Important Message from the NMC President regarding Global Initiatives

NMC community:

One of the greatest characteristics of NMC and our community of learners is the foundational values and beliefs upon which we rely. Among those are beliefs that we must prepare our learners to be successful in a global economy and society, that we value all people, that we will seek others who share these thoughts and collaborate with them to improve learning and understanding.

Since I became president of NMC in 2001 I have remained dedicated to the belief that our students must have access to international experiences. This belief is such an integral part of who we are, and what we do, that it is written into our Strategic Directions. I personally believe so strongly in the importance of a global experience that my wife Nancy and I established the Global Opportunities Fund. With support from many others, that fund has awarded more than $100,000 to over 200 of our learners allowing them to experience our world first hand. Additionally, the NMC Board adopted a strategic goal to have 5% of our students be international, thus enriching our capacities to share those experiences and to understand the values we each have.

The uncertainty caused by the recent executive order signed by the President of the United States on Friday does not change those values nor my belief in them. I want you each to know the following:

• NMC is committed to preparing our students for success in a global society and economy.
• NMC values all people.
• NMC expects people to operate in a civil manner and work to build collaborative relationships.
• NMC values the importance of people with ideas that differ from our own and encourages open dialogue and discussion to achieve learning.

As a point of information, NMC currently has no students from the countries listed in the executive order. We always have and will protect and support students, faculty, staff and members of the community and work with them within the context of applicable laws.

What this executive order actually means and how it will be applied over the next 90 days is still unfolding. As things become clearer, I will continue to communicate with you on what it means for our community. It is my promise to you that NMC will continue to value all people and work to connect our learners with the world. I ask you to make the same commitment for the good of our community.

Thank you.
Tim

Timothy J. Nelson, President
1701 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI
Phone: (231) 995-1010