Employee Anniversaries
The following employees are celebrating an anniversary soon. Please join us in congratulating them!
Human Trafficking Conference Free to the Community March 10
NMC Student Life and Students United for Gender Rights (SUGR) present a FREE Human Trafficking Conference on Friday, March 10.
Human trafficking is a local issue that requires our attention. This all-day conference will prepare attendees to recognize the signs, and learn ways to get involved to stop trafficking.
Join us for presentations from noted guest speakers including Grand Rapids based advocate Theresa Flores, founder of the SOAP Project. The conference is open to the community and will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Hagerty Center; check in will begin at 8 a.m. Food will be provided.
Nursing Students – Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for the opportunity to attend a two-part event on Thursday, February 23.
- At 3:30 p.m. in Osterlin Room 113, the Advising Center Team will help you create an academic plan for your nursing program.
- At 4:30 p.m. in Health & Science Room 114 the Director of Nursing Programs will present information about the competitive application process and take questions from students about Nursing Program courses and experiences.
Check your email for details and to sign up!
Taste of Success
TRAVERSE CITY — Tickets are now on sale for the Feb. 24 Taste of Success, the largest annual fundraiser for students at NMC’s Great Lakes Culinary Institute.
Patrons will enjoy a strolling dinner of international cuisine with local wine and craft beers, all prepared and served by culinary students. An online auction with unique options such as private parties and restaurant dinners will be offered in conjunction with the event.
The 2016 Taste raised $87,000. GLCI Director Fred Laughlin said the funds raised by the event, first held at the Park Place Hotel in 1994, are vital to many students.
“The event goes a long way to showcase the talent of our students and providing them with needed funds to continue their education,” he said.
The Great Lakes Culinary Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is designed to provide rigorous and concentrated study for students planning careers in the rapidly growing food service industry. The program’s main emphasis is to prepare students for entry-level chefs and kitchen management positions. It is accredited by the American Culinary Federation, one of fewer than 200 U.S. colleges to receive that distinction. Students are eligible to become ACF Certified Culinarians upon graduation.
Tickets are $100 each. Table sponsorships are also available. Buy online at nmc.edu/taste-of-success.
Release Date: February 1, 2017
For more information:
Paris Morse
NMC Foundation
pmorse@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2822
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. nmc.edu/non-discriminationNMC Water Bottles For Sale!
The NMC Student Green Team is selling reusable water bottles to reduce one-time plastic bottle usage on campus. They are $5 each and can be purchased in the Student Life Office in the lower level of West Hall.
Proceeds will benefit future environmental or social justice pursuits at NMC.
Graduation Caps & Gowns
Congratulations 2017 Graduates!
Order Your Cap/Gown/Tassel package between February 13 and March 10 at the NMC Bookstore. The items are also sold separately.
Questions? Call the bookstore at 995-1285.
While you’re there, check out our selection of diploma frames and nursing pins!
Upcoming Events at the Hawk Owl Café
Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m.: Come join us! Watch the game, play some games and win some awesome prizes.- Valentine’s Day Dinner Tuesday, Feb. 14: Make reservations now at the cashier’s stand at the Hawk Owl Café! Limited seating for this elegant three-course meal.
- Oodles and Oodles of Noodles every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Bodacious Thursday! Big Burgers every Thursday night from 4 to 9 p.m. or while supplies last.
- 16-inch thin crust pizza! Everyday from 2 to 9 p.m.
- Curve all day! Enjoy unique dishes everyday all day starting at 11 a.m.
- The Northwest Grind is now open until 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday!
- Need a “Bite” to eat? Download our free app from the App Store or Google Play and know what is being served ahead of time! Use code: G2HP8
Important Message from the NMC President regarding Global Initiatives
NMC community:
One of the greatest characteristics of NMC and our community of learners is the foundational values and beliefs upon which we rely. Among those are beliefs that we must prepare our learners to be successful in a global economy and society, that we value all people, that we will seek others who share these thoughts and collaborate with them to improve learning and understanding.
Since I became president of NMC in 2001 I have remained dedicated to the belief that our students must have access to international experiences. This belief is such an integral part of who we are, and what we do, that it is written into our Strategic Directions. I personally believe so strongly in the importance of a global experience that my wife Nancy and I established the Global Opportunities Fund. With support from many others, that fund has awarded more than $100,000 to over 200 of our learners allowing them to experience our world first hand. Additionally, the NMC Board adopted a strategic goal to have 5% of our students be international, thus enriching our capacities to share those experiences and to understand the values we each have.
The uncertainty caused by the recent executive order signed by the President of the United States on Friday does not change those values nor my belief in them. I want you each to know the following:
- NMC is committed to preparing our students for success in a global society and economy.
- NMC values all people.
- NMC expects people to operate in a civil manner and work to build collaborative relationships.
- NMC values the importance of people with ideas that differ from our own and encourages open dialogue and discussion to achieve learning.
As a point of information, NMC currently has no students from the countries listed in the executive order. We always have and will protect and support students, faculty, staff and members of the community and work with them within the context of applicable laws.
What this executive order actually means and how it will be applied over the next 90 days is still unfolding. As things become clearer, I will continue to communicate with you on what it means for our community. It is my promise to you that NMC will continue to value all people and work to connect our learners with the world. I ask you to make the same commitment for the good of our community.
Thank you.
Tim
Timothy J. Nelson, President
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. nmc.edu/non-discriminationNMC Magazine Announces Spring 2017 Theme
Every night, our mind runs amok, shaping visions and warping reality. It creates a new past, strange present, or unique future. Ideas grow exponentially and laugh at convention, materializing as the happiest times or the darkest nightmares. Then we wake up, and the illusion fades.
NMC Magazine wants to see your dreams. Under cover of night, do you don a cape or a tuxedo to fight crime? Are you an animal, or can you talk to them? Can you lift the hopes of the community with your own? Let your writing or art rally fellow dreamers to make a difference for generations to come.
Students, faculty, and alumni are welcome to send us your stories, poems, illustrations, photos, artwork, film, or other designs either in person or via email by Friday, February 24, 2017. Bring hard copies to the Communications Office, Scholars Hall 214, to Alissia Lingaur -OR- to the Humanities Office, Fine Arts Building, to Caroline Schaefer-Hills. Email submissions to nmcmag@mail.nmc.edu. Be sure to attach the Submission Form found here.
How are things going?
You’re in your third week of classes and, hopefully, you’ve settled into your routine. At this point in the semester, make sure you’re:
- Attending class daily
- Spending at least 2 hours of homework/study time per 1 hour of class
- Meeting with your instructors during office hours
If you’re struggling with your study skills, the content of a class, or need homework help, visit the Tutoring and/or Math Centers. Visit the Student Success Center in the Osterlin Building to meet with a Success Coach who can help you with technology skills, time management, organization, or help with focusing in classes. Academic Advisors in the Advising Center can help connect you with these and other resources at NMC. We’re here to help you succeed! Contact the Advising Center at advising@nmc.edu or 995-1040
Check In with Students
We’re into week three of the semester and hopefully you’re settling into your semester routine, just as our students are. Take this week to ask students, “How has your semester started off?” and listen for opportunities to connect them with resources or advice Remind them of the importance of attending class, meeting with instructors during office hours, knowing their class grades, and spending enough homework/study time outside of class.
If you’re concerned about a students’ academic engagement or performance, use this Student Success Referral Form. Students will receive follow up from the Student Success Center. Thank you!
Wellness News for January
Please check out the January Wellness Newsletter HERE!
Friday, February 3 is GO RED for Women Day
Sponsored by the American Heart Association.
1 in 3 women die of heart disease and stroke each year- the #1 killer of women!
Wear your best RED to raise awareness!
Mark your calendars for Monday, February 20 Lunch and Learn
Heart Healthy Lifestyle
Blood Pressure Challenge
Details coming soon!
Kudos!
KUDOS- (praise or respect that you get because of something you have done or achieved) defined by Merriam-Webster.com
Submit a Kudos here
Kudos to Don Cunningham and Maureen Carlson- They are in the process of implementing new software for managing the scheduling, registration, and billing for continuing education courses. They have embraced this challenge and mastered the software quickly. They both are flexible and innovative when it comes to thinking of new ways to do business to best utilize the software and streamline their processes. It’s a beautiful thing to behold.
Position Vacancy
Are you looking for career opportunities? Find them here! jobs.nmc.edu. Current openings include:
- Clinical Nursing Adjunct Faculty
Employee Anniversaries
The following employees are celebrating an anniversary soon. Please join us in congratulating them!
President’s Update for Jan. 27, 2017
Thank you all for everything you do in pursuit of “Keeping Learning at the Center.”
Notable Accomplishments provided by Faculty and Staff
This section recognizes the good work being done and linkages to the Strategic Directions (SD)
and Institutional Effectiveness Criteria (IE) are provided where possible. (more…)
Academic Area Merit & Honors Scholarship applications due Feb. 17
Act fast! 2017-2018 Academic Area Merit and Honors Scholarship applications are due Friday, Feb. 17, 2017. Honors applications are due to Osterlin 118 (the Advising Center) and Academic Area applications are due to academic offices.
Contact your Academic Area office for an Academic Area Merit Scholarship Application and contact the Advising Center or go to www.nmc.edu/honors to learn more about the Honors Scholarship Application and download a form.
Davenport University RN/BSN Concurrent Program
Get a head start on your BSN! Learn how you can concurrently take Davenport BSN courses while enrolled in the ADN program at NMC! DU offers competitive tuition and local support to help ensure student success. Learn more at davenport.edu, or Davenport University NMC University Center (231) 995-1740, or email gtafelsky@davenport.edu
Get Where the World is Going!
Success Story: Writing Center expands to meet student demand
January 25, 2017
From left to right, Writing Center reader Zachary Harrington, coordinator Megan Ward, readers Carrie Dunklow and Diane BairAfter the busiest fall semester in NMC Writing & Reading Center history, students returning to the second floor of Scholars Hall will find more elbow room for wrestling with rhetoric, structure and argument.
One argument that seems to be settled, as evidenced by the 1,750 student conferences held last semester: Writing well matters, long after that English assignment or history paper has been turned in.
“The overall trend is that people recognize communicating, writing, being able to express yourself is important to a lot of different disciplines, a lot of different jobs,” Center coordinator Megan Ward said.
Kevin Schlueter, president and CEO of Kalkaska Screw Products and a mechanical engineer by training, said it’s a key skill the company’s 116 employees need.
“It’s just as important in technical fields,” said Schlueter, an NMC alumnus who also serves on NMC’s Foundation Board. “You have to find a way to communicate to get your point across. Having a grasp of the English language is critical to success.”
Student Gene Ward of Traverse City and Writing Center reader Diane BairIn addition to that awareness, Ward has a two-part thesis about why visits to the Center jumped 15 percent last semester, precipitating an expansion of the space over winter break.
- Cultivating relationships with instructors, including those outside traditional writing areas like Communications and Humanities
- Creating an inviting space
Every semester Ward emails all faculty to remind them of the critique services some 12 paid peer readers offer free of charge. Two years ago biology instructor Laura Jaquish was one of the more untraditional instructors to invite Ward to talk up the Center to her students in person.
“With our 100-level classes, people are often not aware of what’s available to them,” said Jaquish, who found that her Plant Biology students benefited from the one-on-one critiques. She plans to refer students in another class, Essential Biology, this semester.
Other Science & Math students, Computer Information Technology, and economics students have also found their way to the Center, which has expanded its hours into the evening and also off-site, to Osterlin Library on Sundays.
“There’s a lot of writing being asked of students,” Ward said.
History instructor Tom Gordon has long recommended the Writing Center to his students for the objective scrutiny readers can offer.
“When you’re writing, it’s really easy to know what you mean,” Gordon said. When a reader doesn’t, it opens the door to improvement.
Learning to improve is easier when the space is inviting, and that’s what Ward has aimed to create. Over Christmas break a storage closet was converted, expanding the Center’s footprint by about a third. Ward says the Center’s prized couch, which encourages students to linger, will likely move into that section, as well as computers. Then, students can begin incorporating feedback into their revisions immediately after the conferences conclude in the original section of the space.
In conclusion, expect more record-breaking semesters at the Writing & Reading Center.
Success Story: Writing Center expands to meet student demand
January 25, 2017
From left to right, Writing Center reader Zachary Harrington, coordinator Megan Ward, readers Carrie Dunklow and Diane BairAfter the busiest fall semester in NMC Writing & Reading Center history, students returning to the second floor of Scholars Hall will find more elbow room for wrestling with rhetoric, structure and argument.
One argument that seems to be settled, as evidenced by the 1,750 student conferences held last semester: Writing well matters, long after that English assignment or history paper has been turned in.
“The overall trend is that people recognize communicating, writing, being able to express yourself is important to a lot of different disciplines, a lot of different jobs,” Center coordinator Megan Ward said.
Kevin Schlueter, president and CEO of Kalkaska Screw Products and a mechanical engineer by training, said it’s a key skill the company’s 116 employees need.
“It’s just as important in technical fields,” said Schlueter, an NMC alumnus who also serves on NMC’s Foundation Board. “You have to find a way to communicate to get your point across. Having a grasp of the English language is critical to success.”
Student Gene Ward of Traverse City and Writing Center reader Diane BairIn addition to that awareness, Ward has a two-part thesis about why visits to the Center jumped 15 percent last semester, precipitating an expansion of the space over winter break.
- Cultivating relationships with instructors, including those outside traditional writing areas like Communications and Humanities
- Creating an inviting space
Every semester Ward emails all faculty to remind them of the critique services some 12 paid peer readers offer free of charge. Two years ago biology instructor Laura Jaquish was one of the more untraditional instructors to invite Ward to talk up the Center to her students in person.
“With our 100-level classes, people are often not aware of what’s available to them,” said Jaquish, who found that her Plant Biology students benefited from the one-on-one critiques. She plans to refer students in another class, Essential Biology, this semester.
Other Science & Math students, Computer Information Technology, and economics students have also found their way to the Center, which has expanded its hours into the evening and also off-site, to Osterlin Library on Sundays.
“There’s a lot of writing being asked of students,” Ward said.
History instructor Tom Gordon has long recommended the Writing Center to his students for the objective scrutiny readers can offer.
“When you’re writing, it’s really easy to know what you mean,” Gordon said. When a reader doesn’t, it opens the door to improvement.
Learning to improve is easier when the space is inviting, and that’s what Ward has aimed to create. Over Christmas break a storage closet was converted, expanding the Center’s footprint by about a third. Ward says the Center’s prized couch, which encourages students to linger, will likely move into that section, as well as computers. Then, students can begin incorporating feedback into their revisions immediately after the conferences conclude in the original section of the space.
In conclusion, expect more record-breaking semesters at the Writing & Reading Center.
Aviation, CIT instructor win awards
TRAVERSE CITY — Aviation recruiter Al Laursen and computer information technology instructor John Velis have been named NMC’s recipients of annual excellence awards.
Both are 2016-17 recipients of the NISOD award for teaching excellence. Affiliated with the University of Texas at Austin, NISOD is committed to promoting and
celebrating excellence in teaching, learning, and leadership at community and technical colleges. Criteria include professionalism, relationships with students and colleagues, and commitment to learning
“I consider myself lucky to have stumbled into the best job at NMC, where I get to be immersed in a field I love without having to be away from home all the time,” said Laursen, a former pilot, pictured right. “I’m fortunate to have bosses who support me with the resources and autonomy I need to do my job and to be part of a great team of aviation professionals who support me, each other, and our students. I appreciate the recognition and look forward to my continued work in the NMC community.”
“Education has been a passion for me for most of my life,” said Velis, pictured left. “It has brought me great satisfaction, along with many challenges along the way. Being recognized by my peers with a NISOD Excellence Award is humbling as I know I could not do what I do without the support of the many professionals that surround me daily.”
Laursen joined NMC in 2011 and Velis in 2013. Both will receive their awards in at the annual NISOD conference in May.
Read more about aviation and computer information technology at NMC.
Release date: January 25, 2017
For more information:
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1019
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. nmc.edu/non-discriminationNew Books at the Library- January highlights
The library has purchased many new books so far this new year. You can view a handful here along with partial descriptions or go here to see the full listing. These books are on display in the library’s lobby.
Academic World Quest
TRAVERSE CITY — More than 80 students from 10 area high schools will compete in the fourth annual Academic World Quest, a quiz-bowl style competition on global topics held from noon-3 p.m. Feb. 3 at NMC’s Hagerty Center.
The winning local team will travel to Washington D.C. to compete at the April 29 national event, held at the National Press Club. Traverse City Central High School is the defending champion, two years running. Also competing are Bellaire, Central Lake, Elk Rapids, Forest Area, Grand Traverse Academy (the 2016 runner up), Interlochen Arts Academy, Mancelona, Petoskey and Traverse City West.
TV 7 & 4 anchor Marc Schollett will moderate the competition, which is free to spectators. Topics include: Peace and Conflict in Today’s World, Countering Violent Extremism, Women in Technology, Turkey, Global Megacities, Combating Infectious Disease, European Union, China, and Current Events.
AWQ is the flagship high school education program of the World Affairs Councils of America of which Traverse City’s International Affairs Forum (IAF) is an affiliated partner. Its goal is to expose America’s youth to the world outside our borders and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of our globally interconnected world.
To help raise money for the local winning team to travel to Washington D.C., IAF is hosting a special premiere showing of a new documentary, “Is America in Retreat?” at 6 p.m. Monday, March 6 (location TBD.) Based on Wall Street Journal reporter Bret Stephens’ book, America in Retreat? the film will be broadcast on PBS at the end of March.
Special guests Kip Perry and Elan Bentov (producers/directors) will join for post film Q/A discussion together with Leland-based Tom Skinner (executive producer) and IAF Co-Chair Jack Segal.
Release date: January 24, 2017
For more information:
Karen Segal
International Affairs Forum co-chair
(231) 715-6064
jsegal_kpuschel@yahoo.com
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, height, weight, marital status or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions. nmc.edu/non-discriminationCollege Major — It’s major!
Why is a student’s major/program at NMC so important? At NMC a student’s major is used to:
- assign an academic advisor,
- create an academic Plan with an advisor,
- determine what classes financial aid will pay for, and
- for scholarship eligibility.
This week, students are being reminded to check and update their program if necessary. How can you help?
- If you take class attendance using a roster, print the class roster that includes students’ program of study so they can see their current program.
- If you serve students face-to-face in another capacity, check their study transcript in Self Service.
- Remind students of the difference between an AAS (meant for students who want to complete a two-year degree at NMC and then go straight into the workforce) and an ASA (meant for students who intend to transfer to pursue a bachelor’s degree at some point).
Questions? Want more information? Contact the Advising Center at 5-1040 or email us advising@nmc.edu
Your Major is Important!
Your NMC major is used to:
- assign you an advisor in your program area
- to determine what classes your financial aid will pay for
- the scholarships you’re eligible for
And so much more! Make sure you check your major and update it with the Records & Registration Office if needed. Questions? Need help figuring out what major to choose – contact the Advising Center at 995-1040 or advising@nmc.edu or stop by our office in the Osterlin Building.