I Bleed Dunwoody

Mike Hoops '68 has always believed in paying it forward — a belief that inspired both his career and his deep connection to Dunwoody College. Years ago, when he volunteered to conduct planned giving interviews for the College, Mike spent time talking with fellow alumni about their hopes for Dunwoody's future and how they could leave a lasting impact. Those conversations stayed with him and ultimately led him to include Dunwoody in his own will. Today, Mike is a proud member of Dunwoody's Legacy Makers. "I bleed Dunwoody," he often says, a sentiment reflected in the unrestricted estate gift he's arranged to support the College wherever it's needed most.

A graduate of the Automotive Service Technology program, Mike recalls his time at Dunwoody as both formative and demanding. He quickly built strong friendships, especially with his classmate Dave Rieke '68, whom he was partnered with early on. "There were probably about forty of us who started together," Mike remembered. "Within a couple of months, about half had left. A lot of people thought we'd be working on cars immediately, but Dunwoody grounded us in the fundamentals first. That structure and discipline really shaped me."

After graduation, Mike's career path was anything but ordinary. He worked as a mechanic, served in the U.S. Navy, farmed part-time, and eventually launched a long career with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

But no matter where life took him, Dunwoody remained close to his heart. His volunteer work on the Alumni Board and with planned giving efforts deepened his appreciation for the College's mission and the life-changing opportunities it offers students. "It feels good to know my estate gift will help future students find their footing and build their careers. I trust the College to use it where it's needed most — because Dunwoody has always delivered."