MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Friday afternoon on Northern Michigan University’s campus, an investiture was held, celebrating the new 17th President of NMU Dr. Brock Tessmen, and the new era of NMU. The investiture ceremony celebrated the 17th President of Northern Michigan University, Dr. Brock Tessman.
Around 124 student leaders were brought to the ceremony, representing the number of years that the University has been in existence. Even students from Graveraet Elementary presented the pledge of allegiance.
Dr. Tessman began his tenure as NMU’s 17th president on Feb. 1 and commented that he’s normally not short on words, but Friday’s ceremony had him by surprise. “I’m not someone who’s normally overcome by the moment I really enjoy that kind of thrill and today was thrilling but it’s such a big day so there was a lot of reflection and a couple of moments where it felt a bit overwhelming and I’ll tell you that’s part of the magic of this kind of day. To be able to get up there and actually have the students up there was really special and to be able to share the stage with fantastic colleagues it was an amazing day,” commented Dr. Tessman.
Faculty, Student representatives, and even past colleagues spoke about Dr. Tessman’s dedication. One Mentee, Chad Peltier, who traveled from Atlanta, Georgia noted that the guidance that was passed down from the new university president was about the community and that Dr. Tessman is “truly committed to the holistic wellbeing of everyone that he interacts with”.
“My story as a Mentee was almost unanimous among all of his students so many people would stay after class just to get his thoughts on anything..and I think that he has that gravity that will bring people together around a common vision,” continued Peltier.
The newest president spent his time on stage speaking about the experience he would like to create at NMU, but he also stressed the importance of looking to the future as a campus and as a Northern community. “I’m also an alum and so for me, it’s extra special I know that this place is special so when other people and outsiders see how special it is it feels uplifting,” commented NMU faculty Dr. Jess Thompson.
“The future is wide open this place has got you we’re here to support you and I mean ultimately we all have to craft our own future right but this is a place where it’s ok to fail get back up quickly and you’ve got a support system to help you on your way to your dreams,” continued Tessman.
The investiture activities will end with President Tessman’s Trail Run (5K) and Walk (one mile) on Saturday, Sept. 30. Registration and the kickoff begin at 9 a.m. and the events start at 10.
