Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/211107
Fa l l 2 0 1 3 University Libraries' Newsletter Randy Norton is always cheering for the Chippewas, whether he's in Park Library for a Centralight ad photo session with CMU punter Richie Hogan or in the Kelly/Shorts Stadium stands. Volume 9, Issue 1 Donating with spirit Alumnus pledges $25 for every CMU touchdown scored by Melissa Beauchamp Randy Norton looks back on his life and credits Central Michigan University for his successes. To show his appreciation, the 1977 CMU graduate is combining his two passions – academics and football – and is donating $25 to the Libraries for every touchdown CMU scores this football season. "Hey, if the team scores a lot this year, believe me, I'll be happy writing a big check," says Norton, a CPA and owner of Norton Accounting & Consulting P.C. in Saginaw, Frankenmuth and Vassar. After years of disconnection from his alma mater, Norton was reintroduced to CMU at an alumni golf outing when former football coach Brian Kelly delivered an inspiring speech. Norton reached for his checkbook and purchased CMU football season tickets. Since then Norton and his wife, Myra, have had season tickets and have attended nearly every home game. Norton's CMU journey Norton had a late start on his college career and began fulltime at CMU as a sophomore in January 1975 after attending a community college. He and his wife lived at CMU in married housing and soon became housing supervisors. "While at CMU, my primary motivation was to graduate and get a job," says Norton, who spent hours studying for his CPA exam at Park Library. "We were very busy working, studying and taking care of the apartments." Norton says he remembers not taking the time to fully appreciate the university while he was here. He was focusing his efforts on getting through school rather than taking in other college experiences. "My motivation for donating to CMU was based on wanting to give back to the institution that made my level of success possible," the Freeland native says. "The connections and introductions I made at CMU started the ball rolling for me." Megan Moreno, director of development and community outreach for CMU Libraries, says she appreciates Norton's support of this fun campaign for the Libraries that ties the excitement of the football season with the priority of student success at CMU. "We're excited about providing students with the tools they need to be successful in their academic careers," she says. "We want people to think of the Libraries when they think of everyday culture at CMU.." To make your own pledge in support of the Libraries, visit library.cmich.edu/support.