Northwood University is pleased to announce that Michael and Dianne Morey have committed new funding to support the NU Pledge, a new scholarship initiative to help middle-income students access America’s Free Enterprise University.
“Michael and Dianne Morey are pillars of the Northwood community,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “Their gift reflects more than generosity. It represents our enduring friendship that’s built on shared values of personal responsibility, ethical leadership, and earned success. Like Northwood University, the Morey’s believe in the power of free-market education to strengthen individuals, communities, and the nation. This wonderful gift helps ensure Northwood continues shaping the principled leaders America needs.”
From risking everything in 1983 to build a better woodchipper, to eventually growing Bandit Industries to more than 700 employees, the Moreys’ story mirrors the very qualities Northwood instills in its students: hard work, ingenuity, and a commitment to doing what’s right. Their story serves as inspiration to present-day students at Northwood, some of whom have benefited from scholarships created through the sale of Michael Morey’s classic automobile collection in 2023.
“One of the best things the Morey family ever did was become aligned with Northwood University,” said Dianne Morey, as she and Michael Morey were inducted as Northwood University Outstanding Business Leaders in 2023. “Northwood instills personal responsibility and ethics in their students, and I think we need to go forward and continue to support The Northwood Idea, and maybe, get our country back to some common sense.”
Their latest gift will provide direct support to the NU Pledge, a scholarship initiative launched earlier this year with a $2 million commitment from the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation. The fund addresses a growing need for middle-income families, who often fall just outside eligibility for federal and state aid yet still face significant challenges funding a Northwood education.
A Legacy of Ethical Entrepreneurship
Michael and Dianne Morey’s business journey exemplifies the power of free enterprise guided by integrity. After building the original Brush Bandit chipper in a small shop with six employees, the couple expanded Bandit Industries into a worldwide operation with more than 180 dealer locations. In 2018, after turning down offers from private buyers, they sold 100% of the company to their employees through an employee stock ownership plan — an act widely praised as a masterclass in ethical leadership and respect for the people who helped build the business.
“The Moreys have always represented the very best of business leadership,” said Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University. “Their entire story — hard work, innovation, and steadfast devotion to their employees — shows future Northwood graduates what ethical entrepreneurship looks like in practice.”
A Deep and Continuing Impact on Northwood Students
The Moreys’ philanthropy has already helped transform Northwood University. In 2023, the couple donated 34 classic automobiles — including a 1958 Corvette — to benefit student scholarships and support Northwood’s mission to create free-enterprise leaders who drive global social and economic progress. The auction generated more than $2 million and was one of the most unique gifts in Northwood’s history. A portion of campus is now home to the Michael and Dianne Morey Family Courtyard, a tribute to their generosity.
“Michael and Dianne are treasured members of the Northwood family,” said Vice President of Advancement Murray Kyte. “Their lives are testaments to the power of free enterprise and the strength of ethical leadership. This new commitment to the NU Pledge will open doors for middle-income students who are eager to work hard, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We are profoundly grateful for their example and their friendship.”
Supporting the Future of America’s Free Enterprise University
The Moreys’ gift arrives as Northwood continues the public phase of its historic $100 million ‘When We Are Free’ comprehensive campaign to sustain and advance Northwood’s role as America’s Free Enterprise University. Investments in scholarships — especially for middle-income students — remain a central priority.
“Supporting the NU Pledge is an investment in young people who will help carry forward the values that made the Moreys successful,” Marshall noted. “This gift reinforces the foundation of responsible, free-market leadership that Northwood is known for.”
To learn more about Northwood’s When We Are Free campaign, visit https://campaign.northwood.edu/
