East Michigan News

The National Alumni Awards, the highest honors presented by the CMU Alumni Association, recognize individuals who have made significant professional and community achievements. Recipients are nominated annually and selected by alumni, faculty, and friends of Central Michigan University.

This year's recipients embody the university's "FIRE UP" spirit.

Melinda Coffin is the first member of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe to serve as CEO of Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. In 2024, she was honored with the Native American Woman of the Year award by Imagine This for her leadership and community commitment. Coffin serves on several boards and is known within her tribe as “Makoons Kwe,” or “Little Bear Woman.”

Michael R. Murray and Pamela Wasko Murray have been annual donors to CMU since 1977. They support various university initiatives, including the Chippewa Champions Center and student awards. The couple has mentored numerous students through the College of Business Administration’s Dialogue Days.

MyMichigan Health has supported CMU in multiple ways, from sponsoring athletic suites to providing practical experiences for medical students. Their partnership with CMU Athletics has improved medical care access for over 450 student-athletes and contributed to advancements in health care within the Mid-American Conference.

Spencer Long was a notable student leader at CMU, contributing significantly to Leadership Safari. He received the Constellation Award in 2008 for his leadership impact.

Audrey Zavodsky-Fraser and her late husband Richard Zavodsky have been long-time supporters of CMU Athletics through financial contributions and active engagement with coaches and players.

Sam Prater founded Los Angeles Room & Board, a nonprofit aimed at ending homelessness among L.A. County’s community college students. His experience as a university administrator fuels his dedication to educational equity.

Aaliyah Howard has been an influential figure on CMU’s campus, promoting inclusivity and engagement. She is recognized as a Leader Advancement Scholar, Newman Civic Fellow, and Black Girls Rock scholar of the year.

The Central Michigan University Alumni Association proudly announces these individuals as recipients of the 2024 National Alumni Awards.

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