June 2023

The Two Books Two Communities committee is pleased to announce its 2023 selections: Chevy in the Hole, a novel set in Flint, Mich., by Kelsey Ronan; and A Psalm for the Wild-Built, a “solar punk” sci fi novella set on a rewilding moon by Becky Chambers. The Two Books Two Communities program fosters a sense of community by bringing together Northern Michigan University and Marquette and Alger County readers. Community members can add these titles to their summer reading lists in order to join the conversation at related events this fall.

NMU 1970 art education alumnus John Prusak, who became a legend for growing the filmmaking community in his hometown of Detroit and launching the careers of Oscar winners, is featured in a posthumous tribute article in the June issue of HOUR DETROIT magazine. His 60 film credits included camera operator for Michael Moore's Roger & Me, but most were for local, independent projects that often related to the city he loved. For a half century, Prusak also was an instrumental member of the Royal Oak-based nonprofit Digital Arts, Film & Television (DAFT), which offers related training for students and teachers.

Northern Michigan University's Young Wildcat Scholars (YWS) program resumed last month after a three-year hiatus related to the pandemic. YWS brings together 6th graders from all of NMU's charter schools to help them gain a better understanding of higher education and what Northern and the Marquette community have to offer.  About 300 students participated in educational opportunities and group social activities.

NMU alumnus Scott Grajewski was appointed earlier this year as director of the Blackman-Leoni Department of Public Safety of Jackson County, Mich. The Blackman Township native has been employed with the department for more than 27 years. He returned to his hometown after graduating from Northern in 1993 with a bachelor's degree in justice studies and public relations. 

Northern Michigan University alumnus and Marquette County Sheriff Greg Zyburt was reappointed to the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. He represents the Michigan Sheriffs' Association and his term expires Dec. 31, 2026.

Northern Michigan University 2013 alumnus Ben Argall, an Ishpeming realtor who has been flipping houses for the past six years, is featured on the new season of HGTV's “Battle on the Beach.” He and area licensed contractor Pete Meldrum represent one of three teams competing in weekly renovation challenges across three seaside homes in Gulf Shores, Ala. Argall and Meldrum won the bedroom challenge in the second episode that aired June 11.

Northern Michigan University is offering “Summer of STEM College for Kids” programs for students in K-6 and 7-8. Classes are offered June 26-30 and July 10-14.

Northern Michigan University alumnus John Ziemba, who earned a Master of Arts in Education (MAE) in educational administration/supervision in 2004, has received the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from Bay College in Escanaba. He has been teaching in Manistique for 24 years, and is most well-known for being an MHSAA official for baseball, softball and volleyball. 

Northern Michigan University Theatre & Dance will present Rock of Ages, a gritty and glamorous jukebox musical about the tail end of the classic ‘80s rock & roll era in Hollywood. The production is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. June 14-17 and 21-24 in Forest Roberts Theatre. It marks the directorial debut of NMU adjunct assistant professor Kristen Beth Williams, who is also choreographing the show. Beyond her educator role, she is a professional actor/singer/dancer with an extensive career spanning Broadway, national tours and regional theaters across the country. 

Northern Michigan University alumni and friends are invited to meet with NMU President Brock Tessman and connect with other Wildcats at a reception-style event in Gladstone on Wednesday, June 14. The event, which includes a university update from Tessman and complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages, will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. EST at the Terrace Bay Hotel.