Explore Your Major: Social Work

NMC Ferris State University social work programDiscover the field of Social Work! See how your Social Sciences classes and degree can help you earn a degree and career in Social Work!

Representatives from Ferris State University’s Traverse City campus will be in room 106/107 of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center on Wednesday, April 17 from 6–7:30 p.m. to discuss the ever-growing career field of Social Work, the NMC to Ferris State University transfer pathway, internship opportunities and earning potential! 

For questions, contact Lisa Blackford at lblackford@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1294 and Kevin D’Alessandro at kevindalessandro@ferris.edu or (231) 492-6522

Comparative Religion and Interfaith Conference

Students in NMC’s Western and Eastern Religions classes are hosting a conference on Saturday, April 13 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center at NMC’s Front Street Campus.

NMC Comparative Religion and Interfaith Conference

The Comparative Religion and Interfaith Conference is the culmination of an optional course project that will serve as a way for students to apply their learning of world religions in a way that benefits our campus and local community. The conference aims to increase knowledge and understanding of not only diverse religious and cultural perspectives, but also of some of the ways religion pops up in the world around us. Children’s activities will be available throughout the event except during lunch. This event is free and open to the public. 

Schedule

9:30-10:15 a.m.

Opening session

 

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Buddhist Meditation
Quiet meditation led by local Buddhist leaders.
 
Comparative Religion for Health and Human Services
Hear from professionals in healthcare related fields on religious diversity in their work.
 
Comparative Religion for K-12 Educators
Hear from Dr. Sarah Montgomery-Richards on the ways the academic study of religion can be included in a K-12 setting to promote greater cultural understanding.

Interfaith Panel Q&A
Hear from a diverse panel of local individuals who will share their spiritual perspectives and take questions from the audience.

The Religion and Pop Culture Experience, Pt. 1
Ever wondered about how religion pops up in video games and more? Come explore this topic!

 

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Lunch

 

12:45-1:45 p.m.

Buddhist Meditation
Quiet meditation led by local Buddhist leaders.
 
Comparative Religion for Health and Human Services
Hear from professionals in healthcare related fields on religious diversity in their work.
 
Comparative Religion for K-12 Educators
Hear from Dr. Sarah Montgomery-Richards on the ways the academic study of religion can be included in a K-12 setting to promote greater cultural understanding.

Interfaith Panel Q&A
Hear from a diverse panel of local individuals who will share their spiritual perspectives and take questions from the audience.
The Religion and Pop Culture Experience, Pt. 2
Join us for Part 2 of this topic!
 

For more information, contact Sarah Montgomery-Richards at smontgomery@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1331 and Ceynor Drumm at cdrumm@nmc.edu.

Spring textbook return and buyback

Spring textbook rentals are due back by Tuesday, May 7.

Books that have been purchased can be sold back during April 29 – May 3.

The NMC Bookstore is open Mondays–Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m and buyback is available until 30 minutes before the store closes.

Media mentions for April 8, 2024

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.

DDA inches toward TIF approval
Record-Eagle, April 6
(more…)

Upcoming Extended Education classes for employees

NMC’s tuition waiver benefits extend beyond credit classes—take a fitness class, learn a new hobby, or even enjoy a date night with your partner. Check out these upcoming classes! Place the class in your shopping cart in order to see the discount. Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.

Want to view upcoming classes at a glance? View the NEW Calendar of Classes.

Unlock the Art of MetalworkingNMC metalsmithing EES
Thursday, April 25–Friday April 26; 5–8 p.m. & Saturday, April 27; 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Employee price: $47 (Public price $225)
Join NMC Ceramics instructors and dive into the captivating world of metalworking with this introductory course designed to ignite your imagination and hone your skills. Make your very own rain chain! Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate student, this 3-day workshop is your gateway into unraveling the mysteries of metal.
Register here

Homeowners 101NMC homeowners EES class
3 sessions; Fridays, June 14–28; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Employee price: $62 (Public price $225) Three spots left!
Tired of waiting for repairs and frustrated by high contractor costs? Empower yourself! Master essential DIY skills to tackle everyday home improvement projects, such as installing light fixtures, replacing switches and outlets, installing baseboards, and more. Plus, learn essential maintenance tasks like changing furnace filters and the basics of PPE to safely handle everyday repairs. No prior experience or knowledge needed!
Register here

Weight StrengtheningExtended Education weight strengthening class at NMC
13 sessions; Tuesdays & Thursdays, April 9 – May 21; 7–8 a.m.
Employee price: $25 (Public price $175)
Focus on all major muscle groups resulting in increased strength, better posture, greater mobility, improved metabolism, and a slowing of the development of osteoporosis. All levels are welcome. It’s not too late to join! Sign up by April 16.
Register here

Weight Strengthening not your thing? Consider Gentle Pilates or Total Barre, both on NMC campus with the same instructor!

 

Need help setting up your profile? Look for “EES” in the Help Desk drop down menu.

EES Help Desk

Audio Technology organizes scholarship fundraiser

Kudos to the Audio Technology department for organizing the “Rockin’ Into Spring: Dollars for Scholars” concert this Saturday from 7-9 p.m. at the Milliken Auditorium. Laith Al-Saadi, a Michigan native and former finalist on “The Voice,” will headline. Proceeds from ticket sales will fund scholarships for future Audio Technology students. Tickets are $10 for students and $25 general admission.


Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!

Student group spotlight: Critt Happens

Critt Happens, a new, diverse and engaging student group, emerged this past fall at NMC. Spearheaded by student Eragon Byers, and overseen by Advisor Corbin Thompson, the group made a quiet entrance into the student group arena with just a handful of students. However, the Dungeons and Dragons based ensemble has quickly grown and presently holds an impressive membership number of forty-two. With its unique blend of storytelling, strategy and camaraderie, the group provides an experience that fosters belongingness and community on campus.

Northwestern Michigan College DnD student group

Critt Happens handed out dice to prospective members at the annual student group expo, Winterfest, in February.

Currently, the group is collaborating with the Maker Space to develop a dice creation event for DnD enthusiasts and has recently received a generous supply donation from local business, TC War Room. Their last event, Adventure Palooza Two, achieved a 300% increase in attendees from Adventure Palooza One earlier this year. Byers surmises their focus on inclusivity has contributed to the rapid increase in numbers. “This group strives to include as many as possible into each session, not just based on DnD level, but also ability, gender identity and more.” Byers believes the consistent meeting times and structure have also contributed to its popularity. 

Northwestern Michigan College DnD student group

Fall Fest 2023 pictured left to right: Critt Happens group member, Brady Barry; group advisor Corbin Thompson; and group leader Eragon Byers.

Looking ahead, the Dungeons and Dragons group is poised to continue its pivotal role in student engagement at NMC. Their hope is that as students enjoy roleplaying in this fantasy and adventure game, that they also sharpen their critical thinking skills and solidify lasting friendships and memories from their time at NMC. Critt Happens meets twice per week both Saturday and Sunday from 6:30-11:30 p.m. in the basement of the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center. Interested students are welcome to stop by or contact Eragon Byers at byers@mail.nmc.edu.


Do you want to see a specific student group featured? Email cknight@nmc.edu

GLMA hosts ‘open ship’ aboard State of Michigan

TRAVERSE CITY — The community is invited to the Great Lakes Maritime Academy’s “open ship” showcasing the training ship State of Michigan from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 20. The day will include:

  • Self guided tours of the T/S State of Michigan
  • Interaction with current maritime cadets
  • An opportunity to learn more about the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, maritime careers, how to become a chef on a ship and U.S. Navy commissioning options
  • Merchandise will be for sale. Cash only.

Tours will begin at the pier security gate entrance on the north side of NMC’s Great Lakes campus, 715 E. Front St. Low-heel, closed-toe, soft-soled shoes are highly recommended. The event will occur rain or shine.

Release date: April 5, 2024

For more information:

Great Lakes Maritime Academy
maritime@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1200

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

Kudos!

Kudos to Ryan Deering. Ryan is doing a class this week for Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping (STCW) and meeting the curriculum of the United States Coast Guard. This class allows him to teach welding to the Great Lakes Maritime Academy engine cadets. He has poured his teaching experience into this class and has been an invaluable asset to everyone who attends with him. Most of the other instructors are learning so much from him. This man loves what he does. Keep it up, Ryan! We do what we do for the 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!

Long Night Against Procrastination

NMC long Night Against ProcrastinationStop by the Library on Wednesday, April 17 from 5–11 p.m. for the the end-of-semester finals studyfest ! We’ll have the fuel and support you need to tackle your exam prep, final essays and projects, as well as a movement room and a craft corner to de-stress with some crocheting and coloring. The Writing Center, Student Success and tutoring teams will be available to provide additional support.

Two rounds of Dino’s Pizza will be provided along with a selection of other snacks, beverages and fun raffle prizes. Stop by for a bit or stay for the duration and take a serious dent out of your finals work pile!

Board of Trustees Building & Site and Audit Committees

The NMC Board of Trustees Building and Site Committee will meet at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9 in the President’s Office Conference Room in the Tanis Building on NMC’s Front Street campus, 1701 E. Front Street, Traverse City. The Building & Site Committee meeting notice is available here.

The Board of Trustees Audit Committee will meet at 3 p.m. the same day, also in the President’s Office Conference Room. The Audit Committee meeting notice is available here.

For more information, please contact the President’s office at (231) 995-1010.

What’s Next workshop

NMC NMU college workshopNMC, in collaboration with Northern Michigan University, will be hosting a workshop at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3 in the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center room 106/107 for students to learn about the appropriate next steps to take after being accepted as a first year student or transfer student to a college or university.

Topics covered include:

    • financial aid options
    • housing & dining
    • orientation
    • registration & tech access

The workshop is open to NMC students, high school students and community members. Dinner will be provided.

 

University Center partner campus visits

Do you want to finish a bachelor’s after NMC but stay in the area? NMC’s University Center partners will be at the Front Street Campus throughout the spring semester on these dates:

    • Tuesday, April 9, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Scholar’s Hall
    • Tuesday, April 24, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Health & Science Building

Stop by to meet representatives from Davenport University, Grand Valley State University, Ferris State University and Central Michigan University and gets answers to your questions about transferring after NMC.

Media mentions for April 1, 2024

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.

One nation’s fishing fleet, another nation’s pirates: Countering China’s Maritime Militia
U.S. Naval Institute magazine, April 2024
(more…)

Study Smart, Finish Strong: Finals preparation workshop

NMC Student Success finals workshopThe Experiential Learning Institute and Student Success team are excited to present an interactive, “Study Smart, Finish Strong” finals preparation workshop from 12–1 p.m. on Monday, April 8. This will be an interactive lunch and learn for students, focused on understanding the learning cycle and how to apply that knowledge to make a study plan for finals! The workshop will take place in the ELI office (TJNIC 103) and lunch will be provided, courtesy of ELI.

GLMA nuclear opportunities brief

GLMA nuclear opportunities seminarHave you ever wondered what it would be like to work aboard a nuclear powered ship? On April 9, Captain Delaney will be hosting an informational seminar on nuclear opportunities in room 211 of the Great Lakes Building. The discussion begins at 1430 with plenty of time for Q&A. Feel free to leave early for class at 1500, or to arrive once your class gets out at 1500.

NMC, LSSU sign engineering transfer agreements

TRAVERSE CITY — Engineering students have four more options to complete a bachelor’s degree thanks to new articulation agreements Northwestern Michigan College has signed with Lake Superior State University.

The agreements allow students to complete an associate degree at NMC and guarantee both admission and transferability of the credits to LSSU, in Sault Ste. Marie, toward a bachelor of science degree in four specialty areas: Computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and robotics engineering.

The computer and robotics engineering pathways in particular provide students with new options for majors while beginning their education at NMC. Depending on the degree program chosen, students could spend two years at NMC, saving nearly $20,000, and two at LSSU to earn their bachelor’s. As an added benefit of the robotics engineering pathway, students can typically earn a minor in electrical or mechanical engineering within their final two years at LSSU.

“These new agreements complement our already robust transfer pathways, providing our students with greater options for majors all while enjoying guaranteed admissions and course transferability to an exceptional engineering program” said Jay Smith, engineering instructor. “Like NMC, LSSU has a student-centered approach with small class sizes and a focus on student success, which I am confident our learners will appreciate.”

LSSU engineering graduates have 100-percent job placement with a median salary of $70,000. The campus is also home to a $2 million robotics lab.

Find out more at nmc.edu/engineering.

 

Release date: April 1, 2024

For more information:

Jay Smith
NMC Engineering instructor
jsmith@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1270

Happy Community College Month!

Happy Community College Month! NMC is proud to transform the lives of our learners and communities. We are Traverse City’s first and largest provider of higher education, a cultural bastion, an employer and creator of economic impact. For all that you do to help us achieve all of that, thank you!


Who’s been a Hawk Owl Helper or Hero for you? Let us know at publicrelations@nmc.edu!

Smart Commute Week team signup

Smart Commute Week is an annual celebration held during the first full week of June. The purpose of Smart Commute Week is to promote alternative forms of transportation and to educate area residents of the benefits of a smart commute.

Join us for events promoting cycling, walking, taking the bus and carpooling. Free daily breakfasts are hosted at various locations around town for smart commuters. Every year community members challenge each other to a friendly competition known as the Commuter Cup Challenge. The Challenge is open to ALL and totally FREE to participate. Contact Dave Weaver at dweaver@nmc.edu by May 27 to join NMC’s Swoop Loops team.

For more information about Smart Commute Week, visit the TART trails website.

Student Connect: International Tea

International Tea spring 2024Join the International Services and Service Learning Department as we sample unique teas from around the world while getting together in a casual setting to make connections.

The event will be held on Wednesday, April 10 from 9:15–10 a.m., in the Student Lounge outside the O100 offices in the Osterlin Building (#3 on the Front Street Campus Map).

 

IAF Freshwater Focus programming April 17 & 18

Northwestern Michigan College’s International Affairs Forum turns its focus to our freshwater resources in back-to-back events on April 17 and 18. The programs are presented by IAF in partnership with Interlochen Public Radio, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and NMC’s Great Lakes Water Studies Institute. Both events are supported by a grant from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Relentless documentary screening NMC IAF

Relentless Documentary Screening & Panel Discussion

Wednesday, April 17, 6–8:30 p.m.
Milliken Auditorium, Dennos Museum Center

The International Affairs Forum, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission and Interlochen Public Radio present Relentless, a documentary narrated by J.K. Simmons on the deadly invasion of sea lampreys into the Great Lakes and the tenacious scientists who were determined to find a solution.

After the screening, stay for a panel discussion including:

    • T. Lindsey Haskin, Director, writer, producer of Relentless
    • Jennifer Read, Ph.D., Director, University of Michigan Water Center
    • Frank Ettawageshik, President, American Association on Indian Affairs
    • Ellie Katz, moderator, Environment Reporter, Interlochen Public Radio

This is a free event. Space is limited. Reserve tickets at TCIAF.com.

NMC IAF Freshwater Focus Peter Annin

Global Water Tension & The Great Lakes Compact

Thursday, April 18, 5:30–8 p.m. (7 p.m. ET livestream)
Milliken Auditorium, Dennos Museum Center

Peter Annin will present a keynote address on Global Water Tension & The Great Lakes Compact. Annin is the director of the Mary Griggs Burke Center for Freshwater Innovation and the author of The Great Lakes Water Wars, the definitive work on the Great Lakes water diversion controversy. Before coming to Northland College in 2015, Peter served as a reporter at Newsweek, the associate director of the Institute for Journalism and Natural Resources, and the managing director of the University of Notre Dame’s Environmental Change Initiative. He continues to report on the Great Lakes water diversion issue and published the second edition of The Great Lakes Water Wars in the fall of 2018.

In his latest book, Purified: How Recycled Sewage Is Transforming Our Water, Annin shows that wastewater has become a surprising weapon in America’s war against water scarcity — and a potential global model for innovation.

The reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and will feature freshwater-related content from event partners NMC Great Lakes Water Studies Institute & Interlochen Public Radio. GLWSI will brief reception attendees on its new associate degree in water quality environmental technology — a.k.a. the Wet Tech degree. IPR will highlight its Great Lakes reporting via its Points North podcast team. These brief “breakout” presentations will be delivered in a gallery adjacent to the museum’s sculpture court.

The keynote address will follow at 7 p.m.

Admission is $15 per person. Admission is free for all students and educators. For tickets and all event details, visit TCIAF.com.

IAF logo

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) in education

Generative AI in education NMC GVSUGrand Valley State University is hosting a free community event in partnership with NMC where experts will share their experience with artificial intelligence in education.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked significant interest in the academic world, dominating headlines and becoming a focal point of academic discussions. A prevailing concern is that students may exploit AI to complete assignments and write papers. Instead of perceiving AI as a threat to academic integrity, it is crucial to acknowledge its potential as a tool and remain open to the possibilities it presents for enriching education. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, educators can leverage AI to complement traditional teaching methods, fostering a more dynamic and effective learning environment.

The discussion will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10. Register at gvsu.edu/traverse/ai to attend in person or join the livestream. Those joining in-person will meet in Room 07 (lower level) of the NMC University Center.