February 24, 2025

In a world where voices seem to be getting louder all the time, there are still leaders who speak softly and lead with their actions. Deborah Page-Dumroese and Kasten Dumroese, two superstar scientists with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, are that kind of leader — and when they choose to speak, their message echoes with the depth of their authority and expertise.

Known as Deb and Kas to the generations of researchers, planners, managers and other professionals whose lives they have touched, these Michigan Tech alumni have built agency-leading, internationally known programs that will continue to define how the Forest Service does its work for years, if not decades, into the future.

Read about their legacies in soil science, reforestation and nursery management in the 2024 Re:Generations Magazine.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is requesting proposals from colleges and universities to provide academic research on a wide variety of research topics through a master contract. Contracts will include research support, implementation and technology transfer and education activities to address specific research issues identified by MnDOT. The list of topics is extensive and goes beyond typical transportation research.

The Michigan Tech Transportation Institute (MTTI) currently has multiple projects with MnDOT and we are planning to purse a master contract renewal in cooperation with our Sponsored Programs Office (SPO). We would like your assistance in identifying those project areas of transportation which are of interest to you. A response is required by tomorrow, Feb. 25, for inclusion in this proposal.

A list of potential topic areas is included in the MnDOT Master Agreement Participant form. Please identify those areas of research you may wish to collaborate on in the future. Note that in identifying these topics, the RFP calls for additional information which must be provided by each of you, including: 1) skills, training, experience, ability, facilities and equipment available; 2) examples of similar work in the past three years; and 3) hard copies of resumes (three pages maximum). Pam Hannon will be in touch with you to collect that information after submission of this form.

Entering the information into this document does not obligate you in any way, but without a renewal of the master contract, Michigan Tech will not be qualified to receive RFP requests from MnDOT. Please respond by tomorrow to be included.

The Keweenaw Invasive Species Management Area (KISMA) is encouraging everyone to participate in National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW). By participating in NISAW events, you can learn about how to stop the spread of invasive species and help to protect our natural ecosystems for the benefit of everyone. Invasive species impact everyone, and the longer we ignore the problem, the harder it will be to solve. Preventing new invasive species and managing the species we have benefits us, the outdoor places we love and the species that rely on those ecosystems.

The Keweenaw is an amazing place to recreate, with hiking, kayaking, boating, snowshoeing, bird watching, fishing and disc golfing. There is something for everyone to enjoy, but the spread of invasive species can put those activities at risk or lessen our enjoyment of them — think about spiny barberry harboring ticks where you like to hike or invasive Eurasian watermilfoil getting stuck in your propeller and decreasing fish habitat!

NISAW is an international event to raise awareness about invasive species, the threats they pose and what can be done to prevent their spread. According to the Journal of Extension’s article “Invasive Species Terminology: Standardizing for Stakeholder Education,” Invasive species are species that are non-native to a specific geographic area, were introduced by humans (intentionally or unintentionally), and can cause harm to the environment, economy or human health. Without predators, competitors or diseases to keep their populations in check, invasive species outcompete native species and disrupt healthy habitats.

This year, NISAW is the week of Feb. 24-28 with the theme “Enhancing North American Biosecurity to Protect Against Invasive Species” and a special emphasis on cross-border management efforts. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, biosecurity is a series of management practices designed to prevent the introduction, delivery and spread of disease pathogens that can harm or adversely affect livestock, crops, environments and people.

The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) hosts many educational webinars during the week of NISAW. To view the full topic list and register for these webinars, visit the National Invasive Species Awareness Week website. 

NISAW also provides an opportunity for organizations to hold formal briefings for Congressional staff to educate and inform on a specific topic or bill. They provide the opportunity for individuals and organizations to meet with their elected officials to talk about invasive species legislation, funding, policy and management. NISAW gives you the chance to learn more about invasive species and their spread, and gives you the chance to tell others about the importance of managing these species for the benefit of our natural resources and us.

To support NISAW, there are many things you can do! 

Invasive species prevention and management encompass a wide range of topics: 

• Lake and wetland protection — Clean, drain and dry all watercraft, trailers and equipment when boating or fishing. Comply with watercraft inspection and decontamination requirements. Clean your fishing equipment and don’t dump live bait.

• Forest insects and disease prevention — Buy firewood where you’ll burn it or gather on-site when permitted.

• Invasive plant prevention and management — Clean your hiking boots, waders, boats and trailers, off-road vehicles, and other gear in between outings. Take extra care when traveling, gardening or moving plant material, and buy your plants from a reputable source. Plant native species to support your local ecosystem, and avoid using invasive plant species.

• Ask your political representatives at the local, state and national levels to support funding for invasive species prevention and management efforts.

Learn more about National Invasive Species Awareness Week. For more information on how to address the threat of invasive species, visit the NAISMA website. 

Contact KISMA at kisma.up@gmail.com or your local CISMA with questions about invasive species.

Authored by MTU undergraduate Brooke Strauch (wildlife ecology and conservation), KISMA Assistant Coordinator Emily Klawiter, and KISMA Coordinator Sigrid Resh (CFRES).

Concert: “Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Celebration” — Tuesday, March 4
Rozsa Center | 6 p.m.
Michigan Tech Jazz
Michigan Tech Music Series

Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the Rozsa! The Workshop Brass Band, led by Adam Meckler, presents a Mardi Gras party filled with the sounds of New Orleans and complete with a sit-down buffet-style dinner of New Orleans cuisine. Make sure to wear your dancing shoes!

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“YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan World Tour 2025-2026” — Saturday, March 8
Rozsa Center | 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Rozsa Presenting Series

Witness the staggering display of physical strength that has captivated over 6 million people across 54 countries. They call themselves “YAMATO, the Taiko drumming group that travels all over the world.” Their motto is “We go everywhere when somebody needs YAMATO! And bringing energy to the people living in the world!” Get ready for thunderous music that will leave you exhilarated with a spectacular, high-energy and explosive performance.

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Concert: “99 Striped Balloons” — Thursday, March 13
Rozsa Center and Online | 7:30 p.m.
Huskies Pep Band
Michigan Tech Music Series

The Huskies Pep Band brings the decibels for their annual concert at the Rozsa! Available to watch live on stage or on livestream.

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Zarna Garg: Stand-Up Comedy — Saturday, March 22
Rozsa Center | 7:30 p.m.
Rozsa Presenting Series

Zarna Garg has established herself in the comedy scene, captivating audiences with her quick wit, relatable humor and fearless social commentary. This Indian immigrant mom turned stand-up comedy star is beloved by more than 2 million social media followers. She has an Amazon Prime Special, headlined a sold-out tour in 2023-24 and opened for comedy legends Tina Fey and Amy Pohler on their 2023-24 Restless Leg Tour.

This week, from Feb. 24-28, the Campus Store and University Images proudly celebrate the hardworking members of UAW and AFSCME! As a token of our appreciation, enjoy 20% off your entire purchase all week long. See cashier for details.

Store Hours:

• Campus Store: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Closed Saturday
• University Images: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Saturday, 12-5 p.m.

Thank you for your dedication and contributions to our community!

Job Posting for Monday, Feb. 24, 2025

Staff and faculty job descriptions are available on the Human Resources website. For more information regarding staff positions, call 906-487-2280 or email humanresources@mtu.edu. For more information regarding faculty positions, contact the academic department in which the position is posted.

Senior Academic Advisor, B​iomedical Engineering. Apply online.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations are available. If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations to apply for employment, or for an interview, at Michigan Technological University, please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or humanresources@mtu.edu.

John Jaszczak (Museum) presented a public lecture, "The Spectacular Sulfide Minerals of Merelani, Tanzania," at the 70th annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show on Feb. 14.

On behalf of the museum, Jaszczak also installed a display, "Chlorastrolite: Michigan's State Gemstone" at the show.

Grand Valley State University mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about the FIRST Robotics Robot in 3 Days competition. MTU’s Copper Country Robotics team traveled to Grand Valley to participate in the Feb. 15 culmination of the collegiate portion of the contest. Their Robot in 3 Days build was featured by Stories from Husky Nation.

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The Keweenaw Report mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about proposed changes to housing costs for the 2025-26 academic year.

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The Daily Mining Gazette and Keweenaw Report mentioned Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival in preview stories for the Hancock Snow Sculpting Invitational, held Feb. 21-23. Winter Carnival snow statue building competitors Tau Kappa Epsilon and St. Albert the Great University Parish participated in the event.

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The Daily Mining Gazette mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about a proposed change to the University’s Diversity Incentive Award, as well as recent organizational updates at the University.

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WLUC TV6 mentioned the Michigan Tech Blizzard Baja Enterprise’s Winter Baja race in a story about the first day of the Peak25 professional development conference, held Feb. 20-21 at Northern Michigan University. The event’s Peak Outdoor Innovation Experience showcase featured a custom-built ATV raced in the Winter Baja by Northern’s Baja Racing Club.

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The Jewish News published an article written by first-year student Ryan Harold about growing the Jewish presence on Michigan Tech’s campus through the Hillel at MTU student organization.

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The Benzie County Record Patriot ran a story about Michigan Tech senior Quincy Thayer (applied ecology and environmental science) competing in the Alpine skiing regional championships in Marquette on Feb. 15-16.

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course at the SDC Pool

Michigan Tech Recreation is excited to announce that registration is still open for the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Blended Learning Course being held at Michigan Tech's SDC Pool from March 18-23. This intensive six-day course offers a comprehensive certification in Lifeguarding, First Aid, CPR and AED.

Learn more about the course on Michigan Tech Recreation's Lifeguard Certification page.

Registration closes on March 10 at 11:59 p.m. Participants must be at least 15 years old. The cost is $200 per participant. Course sessions will be held at the SDC Pool.

Course Dates and Times:

• Tuesday, March 18, from 6-7:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, March 19, from 6-9:30 p.m.
• Thursday, March 20, from 6-9:30 p.m.
• Friday, March 21, from 5:30-9:30 p.m.
• Saturday, March 22, from 12:30-9:30 p.m.
• Sunday, March 23, from 3-9 p.m.

Register for the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course.

Want to Receive Academic Credit?
For additional details on registering for this course to receive academic credit, please reach out to Aquatics Manager Annie Bengry at ambengry@mtu.edu or 906-487-2995.

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Scholarships Available

Sons and Daughters Scholarships
A reminder that Michigan Tech Employee Sons and Daughters Scholarships, valued at $100 each, are available for the 2025-26 academic year. Applicants must be children of Michigan Tech employees. The Sons and Daughters Scholarship application must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 28.

LeAnn Becia Family/AFSCME Scholarships
Two $250 LeAnn Becia Family/AFSCME Scholarships are available for 2025-26. Applicants must be the son, daughter or spouse of a current AFSCME Local 1166 member. The LeAnn Becia Family AFSCME Scholarship application must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 28.

Both scholarships require applicants to be either full-time Michigan Tech undergraduates in their first four years of study or high school students planning to be enrolled for fall 2025.

For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office at 906-487-2622 or scholarships@mtu.edu.

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Proposal Internal Deadline Change

Hello MTU Researchers,

A quick heads-up: To maintain the quality of our proposals, the Sponsored Programs Office now submits a day early due to an increase in submissions and unstable sponsor systems.

Your final application is due by 7 a.m. the day before the sponsor deadline.

Also, please submit your final budget, justification and non-research documents for SPO/AOR review at least five business days before the sponsor deadline.

Best of luck with your proposals!

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Register for MTU Recreation's Indoor Triathlon!

Michigan Tech Recreation invites you to participate in our Indoor Triathlon on April 2 at 7 p.m. in the SDC Pool and Multipurpose Room. This event is open to MTU students and SDC Access Pass holders (minimum one-month membership required) who are 16 years or older.

Unlike a traditional triathlon, this event focuses on distance covered within a set time rather than fixed distances. Participants will complete a 10-minute swim, 15-minute bike ride and 10-minute run, with transition time provided between each segment. All experience levels are welcome!

Event Details:

• What: MTU Recreation Indoor Triathlon
• When: Wednesday, April 2, at 7 p.m.
• Where: SDC Pool and Multipurpose Room
• Registration: Open now! Closes Tuesday, March 25, at 11:59 p.m. Register for the Indoor Triathlon.

Participant Requirements:

• Must be a current MTU student or SDC Access Pass holder (minimum one-month membership)
• Must be 16 years or older

Participation is free. Spots are limited, so be sure to register early. We look forward to seeing you at the event!

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Genomic Technologies Themed Coffee Hour

You are invited to an informal genomic technologies themed coffee hour sponsored by the Health Research Institute in the second floor atrium of the H-STEM Complex today, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m.

Students, staff and faculty with an interest in genomic technologies and its applications are welcome to attend this great opportunity to socialize with colleagues across centers, institutes and colleges.

Coffee, tea and snacks will be provided. We hope to see you there!

To have your event automatically appear, please submit them to the University Events Calendar.

Isle Royale Art Exhibition - Michigan Tech Art

Monday, February 24, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. | Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, Rozsa Galleries A-Space

MICHIGAN TECH ART SERIES EVENT Enter into a world of artistic expression inspired by the wilderness of Isle Royale. The artworks showcased in this exhibition have all been...

Hot Cocoa Handout

Monday, February 24, 2–4 p.m. | Husky Statue

We offer free Hot Chocolate to all students from2 to 4pm near the Husky Statue every Monday!

Meet the Dean (College of Business)

Monday, February 24, 7–8 p.m.

Join us to meet Dr. Dean Johnson, dean of the College of Business, to hear about the advantages of attending a STEM university for a business degree.