Join us on February 28th for the 51st Stafford Dinner at Apple Mountain Resort in Freeland, MI.
This year’s event features a NU-opoly theme, a creative twist on the classic game that celebrates Northwood’s entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and community. Enjoy an evening of dinner, networking, and tradition as we honor the people and values that make Northwood exceptional.
Stafford Dinner
Stafford Dinner
Stafford Dinner Stafford Dinner
Buy Your Board Game!
Bring a piece of Northwood home with you! NU-opoly, our custom Northwood-themed board game, is now available for purchase. Grab yours to support student initiatives and celebrate the NU spirit long after the Stafford Dinner ends.
February 28, 2026
Hotel Information
NADA Hotel
We are offering special room rates of $75 for standard rooms and $85 for king rooms to those who call and reserve a room using the code words “Stafford Dinner.”
Contact the N.A.D.A. by calling (989) 837-4284.
Guest Speaker
Dominique Leach
Dominique Leach is a classically trained chef and nationally recognized pitmaster from Chicago. After honing her skills at MICHELIN-starred Spiaggia under James Beard winner Tony Mantuano and Chef Sarah Grueneberg, plus time with chef Raghavan Iyer at The Art Institute Museum, she launched her own catering company with her wife Tanisha in 2016.
Inspired by her grandmother Betty King's Mississippi home cooking, Leach created Lexington Betty Smokehouse, starting as a food truck and growing into a South Side brick-and-mortar. Her soulful BBQ has earned victories on Food Network's BBQ Brawl with Bobby Flay (2023), appearances on Chopped and Canada's Firemasters, and recognition as Chicago's "Best Barbecue" by Good Morning America. Chef Leach and Tanisha continue building their name in the culinary world.
Entertainment
Cool 2 Duel
Cool2Dual, the dynamic pianist duo, will bring an unforgettable energy to the Stafford Dinner. Known for their seamless harmonies, versatile repertoire, and captivating stage presence, they blend classical technique with contemporary flair to create a performance that appeals to every audience. Guests can expect an evening filled with lively duets, familiar favorites, and unique arrangements that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
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.
Your support makes the Stafford Dinner possible and helps continue a long-standing Northwood tradition that celebrates leadership, community, and student achievement. Contributions directly impact event planning, student involvement, and the overall experience that brings alumni, faculty, and students together. Whether through sponsorships, donations, or volunteering, your involvement keeps this tradition thriving year after year.
Support Stafford
