50th Anniversary Planning Process

This week’s message is an update on our 50th anniversary planning process.  Kelley Jackson, BBA, 2006, ESPM (soon to receive her MBA from The DeVos Graduate School of Management)was recently appointed  to coordinate the events and activities surrounding this important Northwood milestone.

An important part of the pre-work involves framing why and what we are celebrating.

Northwood was founded nearly 50 years ago on an idea. Two young men, Arthur Turner and Gary Stauffer, wanted to create a college that would educate the managers of the future. In the pursuit of their dream, Northwood was established and over the years it has evolved into Northwood University. Many changes have taken place but the idea that contributed to the beginning of the University is still foremost on all campuses and highly regarded within the academic world.

While March, 2009 officially marks the 50th Anniversary of Northwood University, the festivities will begin in the fall, 2008. The anniversary celebrations will share the same concept upon which Northwood was founded – a modest beginning with dreams of infinite success. Those of us behind the development of this remarkable occasion want to ensure that there is something for everyone. It is our mission to engage our alumni, show off our campuses, and along the way recreate some of the memorable events that have taken place throughout the years. It is also our mission to recognize those individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of Northwood University. This includes recognizing the 50th class to enroll as well as the 50th graduating class. We will also honor alumni, donors, educators, our remarkable entrepreneurs, and the hundreds of others who have spent valuable time nurturing our institution and The Northwood Idea.

Thanks to numerous admirable donors, Northwood has remained a private and independent university, all while staying true to the ideals of Arthur Turner and Gary Stauffer. The 50th anniversary is important to the University because it solidifies a dream that has been turned into reality. This dream was made real because of the passion and genuine belief shared by donors, educators, and scholars.

The 50th anniversary also marks the perfect opportunity to launch a book depicting the history of Northwood University.  President Emeritus, Dr. David E. Fry has graciously agreed to facilitate the production  of the book. Assisting Dr. Fry will be Dr. David Richards, Assistant Executive Director of the Margaret Chase Smith Library, who will serve as author and editor of the book.  The book, which has yet to be titled, will be available to the public at the launch of the 50th anniversary.

An important component of the anniversary is the theme which will help define our message, and focus the events and activities we foresee. It is our goal to announce the theme in October. The theme selected will appeal to a diverse population while symbolizing Northwood University as it was yesterday, is today, and will be tomorrow.

Keith A. Pretty, J.D.
President and CEO
Northwood University
4000 Whiting Drive
Midland, MI 48640
989.837.4203 (phone)
989.832.9590 (fax)