Koons Gives $30 Million to Dealer-Centric Northwood University Longtime VADA Member and Automotive Entrepreneur Makes the Largest Philanthropic Commitment in Michigan University’s History Jim Koons, a 1973 Northwood graduate and former CEO of Jim Koons Automotive Companies, built one of the nation’s largest privately owned dealership groups from its roots in Northern Virginia. His commitment to Northwood includes $20 million in direct philanthropic investment and another $10 million in challenge funding tied to undergraduate enrollment growth and future fundraising milestones. The funding will support student housing, automotive education, scholarships and other university initiatives. “This gift reflects my gratitude for my Northwood education and belief that Northwood is uniquely positioned to develop free enterprise leaders who understand the positive impact this economic system has on our country and the entire world,” Koons said in announcing the commitment. “Entrepreneurship and capitalism still provide the greatest opportunity to improve people’s lives.” A VIRGINIA DEALERSHIP LEGACY Koons has deep roots in Virginia’s franchised dealer community. His father, John Koons, opened the family’s first dealership in Falls Church in 1964. Jim later took control of the business and expanded it into a major Mid-Atlantic dealership Jim Koons and wife Cece with Northwood University President Kent MacDonald 12 Virginia Auto Dealer
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