Moraine Park has named James Flood as the College’s 2022 Distinguished Alumnus.

Flood grew up on a farm in the countryside of Eden and graduated from Campbellsport High School in 1969. He went on to pursue a marketing degree at the College, then known as Moraine Park Technical Institute, and graduated with his associate degree in 1972. 

“My time at Moraine Park gave me my education, but it also provided me with contacts and a network that opened up doors I would never have dreamed of,” Flood said. 

Flood has spent almost 50 years living, working and serving in the Fond du Lac area. 

After earning his associate degree, he began selling cars at Holiday Olds in Fond du Lac. In 1979, he was able to buy into the business with two partners and became Vice President of Holiday GM until 2002, when he sold his shares to his business partner, Mike Shannon. Soon after, he bought shares of Holiday Dodge, became President, and expanded the business by adding Chrysler and Jeep franchises. 

Flood retired in 2015 but has remained active in serving his community. He served on the Moraine Park Technical College Foundation Board for 10 years in various positions, spending his final two years as board president. Most notably, he served on the Moraine Park Promise program campaign cabinet that raised $1.2 million for student scholarships. 

Outside of the College, Flood has served multiple positions on the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Board, including the president. Flood is currently a member of the North Fond du Lac Optimist Club, the Wisconsin Auto and Truck Dealers Association Board, and is a long-standing leader at his church. 

“My advice to current students who are entering the workforce is to find a career you enjoy,” he said. “And when you do, find the courage and the ambition to take on opportunities that will grow and advance your career.” 

Flood’s drive, dedication, and contributions made him an obvious choice for Moraine Park’s 2022 Distinguished Alumnus. He will accept his award at the May 13 student awards banquet. 

For more information on Moraine Park’s Alumni Association, visit morainepark.edu/alumni. 

Don Charleston is the epitome of a Moraine Park success story. He came to the College in 1973 looking for more career opportunities and a better life. At the time, his family was living on his wife’s $4 per hour nursing wage.

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