St. Patrick’s Day sale at the bookstore
Get ready for St. Patrick’s Day by saving 10% off everything green in the NMC Bookstore on Thursday, March 14!
One day only! In store only. Does not include textbooks.
NMC names 2024 Fellows
Bill Donberg
(download high-resolution photo)TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College’s highest honor, the NMC Fellow award, has been bestowed for 2024 on Bill Donberg, Timothy Nelson and Nancy Johnson, and Jack Segal and Karen Puschel Segal.
Donberg served as an aviation instructor for more than 23 years. Nelson served as NMC’s longest-serving president while his wife, Johnson, served as a tireless college advocate in her own right. Segal and Puschel Segal were co-chairs of the International Affairs Forum for seven years.
Donberg, of Elk Rapids, spent more than 23 years in NMC’s Aviation Division, including serving as lead flight instructor. In that capacity he taught hundreds of new instructors who would go on to serve as the foundation of the NMC flight program. He also served as the program’s interim director and as a founding member of the Aviation Advisory committee. A board member of the NMC Foundation since 2015, Donberg and his wife Phyllis also have supported aviation, the Commitment Scholarship, the Big Little Hero Race, and made a planned gift to the college. Donberg has founded multiple manned and unmanned aviation-related startups.
Timothy Nelson and Nancy Johnson
(download high-resolution photo)Nelson, of Traverse City, retired as president in 2019 after nearly 20 years of leading the college. During his tenure, NMC evolved and established many statewide, national and international competencies and accomplishments. Among the most notable were the community college baccalaureate in Michigan, service to student veterans, and new degree pathways in remotely-operated underwater and aerial vehicles. He chaired the Michigan Community College Association board and fulfilled four gubernatorial appointments by two former governors. In his retirement Nelson continues to serve the region as a board officer forMunson Healthcare, the largest healthcare organization in northern Michigan.
Johnson, a counselor by profession, took an active role in both NMC and the Grand Traverse region during Nelson’s presidential years. In 2019 the NMC Board of Trustees awarded her a Resolution of Appreciation for her advocacy and dedication to the college. At the state level, she provided leadership in the Michigan Community College Association Spouse and Significant Other Network. Her community commitments include the Zonta Club of Traverse City.
Together the couple have supported the college financially in multiple ways, including a planned gift. To mark Nelson’s 10-year anniversary as president, in 2011 they established the Global Opportunities Fund, which has made study abroad possible for hundreds of students.
Jack Segal and Karen Puschel Segal
(download high-resolution photo)Jack Segal and Karen Puschel Segal are both retired diplomats in the U.S. Department of State now living in Traverse City. Under their energetic leadership in the 2010s, the International Affairs Forum (IAF) expanded its programming significantly, growing into a major educational asset for northern Michigan and boosting the reputation and stature of NMC. They have been donors to the NMC Foundation for more than 15 years, supporting IAF, the Dennos Museum and other programs. Segal is also a popular instructor in NMC’s Extended Educational Services, offering multiple classes on world affairs. Puschel Segal is a tireless advocate for the immigrant community in the Grand Traverse area and serves as coordinator for the Afghan Migrant Ministry Project.
The Fellow is Northwestern Michigan College’s highest honor, awarded annually since 1964. Fellows may be nominated because they have demonstrated influential networking on behalf of the College, have demonstrated a pattern of outstanding financial or personal time contributions to NMC, or as a retiree of the College continue to contribute back to their academic or professional fields as volunteers, mentors or advisors. Exceptional contributions in one or more of these areas may justify nomination. See a list of past recipients.
Release date: MARCH 11, 2024
For more information:
Cari Noga
Communications Director
(231) 392-1800 (call or text)
cnoga@nmc.edu
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discriminationNorthwest Food Coalition to host ‘Empty Bowls’ fundraiser on April 28
The Northwest Food Coalition of local food pantries, including NMC’s Food Pantry will hold its annual “Empty Bowls” fundraising event from 1–3 p.m. on Sunday, April 28 at the Howe Arena in Traverse City.
Proceeds from the event will support the Farm 2 Neighbor Program which provides fresh produce and proteins to NFC member pantries such as our own NMC pantry. This program allows us to stock fresh items like greens, root crops, eggs, and chicken from local farms.
The theme of this year’s event is Artful Hearts: Brushing Away Hunger, and it’s a great chance to turn out to support both regional food access efforts and local agricultural producers in a collaboration that makes a positive impact on the daily lives of many NMC students. Visit the Northwest Food Coalition’s website to purchase tickets, or to learn about volunteer opportunities related to this event.
Success Story: New culinary sports nutrition certificate traces its roots to Red Wings camp
registration starts March 13
March 6, 2024
NMC Culinary program student Mikaella Orlando
A new sports nutrition certificate positions NMC’s Great Lakes Culinary Institute among a select few schools offering students a specialty career path with a growing job market.
Starting this fall, the two-year certificate will train students to work as chefs for collegiate and professional sports teams. Its origin also connects to a Traverse City tradition: the Detroit Red Wings prospect and training camp held at Centre ICE Arena in the fall. GLCI has catered the camp for more than 10 years, and earned rave reviews.
“I’ve seen many training tables around the nation, as I am responsible for being a superfood hunter on the road. Some of the finest hotels in NYC, Chicago, LA, etc. cannot hold a candle to your team,” Red Wings performance dietitian Lisa McDowell said following the 2022 camp.
GLCI instructor Julia Sheerin (right) was part of that team. Since 2018 she’s taught Nutrition for Culinary Arts, an introductory class. She’s created and will teach the new Sports Nutrition course for the certificate.
“There’s a need in the sports world for chefs that can cook in this manner,” said Sheerin, who’s also a clinical dietitian. Athletes have high calorie requirements and also specific macro and micronutrient needs.
“We would love to meet this need for chefs. It’s a more lucrative career option,” Sheerin said, adding that her interest in developing the certificate goes back to expanding choices for students. “I feel a dedication to try and make sure we meet the needs of our students.”
Past students have already inquired about returning for the certificate, Sheerin said, and interest is high among current students. McDowell agreed certificate graduates will see a strong job market.
“The demand for performance chefs is growing as more athletes are willing to invest in prolonging their careers by honing in on specific ingredients that help with recovery, performance and injury healing. I have worked with other sports chef programs and can confirm this leads to stellar recruits and future star chefs.
The certificate includes a one-semester internship. Its creation also satisfies part of NMC’s strategic plan for the Great Lakes Culinary Institute.
Big Little Hero Race
Reveal your inner hero at the Big Little Hero Race on April 20
TRAVERSE CITY — Throw on your capes and lace up your running shoes for the ninth annual Big Little Hero Race. This family-friendly event supports Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan and Northwestern Michigan College’s (NMC) College for Kids Program, and is scheduled for Saturday, April 20. Proceeds from the race will go towards scholarships for children to attend NMC’s College for Kids summer programming.
The Big Little Hero Race will start and end at NMC’s Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center and will have three race options — a one-mile fun run/walk with free entry and a free cape for all children, a 5K run/walk, and a 10K run/walk. All are welcome and encouraged to dress up as their favorite superheroes.
Hosted by NMC’s Professional Communication students, the Big Little Hero Race is an experiential learning project that allows students to practice real-world business skills by communicating with community members while promoting the importance of mentorship. Each year, the class recognizes a person or group that exemplifies the importance of mentorship in our community. The 2024 Big Hero Award will honor 95 local high school students who have donated their time as “Bigs” and mentored “Littles” across Northern Michigan.
The festivities start at 9:30 a.m. with a one-mile fun run, followed by the officially timed 5K and 10K races, beginning at 10 a.m. The race route travels through NMC’s main campus and continues onto the scenic Old Mission Peninsula. After the race, medals will be awarded for the top three times in each age category in the 5K and 10K races. Prizes will be given for top overall male and female finishers for both the 5K and 10K races. Awards will be presented for the best adult, child, and dog costumes.
Important Dates:
- Register by March 20 to receive the early bird discounted rate ($5 off registration)
- Register by March 31 to secure a race shirt
- Packet pickup and in-person registration at NMC’s Front Street campus, in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, on Friday, April 19, from 5–8 p.m. and Saturday, April 20 (race day) from 8–9:30 a.m.
For more information or to register for the race, visit biglittleherorace.com.
Release date: MARCH 5, 2024
For more information:
- Adam Lampela
NMC Aviation Student
Social Media Coordinator
(248) 978-8918
lampela@mail.nmc.edu - Kristy McDonald
Business Instructor
(231) 995-1059
kmcdonald@nmc.edu
NMC Jazz Bands join the Jeff Haas Trio at The Alluvion
The NMC Jazz Bands, led by trumpeter and educator Joshua Wagner, will join the Jeff Haas Trio for two upcoming shows at The Alluvion this month as part of the “Jazz For All” series.
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- March 7: NMC Jazz Lab Band
- March 14: Jazz Big Band
These groups contain NMC students, community members, and area professionals with a mission of promoting the American art form of Jazz! Audience members will be treated to a variety of styles including blues, latin, swing, fusion, and contemporary.
The Alluvion is located on the 2nd floor of the Commongrounds Cooperative at 414 East 8th St. $1-20 honor cover at the door (no presale). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The shows run from 6–8 p.m. both nights.
Upcoming Extended Education classes for employees
NMC’s 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 upcoming classes! Place the class in your shopping cart in order to see the discount. Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.
Want to view upcoming classes at a glance? View the NEW Calendar of Classes.
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Date Night: Crepes |
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Date Night: Food & Wine Pairing |
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Baking Masterclass: Pizza & Focaccia |
Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.
Police Academy instructors and alumni recognized at Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office annual ceremony
The Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office awarded, two instructors and five alumni from NMC’s Police Academy at their annual award ceremony last week. Congratulations to all the winners, including:
NMC instructors:
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Nathan Ritter: Law Enforcement Employee of the Year for his work over the course of his career, which started in 1999. He is currently a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
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Detective Sarah Metdepenningen: Award of merit.
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NMC alumni:
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Deputies Mariah Eberhardt and John Leach: Lifesaving awards for saving a Kingsley man from suicide.
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Deputies Mitchell Hoffman and Hayden Talbot: Mothers Against Drunk Driving awards, with 29 and 30 OWI arrests, respectively.
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Deputy Jonathan King: Top shot award.
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Thank you for your service to our community!
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
Media mentions for March 4, 2024
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.
Adapted in TC: Use the power in the room
Record-Eagle, March 3
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On the menu: Daily specials at the Hawk Owl Café
The Hawk Owl Café serves specials daily on Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:30–6:30 p.m. The protein option is $9.99 and the vegetarian option is $7.99.
Monday, March 4
Entrée: Rigatoni pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and sausage or broccolini
Sides: Broccoli and garlic crostini
Tuesday, March 5
Entrée: Tacos (pulled pork asada or tofu) with cheese, lettuce, sour cream and salsa
Sides: Mexican street corn and rice
Wednesday, March 6
Entrée: Potato gnocchi with Alfredo sauce and Italian sausage or roasted vegetables
Sides: Garlic bread and green beans
Thursday, March 7
Breakfast for lunch (or dinner!)
Biscuits with sausage gravy or crumbled black bean burger and mushroom gravy, scrambled eggs & fresh fruit
Friday, March 8
Entrée: Beer-battered cod sandwich with tartar sauce
Sides: Coleslaw with french fries
March Madness basketball tournament
NMC Campus Life is hosting a 3-on-3 basketball tournament on Thursday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the Rajkovich Physical Education Building (#16 on the campus map). This tournament is open to all NMC students and employees.
If you have any questions please reach out to CJ Schneider at cschneider@nmc.edu or Marcus Bennett at mbennett@nmc.edu.
Holi celebration
NMC will host their annual Holi celebration on Tuesday, March 19. Holi is a Hindu festival that originated in India but is now celebrated in different communities all over the world. Holi is a time for people of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate the triumph of good over evil and the new changes that spring brings!
The celebration begins with a Lunch & Learn session at 12:45 p.m. in room 106/107 of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center. NMC Religions professor Sarah Montgomery-Richards will give a presentation about tradition of Holi celebrations. Jim Bensley from International Services will discuss the NMC Global Endorsement and study abroad opportunities and Alex Walsh, of NMC’s Multicultural Student Club, will talk about the Persian festival of Nowruz.
Lunch will be provided compliments of the Hawk Owl Café, who will be serving Indian cuisine. Attendees should stop by room 106/107 during 12:15–12:40 p.m. to get their meal ticket before picking up their lunch.
Color-throwing will follow the Lunch & Learn at 1:30 p.m. in the Cherry lot.
This event is open to the community and all ages are welcome.
Questions? Email smontgomery@nmc.edu
Thanks to Student Life, Marcus Bennett and DEIB, and International Services and Service Learning for making this annual event possible.
IAF Global Hotspot | Israel-Palestine: Conflict in Context
Northwestern Michigan College’s International Affairs Forum continues its 30th season on Tuesday, March 19 in the Dennos Museum Center. Join IAF for AI & Global Cooperation: What’s Happening & What’s Next featuring Joshua Meltzer, Senior Fellow in the Global Economy and Development Program at the Brookings Institution. Meltzer will discuss why generative AI matters, how government policy can address new risks that AI exposes, as well as economic potential for scientific discovery, and potential competition with China.
Meltzer’s research focuses on international economic relations and the intersection of technology and trade policy. Along with Cameron Kerry, he co-leads the Forum on Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (FCAI)—a multi-stakeholder dialogue with government officials from the U.S., EU, Canada, the U.K., Singapore, Japan, and Australia, as well as AI experts from industry and academia. He also leads the USMCA initiative, which focuses on how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) can strengthen international cooperation in North America.
The March 19 in-person event at the Dennos Museum Center is open to the public and available to livestream online. Admission is $15 per person. Admission is free for all students and educators. The reception begins at 6 p.m. with the program following at 7 p.m.
For in-person tickets, online tickets, and all event details, visit TCIAF.com.
Hope springs blood drive March 19
Versiti Blood is bringing the big pink bus to NMC’S Campus again in hopes of changing lives one donation at a time!
They are hosting a blood drive on Tuesday, March 19 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Cedar lot. Those who donate will receive a $10 e-gift card.
Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.
If you want to sign up please click on the link below or call 1(866) Mi-Blood.
For questions, contact Kristi Hallett at khallet@nmc.edu or Susan Street, Senior Representative of Versiti, at sstreet@versiti.org.
18th annual Career and Employment Fair
Thanks to the Advising department for organizing the annual Career Fair on March 7 as well as a number of events to help students prepare. More than 70 employers will be at the fair looking to fill positions. Community members are welcome. Find out more at nmc.edu/career-fair.
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
Media mentions for February 26, 2024
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.
Beyond Books
Northern Express, Feb. 24
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Upcoming Extended Education classes for employees
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 upcoming classes! Place the class in your shopping cart in order to see the discount. Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.
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Learn & Play Dungeons & Dragons |
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Date Night: Crepes |
Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.
Leap…into savings at the NMC Bookstore
Stop by the NMC Bookstore on Leap Day (Thursday, February 29) and receive 29% off all regularly priced apparel and hats! One day only!