Marquette, Mich. – Northern Michigan University Alumni Relations has announced four recipients of the 2026 Alumni Awards: Dr. Gary R. Bertoline ('74 BS) of West Lafayette, Ind., Distinguished Alumni; Jenna Zdunek ('04 BS) of Marquette, Mich., Alumni Achievement; Maureen McFadden ('16 BS) of Marquette, Mich., Outstanding Young Alumni; and John M. Madigan ('82 BS) of Munising, Mich., Alumni Service (Community).
Nominated and selected by fellow alumni, the recipients are honored for significant achievements in their fields, substantial contributions to society, and for demonstrating exceptional leadership and civic qualities.
Bertoline, Founding Dean of the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, has earned national recognition for transforming engineering and technology education through innovative, competency-based learning models. A leader in STEM education, he has shaped workforce development through his work with national organizations, authored widely used textbooks, and expanded access to engineering education through initiatives such as Purdue Polytechnic High Schools. His visionary leadership and global impact have influenced engineering education for decades.
Zdunek, CEO of the David and Thu Brulé YMCA of Marquette County, has dedicated more than 20 years to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. She successfully guided the organization through Chapter 11 bankruptcy, eliminated $7 million in debt, and restored long-term financial stability while expanding programs that serve youth, families, and seniors. Recognized nationally for her leadership, Zdunek has also mentored nonprofit professionals, fostered regional partnerships, and contributed to workforce development as a former adjunct faculty member at Northern Michigan University.
McFadden, Senior Services Manager for the City of Marquette, has distinguished herself as an innovative leader in senior services, community wellness, and civic engagement. She has expanded programs and services for older adults across Marquette County through strategic partnerships, funding initiatives, and advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels. Recognized as the 2025 Michigan Association of Senior Centers Director of the Year, McFadden is also a dedicated community volunteer and mentor who champions healthy aging and experiential learning opportunities for Northern Michigan University students.
Madigan has dedicated his career to community service and regional development, leaving a lasting impact across Munising, Alger County, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. A longtime civic leader, he has served on numerous local and state boards, including the Michigan Natural Resources Commission and Michigan Travel Commission. Through his visionary leadership, he founded Pictured Rocks Days and helped elevate the region as a premier tourism destination, driving economic growth while strengthening communities throughout the Upper Peninsula.
Learn more about our 2026 Alumni Award recipients here. The honorees will be recognized and celebrated in person during Homecoming 2026 (Sept. 18-19). A Homecoming schedule is available at nmu.edu/homecoming. Detailed feature stories with comments from each recipient will be issued at a later date.
For more information on the award criteria and to nominate a fellow alumnus/a, visit nmu.edu/alumni/awards. NMU Alumni Relations can be contacted at alumni@nmu.edu.