February 2022

A timely and relevant presentation on Russia and U.S. relations, including the impacts of the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, will kick off a series of three Zoom presentations with international experts hosted by Northern Michigan University's Political Science Department. 

NMU alumnus Elmer Aho of Gwinn, who passed away Feb. 20 at age 90, was a familiar fixture on local radio as the host of American Country Gold. For three decades on Saturday nights, the Marquette Music Hall of Fame inductee shared classic country tunes, told home-spun stories and played listener requests. Aho's legacy and voice will linger through a special tribute program being planned on 103 WFXD, along with continuing broadcasts of his archived shows.

The Northern Michigan University Orchestra children's concert originally scheduled for tonight has been postponed by inclement weather that closed the university. The new date will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 7, in Reynolds Recital Hall. 

As Northern Michigan University transitions to new leadership, an interim strategic plan is being developed that identifies five focus areas and related goals and strategies, along with the faculty and administrative chairs who will lead focus area teams. NMU faculty, staff and students will have an opportunity to provide feedback on plan draft elements at engagement sessions scheduled at various times March 14-18. 

Former Northern Michigan University President John X. Jamrich passed away Sunday, Feb. 20, in Savannah, Ga., at the age of 101. He served as NMU's eighth president from 1968 until his retirement in 1983. His 15-year tenure—the third-longest of any Northern president—was marked by tremendous growth in enrollment, academic programs and community outreach.

In an effort to ensure active engagement among all constituency groups, the Presidential Search Advisory Committee (PSAC) at Northern Michigan University has revised its timeline. Campus interviews with finalists will take place in September, with NMU's next president ideally selected by the end of that month, shortly after Homecoming.

Northern Michigan University's Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble will present a concert at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21, at Reynolds Recital Hall. Admission is free and masks are required for all individuals inside NMU facilities. 

Northern Michigan University alumna Melissa “Missie” Holmquist has been appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to the NMU Board of Trustees. She is the president and CEO of Upper Peninsula Health Plan (UPHP) in Marquette.

Northern Michigan University students have access to NMU alumni around the world on Wildcats Connect, an online platform for sharing information, asking/offering advice, building relationships and more. Faculty and staff are also welcome to participate.