Board Approves New Comp Package

The NMU Board of Trustees today unanimously approved a new compensation package for President Les Wong. It will go into effect July 1, the date his original three-year agreement is set to expire. Wong’s base salary will increase from $170,000 to $185,000. Full Story

Leach Promoted

Gavin Leach has been appointed vice president for Finance and Administration and treasurer of the NMU Board of Trustees, effective July 1. He takes over the duties of Mike Roy, who will be named special projects consultant until his planned 2008 retirement. Full Story

Pool Safety Assured, Longevity Uncertain

The owner of an older car determined to “drive her ‘til she dies” faces the nagging questions of how long it will keep running and whether major repairs to an aging vehicle are worth the investment. Northern officials have reached a similar point with the PEIF pool.

The 31-year-old facility is nearing the end of its lifespan. It would take an estimated $2 million to renovate, which isn’t feasible in the current economic climate. But the pool will stay open as long as it poses no harm to users. Full Story

State Budget Expert Paints Grim Picture

Michigan is the only state in the country experiencing an “incessant deterioration” in economic activity – a problem it can’t expect to “grow out of” with accelerated revenues or solve with spending cuts alone. That was the overriding message from Thomas Clay of the Citizens Research Center. He said it will take both of those options, along with increased taxes, to bring Michigan out of its recession. Full Story

Heating Plant Shutdown

The annual Ripley Heating Plant shutdown for maintenance on the university’s boilers and steam distribution system will take effect at 10 p.m. Friday, May 11, and continue through Sunday, May 13.

No heat, hot water or central air conditioning will be available during this period. All buildings are impacted, with the exception of campus housing west of Lincoln Avenue. Questions or concerns can be addressed to Plant Operations at ext. 2292.

Commencement Available via Streaming Video

Northern will offer live streaming video of commencement for the first time, allowing relatives and friends who can’t attend the May 5 ceremony to watch it remotely via the Internet. The high-tech option is made possible through Northern’s existing partnership with B2 Networks, a company founded by an NMU alumnus that provides Internet broadcasts of Wildcat athletic events. Full Story

Iolanthe Features NMU Faculty

Northern faculty members are playing prominent roles, on stage and behind the scenes, in the upcoming production of Iolanthe. Robert Engelhart (music) is directing the Gilbert and Sullivan comedic opera.

Cast members (pictured left to right at a recent rehearsal) include Chet Defonso (History) as Lord High Chancellor, Kathy Saville (AIS-Instructional Technology) as the fairy queen and Andy Poe (Mathematics and Computer science) as Lord Mountararat. Deb Choszczyk (HPER) provided the choreography. Iolanthe will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 17 through Saturday, May 19, with a Saturday matinee at 1 p.m. Tickets are $16 for the public or $10 for seniors, children under 13 and NMU students. They are available at all EZ ticket outlets.

Employees Honored at Luncheon

Northern faculty, staff and retirees were honored at the annual recognition luncheon April 24. Some reached milestones for years of employment.

Others earned awards for excellence in service and distinguished team service. The award winners are profiled here.

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A bamboo-plated counter houses an array of sushi and beverages. Asian characters line the wall and bamboo curtains serve as a backdrop.

This is not your typical office, but this is where Robin Rahoi (Dining Services) spends most of her time. She exudes energy and is usually seen smiling as she manages Temaki and Tea, Starbucks and Fieras. Full Story