The Northern Michigan University Foundation Board of Directors has welcomed three new members: Elizabeth L. Beck '03 BS of Columbia City, Ind.; John G. Gauthier '03 AB, ‘07 BS of Wixon, Mich.; and William (Bill) H. Hawker '95 BS of Green Bay, Wis. The three new board members bring expertise in corporate leadership, technology, cybersecurity, business development, professional sports and community engagement, along with strong connections to Northern Michigan University.
Beck is vice president and general counsel for CTB, Inc., where she oversees the company's domestic and international legal affairs. She joined CTB in 2010 and was promoted to her current role in 2021. Beck is licensed to practice law in Michigan and Indiana and previously worked in private practice and as a judicial clerk. She earned a bachelor's degree in political science and pre-law from NMU in 2003 and a Juris Doctor degree from Michigan State University College of Law in 2007.
Gauthier is vice president of global IT at Auria Solutions, where he oversees technology strategy, enterprise systems, infrastructure and cybersecurity. He previously held IT leadership roles with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Nippon Seiki and Key Plastics. Gauthier earned an associate degree in computer information systems and a bachelor's degree in network computing from NMU, as well as a master's degree in information assurance from Eastern Michigan University.
Hawker is director of business development at Elevate97, a marketing services and brand execution company. He previously served as vice president of corporate partnerships for the Detroit Lions and held corporate sales leadership positions with the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. Hawker is a former member of the NMU Alumni Association Board of Directors and currently serves on the Wildcat Football Club Board of Directors. He earned a bachelor's degree in recreation and sports administration from NMU in 1995.
The Northern Michigan University Foundation is dedicated to advancing the priorities of the University and its students through philanthropic support. Foundation Board members provide leadership, expertise and advocacy to help strengthen NMU and create opportunities for current and future Wildcats. To learn more about the NMU Foundation and the many ways to support student success, visit nmu.edu/foundation.