PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Northern Maine Community College recently announced Dr. Michael Dunlop as the new academic dean.
For the past five years, Dunlop was a faculty member in the Sawyer Business School at Suffolk University in Boston. Dunlop has previous experience working in community colleges in New Mexico, where he held both teaching and administrative positions, most notably as a director of financial aid.
In addition to his academic experience, Dunlop has worked in industry and has several professional certifications in auditing and human resources.
NMCC President Timothy Crowley commented, “I am excited about Dr. Dunlop joining our community and the NM family. He brings a wonderful combination of teaching and administrative experience to the college.
“In addition to his academic contribution, Dr. Dunlop brings a high level of energy and a work history that demonstrates creativity and enthusiasm for teaching and learning. We look forward to introducing Dr. Dunlop to the community when he arrives in August,” Crowley said.
Dunlop’s diverse educational background, including an undergraduate degree in psychology, a master of business administration degree, as well as a doctor of education degree in educational administration from New Mexico State University, will all be put to good use in his new role.
“I hope my diverse educational and professional experiences will be value-added to the multitude of roles and responsibilities as the new academic dean at NMCC,” said Dunlop.
Even though Dunlop enjoyed working in much larger urban academic environments, he appreciates the chance to continue his career within a smaller rural community college. He said he believes that NMCC is the exact type of atmosphere where he can make immediate, and long term, contributions.
“I look forward to continuing the positive momentum of NMCC and continually exploring new academic opportunities and partnerships that are mutually beneficial to students and the community alike,” said Dunlop.
He feels NMCC is well equipped to adapt to the changing workforce needs and to remain a top community college at the national level.
“It would be great to position NMCC as a contender for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, which is the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America’s community colleges,” he said, adding he wants to ensure the continuity of NMCC’s vision of “Transforming Lives Through Education.”
Although new to the area, he experienced the beauty of Aroostook County when he ran the Caribou Marathon last September. Dunlop is a member of the Maine based Dirigo Running Club and is also a registered yoga teacher. In addition to his work at NMCC, he hopes to share his passion for running and yoga with the greater Presque Isle and Aroostook communities.
Submitted by the Development and College Relations Office of Northern Maine Community College.
