During the President’s Freedom Celebration today, Northwood University officially launched the public phase of the When We Are Free campaign — a $100 million fundraising initiative to sustain and advance America’s Free Enterprise University.
“The When We Are Free campaign is the most ambitious and consequential initiative in Northwood University’s history,” said President Kent MacDonald. “This $100 million effort is grounded in a clear purpose to secure the future of a university devoted to freedom, personal responsibility, earned success, limited government, and free enterprise. Donors are investing in Northwood because a free society needs strong, principled leaders and that’s exactly who we are developing. This campaign is more than fundraising. It is a declaration of belief in our mission and a bold step toward a freer, more prosperous future.”
The When We Are Free campaign will fund infrastructure development, academic programs, research, scholarships and financial aid, endowment growth, community and alumni engagement, and more.
The campaign’s name draws inspiration from Northwood’s signature textbook, When We Are Free, featuring a foreword authored by Nobel laureate Milton Friedman, who won the Nobel Prize for Economics in 1976. Friedman’s bestselling book, Free to Choose, advocated for liberty, individual responsibility, and limited government and inspired an influential PBS television series.
$73 Million Raised Prior to Launch of Public Phase of Campaign
To date, Northwood University has raised more than $73 million leading up to Thursday’s announcement. Now, America’s Free Enterprise University invites others to join this historic effort.
“At Northwood, we believe in the power of earned success — that everyone should have the opportunity to achieve prosperity through their own effort, talent, and determination,” stated Advancement Vice President Murray Kyte. “This campaign is about more than raising funds; it’s about creating the conditions for individuals to rise, not because of what’s given to them, but because of what they’re empowered to earn. It’s a call to invest in a future where fairness, mobility, and freedom fuel lasting achievement.”
“Northwood’s academic programs emphasize not only critical thinking and professional success, but also personal responsibility and principled leadership,” added Dr. Kristin Stehouwer, Academic Vice President and Provost. “This campaign will enable us to further personalize learning, enhance instruction, and support students who will graduate ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
The When We Are Free campaign also empowers Northwood’s alumni network to help secure the future of their alma mater.
“Each member of our alumni network has been shaped by their Northwood experience, and now our alumni can shape what comes next by supporting the When We Are Free campaign to ensure future students have a similar transformational journey,” stated Senior Alumni and Engagement Officer Julie Adamczyk.
Collaboration with community leaders and like-minded members of the public will also be key to reaching the $100 million goal.
“Northwood University is more than a campus — it’s a cornerstone of regional growth, talent development, and civic vitality,” said Chief Development and Engagement Officer Justin Marshall. “Support from the community will help expand workforce opportunities, drive innovation, and empower young leaders who will contribute directly to our shared community. Together, we can help build a brighter, stronger Midland and beyond.”
Other opportunities to contribute to the campaign include corporate sponsorships.
“At Northwood, we don’t just educate — we cultivate the entrepreneurial talent your industry needs,” noted Dr. Matthew Bennett, Vice President of Enrollment and Strategic Partnerships. “As a partner in the When We Are Free campaign, your company gains direct access to future innovators while aligning with a values-based institution grounded in liberty and enterprise. From research sponsorships to leadership forums, your support fuels impact — and builds brand value alongside it.”
Historic Gift from Dan and Pamella DeVos Headlines Announcement of Public Phase of the Campaign
During Thursday’s President’s Freedom Celebration, Dan and Pamella DeVos pledged $20 million through their foundation to support Northwood University over the next five years — the single largest gift in the university’s history.
“This extraordinary investment by the DeVos family affirms their longstanding belief in the power of free enterprise and principled leadership, and it sets a powerful example for others to follow,” said President MacDonald. “We are incredibly grateful for their vision and trust in Northwood’s mission.”
Their generous commitment will help fuel several key priorities within the campaign, including academic innovation, student scholarships, and the growth of Northwood’s endowment. It also sends a clear message about the importance of investing in institutions that champion liberty, responsibility, and opportunity.
While this historic gift marks a defining moment for Northwood, university leaders emphasize that the success of the When We Are Free campaign will require participation from across the entire Northwood community — and beyond.
“You don’t need a title or a fortune to make a difference,” Marshall stated. “At Northwood University, every gift — no matter the size — helps unlock opportunity for students who will lead with courage, creativity, and a deep respect for freedom.”
To learn more or give to the When We Are Free campaign, visit https://campaign.northwood.edu.
