Berry to Receive Honorary Degree

John W. Berry Jr.
Apr. 21, 2022 —
John W. Berry Jr., a 1971 Northern Michigan University accounting and finance graduate who has supported his alma mater through student scholarships and athletic capital projects, will receive an honorary Doctor of Business degree at NMU's April 30 commencement. He will be recognized for his roles as a highly regarded business leader and philanthropist. Berry is a past recipient of Northern's highest alumni honor, the Distinguished Alumni Award.

NMU Assesses Mental Health Services

NMU logo at the Northern Center
Apr. 21, 2022 —
Northern Michigan University has started a comprehensive review of its mental health services. Former NMU Trustee Jim Haveman is leading the effort. He holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in social work, and previously served as director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. Haveman was also executive director of the Department of Mental Health, the Kent County Community Mental Health Program, and Project Rehab, a substance abuse program that was located in Grand Rapids. 

Smith Named Student Commencement Speaker

Hannah Smith
Apr. 21, 2022 —
Northern Michigan University graduating senior Hannah Smith of Waukesha, Wis., will be the student speaker at NMU's April 30 commencement. She will earn a bachelor's degree in multimedia journalism with a double minor in public relations and photography. Marquette native Andrew Vanwelsenaers will be the student soloist and receive a bachelor's degree in music. The baritone will lead the singing of the national anthem at the ceremony.

Snowaert Retires as Ishpeming Police Chief

Snowaert with his granchildren (and future Wildcats) Beckham and Harlow Bunting.
Apr. 20, 2022 —
Northern Michigan University alumnus Steven Snowaert has retired from the Ishpeming Police Department after a 39-year law enforcement career that began with NMU Public Safety. He also taught NMU criminal justice courses as an adjunct instructor. Snowaert had previously retired from the Marquette Police Department, where he spent 26 years in different capacities, before he was appointed as Ishpeming police chief in 2017.