Northern Michigan University Director of Choirs Erin Colwitz has been selected to conduct the SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass) High School Honors Choir at the 20th annual Michigan Music Conference Jan. 23-25 in Grand Rapids.  She will guide some of the best singers in the state through a rigorous 2.5 days of rehearsal in preparation for their performance at the closing concert of the event, which is hosted by the Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA).

Northern Michigan University Biology Professor Emeritus Neil Cumberlidge is a coauthor of a global study published in Nature and covered by hundreds of news outlets worldwide that asserts one of every four freshwater animal species is at risk of extinction. Led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is the largest study of its kind and represents 20 years of research by experts in relevant animal groups.

Northern Michigan University freshman biology student Easton Zivnoska is working to counter negative stereotype of reptiles. He hosts educational reptile shows for grade school classes, small gatherings and loved ones' events. 

Northern Michigan University alumnus Michael Plourde has been chosen as the new superintendent of Meridian Community Unit School District #223 in Illinois, effective July 1. He earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics/secondary education with a minor in geography/secondary education from NMU in 2005. 

Northern Michigan University 1997 social work alumna Jamie Langley serves as an in-school social worker for East Jackson Community Schools in Michigan, assisting kids through mental health issues and helping families find resources. She was the subject of a recent "Meet the Teacher" media profile on MLive.com.