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This award recognizes alumni who achieve professional excellence and make meaningful contributions to CMU.

Major General (Ret.) Darren Werner has lived a life of service — to his country, to his community and to Central Michigan University. A two-star general and former commanding officer of the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, he now serves as president of SAPA Transmission, where he continues to lead with purpose and vision.

A 1989 graduate of CMU’s College of Science and Engineering, Darren earned his bachelor’s degree in biology with minors in chemistry and military science. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant through CMU’s ROTC program in 1988 and went on to complete master’s degrees from the U.S. Naval War College and Webster University. Over his nearly four-decade Army career, Darren served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Germany, Jordan and Korea. His leadership roles included commanding the 13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and overseeing a $30 billion annual budget at TACOM from the Detroit Arsenal.

Darren’s military decorations — including the Distinguished Service Medal,  Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Parachutist Badge — reflect a career marked by courage and excellence. But he’s equally proud of his family, calling his homecoming from Iraq in 2004 one of his most unforgettable moments.

At CMU, Darren’s impact has been both personal and far-reaching. He launched the university’s Flag Officer Initiative, uniting more than 160 CMU alumni who have achieved senior military ranks. His efforts have led to high-level leadership panels, expanded partnerships with university colleges, and increased visibility for CMU’s role in shaping military leaders. He also helped establish an industrial affiliation through SAPA, creating a pipeline for CMU graduates to join engineering and business operations. Darren remains an active voice on campus, moderating university panels and supporting transformative leadership programming.

From early morning ROTC training and late nights in Brooks Hall to global command posts and executive boardrooms, Darren has never wavered in his dedication to service, leadership and integrity. For him, being a CMU Chippewa means honoring heritage, fostering community and helping future generations rise.

The Central Michigan University Alumni Association is proud to recognize Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Darren Werner with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award.

Souce: Central Michigan University