Around NMU

Northern Michigan University professor James McCommons recently published a definitive biography of George Shiras III (1859-1942), the groundbreaking wildlife photographer who honed his techniques in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. But that work often overshadows perhaps Shiras' most notable achievement: establishing the legal foundation for what became the Migratory Bird Treaty Act while serving in Congress. 

Northern Michigan University graduating students have selected Health and Human Performance professor Scott Jordan to serve as the faculty speaker at December commencement. 

Connor Loftus of Plainwell, Mich., has been selected as the student commencement speaker for the Dec. 14 graduation ceremony at Northern Michigan University. 

"The New York Times" recently featured a piece written by Northern Michigan University English professor Rachel May titled "Love is Not a Tally Sheet." May reflected on adopting a son born prematurely, against her parents' strong objections, and what single parenting taught her about accepting help. May is the author of "An American Quilt" and is working on a memoir. 

Apple pie is a popular dessert served at many holiday celebrations. The regional cultivation history of the fruit, from native crab apples to modern hobby orchards, is the subject of a book co-authored by NMU professor of history emeritus Russ Magnaghi and alumnus David Smith (‘18 BS). Apple Culture in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Wisconsin Border is described as the first study dealing with an aspect of agriculture in an area better known for mining and timber.

Fueled by the rapid growth of its first-in-the-nation medicinal plant chemistry program, Northern Michigan University recently held a dedication for its new Shimadzu Analytical Core Laboratory for Medicinal Plant Sciences. Undergraduate students in the rigorous chemistry program have rare access to cutting-edge instrumentation and technology applicable to numerous career options in and beyond the burgeoning cannabis industry. 

Northern Michigan University theater and dance students will celebrate their accomplishments and showcase their talents through their senior capstone performances on Monday, Dec. 2.

Northern Michigan University's School of Music, Theatre and Dance will present a holiday cabaret of musical and dance performances from a variety of bonafide holiday classics on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Northern Center. 

Northern Michigan University offers the top accredited RN to BSN program in Michigan, according to 2020 rankings compiled by nursingprocess.org. NMU's fully online program can be completed in as little as four semesters. It allows registered nurses to increase their earnings potential and create pathways to graduate education and leadership positions while gaining skills applicable to their current workplace.  

Northern Michigan University will host its 32nd annual Lighting Up the Holidays from 4-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, at the new Northern Center. It is free and open to the public.