NMU undergraduates have the opportunity to travel to workshops, seminars and conferences across the globe, as both attendees and presenters. Alumni and other friends of NMU have supported this part of the student experience through donations both large and small to the Northern Fund. This academic year, the Northern Fund is able to provide $30,000 in support of student travel.

“Student travel was selected as having an area of greatest need for donor funds this year,” said Robyn Stille (NMU Advancement). “These gifts are making it possible for the university to maintain traditional funding levels for student travel in the face of budget challenges. Priority for funds is given to students who have been invited to present a paper at a professional conference directly related to their academic discipline. Secondary priority is given to students who request funds to participate in leadership or professional development activities related to their student organization.

To obtain funds, the student(s) or organization must complete all parts of the online application form and return it to the department head of the adviser/faculty member. Then the applications are reviewed by the respective dean for approval and recommended award amount. The student/organization, adviser and departmental support staff will be notified by email whether or not their request has been approved and the amount approved. Students must then work with their department and adviser/faculty member to finalize travel arrangements prior to departure. If a request is approved, the approved amount will be transferred to the appropriate departmental account following the participant(s)’ return travel.

The online policy and application are available athttp://www.nmu.edu/foundation/sites/DrupalFoundation/files/UserFiles/PDFs/STUDENT_TRAVEL_FUND_POLICY_2015-16.pdf.