Aug 31, 2020 | HR Corner, Intercom
Honoree’s Name: Susan Odgers
Honoree’s Dept./Division: Social Science
Reason for Kudos: Susan presented during the August BOT meeting. She was not only energetic, passionate and professional but so was her student that collaborated with her for a joint Zoom presentation. This was a powerful presentation on sexual health activism and one student’s courageous truth. Susan, thank you for the important work you do and for sharing your excellence with our community!
Experts suggest maintaining an “attitude of gratitude” increases positivity for yourself and for others. During our “Stay Home, Stay Safe” directive, please encourage your colleagues by submitting a KUDOS. Let them know you appreciate their hard work and are thinking of them!
Aug 31, 2020 | Intercom, Media Mentions
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media in the past two weeks. We want to share your media involvement too. Please send information about your NMC-related interview or appearance to publicrelations@nmc.edu. If possible, please include a link to the piece and information about where and when it was used.
Please note access to some stories may be limited by paywalls set up by the media outlet. This includes the Traverse City Record-Eagle, which limits free clicks to five per month. You may also read Record-Eagle articles in the print edition at the Osterlin Library.
Classes start at NMC
Record-Eagle, August 24 (more…)
Aug 27, 2020 | Announcements & News, Intercom, Student News
NMC continues its commitment to making meaningful change in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion at our College and providing you with updates on that work.
This summer the College created a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. The committee is proud to announce the following chairs and advisors of the subcommittees:
- Employee subcommittee
- Hollie DeWalt – co-chair
- Brie Mills – co-chair
- Community subcommittee
- Nicole Speelman: co-chair
- Nicco Pandolfi – co-chair
- Student subcommittee
- Sarah Montgomery-Richards – advisor
- Sally Smarsty – advisor
- (student co-chairs to be determined)
These chairs and advisors will be seeking applicants for those students and employees who want to help advance this important work by serving on the subcommittees. Please watch your email for more information on how to apply for these opportunities to serve.
The NMC DEI Committee will continue to update you on progress and action related to efforts of making our College and community a more diverse, inclusive and equitable place to learn, work and live. If you have any questions please email dei@nmc.edu. Thank you for your continued support.
Aug 27, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Hans Van Sumeren, the Director of the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), has been honored with the 2020 Outstanding Service Award by the Marine Technology Society (MTS).
The award recognizes Van Sumeren’s outstanding accomplishments in fulfilling the objectives and missions of the Society. Highlights include:
- Serving as chair of the MTS Great Lakes Section
- Creating the Marine Technology student section within the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College
- Partnering with MTS to create the first Marine Technology Camp in 2016 and continuing to host the camp every year since
- Hosting the first TechSurge – Lakebed 2030 – to establish the parallels from the Seabed 2030 effort and promote the mapping of the Great Lakes as equal importance to the global mapping initiative
- Serving as the guest editor for the most recent issue of the Marine Technology Society Journal devoted to LakeBed 2030
MTS will formally present the award to Van Sumeren on October 8 at its Global OCEANS 2020: Singapore – U.S. Gulf Coast conference.
“Marine technology has an impact upon virtually every aspect of our global society,” said MTS President Zdenka Willis. “This year’s awardees represent the ‘best of the best’ in our field and their efforts are helping to advance the goals of the marine technology community while inspiring all of us to meet some of the greatest scientific, educational, and political challenges of our time.”
“Hans has been a true visionary in his work through the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute since its inception, including the creation of the first and only Bachelor’s of Science degree in Marine Technology in the country,” said Dr. Nick Nissley, president of NMC. “We are fortunate to have his leadership at our College, in our region and increasingly throughout the world.”
Van Sumeren will also help lead Great Lakes TechSurge LakeBed 2030’s virtual conference September 30 – October 2, 2020. The event will bring together science and research, policy, government, and industry professionals to focus on Great Lakes marine mapping and observation data, develop a strategy to catalog new and existing lakebed information for shared use and share the latest technology advancements with the Great Lakes community and advance business development in the region.
The Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is strategically positioned to engage individuals and organizations, both locally and globally, in advancing skills, knowledge and understanding of the world’s dynamic water resources. Areas of expertise include marine technology and freshwater studies.
The Marine Technology Society promotes awareness, understanding, and the advancement and application of marine technology. Incorporated in 1963, the international society brings together businesses, institutions, professionals, academics, and students who are ocean engineers, technologists, policy makers, and educators.
Release date: August 27, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & 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-discrimination
Aug 27, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Hans Van Sumeren, the Director of the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), has been honored with the 2020 Outstanding Service Award by the Marine Technology Society (MTS).
The award recognizes Van Sumeren’s outstanding accomplishments in fulfilling the objectives and missions of the Society. Highlights include:
- Serving as chair of the MTS Great Lakes Section
- Creating the Marine Technology student section within the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College
- Partnering with MTS to create the first Marine Technology Camp in 2016 and continuing to host the camp every year since
- Hosting the first TechSurge – Lakebed 2030 – to establish the parallels from the Seabed 2030 effort and promote the mapping of the Great Lakes as equal importance to the global mapping initiative
- Serving as the guest editor for the most recent issue of the Marine Technology Society Journal devoted to LakeBed 2030
MTS will formally present the award to Van Sumeren on October 8 at its Global OCEANS 2020: Singapore – U.S. Gulf Coast conference.
“Marine technology has an impact upon virtually every aspect of our global society,” said MTS President Zdenka Willis. “This year’s awardees represent the ‘best of the best’ in our field and their efforts are helping to advance the goals of the marine technology community while inspiring all of us to meet some of the greatest scientific, educational, and political challenges of our time.”
“Hans has been a true visionary in his work through the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute since its inception, including the creation of the first and only Bachelor’s of Science degree in Marine Technology in the country,” said Dr. Nick Nissley, president of NMC. “We are fortunate to have his leadership at our College, in our region and increasingly throughout the world.”
Van Sumeren will also help lead Great Lakes TechSurge LakeBed 2030’s virtual conference September 30 – October 2, 2020. The event will bring together science and research, policy, government, and industry professionals to focus on Great Lakes marine mapping and observation data, develop a strategy to catalog new and existing lakebed information for shared use and share the latest technology advancements with the Great Lakes community and advance business development in the region.
The Great Lakes Water Studies Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is strategically positioned to engage individuals and organizations, both locally and globally, in advancing skills, knowledge and understanding of the world’s dynamic water resources. Areas of expertise include marine technology and freshwater studies.
The Marine Technology Society promotes awareness, understanding, and the advancement and application of marine technology. Incorporated in 1963, the international society brings together businesses, institutions, professionals, academics, and students who are ocean engineers, technologists, policy makers, and educators.
Release date: August 27, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & 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-discrimination
Aug 26, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
Lobdell’s will open for the fall semester Wednesday, Sept. 16 and will be open through Thursday, Nov. 19. Reservations will be accepted starting Monday, Aug. 31 at (231) 995-3120 and are highly recommended.
Note that social distancing and state safety guidelines are in place at the restaurant. Groups must be limited to 6 or fewer people, face masks must be worn at all times except when at tables, and guests are asked not to arrive more than 5 minutes prior to their reservation to limit crowding in the vestibule. Hand sanitizer is available throughout the dining room, tables are spaced at least 6 feet apart, bar seating is limited and staff have been trained in safety procedures and will wear face masks as well.
Aug 26, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected Northwestern Michigan College’s UAS (drone) training program for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Program, or the UAS-CTI.
To be selected, a college/school had to meet criteria including; having an accredited Associate degree focusing on UAS, FAA certification of UAS pilots, operation of both multi-rotor and airplane style systems, training in functional areas including agriculture, environmental services, infrastructure and utility inspections, petroleum, oil and gas inspections, and public safety.
According to the FAA, the purpose of the UAS-CTI program is to create long-term relationships with institutions of higher education that focus on preparing candidates for careers in all aspects of UAS. The UAS-CTI program’s goal is to collaborate with schools to deliver up-to-date UAS training that matches the requirements of the National Airspace System (NAS) and helps prepare qualified applicants for careers involving UAS. In addition, these new UAS-CTI institutions will support the FAA’s efforts to expand the aviation workforce of the future while providing additional opportunities for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students.
“NMC has been on the forefront of UAS education since we launched the program ten years ago,” said NMC UAS Director Tony Sauerbrey. “This is another great example of how the program continues to innovate and lead for the benefit of our students.”
The FAA UAS-CTI designation allows NMC to participate with the FAA in shaping the future UAS training environment including training methods and standards through workshops, seminars and other programs. The FAA will also be a resource to help students with job placement, internships and other opportunities.
In addition to the CTI program, the FAA is asking two-year institutions like NMC to participate in the Consortium for Small UAS Technology Training. Sauerbrey says the UAS industry and FAA have seen programs like NMC’s offer responsive, agile, hands-on technical training that prepares students to enter the workforce faster and better prepared.
NMC’s UAS program celebrates its 10-year anniversary in September 2020. Since it began, the program has produced graduates who are currently working in all aspects of the industry including launching startup companies and assisting private businesses and public institutions. NMC operates a fleet of unmanned aerial systems that rivals much larger universities. NMC’s small class size allows the program to innovate and remain responsive to the ever changing industry of Unmanned Aerial Systems.
Release date: August 26, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Tony Sauerbrey
Director, Unmanned Aerial Systems
tsauerbrey@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2925
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-discrimination
Aug 26, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC’s Dean’s List recognizes students who have earned a grade point average of 3.5 or above out of a possible 4.0 while taking five or more credits in a semester. A list of students who have achieved Dean’s List honors for the summer 2022 semester is available here.
RELEASE DATE: August 26, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Diana Fairbanks
Associate Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications
(231) 995-1019
dfairbanks@nmc.edu
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-discrimination
Aug 26, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected Northwestern Michigan College’s UAS (drone) training program for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems-Collegiate Training Program, or the UAS-CTI.
To be selected, a college/school had to meet criteria including; having an accredited Associate degree focusing on UAS, FAA certification of UAS pilots, operation of both multi-rotor and airplane style systems, training in functional areas including agriculture, environmental services, infrastructure and utility inspections, petroleum, oil and gas inspections, and public safety.
According to the FAA, the purpose of the UAS-CTI program is to create long-term relationships with institutions of higher education that focus on preparing candidates for careers in all aspects of UAS. The UAS-CTI program’s goal is to collaborate with schools to deliver up-to-date UAS training that matches the requirements of the National Airspace System (NAS) and helps prepare qualified applicants for careers involving UAS. In addition, these new UAS-CTI institutions will support the FAA’s efforts to expand the aviation workforce of the future while providing additional opportunities for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students.
“NMC has been on the forefront of UAS education since we launched the program ten years ago,” said NMC UAS Director Tony Sauerbrey. “This is another great example of how the program continues to innovate and lead for the benefit of our students.”
The FAA UAS-CTI designation allows NMC to participate with the FAA in shaping the future UAS training environment including training methods and standards through workshops, seminars and other programs. The FAA will also be a resource to help students with job placement, internships and other opportunities.
In addition to the CTI program, the FAA is asking two-year institutions like NMC to participate in the Consortium for Small UAS Technology Training. Sauerbrey says the UAS industry and FAA have seen programs like NMC’s offer responsive, agile, hands-on technical training that prepares students to enter the workforce faster and better prepared.
NMC’s UAS program celebrates its 10-year anniversary in September 2020. Since it began, the program has produced graduates who are currently working in all aspects of the industry including launching startup companies and assisting private businesses and public institutions. NMC operates a fleet of unmanned aerial systems that rivals much larger universities. NMC’s small class size allows the program to innovate and remain responsive to the ever changing industry of Unmanned Aerial Systems.
Release date: August 26, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Tony Sauerbrey
Director, Unmanned Aerial Systems
tsauerbrey@nmc.edu
(231) 995-2925
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-discrimination
Aug 25, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
Any NMC student who is experiencing academic difficulties in an NMC class can request tutoring, and it’s available in many courses. Please call (231) 995-1138 or email us at tutoring@nmc.edu to schedule an appointment or with any questions.
The Tutoring Office is located in the Osterlin Building (#3 on the Main Campus Map), in room O134. It is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. Call or email our office (contact information below) to schedule an appointment.
MATH AND SCIENCE CENTERS:
The Math and Science Center is located in the basement of the Tanis Building (#5 on the Main Campus Map), in room T53.
Hours: August 25–December 9:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2–4 p.m.
- Friday: CLOSED
DROP-IN MATH AND SCIENCE ZOOM (ONLINE) TUTORING
Zoom Drop in Hours: August 25–December 9:
- Monday: 9–11 a.m., 1–3 p.m., and 4–6 p.m.
- Tuesday: 9–11 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
- Wednesday: 9–11 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
- Thursday: 9–11 a.m., 1–3 p.m., and 4–6 p.m.
Aug 25, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College has announced the winners of its Faculty, Staff and Team Excellence awards, which are given to NMC employees who have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of the college’s learners.
The awards were announced during the college’s virtual Opening Conference August 17. They are typically handed out during NMC’s Commencement and Retirement & Recognition ceremonies, which were canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Faculty Excellence Awards
Scott Powell (high-resolution version)Great Lakes Maritime Academy instructor Scott Powell was named the Imogene Wise Faculty Excellence Award winner. Adjunct Aviation/Assistant Chief Flight instructor Frank Jabour is the winner of the Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award.
The winners are chosen by a student selection committee, and the criteria for both awards include teaching excellence, rapport with students, innovation in the classroom and a sense of dedication.
Capt. Scott Powell has been an instructor for over 18 years. Students had this to say about him:
- The instructor cares very much about what students think in the classroom, always asking us if the material is understandable, and creates new ways to better the learning experience.
- The instructor’s thorough explanations and hands-on activities are easy to follow, but still challenge us and I always walk away with an understanding of how this truly applies.
- This instructor embodies all the traits of an excellent teacher. He earns our respect without needing to ask for it, is extremely patient, flexible in ability to approach a topic in many different ways to establish complete understanding, and is always up to date with current practice, not only of the industry, but in teaching as well.
Read more about Scott Powell here.
Frank Jabour (high-resolution version)Of Jabour, who has been an instructor for over 21 years, students said:
- The instructor treats every student fairly and will always stay after class to help with any questions you have. Kindest teacher I’ve had, and probably one of the most genuine people I know.
- This instructor is very passionate about what is taught and spreads that passion throughout the program. The instructor will take as many different approaches as necessary to make sure that every student in the classroom has the necessary understanding of the material.
- This instructor brings the material to life and is able to relate the material to past and present experiences that allows his students to grow and understand its significance. He not only stays current but actively motivates students to stay engaged with the industry.
The Faculty Excellence award was initiated by a contribution from longtime NMC benefactors Harold and Imogene Wise in 1970 and first awarded to a full-time faculty member in 1971. The Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award was created in 1999 as a companion.
Staff and team Excellence Awards
Bobbi Garner (high-resolution version)NMC’s Staff and Team Excellence award winners are nominated by their supervisors and colleagues for doing work which inspires others and exhibiting commitment “above and beyond” to the NMC mission, vision, and values.
Bobbi Garner, Office Manager of the Science & Math Academic Area, won this year’s Staff Excellence Award. During the spring semester, she worked late into the night and over a weekend to get 70 students rescheduled in classes after an instructor had to cancel classes due to an emergency. Her work helped 23 of those students graduate on time in the spring.
Educational Technologies team (high-resolution version)NMC’s Educational Technologies team, who were integral in the transition to virtual learning this past spring, won this year’s Team Excellence Award.
The team —Director Terri Gustafson, Ryan Bernstein, Mark DeLonge, Justin Guillard, Chris Hanna, Kyle Morrison, Ben Post, Dennis Schultz and Sherry Trier — held daily Zoom office hours and fielded five times as many help desk tickets this past March as the previous March due to the transition. This summer, they provided a virtual boot camp program for teaching online and hybrid courses to over 90 NMC instructors.
Release date: August 25, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & 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-discrimination
Aug 24, 2020 | Dennos Events, Intercom, Student Events
Wednesday, September 2, 2020 — 10:30 a.m. EST
Join artist Jean Larson and curator of education Jason Dake on an international call between Traverse City and Iceland, to discuss the artist’s work in the Dennos Museum Center collection. They will also talk about Larson’s current artistic endeavors in her studio in Iceland.
A native of Northern Michigan, Jean Larson was born in Ishpeming, a small mining town in the Upper Peninsula. She grew up in Traverse City on the shores of Lake Michigan where she established a small studio and worked until 1984 when she moved to Boston in order to broaden her exposure to the art world. In 1992, Larson left the United States to settle in a small village in Southern France where once again, the natural environment provided further inspiration for her art. This was followed in 2010 by extensive periods spent in Iceland. She now expects to spend her time between Iceland, France, and Northern Michigan.
Registration tickets are pay what you can, $0-$15. After your ticket is reserved, a member of Dennos Staff will email you the details to join us on Zoom. A reminder email will go out the day of the event to all registrants 30 minutes prior to the start time. Register here.
Learn more about Jean Larson on her website.
The Art of :__ is generously supported by Art Bridges.
,
Aug 24, 2020 | Announcements & News, Intercom, President Updates
Dear Colleagues:
The college is seeking nominations for the following open seats on NMC’s Governance Councils:
Policy Council (Responsibilities)
- Staff (1 seat)
- Faculty (1 seat)
Planning & Budget Council (Responsibilities)
- Staff (1 seat)
- Faculty (1 seat)
The term of office is three years, with a limit of two consecutive terms. Terms end August 31 of the third year in office. Further criteria for service and responsibilities for each council are attached.
Your active participation in our shared governance system is greatly encouraged. You may also nominate a colleague other than yourself for council membership, but must have the nominee’s permission before submitting their name.
Please send your interest and/or nominations to the President’s Office by responding to nmcpresident@nmc.edu by Tuesday, September 8.
Thank you,
President’s Office
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010
Aug 24, 2020 | Hawk Owl Helpers and Heroes, Intercom
Thank you to the dozens of NMC volunteers who helped move over 200 students into North and East halls over the past weekend and who continue helping with NMC Welcome Week events and handing out maps and masks!
They include: Marcus Bennett, Linda Berlin, Kishion Bragg, Kevin D’Alessandro, Cindy Deemer, Lisa Eiden, Cheri Garvin, David Gates, Dan Gentry, Amy Gordon, Brittany Hanbury, Roger Heeres, Lydia Henion, Scott Herzberg, Patrick Hill, Jackson Hollocker, Jennifer Hricick, Jessica Johnson, Camille Johnson, Jackie Jorgensen, Kari Kahler, Keith Kasper, Rita Kucera, Rachel LaLonde, Amy Loeb, Amari McGee, Sean McKay, Kyle Morrison, Todd Neibauer, Nick Nissley, Michelle Poertner, Alexis Reid, Shayenna Rossell, CJ Schneider, Shannon Schultz, Sally Smarsty, Jen Strauss, Alison Thornton, Amanda Van Oordt, Alex Walsh, and Meg Young.
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
Aug 24, 2020 | Intercom, Media Mentions
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media in the past two weeks. We want to share your media involvement too. Please send information about your NMC-related interview or appearance to publicrelations@nmc.edu. If possible, please include a link to the piece and information about where and when it was used.
Please note access to some stories may be limited by paywalls set up by the media outlet. This includes the Traverse City Record-Eagle, which limits free clicks to five per month. You may also read Record-Eagle articles in the print edition at the Osterlin Library.
Northwestern Michigan College Aviation students prepare to head back into the cockpit
UpNorthLive, August 21 (more…)
Aug 21, 2020 | HR Corner, Intercom
- Warm up and Sign up Week- 9/14/2020
- Challenge 9/21/2020 – 10/18/2020
Join a quick overview meeting on September 10, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to get all your questions answered!
Meet the challenge and you will be entered into a prize drawing for 1 of 6 $50 Visa Gift Cards.
Priority Health members will use the online portal and all other employees can sign up to report their time on a google sheet.
Please access the NMC Wellness page here.
Aug 21, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College has announced the winners of its Faculty, Staff and Team Excellence awards, which are given to NMC employees who have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of the college’s learners.
The awards were announced during the college’s virtual Opening Conference August 17. They are typically handed out during NMC’s Commencement and Retirement & Recognition ceremonies, which were canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Faculty Excellence Awards
Scott Powell (high-resolution version)Great Lakes Maritime Academy instructor Scott Powell was named the Imogene Wise Faculty Excellence Award winner. Adjunct Aviation/Assistant Chief Flight instructor Frank Jabour is the winner of the Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award.
The winners are chosen by a student selection committee, and the criteria for both awards include teaching excellence, rapport with students, innovation in the classroom and a sense of dedication.
Capt. Scott Powell has been an instructor for over 18 years. Students had this to say about him:
- The instructor cares very much about what students think in the classroom, always asking us if the material is understandable, and creates new ways to better the learning experience.
- The instructor’s thorough explanations and hands-on activities are easy to follow, but still challenge us and I always walk away with an understanding of how this truly applies.
- This instructor embodies all the traits of an excellent teacher. He earns our respect without needing to ask for it, is extremely patient, flexible in ability to approach a topic in many different ways to establish complete understanding, and is always up to date with current practice, not only of the industry, but in teaching as well.
Read more about Scott Powell here.
Frank Jabour (high-resolution version)Of Jabour, who has been an instructor for over 21 years, students said:
- The instructor treats every student fairly and will always stay after class to help with any questions you have. Kindest teacher I’ve had, and probably one of the most genuine people I know.
- This instructor is very passionate about what is taught and spreads that passion throughout the program. The instructor will take as many different approaches as necessary to make sure that every student in the classroom has the necessary understanding of the material.
- This instructor brings the material to life and is able to relate the material to past and present experiences that allows his students to grow and understand its significance. He not only stays current but actively motivates students to stay engaged with the industry.
The Faculty Excellence award was initiated by a contribution from longtime NMC benefactors Harold and Imogene Wise in 1970 and first awarded to a full-time faculty member in 1971. The Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award was created in 1999 as a companion.
Staff and team Excellence Awards
Bobbi Garner (high-resolution version)NMC’s Staff and Team Excellence award winners are nominated by their supervisors and colleagues for doing work which inspires others and exhibiting commitment “above and beyond” to the NMC mission, vision, and values.
Bobbi Garner, Office Manager of the Science & Math Academic Area, won this year’s Staff Excellence Award. During the spring semester, she worked late into the night and over a weekend to get 70 students rescheduled in classes after an instructor had to cancel classes due to an emergency. Her work helped 23 of those students graduate on time in the spring.
Educational Technologies team (high-resolution version)NMC’s Educational Technologies team, who were integral in the transition to virtual learning this past spring, won this year’s Team Excellence Award.
The team —Director Terri Gustafson, Ryan Bernstein, Mark DeLonge, Justin Guillard, Chris Hanna, Kyle Morrison, Ben Post, Dennis Schultz and Sherry Trier — held daily Zoom office hours and fielded five times as many help desk tickets this past March as the previous March due to the transition. This summer, they provided a virtual boot camp program for teaching online and hybrid courses to over 90 NMC instructors.
Release date: August 25, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Diana Fairbanks
Executive Director, NMC Public Relations, Marketing & 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-discrimination
Aug 20, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
Good morning NMC community,
As we begin the fall semester it is important for you to know we are committed to your safety. In addition to the safety measures highlighted at nmc.edu/keepsafe, we will be monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic closely and its potential impact at NMC. Despite our safety efforts, we may see cases on campus this semester. If we do, we will report them to you via email and on the COVID-19 cases webpage to keep you aware of possible campus exposures. We are also developing a dashboard for that same webpage to monitor the impact of the virus on our campuses. In addition to that, we want you to know what information we are monitoring that may influence the College’s reopening stage. You can read that information below.
For the latest updates and additional resources, please visit nmc.edu/coronavirus. It will take all of us working together to limit the spread of the virus on our campuses and have fewer restrictions sooner. If you have questions or feedback, we want to hear from you. Please use the Coronavirus Information Feedback Form.
Thank you
Decision Triggers for Discussion of Closure, Partial Closure and/or On-Campus Reduction
To support the goal of student, employee and community safety, the NMC Reopening Committee has developed guidelines for monitoring the coronavirus pandemic and its potential impact. These guidelines cover most situations and will be revised as our understanding of COVID-19 changes. This is an evolving situation and NMC has many unique programs and departments. This document is designed to set out a broad, campus-wide view and may require adjustments to meet the needs of specific areas, in collaboration with the Reopening Committee. These guidelines are intended to decrease the risk of disease spread, but cannot eliminate all risk. We encourage NMC partners and affiliated organizations to consider these as well.
Aug 20, 2020 | Intercom
Good morning NMC community,
Thank you to the 225 people who attended our virtual opening conference Monday as we prepare to kick off the new fall semester together. While the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us in many ways during the last several months, you have done significant work to meet the needs of our learners while keeping each other safe. Our Reopening and Reimagining Fall Learning Committees have addressed these issues and have developed important resources to help this academic year. We’ve highlighted some of the most important items and updates below. Please visit nmc.edu/coronavirus for the latest information and additional resources. It will take all of us working together to reach our goals. If you have questions or feedback, we want to hear from you. Please use the Coronavirus Information Feedback Form or email publicrelations@nmc.edu.
Keep Safe
Masks
Every employee received an NMC face mask and an Exposure Control Awareness pamphlet through interoffice mail. Masks are required for everyone while on NMC’s campuses, unless alone in your office. Please also practice social distancing and other safety guidelines highlighted at nmc.edu/keepsafe. Please note that plastic face shields do not replace face masks. Employees who have medical concerns should speak with Hollie DeWalt in Human Resources. Accommodations will be made, where possible, but wearing a face covering is required.
Health Screening & Training
Please remember to complete the health screening questions every time you come to campus. Attached to this email you will find the Exposure Control Awareness pamphlet with those screening questions and additional safety information for NMC employees.
Please be sure to complete the exposure control training in the SilkRoad learning portal before you come to campus. It’s short, informative and required. If you have any questions about how to access it, please contact Human Resources.
Safety Guidance for Students
Student Life will be greeting students at many building entrances during the first two days of class. They will offer a mask if a student does not have one and share the requirement to wear it inside all buildings.
- Students without a mask cannot stay in class. They should be offered a mask and can stay if they wear it.
- If a student says they cannot wear a mask, they need to contact Disability Services to establish the veracity of their claim and the necessary path forward. They still cannot enter without a mask.
- If a student persists in refusing to wear a mask and will not leave, do not argue the efficacy of masks but point to the requirement from the state and college to do so.
- If a student without a mask will not leave, as a last resort, call security.
- Please enter a Red Flag incident report on students you encounter that will not wear a mask. Judicial Affairs will follow up with these students.
Attached to this email you will find a flowchart on steps to take if a student tells you they have tested positive for COVID-19.
Campus Cleaning & Sanitizing
Keeping our campuses clean during this time is critically important and will require a collaborative effort. Custodial crews will clean all public spaces daily following CDC recommendations for disinfecting spaces and high-touch surfaces. This includes countertops, toilet rooms, drinking fountains, waiting rooms, seating, door handles, push/pull devices and light switches.
Disinfectant spray, towels, wipes and gloves will be in all classrooms, labs and offices. Users should wipe down workspace surface areas before and after use. Also, maintain proper hygiene and health practices, including washing hands frequently with soap and water or, if soap is unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout our campuses, including classrooms. You can order additional hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies through central stories or through facilities at (231) 995-1144.
COVID-19 Testing
Anyone exhibiting signs of COVID-19 must seek immediate medical attention. If feeling ill, students can contact NMC Health Services at (231) 995-1255 or their health care provider. Faculty and staff should contact their primary care physician. If you are ill, you should self-isolate, avoid close contact with others and notify NMC human resources of your absence.
NMC currently has no plans for widespread COVID-19 testing on campus, but limited testing is available through Health Services. Individuals can be tested at no cost at community sites in Michigan like Northwest Michigan Health Services. Most insurance companies will also pay for testing.
Possible Exposure Reporting
NMC has had one reported case of COVID-19 that we quickly reported to you in July. Despite our safety efforts, we may see additional cases on campus this semester. If we do, we will continue to report them to you via email and on the COVID-19 cases webpage to keep you aware of possible campus exposures. We are also developing a dashboard for that same webpage to monitor the impact of the virus on our campus. Later this week we will share the information we are monitoring that may influence the College’s reopening stage.
Limiting Time On NMC Campuses
NMC remains in stage 2 of its re-opening plan. This week some adjustments were made to the plan to allow for food service, to keep buildings unlocked during classes and to allow campus activity on Fridays when necessary. Work that can be completed remotely should continue. Please consider posting your contact information on your office door while you are working remotely. Offices should stagger shifts and limit the number of employees in an office.
Stay Informed
Our top priority has been, and will continue to be, the safety of NMC students, employees and our community. We are carefully monitoring COVID-19 in Michigan and across the United States, as well as information from public health leaders. The next few weeks will be critical as we move into a new semester on our campuses. We have all done considerable work to prepare for this semester to develop a comprehensive safety plan and flexible learning options, but will also be ready to adapt our plans, if needed, as the health situation changes so we can continue to meet the needs of our learners. We promise to keep communicating with you about any potential changes.
If you have additional questions related to COVID-19, please check out the Employee FAQs and other resources on the NMC COVID-19 web hub. If you still have questions, please submit them through the Coronavirus Information Feedback Form or email publicrelations@nmc.edu.
Thank you for your work, and your continued flexibility and support.
Aug 20, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
Good morning NMC community,
As we begin the fall semester, the college remains in stage 2 of its reopening plan. However we are making some updates based on our growing understanding of the situation and your input. Our goals continue to be your safety and limiting the disruption to learning. In the coming days we will share several additional safety resources. You can also find these and many other resources at nmc.edu/coronavirus.
Updates to stage 2 of NMC’s Reopening Plan
- Campus will now be open Monday-Friday for classes and office work that cannot be done from home. Any work that can be done remotely, should be.
- Food service will be available in the new West Hall Innovation Center starting Thursday, August 20, 2020.
- The Hawk Owl Cafe will be open daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (hours updated Sept. 9)
- Northwest Grind (Starbucks) will be open Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–7 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (hours updated Sept. 9)
- The library, now located in the West Hall Innovation Center, will be open for limited hours Monday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. and Tuesday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
- NMC buildings will now be unlocked one hour before the first class of the day and remain unlocked for one hour following the last class of the day.
Please continue to follow all of the safety guidelines highlighted at nmc.edu/keep-safe including:
- Answering the self-screening questions before coming to campus
- Call NMC Health Services at (231) 995-1255 before coming in if you feel ill
- Wear a mask and practice social distancing in all public areas on campus
Thank you for your continued support in limiting the spread of COVID-19 on our campuses.
Aug 20, 2020 | Intercom, Student News
NMC Dining Services include the Hawk Owl Café and Northwest Grind / Starbucks in the West Hall Innovation Center (#9 on the Main Campus Map). Hours may vary around holidays, and dining services are closed during semester breaks and over the summer.
For more information, visit the NMC Dining Services website.
HAWK OWL CAFÉ
Deli, Grill, Grab and Go hot and cold items, Pizza, and Red Hot Chef items available.
- Daily: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (hours updated Sept. 9)
NORTHWEST GRIND – STARBUCKS
Full line of Starbucks, Grab and Go items (sandwiches, salads, parfaits, fruits, breakfast items, etc), and hot held entree items available.
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–7 p.m. (hours updated Sept. 9)
- Saturday & Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (hours updated Sept. 9)
Aug 17, 2020 | Hawk Owl Helpers and Heroes, Intercom
Congratulations to Bobbi Garner (right), Office Manager of the Science & Math Academic Area, for winning this year’s Staff Excellence Award. During the spring semester, she worked late into the night and over a weekend to get 70 students rescheduled in their classes after an instructor had to cancel classes due to an emergency. Her work helped 23 of those students graduate on time in the spring.
Congratulations also to the Educational Technologies (EMT) team (left), who were integral in the transition to virtual learning this past spring. They held daily Zoom office hours and fielded five times as many help desk tickets this past March as the previous March due to the shift. This summer, they provided their teaching solutions course to over 90 instructors rather than the typical 12 to 15.
Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!
Aug 17, 2020 | Intercom
Thanks to the 225 NMC employees who joined us at Opening Conference today as we kicked off the fall semester! As promised, here are the questions and answers we did not have time to address in today’s meeting. You can also view a PDF of the full presentation here.
- Is WH 104/105 going to be one classroom for fall rather than two separate classrooms?
- We will base it on what is requested through Central Scheduling. It can be easily configured for either option.
- Will we be completely closed after Thanksgiving to students (printing, computer use, library etc.)?
- Yes. For the sake of safety, the campus will be closed to in-person activity.
- Will we be able to have limited access testing in classrooms after Thanksgiving?
- We will not have any in-person activity after Thanksgiving. Testing will need to be done in some virtual manner.
- Will students have the option to live on campus after Thanksgiving?
- Students are encouraged to return home, but special accommodations can be made on a case by case basis with Residence Life as needed.
- Are there plans regarding opening the North Hall gym and what would restrictions be if any?
- At this time there are no plans to open the North Hall fitness center. We will continue to assess the recommendations for inside activity.
- What are the responsibilities of faculty and staff if faced with students who refuse to honor safety protocols and/or dismiss the dangers of the pandemic? What are employees supposed to do? How much do employees push back when faced with refusal? What if a student/employee is unwilling to wear a mask on campus?
- As far as employees go, there really isn’t a provision for working onsite and not wearing a face covering. Employees who have medical concerns should speak with Hollie DeWalt in Human Resources. Accommodations, where possible will be made, but wearing a face covering is required.
- Student Life will be greeting students at many building entrances during the first two days of class. They will offer a mask if a student does not have one and share the requirement to wear it inside all buildings.
- Students without a mask cannot stay in class. They should be offered a mask and can stay if they wear it.
- If a student says they cannot wear a mask, they need to contact Disability Services to establish the veracity of their claim and the necessary path forward. They still cannot enter without a mask.
- If a student persists in refusing to wear a mask and will not leave, do not argue the efficacy of masks but point to the requirement from the state and college to do so.
- If a student without a mask will not leave, as a last resort, call security.
- Please enter a Red Flag incident report on students you encounter that will not wear a mask. Judicial Affairs will follow up with these students.
- Once the fall semester begins, will we be allowed to work on campus on Fridays?
- We are asking if work can be done remotely to continue with that practice. If there are items that cannot be completed remotely then you may come to campus.
- Is Futures for Frontliners tuition free or in-district tuition?
- It covers in-district tuition and general fees.
- What protections are in place for Adjunct Faculty who do not have NMC health insurance?
- Adjuncts are entitled to the 2 weeks of COVID-19 leave under the Families First Paid Medical Leave Act. This is paid at 100% if for the employee’s own COVID-19 illness or quarantine, and at 2/3 if to take care of a child or family member. There is an additional provision for employees who have been employed more than 30 days which provides for extended leave (up to 10 additional weeks) to care for a child whose school or daycare is closed. This would be paid at 2/3. This last extended leave can only be used after an initial two-week leave.
- For further information please contact Hollie DeWalt in Human Resources.
- Adjuncts can also enroll in health insurance coverage through other channels including the Affordable Care Act marketplace.
If you have additional questions related to COVID-19, please check out the Employee FAQs and other resources on the NMC COVID-19 web hub. If you still have questions, please submit them through the Coronavirus Information Feedback Form or email publicrelations@nmc.edu.
Aug 17, 2020 | Intercom, Media Mentions
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media in the past two weeks. We want to share your media involvement too. Please send information about your NMC-related interview or appearance to publicrelations@nmc.edu. If possible, please include a link to the piece and information about where and when it was used.
Please note access to some stories may be limited by paywalls set up by the media outlet. This includes the Traverse City Record-Eagle, which limits free clicks to five per month. You may also read Record-Eagle articles in the print edition at the Osterlin Library.
Seven run for three seats on NMC Board
Record-Eagle, August 12 (more…)
Aug 14, 2020 | Intercom
NMC has developed a flowchart to give NMC employees guidance on what to do when a student tests positive for COVID-19; you can find the document here and find a link to the document at nmc.edu/keep-safe. The document will also be printed out and distributed to NMC departments.
