June 2019

Northern Michigan University Continuing Education and Workforce Development will host a free program for businesses looking to enter the defense and homeland security sectors from noon to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, in the Northern Center (formerly University Center). The registration deadline is July 17.

After a year-long hiatus, the One Book One Community program is making its comeback with a new name and new partner. Two Books Two Communities expands the 13-year program with two book selections—both about the Great Lakes—and a variety of events being held in both Marquette and Munising.

Northern Michigan University Professor Michael Joy is the new director of the NMU Honors Program after serving a decade as assistant director. 

Inspired by the death of a longtime friend at the age of 20—likely attributed in part to a sedentary, unhealthy lifestyle—exercise science graduate student Abdul Alaqil plans to focus his career on health promotion activities geared toward the pediatric population. He also established a foundation for that cause in his native Saudi Arabia.

NMU biology professors Alec Lindsay and Diana Lafferty recently led a group of 14 students, collectively known as Zambassadors, on a faculty-led study abroad trip in the south-central African nation of Zambia.

NMU Forest Roberts Theatre and Dance faculty members Bill Digneit, Paul Truckey and Jill Grundstrom recently ventured abroad with 15 students to London and Paris. The faculty led students on theatre and dance excursions ranging from traditional to experimental, as well as historical and cultural experiences. 

Due to popular demand, Northern Michigan University's Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center has added a second viewing of the film Anatomy of a Murder in the Marquette County Courthouse. Screenings are now scheduled at 1 p.m. Monday, July 1 and Tuesday, July 2.  Seating will be first come, first served, with a suggested donation of $5 at the door. 

The legacy of James Panowski—known fondly as “Dr. P”—will endure for many years at Northern Michigan University. Before his death in May 2018, the former director of Forest Roberts Theatre designated a bequest of more than $1 million to the Mildred and Albert Panowski Playwriting Award and the James A. Panowski Theatre Scholarship at NMU.