1025.
Aug 13, 2013 | Intercom
Here is the list of current job postings. They can also be viewed on NMC’s website at https://jobs.nmc.edu/ Information on internal regular postings has been emailed.
Adjunct Faculty
Custodial Staff
Faculty
Student Employee
Supplemental Staff
Aug 12, 2013 | Intercom
The following employees are celebrating anniversaries soon. Please join us in congratulating them!
Amy Collins Health Occupations Instructor 2 years
Andy Dolan Executive Director of Public Relations and Marketing 2 years
Mary Erickson Science/Math Instructor 2 years
Jo Gallegos Banquet Supervisor – Hagerty Center 4 years
Mike Gillett Science/Math Instructor 13 years
Nate Glidden Director of Hagerty Center 4 years
Scott Goethals Business Instructor 13 years
Tom Gordon Humanities Instructor 16 years
Nancy Gray Communications Instructor 4 years
Lori Hodek Talent Acquisition Specialist 11 years
Mark Howell Communications Instructor 16 years
Gene Jenneman Executive Director of NMC Dennos Museum Center 25 years
Barcley Owens Communications Instructor 11 years
Pam Palermo Director of Financial Aid 4 years
Garyn Roberts Communications Instructor 19 years
Chad Schenkelberger Hagerty Center Assistant Director 4 years
Laura Schmidt Director – Nursing Programs 19 years
Melissa Sprenkle Communications Instructor 2 years
Trisha Strahan Bar Supervisor – Hagerty Center 4 years
Mike Surgalski Great Lakes Maritime Academy Instructor 18 years
Mike Torre Humanities Instructor 16 years
Bryce Turner Analyst – Network Systems and Data Communications 13 years
Tina Ulrich Director of Library Services 5 years
Kelly Zimmerman Payroll and Benefits Specialist 4 years
Aug 11, 2013 | Intercom
Any items you wish to have posted in the Intercom and Student News can be sent to publicrelations@nmc.edu.
Aug 11, 2013 | Intercom, Student News
The Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College invites new docent volunteers interested in working with K-12, college, and adult tour groups. Docents help fulfill the mission of the Dennos Museum Center by contacting teachers to discuss learning goals, preparing and presenting tours in a team, teaching art projects to students, and evaluating the success of various educational activities. In addition, being a docent connects you with a large and welcoming family of like-minded learners that provide support and encouragement.
Docent training occurs on Tuesday mornings and includes presentations about the collections, discussions about art and science topics related to special exhibitions, and hands-on workshops involving interactive tour techniques. New docents are expected to complete training between September and December 2013, and begin shadowing on tours in January.
A successful docent is someone with a flexible schedule who enjoys learning and teaching, particularly in the areas of arts and science. A strong knowledge of art is not required, but a willingness to learn is a must.
If you would like to be a part of the docent team, please contact Jason Dake, Curator of Education, at jdake@nmc.edu or 231-995-1029, to set up a meeting no later than September 6, 2013.
The Dennos Museum Center is open daily 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursdays until 8 PM, and Sundays 1-5 PM. During Birds of Paradise, admission is $10.00 adults, $5.00 for children, NMC students, and museum members. For information on the Museum and its programs, go to www.dennosmuseum.org or call 231-995-1055. The Dennos Museum Center is located at 1410 College Dr., Traverse City, MI 49686, at the entrance to the campus of Northwestern Michigan College.
Aug 8, 2013 | Intercom
Lock down scenarios will be staged on August 13, August 14 and August 19. The lock down procedure is as follows:
When notified of a lock down:
· Remain indoors and secure the entrance to your classroom or office
· Seek concealment away from windows and doors.
· Turn off lights
· Close the blinds
· Place cell phones on “vibrate only” and silence other electronic devices
· If you are in a hallway or a general open area, move into an enclosed room and secure the entrance
· Remain in a secure room until you are notified by the Office of Safety and Security, college officials, fire/rescue, or police that the situation has been resolved
· During the incident, the college will provide updates thru its multiple communications methods
· If you are outdoors, immediately take cover
· If you are commuting to a campus and receive a lock down alert, remain off campus until notified the situation has been resolved
The buildings affected are:
Tuesday, August 13, 8:30am– Dennos, Scholars Hall, Library
Wednesday, August 14, 1:30pm– East Hall, West Hall, Fine Arts, Beckett, Facilities, PE, Oleson Center
Monday, August 19, 2:00pm– Tanis upper level, Tanis lower level, Biederman upper level, Biederman lower level, Founders Hall
Please contact Jim White or Kay Hall if you have any concerns or questions.
Thank you!
Aug 8, 2013 | Intercom
Don Loeffler recently joined NMC in the position of Purchasing Manager in Business Services on August 6, 2013. He can be reached at 995-1130 or dloeffler@nmc.edu.
Don moved to Traverse City in 2000 from Grand Blanc, Michigan. His family includes a son Alex (10) and a daughter Riley (8), his wife Amanda, and his dog Stella. Prior to working at NMC Don was the Purchasing Manager for the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa for the last 13 years. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, golf and spending as much time as he can outdoors in beautiful Northern Michigan.
Aug 7, 2013 | Intercom
Kudos to Shayrrl McCready. She would stop at nothing to see that I got my parking pass for the coming semester!
Heather Somero is always friendly, patient, and supportive of me as an adjunct still learning the system. She was very patient with me in my persistence to get all of my teaching materials together for this semester. I now have everything I need thanks to her efforts and coordination.
