The terms of a previously announced deal for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians to purchase the Boardman Lake campus from Northwestern Michigan College will include a $27 million purchase price, NMC announced Friday. The parties have signed a letter of intent to proceed, with NMC suspending its search for other offers. The sale could be "completed by spring, following due diligence and pending NMC trustees’ approval," according to the college.

Under the terms of the agreement, the GT Band has committed to never using the property for gaming activities. The GT Band has "also stated that they will use the property, part of their ancestral homeland, as a centralized governmental services center," according to  NMC. "They will maintain public access for recreation, including the Boardman Lake loop trail, and lake and river access."

NMC has owned the property, which it purchased from Sara Lee, since 1989. It was the home of the University Center for 30 years, with more than 10,000 students earning advanced degrees there between 1995 to 2025, according to NMC.

"Today, however, with different dynamics in higher education and online and hybrid course delivery options, NMC’s University Partners wanted to be on the college’s Front Street campus," according to NMC. "That was accomplished in August. Now, NMC President Nick Nissley said it is time for the property to enter its next era."

Sale proceeds will go toward realizing priorities in NMC’s strategic plan and campus master plan. "Those priorities include converting the Osterlin Building into a one-stop Student Success hub, addressing essential campus infrastructure such as a new power plant, and expanding student housing, which is currently at capacity," according to NMC. "Together, these long-term priorities represent well over $100 million in planned investments, meaning the sale allows NMC to make meaningful progress, but represents only a portion of what is required."

In a letter to employees Friday, Nissley said the property in its history served as "a critical asset for the college and our region." He thanked the "generosity of donors like Art and Mary Schmuckal, for whom the building was named, and the innovative vision of those who advocated for the acquisition." As the new year begins, Nissley said he was "feeling incredibly grateful as we advance this opportunity. An opportunity for a win-win-win: a win for the Grand Traverse Band, a win for the college and our NMC students, and a win for the community."