Auto Show Gala Celebrates $20 Million Raised for Automotive Education
Funding will support endowed professorships, scholarships & infrastructure development at Northwood University…
At a sold-out Auto Show Gala on Sept. 19, 2025, Northwood University president Kent MacDonald announced that more than $20 million has been raised to directly support automotive education at Northwood University.
The announcement was made during the 62nd Northwood University International Auto Show, the nation’s largest outdoor, student-run auto show. The $20-million milestone is part of Northwood’s When We Are Free comprehensive campaign.
“This week at Northwood University has been nothing short of remarkable,” said MacDonald. “Our students have elevated this year’s Auto Show to unprecedented heights, while our dedicated faculty and staff continue to drive Northwood into an exciting new era. Launching our new Automotive & Mobility MBA and expanding into the motorsports sector are just the latest proof points of Northwood’s reputation as America’s premier university for automotive and mobility innovation.”
MacDonald also extended heartfelt thanks to the donors whose generosity has contributed more than $20 million to Northwood’s automotive programs. “This extraordinary support is a clear reflection of the automotive industry’s deep belief in Northwood as the top destination for developing talent and leadership across the automotive, mobility and aftermarket sectors.”
When We Are Free Helps Expand Access & Prepare Leaders for the Automotive & Mobility Sectors
The funds will support new endowed professorships and scholarships within Northwood’s storied undergraduate Automotive Marketing & Management and Automotive Aftermarket Management degree programs, along with the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies (CAMS) at Northwood University. Additionally, the funds will support infrastructure development, including the renovation of the existing NADA Hotel and Conference Center.
“The When We Are Free campaign seeks to drive innovation, expand access and prepare principled leaders for industries like the automotive and mobility sectors, which are evolving at a rapid pace,” added advancement vice president Murray Kyte. “Thanks to the generosity of our alumni, partners and friends, tomorrow’s leaders will not only be ready for the jobs of today, they’ll be equipped to shape the industry of tomorrow.”
