Northwood University is honored to announce that a $4 million gift from The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation will support the renovation of the iconic NADA Hotel and Conference Center. Originally constructed in 1973, the facility is set to undergo a transformation that will preserve and honor Alden B. Dow’s architectural legacy.
“We are deeply grateful to The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation for their generous support,” said Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “This gift enables us to honor our rich history while paving the way for a brighter future. It reflects our shared commitment to creating a lasting impact in the Great Lakes Bay Region, across Michigan, and around the globe. This new facility will enhance the experience for Northwood students and alumni and will serve as a dynamic hub for economic growth as a premier destination place.”
The renewed facility will feature a large, modern conference center that will fill a vital need for large-capacity venues in the Great Lakes Bay Region. It will be a versatile resource for Northwood University and the surrounding community, offering an inviting space for economic activity, cultural events, and community engagement.
In addition to preserving Alden B. Dow’s architectural influence, the new conference center reaffirms Northwood’s commitment to being a valuable regional resource. A recent economic impact study revealed Northwood University’s significant contribution of $879 million to Michigan in FY 2022-23, including $211.8 million directly impacting the Great Lakes Bay Region.
“The modernization of the NADA Hotel and Conference Center is expected to further enhance Northwood’s role as a regional economic driver, supporting local businesses, hospitality, and workforce development,” stated Northwood Vice President of Advancement Murray Kyte.
The revitalized conference center will house elements of Northwood’s newly established Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies, furthering Northwood’s mission as an educational and professional leader in automotive strategy and mobility. The space will include advanced academic classrooms, upgraded hotel accommodations, and a welcoming lobby area designed to be a dynamic meeting space.
“The generosity of The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation will benefit our students, alumni, and the region at large, and our great distinction as Midland’s university,” noted Justin Marshall, Northwood’s chief development and engagement officer. “The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation’s support builds upon two additional $5 million gifts from alumnus Dr. Alan Jay Wildstein and The Reynolds and Reynolds Company to move this ambitious project forward with tremendous momentum.”
This renovation aligns with Northwood University’s longstanding dedication to the Great Lakes Bay Region. The recent economic impact study underscores the university’s role in supporting over 10,000 jobs statewide and contributing more than $200 million to the local economy through operations, visitor spending, and alumni contributions.
“The Foundation is pleased to provide this philanthropic support to Northwood University,” stated Dr. Ruth Alden Doan, president of The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation. “We have charter goals to improve the educational, religious, economic, and cultural lives of those in Midland and across Michigan — and this revitalization project will do just that.”
The modernized NADA Hotel and Conference Center is set to open new doors for economic impact and academic excellence.
