Northwood University will recognize more than 700 volunteers who contributed over 1,500 hours of service during this year’s Go MAD Day at an appreciation event during the Timberwolves basketball double-header on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.
The day will highlight the impact of the 2025 Go MAD Day, held Nov. 7, and feature recognition moments, giveaways, and student-focused activities.
On Jan. 17, NU Women’s Basketball tips off against the Lake Erie Storm at 1 p.m., followed by Men’s Basketball tipping off at 3 p.m. in Riepma Arena in the Bennett Sports Complex at Northwood University. Representatives from Northwood Student Affairs will offer remarks and thank the campus community at halftime of the women’s game, while FRESH AIR Ambassadors — along with Spencer Korson, Northwood’s coordinator of student leadership and engagement — will be available for media interviews. Between games, students are invited to enjoy complimentary pizza in the Wolf Den.
Recognizing the Impact of Go MAD Day
Short for “Go Make A Difference,” Go MAD honors the legacy of the late Northwood Football Coach Pat Riepma, who inspired students to live with purpose and service. This year, 729 volunteers contributed 1,552 hours to produce strong results, including:
- 10,000 meals assembled
- 7,000 pounds of dry goods broken down
- 110 children fed in Northwood’s cafeteria
- 30 partner agencies supported
- 11 schools engaged
- 16 blood donors
- 15 yards raked
“This year’s Go MAD Day represented the very best of our students and community partners,” said Dean of Student Affairs Andy Cripe. “Every hour volunteered, every meal assembled, every act of service reflects who we are as a university. Go MAD is more than a day — it’s part of our culture.”
Across its 10-year history, Go MAD has mobilized 7,169 volunteers who have donated 17,519 service hours to the community.
“Go MAD reminds us that even small acts compound into real change,” Korson said. “Our Appreciation Night allows us to say thank you — to students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community partners — who make this possible year after year.”
Northwood has long been committed to enriching Midland and the surrounding region through community partnerships and volunteerism — an effort amplified by Go MAD Day each fall and celebrated annually during a special basketball double-header.
“Service is one of the most important expressions of The Northwood Idea, our institutional philosophy, and FRESH AIR,” Cripe added, referring to Northwood’s Code of Ethics, which values freedom, respect, empathy, spirituality, honesty, achievement, integrity, and responsibility. “This event gives us a chance to celebrate our shared commitment to making a difference in and out of the classroom.”
