Global Thought Leader to Headline Northwood University’s Biggest Summer Event
Acclaimed evolutionary behavioral scientist and public intellectual Dr. Gad Saad will keynote the President’s Freedom Celebration, Northwood University’s premier summer event, on June 12, 2025, in the Hach Student Life Center.
A best-selling author and host of The Saad Truth podcast, Dr. Saad is known for his compelling insights on human behavior, free expression, and the pursuit of happiness. He is a frequent guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, the world’s most popular podcast, and has gained global recognition for his bold defense of reason and liberty.
“As a global ambassador for The Northwood Idea, Dr. Saad has powerfully articulated why freedom, free speech, and critical thinking matter,” stated Northwood University President Kent MacDonald. “This year’s President’s Freedom Celebration promises to be the most impactful yet — celebrating our values, honoring our mission, and featuring a historic announcement that will shape the future of America’s Free Enterprise University.”
During his keynote, Dr. Saad will share lessons from his best-selling book, The Saad Truth About Happiness: 8 Secrets for Leading the Good Life, exploring how thoughtful life decisions — such as selecting a life partner and pursuing a purposeful career — can significantly enhance one’s happiness and fulfillment.
“In my role this past year as a visiting professor and global ambassador of The Northwood Idea, I can confirm that this institution breeds an ethos of personal responsibility, a commitment to reason, and an entrepreneurial spirit, all of which are key ingredients in the pursuit of an enriching life defined by purpose and meaning,” Dr. Saad noted.
The evening will also include President MacDonald’s annual State of the University Address, during which he will unveil a transformational announcement that will impact the future of Northwood University and its regional and national influence.
Starting at 5:30 p.m. on June 12, President’s Freedom Celebration attendees will enjoy a strolling dinner, live musical entertainment from Detroit’s Chris Plum, and a dessert afterglow. A private reception with Dr. Saad will be held prior to the event for sponsors and major donors.
Since its inception in 2023, the President’s Freedom Celebration has featured nationally renowned speakers, including Dr. Ben Carson and Dr. Arthur Brooks, drawing supporters from across the country to celebrate Northwood’s commitment to free enterprise and principled leadership.
“This year’s event, which will feature a historic announcement that will impact the future of Northwood University and beyond, will be the most memorable President’s Freedom Celebration yet,” added Vice President of Advancement Murray Kyte.
Tickets are available at www.northwood.edu/pfc. For sponsorship opportunities or more information, contact Jen Carpenter at .
