Around NMU

NMU Honors Alumni Award Winners

From left: Nelsen, Butler, NMU President Fritz Erickson, Millner and Schloegel. Patrick did not attend, but submitted her comments via video.
Sep. 27, 2018 —

Five Northern Michigan University alumni were honored during Homecoming festivities Sept. 21-22 for significant achievements in their fields, substantial contributions to society and demonstrated exceptional leadership and civic qualities. The recipients and their awards were: Keith Nelsen (’86 BS) of Minneapolis, Minn., and Scott Schloegel (’90 BS) of Springfield, Va., Distinguished Alumni; Beth Millner (’08 BFA) of Marquette, Outstanding Young Alumni; Michele Butler (’76 BS, ’78 MAE) of Marquette, Alumni Community Service; and Skye Patrick of Downey, Calif., Alumni Achievement.

New Wildcat Statue Unveiled

Wildcat statue
Sep. 21, 2018 —
Northern’s new bronze wildcat statue, a much-anticipated addition to the campus landscape, was unveiled and dedicated Sept. 21. The statue was made possible through a gift from the estate of former NMU Board of Trustees chair and longtime NMU supporter Gil Ziegler (’60 BS).

NMU Receives Grant for Rooftop Solar Project

The future rooftop solar installation will complement another Green Fund project on campus: this ground-based solar array near the Athletics Complex.
Apr. 18, 2025 —
Northern Michigan University has received a $100,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) to install a rooftop solar array at the campus WellBeing Center. The project will provide reliable renewable energy and reduce utility costs for the university, said NMU Assistant Vice President for Sustainability Jes Thompson. NMU was one of 21 statewide recipients of MDARD grants to promote the sustainability of land-based industries and support infrastructure that benefits rural communities.

NMU Hosts First 'Water is Life' Festival

Water is Life Festival graphic
Apr. 17, 2025 —
Northern Michigan University's Center for Native American Studies will host Marquette's first "Water is Life Festival" on Friday, April 25. The event will bring together Indigenous teachers, local and regional musicians, performance artists, visual and material artists, and grassroots environmental advocates from throughout the Upper Peninsula. Admission to all activities is free.

Education Students Visit Wisconsin Schools

Students at Preble High School
Apr. 17, 2025 —
Students from Northern Michigan University's School of Education recently traveled to Wisconsin to observe a variety of educational settings as part of a course-related field experience. The group was divided among three schools that represent a broad spectrum of student populations, offering NMU teacher candidates the opportunity to engage with diverse educational environments. They visited Danz Elementary School and Preble High School in Green Bay, and Syble Hopp School in nearby De Pere. 

NMU Hosts Career Day April 23

NMU academic logo
Apr. 17, 2025 —
Northern Michigan University will host Career Day for about 1,000 students from more than 20 high schools across the Upper Peninsula on Wednesday, April 23. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northern Center. Students will have an opportunity to chat about career and educational opportunities with representatives of 45 participating employers and many of NMU's academic departments. 

Employee Awards Presented

Excellence in Service Award recipients (from left): Dave Bohrer, Cara Kamps, Ken Love, Carley Leanes, Lucas Abromowitz, Andrea Hammond, Paul Ritari and Cam Hadley
Apr. 16, 2025 —
Northern Michigan University honored several individuals and teams during its 2025 Faculty and Staff Recognition Celebration, held April 9. The event recognized individual and team award winners, along with employees reaching years of service milestones and recent retirees.

NMU Giving Day April 17

NMU Giving Day graphic
Apr. 16, 2025 —
Northern Michigan University will close out its 125th anniversary celebration with NMU Giving Day on Thursday, April 17. This year's theme, “Give to What You Love,” encourages Wildcats and friends to show the power of collective generosity and champion the causes they are particularly passionate about, such as student experiences, research, departments and programs, or athletics.