Donation Will Help Fund Construction of New Facility to House Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies at Northwood
The Reynolds and Reynolds Company, the leading provider of software, services, and forms in automotive retail, has pledged a monumental $5 million gift to help fund the construction of a facility that will be home to the new Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies at Northwood University. The Center will replace the current NADA Hotel and Conference Center on Northwood’s campus in Midland, Michigan.
“We are immensely grateful to Reynolds for this transformative gift,” stated Northwood University president Kent MacDonald. “Their support will significantly elevate Northwood’s top-tier automotive education programs. The new Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies will be a game-changer for our students, faculty, and the industry.”
The Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies will be one of the largest construction projects in Northwood’s history. It will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including academic classrooms, a conference center, upgraded hotel accommodations, and an inviting lobby. The center’s governance structure will include an advisory council comprised of automotive industry leaders, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of automotive education.
“As the automotive industry continues to thrive, we need creative, highly educated, and talented leaders eager to innovate and bring their ideas to fruition,” said Chris Walsh, president of Reynolds. “Reynolds is proud to have a part in providing Northwood students a place to learn, grow, and become leaders at OEMs, dealerships, and companies dedicated to improving outcomes for both.”
In addition to the new state-of-the-art facility, Northwood University and Reynolds are partnering to create a premier talent recruitment program to bring the best and brightest Northwood graduates across all majors to retail automotive.
“Northwood is grateful to have a strong partner in Reynolds, and we are thankful for the company’s leadership in driving the automotive industry forward,” stated Dr. Matthew Bennett, vice president of Strategic Alliances and the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies. “This contribution allows us to build a modern facility that will enhance the educational experience for our students and serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration in the automotive and automotive aftermarket sectors.”
The $5 million gift was publicly announced during the June 6 President’s Freedom Celebration at Northwood University, where Reynolds was this year’s title sponsor.
Construction on the new facility will begin once architectural plans are finalized, which is expected to be in the coming months. The goal is to construct the facility within the next two years, with The Center being fully operational by 2026. This timeline ensures the new center will be ready to welcome students and industry professionals in a timely manner.Â
