NMC marks 27 years of existence

The Northern Marianas College has joined the nationwide celebration of April 2008 as community college month, made official yesterday via an endorsement by Lt. Gov. Timothy Villagomez in a proclamation signing ceremony.

As part of this event and in commemoration of NMC’s 27th year as an institution, the college’s Olympio T. Borja Memorial Library was rededicated yesterday.

The library was originally dedicated to the late Senator Borja on Dec. 4, 1987, at an event that included then Lt. Gov. Pedro A. Tenorio and then college president Agnes McPhetres.

The library contains approximately 12,000 volumes of books and other materials. It serves as NMC’s main library center and contains nearly 40,000 items, including books, periodicals, and AV materials. It is complemented by the Pacific Collection, the CNMI Archives, and the Curriculum Resource Center, which is an education library held in partnership with the School of Education.

According to NMC president Dr. Carmen Fernandez, “The library has played an integral part in the educational and professional growth of NMC students and others in the community.”

She said the college is planning to expand that role by “aggressively seeking funding sources that will pay for expanded state-of-the-art equipment and other materials that will enhance the CNMI community’s library experience.”

NMC also celebrated its 27th annual Charter Day yesterday with a grand party held at its Finasisu campus that lasted well into the night.

The event showcased talents and performances of Saipan Grand Hotel’s Zynergy Band, local entertainer Maggie Naputi, and reggae band Burning Bush.

The event also featured Penina Ole Vasa, Da Metgot, Southern High Manta Ray, Final Extreme, Inatuas, and the English Department Dance Club, among others.

NMC’s recruitment committee also hosted a booth for students interested in applying for admission for Fall 2008.

From 1982 to 2007, NMC awarded more than 3,500 diplomas, certificates and degrees. This translates to 675 high school diplomas; 723 certificates; 1,683 Associate of Arts, and 158 baccalaureates.

Villagomez is urging everyone to support the college and to “appreciate the value of having a postsecondary institution” on the islands.