Northwood University is proud to announce a leadership gift from Wisconsin entrepreneurs and alumni Jason R. and Regina M. Brickl in support of the comprehensive When We Are Free campaign for America’s Free-Enterprise University.
The Brickls are entrepreneurs and dealer owners who built and lead Brickl Companies, a diversified portfolio of companies that includes the LeadCar group of automotive dealerships. They are also expanding their long-term operating footprint into general aviation with the national launch of Ovation, a premium fixed-base operator platform serving both private and commercial aviation customers. Their investment reflects a deep belief in Northwood’s mission to develop free-enterprise leaders who advance economic and social progress. Several Northwood graduates now hold leadership roles across their companies.
“Jason and Regina represent the best of Northwood’s values. From humble beginnings, they combined their education with a belief in hard work. Their success has raised a wonderful family, and they have strengthened their community,” stated Northwood University President Kent MacDonald. “Their generosity will embolden the University’s commitment to its founding philosophy, benefit students, build upon tradition, and encourage new ways for alumni and students to gather and grow together. We are grateful for their leadership and example.”
From Middle-Income Students to Industry Leaders
Soon after graduating from Northwood, Jason and Regina co-founded what is now LeadCar Systems Inc., a family of automotive dealership brands that has grown to eight locations across four states. LeadCar is built on three core principles: entrepreneurship and independence of dealership management, simplifying automotive retail processes through innovation, and being part of the fabric of the local community.
Regina, who earned her BBA in Automotive Marketing and Business Management in 1997, was active during her time on campus as a member of Delta Zeta sorority as well as several Northwood University International Auto Show teams. She was named Panhellenic Woman of the Year in 1995. Years later, when Regina returned to campus to accept the Alumni Leadership Award as part of Northwood’s 2023 Class of Outstanding Alumni, she said her favorite accomplishment has been providing scholarships to several Northwood students. “Years ago, I was the student that needed extra financial help, so for me to be able to give back in that capacity makes me smile,” she said. In addition to her role as a co-founder, Regina oversees several of the company’s most meaningful people-focused initiatives. She leads philanthropic partnerships and charitable giving, and personally coordinates employee recognition programs for more than 450 team members, including birthdays, service anniversaries, and major life events.
Jason, who graduated magna cum laude in 1995, serves as Chairman and CEO of Brickl Companies, a diverse portfolio that includes LeadCar, Ovation, and Brickl Capital. A first-generation automobile dealer, Jason’s professional accolades include being named to Automotive News’ 40 Under 40 list, serving as Chairman of the General Motors National Dealer Council, and a member of the Toyota Dealer Council. He also is a Northwood University Trustee, member of the Automotive Advisory Board, and a recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award. In 2020, he was inducted as a Northwood University Outstanding Business Leader, joining an elite list of honorees who inspire students to drive global economic and social progress.
“Northwood taught me to think like an owner, to lead with integrity, and to build companies that put people first,” said Jason Brickl. “This place shaped my career and helped refine my entrepreneurial mindset. It taught me to see business the way Northwood approaches education — with patience, principle, and a long-term view. Supporting scholarships and high-impact programs is simply our way of investing back into an institution that has given our family so much, and will prepare the next generation to do even greater things.”
“Jason and Regina Brickl are valued members of the Northwood family,” noted Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer. “Their story will inspire students with big ambitions to become principled leaders in the industries that power our economy.”
“The Brickls’ generosity underscores how philanthropy can fuel opportunity and innovation across America’s Free Enterprise University,” added Advancement Vice President Murray Kyte. “Their investment will touch multiple areas of campus and inspire others to join in shaping the future of Northwood University.”
For more information about Northwood University’s historic $100 million When We Are Free Campaign, visit https://campaign.northwood.edu/.
