Exciting Changes Ahead: NMC Moves University Partners to Main Campus and Explores Innovative Ideas for the University Center Building

The Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) University Center is entering a new chapter. NMC President Nick Nissley announced via email that university partners will move to the main campus on Front Street this spring, with courses starting there in the fall. This shift opens exciting opportunities for the University Center building, which will be renamed the Boardman Lake Campus. NMC plans to repurpose it in ways that better serve students and the community.

The University Center has been a key part of NMC’s mission for 30 years. When it opened in 1995, community colleges in Michigan couldn’t offer bachelor’s degrees. This center allowed local students to pursue advanced education without leaving the area. Over the years, it hosted over 40 programs from various respected Michigan universities, helping around 10,000 students earn degrees ranging from bachelor’s to doctoral levels.

Currently, NMC partners with five universities: Ferris State, Grand Valley State, Michigan State, Central Michigan, and Davenport. By this fall, their services will be based in the Beckett Building on the main campus. “This move has been a top priority,” said Laura Oblinger, chair of the NMC Board of Trustees. She noted students have been seeking a more vibrant campus life, and the partners want closer interaction with students attending NMC.

Oblinger, an NMC alumna who completed her associate’s degree and advanced studies through the University Center, believes this new arrangement will enhance visibility for NMC’s university partners and the opportunities they offer. “When I was in college, having access to bachelor’s programs nearby was crucial,” she recalled. “Now, students will see those opportunities right here in Traverse City.”

What lies ahead for the University Center building? Nissley mentioned that the board will soon discuss options for the property. They could lease it, sell it, or develop it further. Community interest has buzzed around the idea of turning it into housing, similar to the conversion of another local building. However, Nissley cautioned that repurposing office space can be challenging. “We’re open to ideas but recognize the difficulties,” he added.

To gather community input, Oblinger promised future public engagement sessions. “We value this property and want to make sure it continues to benefit the community,” she said. As the Boardman Lake Loop Trail adds beauty to the surroundings, there’s a strong belief that the campus can evolve into something new and beneficial.

With higher education continuing to change, NMC’s transitions highlight the importance of local access to learning. This pivot may transform not just the institution but also the surrounding community. For more details about NMC’s programs and developments, visit their official website.

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