Northern Michigan University Alumni class of ‘75 and Former ceo of Starbucks Howard Shultz announced his $1 million from the Schultz Family Foundation to NMU on Wednesday, Nov. 20. The money will support the resources that go towards aiding first generation students and student athletes on campus.
NMU President Brock Tessman says the donation will be used for students who need help covering financial aid, room and board, book costs or other additional expenses that come along with being a student.
“Northern already does a lot in terms of tuition and fees, and we offer a lot of support just on our own the state does as well. The Schultz scholarship will go above and beyond that,” Tessman said. “Money is real. It’s meant to make sure those financial barriers don’t stand in between a first gen student and success.”
Schultz was a first generation student when he attended NMU, and hopes half of their donation can help others succeed and get their higher education. The money will be able to assist 30 students in its first year used, and aid more students in the years to come.
The other half of the donation will be allocated to student athletes who need financial assistance as well as making sure they have access to academic guidance while on the road.
Tessman says Shultz’s visit in October was a driving factor when making the donation. After meeting with students, faculty and athletic coaches, Schultz saw how he could impact the student body and campus in a positive way.
Students were able to give their thanks back to Shultz by signing a large Starbucks cup in the Jamrich lobby that will be sent to him.
“It’s a joyful day,” Tessman said. “It’s going to be a transformative gift for Northern.”
The fall semester has been jam packed with events while celebrating the 125th anniversary of the university. With concerts and basketball games hosted at the Superior dome, celebrity speakers like Ross Lynch, and Howard Schultz visiting, in conjunction with his donation, the campus has had much to celebrate over the course of one semester.
“It’s been a great year to be a Wildcat,” Tessman said. “We’re not even halfway done yet.”
