Articles

Northern's Mascot Evolution

Northern's iconic, modern-era Wildcat Willy mascot was first conceived in 1984, when then-hockey coach and current athletic director Rick Comley tapped student Jay McQuillan to pioneer a design for a suited figure that would energize the environment at athletic events, increase school spirit and provide a unified look for all NMU teams. But an early incarnation of a mascot was actually a live female bobcat named … Bobby.
The current, iconic Wildcat Willy mascot

NMU's U.S. News Rankings Released

U.S. News & World Report released its Best Colleges rankings for 2024. Among Midwest regional universities, Northern Michigan University tied for both 20th in top public schools and 67th best overall. It also tied for 31st among best colleges for veterans, and ranks 62nd in the best value schools category. See the full rankings here.
NMU academic logo

Persons Receives Outstanding Young Alumni Award

“I grew up learning that all people deserve an opportunity and that we have a responsibility to each other to create those opportunities when we can. I grew up seeing that strength doesn't come from wielding power, but from empowering people. I grew up experiencing the impact of sitting at tables big enough for everybody and every voice. And I've made it my personal and professional mission to make sure that wherever I go, I continue to build big enough tables for everyone.”
NMU President Brock Tessman with Megan Persons

McAllister Earns Outstanding Young Alumni Award

Northern Michigan University 2010 biochemistry alumnus Ryan McAllister of Roselle, N.J., received one of two Outstanding Young Alumni Awards presented by his alma mater during its 125th Anniversary Homecoming. He serves as biosafety program manager, biosafety officer and alternate responsible official at Rutgers University. He leads a team of seven infectious disease professionals, overseeing biohazardous research in diverse laboratory and clinical settings.
Ryan McAllister