McGuirk family named grand marshals for 2025 CMU Homecoming

MOUNT PLEASANT, MICH. — Central Michigan University will honor the McGuirk family as the 2025 Homecoming grand marshals, celebrating a legacy of commitment that spans generations and continues to shape both the university and the Mount Pleasant community.

The McGuirk family’s connection to CMU began with the late Jim McGuirk, a lifelong Mount Pleasant resident and visionary entrepreneur who established United Apartments in 1963. For decades, his developments have provided housing for thousands of CMU students, and his philanthropic leadership was instrumental in the naming of McGuirk Arena in 2010.

That commitment has been embraced and expanded by the second generation — Jim’s nephews, Rick and Chuck McGuirk, and his niece, Sandy Dean. Together, they’ve upheld the family’s dedication to CMU through their business expertise, philanthropic gifts and volunteer service. Their impact is evident across campus, from athletics to scholarships to support for student organizations.

“Our family’s businesses would not be where they are today without CMU and the community,” said Lexi McGuirk, daughter of Chuck and Jennifer McGuirk and grand-niece of Jim McGuirk. “Giving back to CMU is how our family says thank you for everything the university and community have done for us.”

Rick McGuirk and his wife, Julie — both 1994 CMU graduates — remain actively involved as alumni. Rick has served on CMU’s Advancement Board and the Fired Up for Excellence campaign’s national steering committee. Chuck McGuirk contributes in-kind expertise to major construction projects that enhance the fan experience, while Sandy Dean helps manage family gifts that benefit CMU Athletics, ROTC and student scholarships.

“The McGuirk family's multi-generational commitment to Central Michigan University is truly remarkable,” said CMU President Neil MacKinnon. “The McGuirks’ impact is woven into the very fabric of our university. Their philanthropic spirit and unwavering support for our students and programs exemplify the absolute best of the CMU community.”

In 2018, the family established the United Apartments McGuirk Family Scholarship to support CMU students, and the McGuirk Family of Companies continues to sponsor campus and community events in partnership with registered student organizations.

“The McGuirks’ commitment to CMU and the Mount Pleasant community extends beyond being business leaders,” said Jennifer Cotter, CMU vice president for advancement. “They support our students with a wide variety of living locales that create a vibrant living and learning environment. They help fund athletic equipment transportation for CMU teams, serve on boards and are active in community organizations. Their support of CMU and the Mount Pleasant community through their actions is true leadership by example.”

As the third generation begins to explore its own path of service and support, the McGuirk legacy at CMU continues to grow.

“Being named grand marshals is a real honor for our family,” Lexi McGuirk said. “It’s a testament to our shared belief in the power of education, community and giving back.”

CMU’s Homecoming events take place Oct. 23-26 on the Mount Pleasant campus. The CMU Chippewas will face the University of Massachusetts on Oct. 25 in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.