The winning Fall 2025 Project 100 initiative will transform the Student Union into a vibrant, welcoming hub that reflects the creativity, ambition, and collaborative culture Northwood University students have earned.
Project 100 is a unique development initiative that brings together 100 alumni, employees, and friends of the university each semester to evaluate student-led proposals aimed at improving campus life. Each member contributes $100, and the collective funds are awarded to the winning project.
This semester’s virtual meeting featured thoughtful and well-developed presentations, each offering a compelling vision for enhancing the Northwood experience. Alumni ultimately selected an ambitious proposal from a Student Life team titled “5 Star Student Union.” The initiative seeks to transform the Student Union into a dynamic space that features new furniture, modular tables and stools, expanded charging outlets, a coffee station, and ambient lighting — all designed to create a cleaner, brighter, and more functional environment for studying, meeting, recharging, and building community.
“Right now, our Student Union, despite weekly events with over 60 guests, falls short of supporting the kind of community and engagement that makes campus feel alive,” the Student Life team shared in their pitch. “The funding from Project 100 will allow us to create a cleaner, brighter, more welcoming environment where students can study, meet, recharge, and feel extremely proud of the place they call home.”
Senior Alumni and Engagement Officer Julie Adamczyk praised both the quality of the student proposals and the engagement of alumni who participated in this semester’s process.
“Project 100 is a testament to what makes Northwood so special — our students’ leadership and innovation, and our alumni’s continued investment in the university’s future,” Adamczyk said. “The Student Life team’s vision resonated with our alumni because it addresses a space that touches every student’s daily experience.”
The Student Life team — represented by Steven Hackbarth and Ari Vallecoccia — expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to bring their vision to life.
“Thank you to the Project 100 donors for their generosity and belief in student-driven ideas,” Hackbarth stated. “The support makes meaningful change possible, and we’re excited to get to work!”
Alumni praised the passion and polish on display throughout the evening, which also featured pitches from two registered student organizations, including the Turning Point USA at Northwood University Chapter and Timby Media Productions.
Alumni who participated in the voting process emphasized the importance of investing in spaces that serve the entire student body and create lasting impact.
“If you’re a part of the Northwood community and haven’t yet explored Project 100, I can’t recommend it enough,” shared Alex Maki, a Northwood alumnus and Project 100 supporter. “It’s a direct way to make an impact and stay connected to the heart of what makes Northwood special: our students and their leadership.” Project 100 always welcomes new members. Membership is just $50 per quarter, and meetings are held virtually twice a year. To learn more or to join the initiative, visit northwood.edu/alumni/project-100.
