TRAVERSE CITY — The Board of Trustees of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) is beginning the process of replacing Vice-Chair Rachel Johnson after she resigned from her position this week.
Johnson announced Monday she is stepping down from the board, citing personal reasons, but added she remains dedicated to the college.
In a letter to Board Chair Laura Oblinger, Johnson said, “I am hopeful that one day I will serve the college community again in some capacity. But in the meantime, I will forever remain in awe of NMC, its inspiring students, devoted faculty, committed staff and administration, fellow board members and donors alike- each of whom dedicate so much time, treasure and talent to the betterment of our community.”
Johnson had been a trustee since November 2016. During her tenure she served as Chair and Vice Chair, as well as a member of the Presidential Search Committee, Presidential Performance & Compensation Committee, Executive Committee, Strategic Planning Steering Committee and Foundation Board.
Trustee Oblinger said, “NMC benefited greatly from Rachel’s leadership during her time as a trustee. Her strategic thinking and collaborative approach helped guide the college to continued success during an important period of transition. Our college and community are stronger thanks to her. We wish her all the best.”
Michigan law gives the college 30 days to fill this position. Registered voters of Grand Traverse County are eligible to apply for the vacancy. Commitments for the non-compensated trustee position include but are not limited to the following:
- Regular board meeting, typically the fourth Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m.
- Board study sessions and committee meetings scheduled as required
- Annual Board retreat—sometimes overnight
- Participation in other college functions including commencement, receptions, ceremonies, events
- Travel periodically for purposes of professional development and representing the college at various state and national association meetings. Trustee travel is paid by NMC
Applicants should submit a letter of interest and materials explaining their qualifications for the position. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. February 6, 2024. They may be submitted online, emailed to lmoritz@nmc.edu or sent or delivered to:
Trustee Search
Office of the President
Northwestern Michigan College
1701 East Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Application materials are subject to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Interviews will be conducted in special public meetings according to the Michigan Open Meetings Act.
Trustees will hold a special meeting on Monday, February 19, 2024, at 3 p.m. to fill the vacancy until the next NMC Board of Trustees election, set for November 2024. At that time, voters will choose a candidate to serve the remainder of the term held by Johnson, which expires December 31, 2026.
Additional materials are available upon request and questions may be directed to the President’s Office at Northwestern Michigan College at (231) 995-1010.
Release date: January 23, 2024
For more information:
Diana Fairbanks
Associate Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
Media on deadline, call or text (231) 392-6082
Non-deadline inquiries: (231) 995-1020