Current Initiatives - Opportunity, Empowerment, and People

Center for Community & Connection – A 360° support hub that provides resources, builds connections, and strengthens academic success, belonging, civic engagement, and personal confidence. Supported by the King Chavez Parks Select Student Services (KCP 4S), it serves NMU students, faculty, staff, and the Upper Peninsula community.

The Wildcat Collective: Leaders of Honor & Ambition Mentorship Program – A private and grant-funded mentorship program that empowers students and helps them build connections leading to careers in the Upper Peninsula.

MiLEAP Summer Housing Support Program – A grant-funded program offering resources and support for Pell-eligible and first-generation students to help them transition, succeed, and meet their goals.

King-Chavez-Parks (KCP) Select Student Support Services (4S) – Grant-funded initiatives that increase retention and graduation for students who are academically underprepared or socioeconomically disadvantaged.

King-Chavez-Parks (KCP) Visiting Professor Program – A grant-funded effort to increase instructional capacity and provide role models for academically or economically disadvantaged students. (Selection cannot be based on race, color, ethnicity, gender, or national origin.)

BIPOC Outdoors Summit – Encourages all participants to engage with the outdoors in ways that enrich their lives.

Cultural Initiatives – Programs that celebrate cultural traditions and affirm human differences.

Global Ecosystem – Partnerships with organizations at all levels to expand mentorship, leadership development, and career pathways.