Traverse City News and Events

Former NMC President Tim Quinn Passes Away

May 13, 2025

Former Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) president, educator, nonprofit consultant and Traverse City resident Tim Quinn passed away recently. He was 78. 

Quinn began his career as an English teacher, rose through the ranks of public education and was appointed Superintendent of Green Bay Public Schools in Wisconsin. He then served as Wisconsin’s Deputy State Superintendent and then as Vice President before moving on to NMC. He served as NMC president from 1989-1996 and led the college during the establishment of the University Center and the opening of Dennos Museum. He also served on the boards of Munson Healthcare and the former Traverse City Chamber of Commerce. 

He later served as president of Quinn & Associates, consulting on leadership and strategy in the public sector. 

Most recently, Quinn helped create the North Ed Foundation to help provide financial assistance to students in learning or post-graduation employment.

Quinn married the late Mary (Ferzacca) Pierce in 1971. They had two children -- Anthony and Emily -- and later divorced. He married Michelle Keith in 2015. They have five grandchildren.

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