Dunlop Named New Academic Dean at Northern Maine Community College

AROOSTOOK COUNTY — 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, MA.   Dunlop has previous experience working in community colleges in the state of New Mexico where he held academic teaching positions, as well as 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 on the new Academic Dean, “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.”

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 as the new Academic Dean.  “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,” states Dunlop.

Even though Dunlop enjoyed working in much larger urban academic environments, he has a deep appreciation and desire to continue his career within a smaller rural community college.  Dunlop 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,” comments Dunlop.  He feels that 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,” asserts Dunlop.

Dunlop is well-aligned and committed to NMCC’s vision of “Transforming Lives Through Education” and wants to ensure the continuity of this educational vision.  And, although new to the area, Dunlop 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 serving as the new Academic Dean at NMCC, Dunlop hopes to share his passion for running and yoga to the greater Presque Isle and Aroostook communities.