Alumni

Northern Michigan University 2019 alumnus Ian Altobello is the owner of The Boreal Collective, which was nominated for a MarTech award for the “most innovative creative marketing company” of 2024 within the state of Michigan by Innovation In Business. Altobello earned his bachelor's degree in communication studies, with a minor in marketing.

An innovative technology prototype developed by alumni-owned, Marquette-based Kall Morris Inc. (KMI) arrived at the International Space Station for testing earlier this week. The company's REACCH capture and effector uses gecko-inspired adhesion to secure and selectively release space objects of nearly any shape, size or surface condition without causing damage. With this mission, KMI advances its goal of developing a full-scale debris removal spacecraft known as Laelaps. It also reinforces the company's commitment to “keeping space clear for all,” enhancing safety for future space exploration, and advancing in-space servicing and manufacturing.

Northern Michigan University 2019 alumnus Scott Crady is a photographer and mountain athlete who specializes in adventure photography. His career has taken him around the globe, including the Arctic, Central America and Asia. In November, he will be adding the South Pacific to his list, specifically Papua New Guinea and Fiji.

Former Northern Michigan University President and 1973 NMU alumna Kerri Schuiling is one of two recipients of the 2024 Dorothea M. Lang Pioneer Award—the most prestigious honor presented by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) Foundation. The award is named for the late past president of the ACNM and ACNM Foundation, who advanced the profession in countless ways for decades. It recognizes exceptional individuals in the field who have exhibited vision, leadership and innovation.

Northern Michigan University alumni and friends are invited to join President Brock Tessman and fellow Wildcats at a Detroit Red Wings game on Saturday, Nov. 9, for NMU Night at Little Caesars Arena. Alumni Relations will also host a pre-game gathering with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar at the Tin Roof.

“I grew up learning that all people deserve an opportunity and that we have a responsibility to each other to create those opportunities when we can. I grew up seeing that strength doesn't come from wielding power, but from empowering people. I grew up experiencing the impact of sitting at tables big enough for everybody and every voice. And I've made it my personal and professional mission to make sure that wherever I go, I continue to build big enough tables for everyone.”

Northern Michigan University presented its Distinguished Alumni Award to Ann (Wheeler) Cashin and Patrick Cashin of Port Washington, Wis., during NMU's 125th Anniversary Homecoming Sept. 20-21. The retired optometrists, whose careers were closely intertwined, became the first joint recipients of the award in the university's history.

Northern Michigan University 2010 biochemistry alumnus Ryan McAllister of Roselle, N.J., received one of two Outstanding Young Alumni Awards presented by his alma mater during its 125th Anniversary Homecoming. He serves as biosafety program manager, biosafety officer and alternate responsible official at Rutgers University. He leads a team of seven infectious disease professionals, overseeing biohazardous research in diverse laboratory and clinical settings.

Jim Thorburn of Livonia, Mich., a decorated police officer whose law enforcement career spanned nearly 30 years, accepted Northern Michigan University's Alumni Achievement Award during a 125th anniversary Homecoming celebration. He was a two-time Police Officer of the Year, and retired in 2022 as a detective and public information officer for the Allen Park Police Department. It was in the latter role that he helped to bridge the divide between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

After retiring as a university administrator, Northern Michigan University alumnus and former Wildcat football player Jim Mansfield found fulfillment in his longtime volunteer role as a blood courier in Spokane, Wash. He was honored last year with a President's Lifetime Achievement Award, signed by Joe Biden, for his “7,304 hours of service to this nation.” He also received every award bestowed by his local blood center for his efforts.