Photo caption: Laura Oblinger and Donald W. Maine

Davenport University’s Direct Connect partner, Northwestern Michigan College, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026 and has chosen to recognize a selection of outstanding alumni who have made exceptional contributions to their community and career fields. Among these honorees is Davenport alumna Laura Oblinger, class of 1997.

Oblinger received her associate degree from NMC and then earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees through Davenport University at the NMC University Center. She now leads client experience and growth strategies firmwide for Rehmann and is responsible for service and growth in its Northern Michigan region. 

Oblinger grew up in northern Michigan, graduating from high school, marrying and raising her daughter in the Grand Traverse area. She is a trustee and former chair of the NMC board.

“Growing up I watched my mom pursue her nursing degree through NMC,” said Oblinger. “She worked hard at night, raising four kids. When I was 6-, 7-, 8-years-old, I’d sit in the lounge areas at NMC and watch her go into her classes. At the time, I didn’t realize just how hard she was working, but as I became an adult, I understood better all that she was accomplishing.”  

After Oblinger graduated high school, she started her education journey at NMC. It allowed her to remain in the area and be with her family when her mom was ill. 

Oblinger then enrolled at Davenport, attending classes on the NMC campus, to get her bachelor’s degree in marketing. She graduated with high honors.

“When the time came for more education, I didn’t look anywhere other than Davenport as I had such a fantastic experience,” she said. She went on to receive her master’s degree in strategic leadership from Davenport’s Donald W. Maine College of Business, taking classes at night in Traverse City.

Her experience in higher education left a lasting impression, and she stayed involved with both NMC and Davenport after graduation. 

“I have such a passion for Davenport and what it did for me,” she said. “I have pride in the institution. I could not have progressed professionally, and personally as I did, without Davenport and its resources.”

This passion in the institution and belief in the power of local education led Oblinger to run for the NMC Board of Trustees. She was elected to the board in 2020 for a 6-year term and served as chair in 2023, 2024 and 2025.  

“I believe in giving back to the community with my time and talent,” Oblinger said. “It’s a very intentional, emotional passion of mine to contribute and keep our college thriving. The impact it has on people is not just a degree; it’s a transformation for life. I hope I’ve helped advocate for the value of NMC and the partnerships it has here.”

Davenport University’s partnership with NMC allows students to remain in northern Michigan and attend Davenport classes in person on NMC’s Front Street campus. Admissions, counseling and financial aid services are also available. 

Oblinger encourages anyone considering higher education to explore Davenport’s programs, stressing how supported she felt throughout her experience.

One of Oblinger’s greatest wins was receiving the Donald W. Maine College of Business alumni award. “It was an incredible honor,” Oblinger said. “Donald Maine was on the stage with me in 2015 when I won the award, and in the short time I was there, I was able to meet him, converse with him and shake his hand. I was receiving an award with his name on it, and he took the time to relate to me and show care for me. I was really impressed.”

For those in the region considering going elsewhere, Oblinger said, “Walk the campus of NMC and check out the University Partners because the path, the options, the opportunities available to you are enormous – right here in our backyard. When education is unaffordable to some people – this is your option. Don’t neglect what is right here. As soon as I chose NMC and Davenport, the opportunities opened to me. The growth I’ve had because of my educational partners is why I am where I am today.”