Ernest Rospierski attended NMU from 2000 to 2005. His wife, Andrea Kowalski-Rospierski, attended NMU from 2002 to 2005.

Rospierski said much of the educational philosophy he utilizes as a teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School was shaped at NMU. He added that professors who made an impact on him and his wife include history professors Robert Goodrich and Chet Defonso and English professor Sandra Burr.

Rospierski said the experiences he had with professors pushing him to achieve at NMU has helped teach him how to encourage his own students.

“We’re lucky enough to have that background to help our kids be the kids you see on TV right now.”

Rospierski was also a part of the the rugby team. He was one of the rugby players who started the team tradition of setting up and taking down the starting gate for the U.P. 200.

“I just saw a picture of the guys put up the gate this year and it’s still the same gate which makes me happy.”