Northern Michigan University (NMU) and Marquette’s own Blackrocks Brewery are joining forces to celebrate a milestone. In honor of NMU’s 125th anniversary, the two are launching Wildcat Gold, a collaborative beer crafted by alumni, for alumni, and all those who love Marquette, MI. This special gold lager is set to debut at the upcoming Alumni Friday event on August 23rd at the Blackrocks Brewery Pub, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Fans can also find Wildcat Gold at the Homecoming football game tailgate on September 21st and at NMU Wildcat hockey games throughout the season, while supplies last.
Andy Langlois, a 1995 NMU alumnus and co-owner of Blackrocks Brewery Marquette MI, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are truly honored to collaborate with NMU in creating Wildcat Gold Lager, especially as it marks such a significant anniversary,” Langlois stated. He emphasized NMU’s profound positive influence on the Marquette area, noting, “NMU was the reason many of our staff came to Marquette. Like so many, we fell in love with this area and decided to make our lives here. We hope this beer evokes those fond memories of attending NMU, being in Marquette, and embracing the Wildcat spirit. Here’s to another 125 years!”
The launch event at Blackrocks Brewery Marquette MI is offering a special treat for NMU alumni. The first 100 alumni or friends, aged 21 and over, who register in advance for the launch event at nmu.edu/alumni/alumnifridays will receive a complimentary pint of Wildcat Gold. Beyond the celebratory launch, a portion of the proceeds from all sales of Wildcat Gold will directly benefit NMU student recreation and health initiatives. These funds will contribute to upgrading equipment at the NMU Outdoor Recreation Center, which provides students with free equipment rentals, including mountain bikes and Nordic skiing gear, facilitating access to the extensive recreational opportunities offered by the Noquemanon Trail Network.
Dave Nyberg, NMU Executive Director of Business Engagement and Economic Development, highlighted the unifying aspect of this collaboration. “As Wildcats come together to celebrate Northern’s 125th Anniversary, this partnership offers a point of connection for alumni and friends, while simultaneously supporting recreational access for our students,” Nyberg explained. He further added, “Whether reuniting with friends at an alumni event, cheering on the Wildcats at sporting events, or unwinding after a day on the trails, we hope Wildcats everywhere will share a sense of Northern pride while responsibly enjoying Wildcat Gold. We extend our sincere thanks to our Wildcat-owned partners at Blackrocks Brewery Marquette MI for their collaboration and shared commitment to our community.”
Wildcat Gold, boasting a 4.8% ABV, is described as “a celebratory gold lager honoring over 125 years of pride, place, and purpose. It’s for those who remain Wild, for those who bleed Green and Gold. It truly is a great day to be a Wildcat.” NMU Alumni Relations introduced the Alumni Fridays series earlier this summer to strengthen connections and networking among alumni and friends of the university. Previous events have included happy hours, historical walking tours, and even a virtual scavenger hunt.
To discover more about NMU alumni events, including the upcoming Homecoming 2024, visit nmu.edu/alumni. Don’t miss the chance to taste Wildcat Gold at Blackrocks Brewery Marquette MI and celebrate NMU’s 125th anniversary!
