Alumni Service Recognition Award

Dan '15 and Jennifer '13 Digmann demonstrate two different faces of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Jennifer was diagnosed in 1997 and has secondary-progressive MS; Dan was diagnosed in 2000 and has relapsing-remitting MS. The Michigan couple met at a National Multiple Sclerosis Society event in 2002, were married in 2005 and have dedicated their lives to MS activism and helping others to live their best life. They are District Activist Leaders and members of the Government Relations Committee for the National MS Society in Michigan.

As National fundraising leaders for MS the Digmanns have raised over $65,000 in the past 12 years through Michigan Walk MS events and are consistently among the chapter's top 100 fundraising teams. They work tirelessly to advance Complex Rehab Technology federal legislation and state funding of home care options for personal care needs. Their award-winning blogging and social media posts generate great exposure to National Multiple Sclerosis Societies' policy issues. In November 2013, the couple received a "Declaration of Special Tribute" from their state Senate signed by the governor to recognize them for their outstanding work and activism within the Multiple Sclerosis community.  In 2016, the Mt. Pleasant couple was inducted into the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Volunteer Hall of Fame. Through their writing, public speaking, and advocacy work, the Digmanns have inspired countless friends, colleagues, and perfect strangers with their amazing love story and passion for life. Dan and Jennifer both earned their graduate degrees in Humanities from Central Michigan University and have connected with audiences nationwide through their inspirational stories of life, love, and overcoming adversity.