Rooney is a fighter pilot, PGA professional, patriotic philanthropist, author and motivational speaker
Northwood University’s upcoming Bay Harbor Celebration Weekend will feature a keynote from Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, a motivational speaker, fighter pilot, patriotic philanthropist, PGA professional, golf course developer and author.
The annual Bay Harbor Symposium is a tradition among Northwood University supporters and alumni, and an opportunity to honor The Northwood Idea and shared principles of freedom, personal responsibility and individual worth. This year’s event will be held July 29-30 at the Bay Harbor Yacht Club in beautiful Northern Michigan.
This year’s two-day event features a dinner event on Friday, July 29, to highlight the 2022 recipients of The Wings of Freedom Award and to share Northwood University’s recent success and path forward.
The Wings of Freedom award was instituted in 2021 to honor Northwood University’s own Dr. Dale Haywood. Haywood’s passion and commitment to a lifetime of teaching inspires Northwood to recognize individuals whose lives have similarly contributed to human progress, individual liberty, and economic and social prosperity.
Each recipient receives a replica of the “Freedom” sculpture found on Northwood University’s campus and Freedom Trail. The eagle is symbolic of Dr. Haywood’s commitment to liberty. It was installed in Founders Garden in 2019 through the generosity of hundreds of donors.
This year’s award recipients include former Northwood University President Dr. David E. Fry; Lt. Col. Rooney; and Carol A. and David P. Williams of Midland. The Williams are long-time Northwood University supporters, and Carol Williams was honored as a Northwood University Outstanding Business Leader in 2017 and is a member of the Outstanding Business Leader Executive Committee.
On Saturday, July 30, Northwood University will introduce a new partnership with the Great Lakes Center for the Arts. All are welcome to enjoy “A Patriot’s Calling: Leadership, Teamwork, and Sacrifice” with Lt. Col. Rooney.
“Lt. Col. Dan Rooney has strong Michigan ties, served our country, and founded The Folds of Honor Foundation to provide educational scholarships for the families of fallen military members,” stated Justin Marshall, vice president of advancement and business development at Northwood University. “His life-story and purpose-driven life is an example for Northwood students, and motivation for others to use their freedom, and individual worth, to chase and achieve their dreams.”
Following the keynote address, all are welcome to join Northwood University for a celebratory reception and capstone event for the two-day celebration.
To purchase tickets, visit the Bay Harbor event page. For more information, email Director of Signature Programs Jessica Hufford at .
