Huntington University Announces 2026 Alumni, HU Foundation Award Recipients

Marcy Hawkins, Ann McPherren, Mark Wickersham, Nick Alwine recognized for contributions to their communities

HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is pleased to recognize four exemplary individuals — Marcy Hawkins, Ann McPherren, Mark Wickersham and Nick Alwine — who have made notable contributions to their communities.

Marcy Hawkins was recognized with the Alumna of the Year award. Hawkins earned a Bachelor of Science degree in management in 2003 and later earned a Master of Business Administration in 2020. This award recognizes not only Hawkins’ exceptional achievement in her career, but also the lasting impact she has had on others, particularly during her time working at HU. Comments shared about Hawkins highlighted her work ethic, innovative mind, compassion for others and love for her Alma mater.

Ann McPherren and Mark Wickersham were both recognized with Distinguished Alumni of the Year awards.

McPherren graduated first in her class in 1978, but her impact on the University was only beginning. For approximately 45 years, McPherren has faithfully served Huntington University as a professor, administrator, mentor and leader. She has helped shape new academic programs, expand graduate education, secure important grants and guide the University through seasons of tremendous growth and change. Through it all, McPherren has remained one of HU’s greatest advocates and a familiar face at countless University and athletic events. She is a servant leader in every sense of the word — selfless, thoughtful, dependable and always willing to step in wherever she is needed.

Wickersham earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1978. Wickersham has spent his career driving growth across Huntington County and supporting Huntington University. Working in the political sphere for Dan Coats and Mark Souder, he consistently upheld a personal standard of dignity and respect for all people. As a key liaison between the public and government offices, Wickersham helped local constituents navigate federal challenges and ensured their voices were heard. Comments shared about Wickersham highlighted his faith, dedication to family, loyalty, investment in his community and ability to understand and navigate complex processes.

Nick Alwine was presented with the Huntington University Foundation Distinguished Service Award. The award is given to a community member who has been a model of the connection between the University and Huntington community at large. A Purdue University alum, Alwine and his family have become engaged in the Huntington community and Huntington University since they made Huntington home in 2012. As president of FCI Construction, Alwine has been very involved with the construction of many buildings on campus, including renovations of the Dining Commons, the HUB and the PLEX. Alwine currently serves on the President’s Advisory Council for Excellence at Huntington University. In the community, Alwine is involved in Faith Chapel Church, is part of the Big Brothers/Big Sisters lunch buddy program and is an executive board member of Huntington County United Economic Development. He is a volunteer with the DadCamp ministry, and, in his spare time, he has taught Sunday school, coached youth soccer, Pal baseball and Huntington United Soccer.