Innovation and Education at the Forefront of NMU’s Cannabis Collaboration Conference

April 8th, 2024 Events & Conferences
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The Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference is gearing up for its anticipated return at Northern Michigan University (NMU), offering students unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the real-world dynamics of business through the engaging Big Pitch competition.

In a segment aired by Upper Michigan Today on Friday, April 5th, the spotlight was not only on the forthcoming conference but also on the victorious students of the Big Pitch competition, showcasing their triumphs and learning experiences.

Before delving into the details of the competition winners, the broadcast was initiated with Tia Trudgeon and Michael Sobeck presenting the day's intriguing stories, setting the stage for an informative session.

The winners of the Big Pitch, Heather Lindstrom of 906 Pet Treats LLC, along with Brecken Mills and Maggie Boburka of Peninsula Pizookies, were joined by Professor Corinne Bodeman to discuss the invaluable insights and lessons gleaned from their participation in the competition. Their experiences underscore the practical benefits and challenges of bringing innovative business ideas to life.

Adding a lighter note to the conversation, the Dean of NMU's College of Technology and Occupational Sciences participated in a playful segment of “Unscramble NMU,” further engaging the audience before transitioning to the core subject of the upcoming Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference.

The conference is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23rd, at NMU’s Northern Center and will commence at 8:00 a.m. This event promises to be a significant gathering for cannabis industry enthusiasts, offering a platform for collaboration, education, and networking among professionals, students, and advocates within the field.


Building upon the anticipation for the Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference at Northern Michigan University (NMU), a closer look at the schedule reveals a comprehensive and diverse lineup of sessions, discussions, and presentations designed to cater to a broad spectrum of interests within the cannabis industry. The conference, taking place on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024, promises a full day of insightful programming and networking opportunities.

Conference Schedule Highlights

Starting bright and early at 8:00 a.m. with check-in, attendees will be welcomed with coffee and breakfast items, setting the stage for a day of engagement and learning. The welcome address at 8:45 a.m. kicks off the event, quickly followed by a series of keynotes, panel discussions, and presentations.

Morning Sessions

At 9:00 a.m., Brian Hanna, the Executive Director of the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, will present on the current status and future directions of cannabis regulations in Michigan. This session is pivotal for understanding the regulatory environment within the state.

Following this, a panel discussion titled "Blazing Trails in Michigan and Beyond" at 10:00 a.m. brings together experts from various corners of the cannabis regulatory landscape to share their perspectives. This session is moderated by Andrew LaCombe, News Director at WLUC TV-6, featuring discussions on innovations and regulatory challenges in the industry.

Focused Panels and Presentations

"Wildcats in the Weeds" at 10:45 a.m. shines a spotlight on NMU alumni making waves in the cannabis sector, offering a unique look into the contributions of university graduates to the industry.

At 11:30 a.m., the "Rooted in Justice" panel delves into the crucial topic of cannabis equity, moderated by Dr. Shawnrece Campbell from NMU, focusing on leadership perspectives on equity within the cannabis industry.

Afternoon Sessions

The afternoon sessions kick off at 1:15 p.m. with Hilary Bricken, discussing the federal policy landscape, followed by a deep dive into cannabis cultivation techniques, featuring talks on the effective use of LED light in cannabis cultivation by experts from Signify.

At 2:30 p.m., a panel titled "A Growing Business" explores various facets of cannabis cultivation, featuring discussions with Martin Boerema, Daniel McMahon, and Sarah Lee from NMU, moderated by Kari Farkas-Lasich.

The conference concludes with student research presentations and an announcement wrap-up at 4:45 p.m., offering attendees a glimpse into the innovative research and projects undertaken by NMU students.

Educational Leadership in Cannabis

In tandem with the conference, NMU’s pioneering academic programs in cannabis, including the Medicinal Plant Chemistry, Controlled Environment Agriculture, Indoor Agriculture, Cannabis and Plant-Based Wellness Operations degrees, and Cannabis Operations Certificate, highlight the university’s commitment to leading in cannabis education. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in the fast-evolving cannabis industry.

A Premier Gathering for Cannabis Education

The Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference not only serves as a platform for learning and professional growth but also underscores NMU's role in fostering progress through education, dialogue, and collaboration in the cannabis industry. This event is set to be a cornerstone for those looking to explore current trends, regulatory insights, and academic achievements in cannabis.

By bringing together students, faculty, industry professionals, and community members in the scenic locale of Marquette, Michigan, the conference aims to inspire innovation, share cutting-edge research and best practices, and foster a community dedicated to advancing the cannabis industry responsibly and ethically.

Through this detailed schedule and the associated academic programs, NMU demonstrates its leadership and commitment to shaping the future of cannabis education, research, and industry collaboration, making the Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference a must-attend event for anyone involved or interested in the cannabis sector.

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