18th Annual Scholarship Luncheon – June 16, 2026

Every year the Midwest Independent Retailers Foundation awards academic scholarships to extraordinary and deserving students. At our Annual Scholarship Luncheon, recipients have an opportunity to meet and network with sponsors and donors.  

Sponsoring this event will truly make a difference in the lives of these students, and together we work to enhance our next generation of leaders. Sponsor a student today in memory of a friend or family member or attribute it to your company.

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For tickets & sponsorships, please contact Kayla Cobetto at (248) 671-9600 or [email protected].

2025 RECAP: Celebrating Excellence at MIRF’s 17th Annual Scholarship Luncheon

On June 17th, the Midwest Independent Retailers Foundation (MIRF) proudly honored 25 outstanding college students at the prestigious Detroit Athletic Club, awarding each a $2,000 scholarship to support their academic journey. Adding inspiration to the celebration, Herman Moore—renowned business leader, brand strategist, philanthropist, and former Detroit Lions wide receiver—delivered a powerful keynote. In his speech, Moore reflected on perseverance, gratitude, trust, loyalty, love, and dedication.

“I don’t know where I would have been without sports,” Moore shared. “I was a C-student. I struggled—not because I lacked intelligence, but because I lacked application.” He credited his success to those who believed in him and saw potential he didn’t yet recognize in himself.

This memorable event was made possible by Signature Sponsors: DTE, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Pepsi, and Borden Dairy. Congratulations to all scholarship recipients—your future is bright!

A full recap can be found in the July/August issue of MIRA's BottomLine magazine.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Winners

2025 Keynote Speaker

Herman Moore is the Founder & CEO of 
Team 84 LLC, a certified Minority Business holding company. A serial entrepreneur, Moore has put together a family of companies operating as a full suite of services, which include manufacturing, e-commerce, marketing and branding, and business intelligence platforms. 

Moore entered into business in the early 2000s after a 12-year career as one of the most productive wide receivers in NFL league history. He spent 11 seasons with the Detroit Lions (1991-2001) and one with the New York Giants (2002), selected by the Lions in the first round (10th overall) of the 1991 NFL Draft.