Celebrate Excellence: Northwood University Recognizes Its 2025 Outstanding Alumni

On September 18, 2025, Northwood University honored seven outstanding graduates at the Hach Student Life Center. This event, known as the Outstanding Alumni Awards Ceremony, celebrated those who have embraced the university’s core values: personal responsibility, earned success, and using business to uplift communities. President Kent MacDonald emphasized the importance of investing in students, noting that such support fosters future leaders and innovators.

The Outstanding Alumni Awards, the highest recognition given by Northwood, award graduates in four categories: Achievement, Leadership, Young Alumni, and Service. Honorees are selected based on their professional accomplishments and dedication to the university and community.

2025 Achievement Award: Eve Knudtsen (’85) from Hayden, Idaho, leads Knudtsen Chevrolet, a family-owned business thriving for nearly 80 years. As an influential figure in the automotive industry, she has made significant strides while honoring her family’s legacy.

2025 Young Alumni Award: Ryan Caldwell (’15) from Royal Oak, Michigan, is the sales manager for Suburban Accessories, overseeing operations across 17 states. His recognition as part of Northwood’s inaugural Class of 20 Under 40 in 2023 highlights his impact at a young age.

2025 Service Award: Kevin Shark (’12, MBA ’25) from Pinconning, Michigan, is a U.S. Army veteran and entrepreneur. He runs several businesses and is a proactive community leader, serving with the Bay County Road Commission and supporting veterans through the Great Lakes Veterans Bay Coalition.

Nikki and Bob Paschall also received recognition for their community involvement. They sponsor the annual Northwood University International Auto Show and are committed to recruiting students during career fairs. Meanwhile, Michelle and Greg Waller, both accounting professionals, continue to actively support Northwood through various initiatives, including the Alumni Legacy and Go M.A.D. golf outings.

As Julie Adamczyk, Senior Alumni and Engagement Officer, remarked, these graduates not only excel in their careers but also give back significantly to their communities and alma mater. Their actions reflect the heart of what it means to be a Northwood graduate.

A symbolic candle-lighting tradition during the ceremony highlighted the connection between past, present, and future alumni, emphasizing Northwood’s enduring legacy of leadership.

Looking ahead, President MacDonald connected the celebration to Northwood’s comprehensive campaign called When We Are Free, which aims to raise $100 million. He noted that scholarships serve as affirmations of confidence in students. This campaign underscores Northwood’s mission to cultivate leaders who will drive global economic and social progress.

With a commitment to fostering a supportive environment, Northwood University continues to pave the way for future generations. Through its awards and initiatives, it showcases how investing in education can lead to impactful leadership in business and community life.

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