Good morning NMC community,
As you know, we have been monitoring the rapidly changing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and are committed to keeping you safe, while working to limit the disruption to learning as much as possible. After careful consideration, with input from our partners in the Grand Traverse County Health Department, Munson Healthcare and state and federal health and emergency response agencies, NMC will suspend face-to-face classes starting Monday, March 16, 2020.
Late last night Governor Whitmer announced the closure of all Michigan K-12 schools to students starting March 16 in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Governor identified that this is not only to protect the students and their families, but overall public health. We at NMC support these efforts to mitigate the impact of the virus in our community.
All NMC classes will be delivered via distance education if possible. Some courses may not be able to be delivered via distance education, including some occupational and lab classes (e.g. culinary and welding.) Detailed information and instructions pertaining to each individual class will be communicated to students directly from the instructor. Please regularly monitor your email for updates.
I am proud to see our faculty and staff work diligently together toward the goal of transitioning learning to distance education delivery where possible. There is still work to do and we will continue to keep you informed of changes. Given the highly fluid nature of the situation, the best place to find updates is nmc.edu/coronavirus.
While classes are transitioning to distance education delivery, please note that campus is still open at this time. This includes all services and offices. We have many services available via phone, email and video conference, and are actively working to expand those options. We also have counseling services available, if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious at this time. NMC’s two residence halls, East Hall and North Hall, as well as the NMC apartments, will remain open and food service will be available for those students who want to remain on campus.
Our plan is to resume face-to-face classes on campus the week of April 27. Given the highly volatile nature of the pandemic, we recognize this situation may change and we will continue to communicate with you.
While one of our goals is to limit the disruption to learning, I recognize this is an historic event. Our college community has always proven itself to be resourceful with a history of overcoming challenges, and I am confident that together we will continue that proud tradition now and into the future.
Nick Nissley, President