Neal Wahlman '75 to Receive Alumni Achievement Award on Oct. 10
Published Thursday, October 02, 2025
Each year the SMSU Alumni Association seeks to recognize alumni and friends who have made significant contributions of time, talent or financial resources to help advance and bring positive recognition to Southwest Minnesota State University. The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to a graduate in recognition of their remarkable professional success, outstanding contributions to their community, and the positive reflection made on the reputation of all graduates of SMSU. This year's honor is being presented to Neal Wahlman '75 from Plymouth, Minn.
Neal Wahlman ’75: A testament to the power of involvement
When it comes to life’s journey, few have navigated it quite like Neal Wahlman, a proud alumnus of Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU). This year, Neal’s remarkable path is being recognized as he receives the Alumni Achievement Award during Homecoming festivities on October 10. His story is one of dedication, community, and the excitement of embarking on new challenges—and it all began with a leap of faith.
Neal’s adventure started in the early 1970s, a time of change and possibility. After deciding to pursue a career in accounting, he and his family began searching for the right college. Growing up in Iowa, Neal wasn’t particularly drawn to the larger universities nearby. He was looking for something different—something that felt more personal and full of potential. That’s when he discovered SMSU, a relatively new institution at the time.
“The first time I visited SMSU, I felt a spark,” Neal recalls, his eyes lighting up at the memory. “Everything was fresh and vibrant, and it felt like this was where I could really grow.”
That feeling stuck with him. He enrolled in 1971 and proudly graduated in 1975. But his time at SMSU was about much more than textbooks and lectures. It was a time of transformation, filled with personal growth, meaningful friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
“I was sort of a joiner,” Neal laughs. “I wanted to be involved in everything.” And he was. From concert band and choir to student government and campus clubs, Neal dove headfirst into university life. His love for music played a huge role in shaping his college experience. He wasn’t just a casual participant—he was a dedicated member of both the concert band and choir.
One of the most memorable moments of his time at SMSU was a nine-week European tour with the concert choir in 1972. “That trip was life-changing,” he says. “We rode a Greyhound bus to New York, flew out from JFK, and performed concerts in beautiful churches all over Europe. It was beyond anything I could have imagined.”
The experience of traveling abroad, performing in historic venues, and bonding with fellow students left a lasting impression. It was a defining chapter in his college journey—one that blended his passion for music with a growing sense of independence and adventure.
Despite his deep involvement in the arts, Neal never lost sight of his academic goals. Balancing music and accounting wasn’t always easy, but he found a rhythm that worked. “You know, music and accounting might seem different, but they both have rules and structures that mirror one another. There’s a rhythm to both,” he explains.
That balance helped him thrive. As a student, Neal also took on leadership roles in student government, serving as student body treasurer and vice president of judicial affairs. These experiences helped him develop the confidence and skills that would serve him well in his professional life.
After graduation, Neal transitioned smoothly into the workforce. Armed with his accounting degree and a strong work ethic, he quickly built a reputation as a reliable and skilled professional. “The support I had from my professors and friends was incredible,” he reflects. “They taught me more than just how to balance books—they showed me the importance of being a responsible member of the community.”
Neal’s career took off. He earned his MBA from the University of St. Thomas and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation, and went on to hold leadership roles in several organizations. He spent 17 years at SuperValu, a major grocery chain in the Midwest, where he served as director of corporate accounting and director of internal audit. He later became corporate controller for both private and public companies, and eventually joined Snyder’s Drug Stores as CFO—later stepping into the role of president.
Now retired, his professional success is only part of the story. What truly sets Neal apart is his unwavering commitment to giving back.
Throughout the years, Neal has remained deeply connected to SMSU. He served 10 years on the SMSU Alumni Board and is wrapping up a six-year term on the SMSU Foundation Board during this year’s Homecoming. His dedication to the university community has never wavered.
“When I got the call about the award, I was genuinely touched,” he says. “I thought there must be someone more deserving, but it really hit me how much my contributions to the university community have meant.”
For Neal, this recognition is about more than personal accolades—it’s about honoring the relationships, values, and experiences that shaped him. It’s also a chance to inspire others.
“I want current students to realize that every effort counts,” he says. “Each experience—good or bad—helps shape who they are and who they can become. They truly have the power to write their own stories.”
As Homecoming approaches, Neal is looking forward to reconnecting with fellow alumni and celebrating his 50-year class reunion. He’s also excited to continue mentoring students and encouraging them to explore their passions.
“In today’s world, it’s crucial for students to balance their aspirations with their interests,” he says. “I want to be a guiding hand for them, to help them find that balance and make the most of their time in college.”
Neal believes strongly in the power of mentorship and the importance of community. He knows firsthand how impactful a supportive environment can be—and he’s committed to paying it forward.
“I want to encourage students to take chances, explore different paths, and discover what makes them happy,” he says. “College is such a special time, and I want to help them make the most of it.”
Receiving the Alumni Achievement Award is a full-circle moment for Neal. It’s a chance to reflect on the journey that began more than five decades ago and to celebrate the community that helped shape him into the person he is today.
Neal Wahlman’s story is more than a tale of personal success—it’s a testament to the power of involvement, the value of mentorship, and the lasting impact of a strong community. His journey reminds us that leadership isn’t just about titles or achievements—it’s about showing up, giving back, and lifting others along the way.
As he prepares to accept his award, Neal does so with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of pride in being part of the Mustang Family. He looks forward to many more years of connection, growth, and inspiration—and to continuing the legacy of excellence that defines SMSU.
Neal Wahlman lives in Plymouth, Minn., but his heart is still very much with the Mustang Family.
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Celebrate with Neal Wahlman and all of this year's Alumni Award Recipients at The Southwest Celebration on Friday, October 10, 2025 starting at 5:30pm in the SMSU Conference Center Upper Level.
The evening begins with a social hour with free drinks. The SMSU faculty and students will be on hand from several academic and support programs to showcase the special projects in their areas. At 6:30pm guests will be invited to be seated for a plated, formal dinner follwed by a short program recognizing this year’s award recipients. The evening will close with a Homecoming mixer. The event will have valet parking outside the Conference Center. Tickets are $50 per person and available online at www.SMSUAlumni.com/celebration.
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