May 8, 2002

NMC graduation family affair

Area mothers, sisters and sons receive degrees together

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
       Graduation will be a family affair when Northwestern Michigan College holds their commencement ceremonies this Saturday.
      Marcia Schwind, who was named Adult Student of the Year at NMC, will not only be a proud graduate, but also a proud mom. Her daughters Brenda and Karen will be receiving diplomas along side her.
      "It has been a lot of hard work, but I'm glad it is coming to an end and we are all able to do this together, it's just a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Marcia who returned to school in 1996 - just to take a class or two.
      "I started by taking an accounting class to improve my skills but I felt like technology was advancing so fast that I was moving backward, not forward, so I just decided to go ahead and get the degree," Marcia noted.
      She will receive an associate's degree in applied science-office information systems.
      "Mom has always encouraged us to go to college, she is our inspiration, we have always been there for each other," said Brenda who will be receiving an associate's degree in science.
      Brenda has attended more than her share of graduation ceremonies. She also has an associate of arts degree as well as a bachelor of social work and a bachelor in elementary education.
      "When I went back to school to study education through Grand Valley at the University Center, I had to take a couple of required classes through NMC. My sister discovered I only needed one more class to receive the second associate's degree and I would be able to graduate with my mom and sister, so I went for it," Brenda noted.
      Karen, who will receive an associate of arts for education degree, seems to be following in her sister's footsteps. This is the second associate's degree she has earned, the first was in applied science. She is currently studying for a bachelor's degree in elementary education through Grand Valley State University and NMC's University Center.
      "I think this is phenomenal, it means the world to me to be able to do this with my mom and sister. I think the world of both of them," Karen said.
      The Schwind's of Traverse City are not the only family that will be celebrating their accomplishments this weekend.
      Marie Potter of Bellaire and her son, Bill will receive associate's degrees Saturday.
      Marie, who was laid off from her job after 22 years, decided to go back to school just as her son was entering NMC.
      "It means a lot to me, we have both worked very hard for this," said Marie who will receive an associate's degree in applied science from the culinary arts program. She is working as head chef at Woodside Village in Traverse City.
      Her son, Bill, will receive an associate of applied science in resort management-lodging. He plans to continue his education at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota.
      The family duo of Teresa Nowland and her son, Seth, of Cadillac, are also among Saturday's graduates. Teresa will receive L.P.N. certification and Seth has earned an associate of arts degree.