That’s because her brother, Chase, also graduated from NTC’s marketing program in 2022. Their connection to NTC runs even deeper, as their mom, Tanya, also attended NTC, graduating from the administrative assistant program in 1999. Tanya’s sisters, Tiffany and Tasha, also graduated from the administrative assistant program, and her brother, Travis, graduated from the Electromechanical Technology, HVAC and Machine Tool program.  

“It’s a super cool experience to know that my brother, my mom and my aunts and uncle all went to NTC because it just shows that NTC has continued to prove its excellence over the years,” Celina said. “My family loved their time and experiences there, which provides you with the insight that the environment and culture of the school is positive and driven to help students succeed.”  

Tanya chose NTC because of its affordability, the proximity to home, its connection to the community and the welcoming atmosphere of the college. Two decades later, those same factors led her children to choose NTC as well.  

“It’s a great learning environment, and I liked how they have lots of advisors who are willing to help and give advice throughout your courses,” Chase said. “While at NTC, I was able to meet a lot of great people and learn a lot about marketing.”  

For Celina, attending NTC offered the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy new experiences and still have the flexibility to complete her degree online.  

“I was a more nontraditional student because I was all online, but it still allowed me to be involved and flexible with my schedule,” Celina said. “I was very involved in intramural sports and Phi Theta Kappa.”  

Celina, Chase and Tanya were each selected as the Outstanding Graduates for their respective programs. Each semester, one graduate who goes above and beyond is chosen to represent their program of study as the Outstanding Graduate.  

“It was an awesome achievement to have been selected as the Outstanding Graduate of the Marketing Program while attending NTC,” Chase said. “It shows that I was able to be recognized for all the hard work I did while attending NTC.” 

All three Ellenbeckers agree that attending NTC prepared them well for their futures.  

“NTC has made me into a salesman as they have taught me how to go about sales calls, marketing products and just how to relate to customers,” Chase said. “Without NTC, I don’t think I could have ever made it in the sales industry as I wouldn’t have the communication skills and knowledge about how to promote and sell things.”  

After graduation, Chase worked as an account specialist for Fastenal and is now a head of sales at Schwartz’s Seamless Gutters.  

Celina will be working full-time this spring and summer as a marketing and event coordinator for Helene’s Hilltop Orchard. She plans to transfer to Northern Michigan University next fall to pursue her bachelor’s degree in marketing.  

Tanya was hired by EO Johnson before she graduated and has been with the company for the past 25 years. She now serves as the company’s benefits specialist and human resources representative.  

She encourages anyone considering furthering their education to choose NTC. 

“I highly recommend attending NTC as they directly focus on your career path,” Tanya said. “You can earn your degree for a fraction of the cost. NTC guided me through my program by teaching me the necessary skills that I would need for my future career.”  

Celina agrees.  

“You will feel so valued, special and heard like never before,” she said. “NTC truly values your feedback and experiences and is always there for you. So choose yourself and your experiences and take the leap at NTC.”