Feb 18, 2025 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — NMC’s Extended Education & Training division received an international award from the Learning Resources Network (LERN) for measuring and documenting the financial contribution of Extended Education students to NMC as $2.6 million since 2020.
NMC Vice President of Advancement Dino Hernandez, left,
and Extended Education and Training Director Laura Stevens
Matchett, right. (Download a high-resolution version here.)LERN is the leading association in continuing education and workforce development. The award was one of only ten presented at LERN’s annual conference in January, attended by 1,500 professionals in lifelong learning from four countries. Working with the NMC Foundation, NMC Extended Education found that 14 percent of Extended Education students are donors to the college. Since 2020, their contributions have totaled $2.6 million.
In conducting the analysis, NMC has laid down a new benchmark for the continuing education and workforce development sector.
“The award is for innovation in the field of continuing education and serving communities,” said LERN President William A. Draves. “The NMC award is especially outstanding, since every organization can adopt this best practice.”
Laura Stevens Matchett, director of Extended Education and Training at NMC, accepted the award.
“This award gives voice and value to the hard work that continuing education units do for their college communities all over the world,” she said. “I’m proud of my team for creating high interest classes and events that meet the learning desires of NMC alumni, our community’s youth, adult learners looking to upskill in the workplace, and residents who simply wish to continue learning and engaging with the college.”
Release date: February 18, 2025
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
cnoga@nmc.edu
(231) 392-1800 (Call or text)
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discrimination
Feb 17, 2025 | Student News
Pre-nursing students are invited to attend one of the upcoming program informational sessions. Representatives from Admissions will discuss the steps to getting accepted into NMC’s Nursing program. Topics include how to apply to the program, how to register for the HESI exam as well as what courses are included in the program.
Monday, March 10
12:30 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 106/107, Front Street Campus.
Tuesday, March 11
4 p.m.
Virtual
Join meeting
For more information, please contact Melanie Griffith at mgriffith@nmc.edu.
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom, Student Events
Campus Life, Student Life, Residence Life and Craft Club will be hosting a craft night for employees, students and their families from 3:30–6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3 at the open space in the Osterlin Building on NMC’s Front Street Campus (#3 on the campus map). Whether you like knitting, sand art, etc., there will something fun for everyone. The event is free and all are welcome to attend.
For more information, please contact Marcus Bennett at mbennett@nmc.edu.
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom
Did You Hear? Campus Day is returning in 2025!
Campus Day is a community event put on by NMC Extended Education & Training that is geared toward a 50+ audience where community members experience a variety of learning opportunities. Previous sessions ranged from “Climate Change in the Great Lakes” to “Life Changing Foods” to “Never Get a Computer Virus Again.”
Campus Day will be held on Friday, May 9. Registration fee (coming soon) includes coffee and donuts, three sessions and lunch.
Here’s a sneak peek of the tentative schedule:
-
- 8:30–9:30: Coffee & Connection at Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center
- 9:30–10:45: Session 1
- 11:15–12:30: Session 2
- 12:30–1:30: Lunch
- 1:30–2:45: Session 3
Add To Your Google Calendar
Sessions will be available for preview on April 2, and full details will be included in the Extended Education & Training summer catalog. Online, phone, in-person and mail-in registration options will be available beginning on April 9. The Extended Education & Training office is open to the public Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the NMC University Center.
We can’t wait to bring back this community favorite event; stay tuned for additional information!
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom, Media Mentions
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media recently. 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 NMC Library.
Education newsmakers
Record-Eagle, Feb. 16
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Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom, Student News
JAZZ 4 ALL! The Jeff Haas Trio featuring Laurie Sears + Lisa Flahive
February 27, 6 p.m., The Alluvion, 414 E Eighth St., Traverse City
NMC Jazz Big Band with the Jeff Haas Trio, Josh Wagner – Director
Honor cover at the door.
Read more
NMC Chamber Singers – “Music of Solace and Strength” Directed by Jeff Cobb
February 28, 7:30 p.m., The Alluvion, 414 E Eighth St., Traverse City
NMC Chamber Singers, Jeffrey Cobb – Director
Join the NMC Chamber Singers as they share a wonderful evening of choral music.
Purchase tickets
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom
TRAVERSE CITY — The Audit Committee of Northwestern Michigan College’s Board of Trustees will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18 in the President’s Office Conference Room in the Tanis Building on NMC’s Front Street campus, 1701 E. Front St., Traverse City. The official meeting notice is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Release date: February 14, 2025
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY NOTICE
Northwestern Michigan College does not discriminate in admission, campus activities, education, employment, housing, public accommodation or public service on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity/expression, handicap, height, marital or familial status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, service in the military, veteran’s status, weight, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law. No act of retaliation shall occur to any person making a charge, filing a complaint, testifying or participating in any discrimination investigation or proceeding. nmc.edu/non-discrimination
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom, Student News

If you witness a safety or security concern, NMC wants to hear from you. Call Campus Safety and Security at (231) 995-1111 or reach out to our anonymous tip line at (231)995-1116. nmc.edu/safety
Feb 17, 2025 | Intercom, Student Events
Join Grand Valley State University at 6 p.m. on March 10 for the kickoff of the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab to learn about the program, ask questions and see how the MVE-Lab can support your entrepreneurial journey. The event will be held at GVSU’s Traverse City campus in room 07 (lower level) of the University Center.
The MVE-Lab is an accelerator for veterans and military-connected families, offering hands-on startup education, weekly guest speakers and mentoring sessions focused on pitch development and business growth. Participants will compete for a share of $15,000 in prize funding. The program will run from 6-9 p..m on Mondays from March 10 through May 19.
For more info vist gvsu.edu/mve
Feb 15, 2025 | Intercom, Student News
To find these selections and many other new titles, see the NMC library catalog.
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Feb 14, 2025 | Intercom

(Click to enlarge)
Self-care can often feel like a buzzword that is tossed around but it is an important practice that can help improve your mental and physical health. Check out the latest newsletter from our Employee Assistance Program, Ulliance, for helpful tips on prioritizing self care and how to find time for yourself. Self care doesn’t have to be a large commitment. Check out some ideas that only take a few minutes a day. Find that time to treat yourself
Feb 14, 2025 | Student Events
Discover the field of Social Work! See how your Social Sciences classes and degree can help you earn a degree and career in social work!
Join representatives from Ferris State University’s Traverse City campus from 3–4:30 p.m.on Thursday, February 20 in room 104/105 of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center to discuss the ever-growing career field of Social Work, the NMC to Ferris State University transfer pathway, internship opportunities and earning potential! Donuts will be provided!
For questions, contact Kevin D’Alessandro at kevindalessandro@ferris.edu or (231) 492-6522
Feb 14, 2025 | Student News
To prepare for the Career & Majors Fair on March 6, NMC students are encouraged to attend the upcoming prep workshops and put your best foot forward for the event! Each workshop will include lunch or dinner, so please RSVP where applicable.
What’s Your Type?: A Skills Workshop For Undecided Students
Thursday, Feb. 27
12 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 123
Identify your personality type to help explore soft skills & career paths that may be a good fit for you. Students are expected to complete a Myers Briggs assessment before the event. Lunch provided. RSVP required.
Resume & Branding Workshop
Monday, March 3
1 p.m.
Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 123
NMC’s Employment Readiness Specialist, Lisa Baldyga, will help students update resumes and gain unique ideas for being a memorable candidate with employers. Lunch provided. RSVP & current resume submission recommended.
Speed Prepping Workshop
Tuesday, March 4
5:30 p.m.
Osterlin Building
This fast-paced workshop will help students gain tips for success from experts, covering everything from how to dress, to being confident at the fair, to how to follow up with employers after the fair. Food & prizes!
Feb 14, 2025 | HR Corner, Intercom
Kudos to Embrace the Dream reading buddies! Here’s a shout-out to the students, staff and faculty who volunteered for one or more of the Embrace the Dream reading events hosted by the NMC Library. Without reading buddies, we simply couldn’t have made these programs happen! Volunteers spent time with children, reading and talking with them, completing a craft, and making each young person feel seen. This year, 117 children participated in the programming! I am grateful to work with you!
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- Melanie Griffith
- Joelle Hannert
- Eden Hadfield
- Ciarra Arlt
- Kelly Yauk
- Olivia Watrous
- Cristina Pimenta
- Taylor Wilcox
- Bella Whitten
- Nicco Pandolfi
- Marcus Bennett
- Brooklynn Golnick
- Ayri Norteña
- Taylor Wilcox
- Marianne Dages
- Janet Lively
- Aric Woughter
- Nicole Fewins
- Scott Goethals
- Tricia Lincoln
- Lil Anderson
- Molly Norville
- Colleen Burry
- Laurel Forton
- Katy Grace
- Mark Dragovich
- Chelsea Bridson
- Jeffrey Cobb
- Lisa Nadlicki
- Alex Tank
- Veronica Dragovich
- Cathy Brown
- Lee Mikowski
- Lauren Marchany
(Oh wow, I really hope I didn’t miss anyone because you all are the best!)
I’d also like to thank the leadership at NMC for fostering a culture of service and making DEI a priority. The TCAPS employees we meet during these events are really impressed with the number of people who give up their own time or are released from regular duties to show up for their students. Honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service to our community puts action to our words and says a great deal about our institutional values.
And finally thank you to the DEI Committee and Student Life for sharing the cost of the books with the NMC Library. Each of the children who participated went home with a book of their own!
Kudos to Laura Korch! Thanks to ceramics instructor Laura Korch for bringing artist Chris Baskins to NMC! Chris gave presentations on his pottery career to ceramics students and brought pieces of his work to share. Chris was also invaluable in helping Laura and her students with the wood kiln which fired to cone 10!
Kudos to Bobbi Garner and Les Eckert! Les identified a scheduling issue for GLCI students that would have prevented them from taking a required human biology course in fall semester. This was a potential retention and completion barrier for culinary students. Les worked with Bobbi Garner in the Science & Math Academic Area; Bobbi’s quick attention and action allowed for a change to the fall schedule. This change will allow culinary students to complete their science requirement in fall 2025 if needed. Thank you to Les and Bobbi for coming together to problem solve for our students!
Experts suggest maintaining an “attitude of gratitude” increases positivity for yourself and for others. Please encourage your colleagues by submitting a KUDOS. Let them know you appreciate their hard work and are thinking of them!
Feb 14, 2025 | HR Corner, Intercom
Alexia Connelly recently started working at the college as a student Chemistry Lab Assistant. Let’s welcome them to the NMC community!
Feb 14, 2025 | HR Corner, Intercom
Ben Herman was recently promoted to Facilities Project Manager. Congratulations, Ben!
Feb 14, 2025 | Student Events
Join student success coaches for from 12–1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 106/107 to learn how to ace your exams using our excellent test-taking tips! Lunch from Taco Bell will be provided.
Feb 13, 2025 | Intercom
The NMC Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting Monday, Feb. 24 at 5:30 p.m. in Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, Room 106/107. More information is available here.
For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.
Feb 12, 2025 | Intercom, Student Events
Join the Multicultural Club for a Lunar New Year Celebration from 5:30-7 p.m. on February 20 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, room 106/107 (#9 on the Front Street campus map). Celebrate the year of the snake with asian cuisine! Bring a dish to share or just come for the celebration. Enjoy food and music in the company of new and familiar faces, make new friends or bring one with you. Everyone is welcome!
Feb 12, 2025 | Intercom, Student News
Mark your calendar!
- Wednesday, March 12, Noon–1:30 p.m., Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center 106/107
The next pitch date is just around the corner and the OOPs team is looking for pitches from faculty, staff, and students that are focused on educational initiatives, including new programs, increasing enrollment in existing programs, accelerating college strategies, and implementing the campus master plan.
Pitches are open to NMC students, faculty and staff, so if you have a great idea or project that needs resources to reach its full potential, the Office of Possibilities wants to hear from you! Fill out this application to connect with an OOPs team member who will assist in planning your pitch. If you have any questions about the application or the process, please email oops@nmc.edu and someone will get back to you promptly. Meeting with an OOPs team member is required before entering a pitch so please plan accordingly.
The Office of Possibilities is grateful for the generous support from the NMC Foundation that provides funding for innovative projects across campus!
The OOPs team looks forward to seeing you there!
Feb 12, 2025 | Intercom, Student Events
Campus Life and Esports are hosting a NBA 2K25 Basketball tournament at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21 in the Esports Lab, located in the lower level of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center (#9 on the Front Street campus map).
- Xbox Series X/S and Playstation 5 versions available
- Prizes for the top two winners on each console
- Earn bragging rights for the season
- Free to play
For more information please contact Andre Dean at adean@nmc.edu, Ty Peterson at tpeterson@nmc.edu or Marcus Bennett at mbennett@nmc.edu.
Feb 11, 2025 | Intercom, Student Events
Come dance the night away! NMC’s Swing Dance Club is hosting a Valentine’s Day dance from 7–9 p.m. on Saturday, February 15 in the Rajkovich Physical Education Building (#16 on NMC’s Front Street Campus).
- Free lessons! Beginners welcome.
- Dress as formal as you want!
- No partner necessary! Come alone, with a partner, or with a group.
Absolutely free! We hope to see you there.
Feb 11, 2025 | Student News
NMC’s Ski & Snowboard Club will hold two meetings from 4–7 p.m. on February 13 and February 27 in room 104/105 of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center. Attendees can bring their skis and snowboards to get waxed while learning how to properly maintain their equipment.
Waxing fees are $5 for students and employees; $10 for the general public.
Both meetings will be held the day before the group’s trips to Boyne Mountain on February 14 and February 28.
For more information, contact Dylan Raser at raserd@mail.nmc.edu.
Feb 11, 2025 | Student News
NMC’s Ski & Snowboard Club is planning two trips to Boyne Mountain on February 14 and February 28.
The group will meet at the east entrance of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center at 3:45 p.m. Attendees will depart from NMC’s campus at 4 p.m. and will return to Traverse City at midnight. Everyone who joins is responsible for purchasing their lift ticket, which costs around $45-$60 (cheaper if purchased in advance). Drivers will get $25 for fuel if they would like to carpool others.
This event is valid for all season pass holders as well as those who purchase open-to-close and night lift tickets.
For more information, contact Dylan Raser at raserd@mail.nmc.edu.
Feb 10, 2025 | Intercom, Media Mentions
The following college events and stories have appeared in the media recently. 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 NMC Library.
Ideas welcomes for Freshwater Innovation Center
Ticker, Feb. 10
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