Total Pledge to Northwood University Now $1 Million to Advance Innovation, Workforce Readiness, and Industry Impact
Subaru of New England has pledged an additional $500,000 to Northwood University in continued support of the Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy. This second major commitment brings the total investment to $1 million, deepening a powerful partnership that is fueling the future of automotive and mobility education.
“This expanded investment from Subaru of New England is a testament to our shared vision of preparing future leaders to thrive in the rapidly evolving automotive and mobility industry,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “We are incredibly grateful for their continued partnership, honored by their confidence in Northwood, and proud of the remarkable impact already underway through this professorship.”
“At Subaru of New England, we believe in driving forward — not just in our vehicles, but in how we invest in the future of our industry,” stated Ernie Boch Jr., President and CEO of Subaru of New England, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles across six states, and Ferrari of New England and Boch Maserati. “Northwood University is leading the way in preparing the next generation of automotive and mobility leaders, and we’re proud to double down on our support of their mission. This is more than a gift — it’s a partnership built on performance, purpose, and progress.”
Industry veteran Dr. Dave Oventhal was appointed as the inaugural Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy following the initial $500,000 gift in 2023. A longtime professional in the automotive, mobility, and powersports sectors, Oventhal has played a vital role in launching the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies (CAMS), which combines Northwood University’s longtime and storied automotive retail and automotive aftermarket education programs with non-degree education through the University of the Aftermarket, plus other professional and continuing education, including master’s degrees focused on the automotive industry.
“This additional support from Subaru of New England strengthens Northwood’s ability to drive progress at the intersection of education and industry,” noted Dr. Matthew Bennett, Vice President of Enrollment, Strategic Partnerships, and CAMS. “Dr. Oventhal’s leadership has created new energy and momentum across campus, as well as in our industry outreach and research.”
In addition to leading the CAMS Research Institute, Oventhal has made a measurable impact as the inaugural Subaru of New England Professor of Automotive Strategy by:
- Launching DRIVEN, a bi-monthly periodical from the CAMS Research Institute that highlights alumni success, industry innovation, and critical issues facing automotive, aftermarket, and powersports professionals.
- Expanding Northwood’s powersports footprint, including attending the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) in Las Vegas to engage with manufacturers, vendors, and alumni while exploring industry-aligned educational opportunities.
- Spearheading efforts to highlight Northwood’s role in developing talent pipelines and enhancing workforce readiness — including new curriculum and degree program development.
“This professorship has been a unique opportunity to integrate education, research, and industry collaboration in meaningful ways,” Oventhal stated. “I am grateful to Subaru of New England, including Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey T. Ruble, a Northwood alumnus, and President and CEO Ernie Boch Jr., for their support of our efforts to bridge classroom learning with real-world relevance to build lasting value for students and industry alike.”
A renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Boch addressed members of the Northwood University Class of 2025 earlier this month after being vested with an honorary degree — Northwood’s highest award, reserved only for individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to society.
“The continued generosity of Subaru of New England — and the hands-on involvement of Ernie Boch Jr. — has a significant impact not just at Northwood, but across the broader automotive landscape,” stated Elgie Bright, who leads automotive retail education at Northwood University. “This partnership is a shining example of what happens when industry leaders invest in future generations.”
Visit northwood.edu/cams to learn more about the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies and how Northwood University, as America’s Automotive University, is shaping the future of automotive and mobility education.
ABOUT SUBARU OF NEW ENGLAND
Established in 1971 by Ernie Boch, Subaru of New England (SNE) is the exclusive distributor for Subaru vehicles and parts to the 65 Subaru Retailers in the six states of New England. From its humble beginnings, SNE and its Retailer network have continued to grow and succeed for over 50 years. As of 2025, Subaru is the third best-selling nameplate in New England.
Subaru of New England and its Retailers are committed to making the world a better place through the Subaru Love Promise. By supporting a wide range of organizations through monthly community initiatives, Subaru of New England prides itself on being More Than a Car Company. Learn more about the Subaru Love Promise.
