Good afternoon NMC community,
I’m sad to share that NMC recently lost an important connection to our earliest days.
George Comden
George Comden passed away at the age of 92. George was one of the original 23 graduates in NMC’s first graduating class in 1953 and, until his passing, one of the last living members of that class.
I first met George in 2020 during my first year at NMC. At the time, we were still in the thick of the pandemic, and I had the opportunity to spend time with him on campus. I left that conversation feeling like I’d been given a rare opportunity, the chance to hear directly from someone who was here when NMC first opened its doors.
Over the years that followed, I stayed in touch with George and had the opportunity to visit with him several times. He loved talking about NMC and often shared what he thought mattered most about the college.
He spoke about faculty who cared deeply about students and wanted to help them succeed. He shared the opportunities NMC created in his own life through access and affordability. And he talked proudly about the college’s connection to and service to the community.
What stayed with me was that more than 70 years after graduating, George never stopped being proud to be part of NMC. He followed the college closely, celebrated what was happening here, and continued to believe deeply in our mission and in the opportunities NMC creates for students.
As we mark NMC’s 75th anniversary, George’s passing feels especially significant. Each year, there are fewer and fewer members of our first graduating class still with us. It’s a reminder that we inherit something larger than ourselves and are called to leave it stronger for those who follow. George and his classmates helped establish who we are as a college. Generations of students, employees, and supporters have carried that work forward since then, and today we have the privilege and responsibility of continuing to steward NMC’s mission for those who come next.
I’ll always be grateful that I had the chance to know George and learn from him. More than anything, he reminded me that the impact of a college extends far beyond graduation and can stay with someone for a lifetime.
Please join me in keeping George’s family and loved ones in your thoughts.
Nick
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Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010