Veridea announces GM of Marriott

MARQUETTE — The Veridea Group has announced Johnathon Naracon as the General Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Albion, Michigan.

Naracon is a graduate of Northern Michigan University’s Hospitality Management program and completed Veridea’s Manager Development program. While studying in the Veridea Management course, Naracon was mentored by Veridea General Managers Julie Swanson and JoHanna Solka.

Veridea senior management noted that Naracon’s previous experience in restaurant and bar operations, as well as his completion of Veridea’s Manager Development program, have prepared him to lead the Albion Courtyard — which features a bar and bistro.

“We’re eager for the opening of the Albion Courtyard,” said Veridea Vice President of Hospitality Charles Holsworth, “Johnathon will be a good fit for the Albion community and this hotel and we expect him to be effective in his new role.”

Since his promotion, Naracon has been training in Marriott hotels under Veridea’s Director of Lodging Operations Carla Beck. The Courtyard by Marriot, Albion, is expected to be open in December 2017.

NMU business program top rated

MARQUETTE — Northern Michigan University offers one of the nation’s best bachelor’s degree programs in insurance and risk management, according to Online Accounting Degree Programs. NMU ranks 13th in a recent listing published on the organization’s website.

NMU’s ranking was based on its previous finance major with a concentration in risk management. The College of Business will launch a new insurance and risk management-specific major this fall.

“The success of this program is the result of collaboration between faculty, students and insurance professionals,” said David Rayome, dean of the NMU College of Business. “The college receives support from risk management professionals in the form of advice, scholarships, student mentoring, internships and employment opportunities. This support provides experiential learning opportunities that truly enhance the excellent campus education we offer. We anticipate more growth in this area, as the industry opportunities for NMU graduates are outstanding.”

This ranking was created using the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator database and the International Risk Management Institute’s directory. A list of eligible colleges was compiled and then ranked on the following six key metrics: dedicated department; specializations; productivity; Gamma Iota Sigma fraternity; actuarial excellence; and advanced program options.