Dear colleagues,
I am writing today to share the news of the passing of Jack Segal, a deeply respected member of the NMC community whose influence extended well beyond our campus and into the life of our region.
Jack was a retired senior U.S. diplomat who served his country at the White House and in challenging overseas posts including Russia, Israel, Palestine, and Afghanistan. Of his many accomplishments, he took particular pride in being the primary author of the US-USSR Agreement on Nuclear Risk Reduction, and in his work as a negotiator of the START nuclear arms control treaty. With his wife Karen, they opened the first western diplomatic mission to the 40 million people of Central Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
For more than 15 years, Jack brought this experience as a senior U.S. diplomat and foreign service officer into our NMC classrooms and community learning spaces, teaching courses and leading conversations on world affairs through Extended Education & Training and the International Affairs Forum. Through his teaching, Jack helped students and community members alike understand global issues not as abstractions, but as human, complex, and consequential realities.
Jack was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in the Vietnam War. His military experience was life altering, both in terms of combat experience and in deciding to pursue a career in foreign diplomacy. He was a voice of calm reason through his 35 years as a diplomat, in part because he witnessed the ravages of war.
Jack and Karen co-led the International Affairs Forum through a period of significant growth. Under their leadership, IAF expanded its programming, partnerships and reach, strengthening civic dialogue across the region and elevating NMC’s role as a trusted convener of thoughtful conversation on national and global issues.
What defined Jack was not the prominence of the roles he held, but the humility and curiosity he brought to every interaction. Over a distinguished career, he served at the highest levels of the U.S. Department of State, the National Security Council, and NATO. Yet he was always more interested in listening than in being recognized.
That commitment was evident earlier this month when Jack met with the International Affairs Forum Student Leadership Team. Rather than speaking at the students, he took time to speak with each of them individually, listening carefully and engaging with genuine interest. It was a simple moment that reflected a belief Jack carried throughout his life: that real understanding comes from listening to those closest to the work.
In 2024, Jack and Karen were named NMC Fellows, the college’s highest honor, in recognition of their extraordinary service, leadership and generosity. They have also been devoted supporters of the NMC Foundation for more than 15 years, investing in programs that strengthen learning, dialogue, and civic engagement.
Jack Segal believed deeply in education, public service, and the power of informed conversation. Northwestern Michigan College and the broader community it serves are better because of his presence, his leadership and his example.
On behalf of Northwestern Michigan College, I extend my deepest condolences to Karen, their family and all who were fortunate to learn from Jack, work alongside him or know him as a friend.
Jack’s full obituary, including service arrangements can be found here.
With appreciation,
Nick
Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010