50th Anniversary Stafford Dinner - Northwood University

Swing into the Rhythm at Stafford Jazz Club: Where Every Note Tells the History of Stafford Dinner.

Celebrate our 50th Anniversary with us on on March 1st, 2025, at 5:00 pm.

Step into the Stafford Jazz Lounge, where the rhythm of fundraising meets the cool groove of culinary delight. Leave behind the mundane and slide into an evening of soulful sounds, mouthwatering cuisine, and a musical journey that’ll transport you through time. Our stage is set with hot, fresh plates that’ll make your taste buds dance and support our talented students reaching for their dreams.

Glide past the history of Stafford Dinner and bustling bar, immerse yourself in our sultry jazz world. Feel the history pulse through the dimly lit room as you swing through the club doors, ready to groove for an unforgettable night of rhythm, flavor, and fundraising. So polish those wingtips and prepare for an evening of smooth melodies, delectable bites, and supporting our rising stars at Stafford Jazz Lounge!

Sponsorship and donations are requested by February 1st, 2025.
Tickets need to be purchased by February 14th, 2025 at the latest.

Purchase tickets or donate

One of Northwood University’s annual student-led events.

Planned, prepared, and executed by an Executive Board of students from any major. Students participate in event planning through marketing, logistics, food and beverage, procurement, and other specialties.

The Stafford Story

Mr. William D. Stafford was the first chairman of the Hotel, Restaurant & Resort Management Department at our beloved Northwood University. From 1969 to 1972, Mr. Stafford shared his knowledge about the hospitality industry and incorporated it into the curriculum.

Event Details

Scroll to see important information for the day of the event. If you have any questions, please reach out to a member of our Stafford Dinner Executive Board.

Zehnder's restaurant exterior showcases a sign boasting "Famous Frankenmuth Chicken Dinners," nestled among lush trees and landscaping. Flags proudly wave from the rooftop.

Venue

Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth

730 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734

A man speaks or sings into a vintage microphone, elegantly dressed in glasses and a suit, reminiscent of a classic Stafford Dinner scene, all captured in timeless black and white.

Entertainment

Guest Speaker: TBD

Musical entertainment by Chris Plum and interactive entertainment by Empty Canvas.

Drum set and cymbals illuminated against a dark backdrop with architectural elements reminiscent of a grand Stafford Dinner in the background.

Other Important Information

We encourage you to bring cash for the bar, raffles, games, and an interactive spur-of-the-moment donation opportunity! Credit cards will be accepted the night of.

Come in your formal cocktail attire and enjoy an evening showcasing food, music, and our favorite moments from the past.

Sponsorship Details

Being a sponsor of the 50th Anniversary Stafford Dinner gives you additional opportunities to promote your brand while supporting students of Northwood University.

Spotlight – $5,000 (payment in excess of $850 is tax deductible)