Scarpelli receives honor from Northwood University

Ray Scarpelli Jr., president and dealer principal of Ray Chevrolet and Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Fox Lake, has been named an Outstanding Business Leader by his alma mater, Northwood University.

Scarpelli is one of six honorees from all around the country to receive the award this year. All nominees are voted on by the award's executive committee.

The award was presented during the 38th annual Outstanding Business Leader Awards Gala by Northwood University President and CEO Keith Pretty. The event was held at the Breakers hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, just 15 minutes away from the university's campus.

Scarpelli said receiving this honor was humbling.

"I'm very lucky to have had the right background and the right stage for this award. What I mean is that I grew up in a great family with great guidance and mentorship. I also had a great opportunity to go to this school. Not everyone had that opportunity, but I did. Not everyone who wins has studied at Northwood University. But to be honored as an outstanding business leader by the people who helped make me one means a lot."

The award is Northwood University's way of honoring what the leaders have already done, but also to motivate its students for what they will do with their futures, the university said. University leaders believe the challenges faced by today's college student are tremendous and that it's powerful motivation for them to become acquainted with the lives and achievements of present day business leaders.

"Their personal stories are proof that 'it can be done' and to know them is an indispensable part of the education of America's next generation of business leaders," Pretty said.