The Department of Management at Western Michigan University recognizes the achievements of our graduates. The Outstanding Alumni Award is given each year to one alum who exemplifies the department's mission through contributions to his or her profession, discipline or community.
2021 honoree
Robert Naugle Jr. and his wife Anne have been tireless advocates for the successful employment of transitioning military veterans since their own active duty ended in 2010. Moved by the events of 9/11, Naugle enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduation. Stationed in Fort Lewis with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), he later attended the Army’s Officer Candidate School and fulfilled operations and assignments both nationally and internationally.
As he transitioned into the private sector, Naugle recognized the gap in employment and lack of comprehensive services for veterans and their families. He and his wife, an Army helicopter pilot retiree, founded RallyPoint/6 (RP/6)—a nonprofit focused on serving transitioning troops and families and connecting them to the right service provider in their respective communities. RP/6 and the USO joined forces in January 2017 and are now scaling services at USO sites globally.
Previous Honorees
- Shaquanda Gordon, B.B.A.'01 (2019)
- R. Craig Hopkins Jr., MBA'97 (2018)
- Kevin McManus, B.B.A.'79 (2017)
- William J. Crane, Jr. (2015)
- Carrie L. Jones-Barber (2014)
- Colonel Rodney Faulk (2013)
- Keith Valentine (2012)
- Chris Flum (2011)