President's Message
It's official. Our 50th Anniversary has begun! This magazine should arrive in your mailbox just as the celebrations commence with Founders' Day activities in Florida, Michigan, and Texas.
Greetings:
Our founders, Drs. R. Gary Stauffer and Arthur E. Turner, were driven to create a new concept in education -- one where ethics-driven management would lead the way. Because of their faith, passion, and perseverance, thousands of Northwood alumni have gained the skills necessary to become successful leaders of a global, free-enterprise society. Today you will find thousands of our graduates making a positive impact as business leaders and entrepreneurs world-wide. They are living examples of The Northwood Idea and the strong legacy that has been building for 50 years.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of our founders and the many others who have helped shape our growth, we have prepared a variety of meaningful events and activities which pay tribute to their contributions. Lou Furlo, a long-time Northwood University supporter, Trustee, and chair of the 50th Anniversary Committee, is eagerly looking forward to great activity and fervent enthusiasm. He and the Committee have been working hard to make sure the celebratory events are truly memorable.
All constituents world-wide can expect scores of festive opportunities to acknowledge our founders and recall their journey. The events will include alumni receptions, birthday festivals, time capsules, and more. In addition, each campus is hosting a 50th Festival which will be open to the community. Michigan's will take place April 24-26; Texas, October 2-4 and will coincide with Homecoming and Crossing Over; and Florida's is planned for February 2010. The festivals will have activities for all ages including softball and baseball tournaments, block parties, Greek celebrations, and more. If you are anywhere near any of the areas, please consider coming to join in the merriment.
You will find the calendar of events to date on the back cover of this magazine. Fifty years is an extraordinary milestone we are proud to have realized. We look forward to celebrating the past, the present, and the future with our friends all over the world.
This March issue of the Northwood Idea begins with the reminisces of Lowell Homburger, '67 BBA, who shares his memories as a student during the first year the Michigan campus was open for classes. Homburger details a campus alive with activity and potential. From there we move into the stories of the people and events shaping Northwood University today. You will see from the pages that follow, Northwood University is still moving forward, full steam ahead!
As always, I welcome your comments and feedback at president@northwood.edu.
Keith A. Pretty, J.D.
President and CEO
