Strategic Plan

The Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees approved 2019-20 room and board rates that are less than 1 percent higher than last year, despite inflationary cost adjustments and maintenance needs.

Five Green Fund project proposals for student-led sustainability initiatives on campus have been selected for implementation this year. They include pollinator habitats, bat boxes, a bike share program, birdfeeders, and apartment composting. The combined budget for all is nearly $27,000, and will be covered by the Green Fund, a student-paid fee that supports sustainable project ideas submitted by students from any major and approved through a selection process.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held March 11 for Gretchen's House-Marquette,  the newest satellite location for the Ann Arbor-based childcare provider, which is offered in partnership with Northern Michigan University. It is located close to campus in Messiah Lutheran Church, with its own secure entrance, three classrooms and two playgrounds.

Northern Michigan University's automotive technology program has received a brand new 2023 Ford Escape to further assist students in gaining hands-on experience with modern vehicle systems and technology they are likely to encounter in their careers. The vehicle was donated by Fox Marquette and Ford Motor Company, which also stand to benefit from the career preparation NMU provides for their potential future workforce of automotive technicians.

Northern Michigan University's 18th annual UNITED Conference will be held Monday and Tuesday, March 17-18, in the Northern Center. It revolves around the theme “Voices of the Earth: Learning, Leading and Advancing Equity Together.” Keynote speakers/presentations are: Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, author of this year's NMU Diversity Common Reader Program selection, “As We Have Always Done”; RJ Smith of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, who will address the traditional Anishinaabe game Bagodowe, or lacrosse; and an Anishinaabe theatrical performance.

The Northern Michigan University Center for Rural Health received the Nonprofit of the Year Award from the Upper Peninsula Economic Development Alliance. The award was presented to Director Elise Bur at Operation Action UP's annual meeting Feb. 13.