Empowering Future Voices Through Legacy and Inspiration.

Join Us for the Distinguished Women Awards on October 24, 2026.

Since 1970, Northwood University has come together to celebrate the accomplishments of exceptional individuals who embody The Northwood Idea. Since its inception, the Distinguished Women Awards Gala has honored over 500 esteemed individuals who have led by example and have left their mark on the world. The Distinguished Women Award is an honor bestowed upon those who value free enterprise, hard work, determination, creativity, and a passion to make the world a better place. These traits reflect the core values and characteristics that are true to Northwood’s mission. Proceeds benefit Northwood University students through scholarships.

View past Event Program

Consistent with its non-discrimination policy, Northwood’s programs and awards, including the Distinguished Women Award, are open to all eligible persons, regardless of sex or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Event Details

Event will be held on Saturday, October 24th, 2026, at the H Hotel

6:00pm – Cocktail Reception
7:00pm – Dinner & Awards

Please wear formal attire

Hotel Registration

Preferred Hotel

The H Hotel
111 W. Main Street
Midland, MI 48640
Main hotel entrance is located off Ann St.

(989) 839-0500

Book your room

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Legacy Sponsor

Event Sponsor

Betty and Fred Hardy Charitable Trust
in honor of Betty Boyd Hardy DW ’95

Orchid Sponsor

Catherine A. Eklund Mares DW ’03
in honor of Lynn Heinzerling Stinson DW ’14, Dr. Louise Phipps Crandall DW ’75, and in memory of the friends we carry with us

Yellow Rose Brunch Sponsor

Dr. Mary-Ellen MacPhee

Legacy Circle Dinner Sponsor

Graff Chevrolet Bay City

Jennifer (Griffin) ’83, DW ’25 & Dr. Graham Williams

Ann DW ’24 and Dr. Ed McBrien

Jolt Credit Union

Lily Sponsor

Bourke Services LLC

Snow Makers

Patty Shaheen DW ’16

Marge Hohman DW ’85

Highlights from 2025

Get a glimpse of the elegance and inspiration that define Northwood University’s Distinguished Women Awards.

This highlight video captures last year’s celebration. Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning to honor this year’s class, this short recap offers a look at the event’s atmosphere.

View Past Distinguished Women Honorees

View the Archive

Be a Sponsor

This event creates an occasion to bring Northwood University to the attention of those who share a dedication to its principles of higher education. We encourage recipients to become involved with the University and its students, and to participate in the growth of the Women in Enterprise Fund.

Download Sponsor Form

A group of eleven women stands in a line, dressed in formal attire, posing for the camera in a decorated indoor setting at the Northwood's Distinguished Women Awards. Several women are wearing corsages on their wrists.

Honor Excellence

Nominate an exceptional person who embodies Northwood University’s values of free enterprise, hard work, determination, creativity, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Your nomination could help us honor the next Distinguished Woman Award Honoree whose achievements and leadership inspire future generations.

nominate a candidate

A circular bronze Northwood’s Distinguished Women Awards medal featuring an “N” inside a square at the center surrounded by a laurel wreath.

Register

Registration is now closed. For seating inquiries, please contact Jen Carpenter at .

Get in Touch

Questions?

Jen Carpenter

Director of Signature Events

(989) 837-4465

Distinguished Women Awards