January 2023

Northern Michigan University's DeVos Art Museum is accepting submissions through March 22 for the 2023 “North of the 45th: 16th Annual Upper Midwest Juried Exhibition." Artists living in Michigan, Wisconsin or Minnesota north of the 45th parallel are invited to submit their work.

Northern Michigan University 1987 financial management alumnus Joe Havican has joined First Bank's Marquette office as vice president, commercial loan officer. According to a press release, he has worked in commercial lending for 20 years, establishing business relationships in the Marquette and surrounding areas.

Northern Michigan University Executive Chef Alden MacDonald recently became a Certified Executive Chef through the American Culinary Federation, a high honor and ranking reserved for an elite group of chefs nationwide.

Northern Michigan University and its Technical, Office and Professional (TOP) union, UAW Local 1950, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Jan. 24 that will accelerate the previously negotiated wage increase timeline by more than three years. The MOU increases the minimum hourly rate from $12.75 to $15.10, effective immediately. About 70% of members will receive some boost in hourly pay.

Northern Michigan University Theatre & Dance will present its inaugural CO/LAB Company full-length performance, a vibrant dance showcase featuring a variety of styles and three pieces choreographed by NMU students. The schedule includes 7:30 p.m. performances Feb. 2-4 in Forest Roberts Theatre, and a 1 p.m. sensory-friendly Theatre for All matinee on Feb. 4.

When NMU alumnus Charlie Shahbazian registers for this weekend's Noquemanon Ski Marathon, the bib he picks up will include the word “Founder” below the number. This indicates that he has participated in every Noque—in person or virtually—since the event was established 25 years ago. Skate skiing is not his only passion. Shahbazian also competes in orienteering events around the world. His interest in both activities began as a student at Northern.

Northern Michigan University 2006 alumnus Chris Kelm is leading the North American sales division for The Vollrath Company, a global leader in the foodservice equipment industry. He earned a bachelor's degree in information systems, with a concentration in information tech marketing.

Mary (Aho) Brunet, a 1991 Northern Michigan University graduate with a bachelor's degree in management, received the Hankookin Heikki Award for preserving and promoting Finnish culture in the Copper Country.

Seven Northern Michigan University faculty members have been selected to receive 2023 Faculty Research Grants. The awards of $7,000 each support scholarly activities such as publications, the creation of artistic works, manuscript development and research projects. The recipients and their project titles are:

Current and recently admitted Northern Michigan University students are invited to apply for NMU Foundation donor-funded scholarships for the 2023-24 school year. About 500 scholarships are available. The application system is open through Monday, Feb. 20.