Thank you all for everything you do in pursuit of “Keeping Learning at the Center.”
Faculty and Staff Activities of Note:
This section recognizes the good work being done and linkages to the Strategic Agenda, Strategic Directions and Goals are provided where possible.
• NMC is still reaping the gains from the Win Win grant work and the other initiatives in place in Records and Registration to get degrees awarded to those who have earned them. 2011-2012 was a banner year at 943 degrees and certificates awarded, however we still had 933 degrees and certificates awarded in 2012-2013. (SD5)
• The Annual Fund Campaign is off to a wonderful start thanks to the support of donors. As of November 31, $79,847.44 has been raised, an increase of $29,991.42 from the previous fiscal year to date (up 60%). The number of donors who have given to the Annual Fund Campaign has also grown from 146 to 235 (up 61%). We have raised 40% of our goal of $200,000, and are roughly 41% of the way through the fiscal year—we feel very encouraged about reaching our goal. (SD4)
• Interviews and presentation from Military Sealift Command (MSC), a division of the US Navy, took place at the Great Lakes Maritime Academy on December 3. MSC ships are Navy owned, but civilian manned. Last year they offered employment to 7 GLMA graduates, this year, 10 cadets were interviewed, and all will be (conditionally) offered a position with MSC. They finished interviewing and less than half an hour later one of the reps reported that they were impressed with all 10 and they would all be offered positions. (SD1, SD5)
• We anticipate having four deck cadets meet the standards for the NMC GLMA Bachelor’s Degree this January. (SD1, SD5)
Activities of Note:
• On Sunday, November 17, Nancy and I attended a social gathering at Diana and Richard Milock’s home to welcome Caroline Cheng and Paul Meredith to Traverse City from Shanghai. Caroline and Paul hosted a group who traveled to China, that included Gene Jenneman and Diana and Richard Milock, last April.
• NMC and TCAPS executive staff met again on November 18 regarding early college collaboration. These meetings have been very productive as we plan for college courses for both foreign and domestic TCAPS students. Smaller group meetings between the two organizations are also occurring simultaneously on various issues to ensure the success of our learners.
• NMC’s Director of Development, Anthony Rupard, and I met with Joel “J” Mueller on the 18th, as well. Joel is an alum of NMC and a highly successful young entrepreneur. We talked about ways in which NMC can serve the emerging “tech sector” in our region.
• I had breakfast with Elaine Wood and Doug Luciani on November 19 to discuss regional economic development efforts. Our in-progress economic impact study will have use in a number of arenas.
• Later that morning I met with Steve Cousins, which I do on a regular basis.
• The November 19 Noon Rotary Club meeting featured NMC’s University Center. Director, Don Cunningham, did a nice job of presenting in Marguerite’s absence due to illness.
• Stephen Siciliano and I attended the History Center’s community building breakfast, “Your Place in History,” held at the Park Place on Wednesday, November 20. Stephen was recently elected to serve on the board of the History Center.
• Karen Ruedinger and I had a conference call with George Erickcek of the W. E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research in Kalamazoo who we have contracted with to conduct a study of NMC’s economic presence and impact in the community. I have attached a memo with more detail about the study.
• Chris Weber and I met with a few of the 40 Under 40 members to discuss a summer internship program for local students through NMC and other Michigan colleges. I will keep you apprised of our progress.
• The Aviation staff and I met with folks from American Eagle on November 21 during their visit to NMC Aviation to review the program for consideration of a hiring agreement with our graduates.
• On November 22 I had lunch with Ann Rogers, Skip Press and Ted Curran to discuss the potential use of solar at NMC and in the Grand Traverse area. NMC has arrays at the Parsons-Stulen building along with other sustainable energy platforms. We are examining our role in energy education and leadership in the region.
• I was asked to attend a Steering Committee presentation for what is now being called 5toOne. This is an outgrowth of the regional Early Childhood efforts that we helped to fund. Their proposal includes establishing satellite delivery sites, a comprehensive network and a physical center in Traverse City. Another meeting is scheduled for early January and I will report back after that. This activity is related to our investigation of childcare needs and solutions.
• Andy and I met with Luke Haase, of the TC Business News this past Tuesday to discuss potential pathways for the 40 Under 40 group to be involved at NMC.
• President’s Council and several other NMC staff members participated in an MCCA webinar on competency-based learning on Wednesday. We continue to explore and learn more about this forward moving platform of credentialing learning outcomes.
• Anthony Rupard and I met with Tid Griffin who’s education and experience ranges in numerous industries and has a focus in the strategy and launch of new profit centers for existing businesses and new companies. Tid has had large success in the startups of service-oriented companies and in the restructuring consultation to Fortune 500 organizations.
• Wednesday evening I welcomed volunteers at the 2014 NMC BBQ Warm Up event held at the Hagerty Center. I know spring is coming when we begin preparing for the BBQ!
Legislative Issues
• I’ll see most of you tomorrow at the Legislative Breakfast. Thanks in advance for your participation.
Miscellaneous
• Thank you all for attending Nancy and my holiday reception. We had a great time talking with all of you!