Chrysler Employees Honored as Distinguished Oakland University Alumni

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AUBURN HILLS, MI--Nov. 7, 2011: The Oakland University Alumni Association has named two Chrysler Group LLC employees recipients of university alumni honors, identifying them as distinguished graduates for their leadership to the university. Michael Stamper, Senior Manager for Occupational Safety and Ergonomic Processes, received the association's Distinguished Alumni Service Award, and Jason Ryska, Plant Manager at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant, received the Spirit Award.

Stamper and Ryska were honored alongside seven other award recipients at the university's annual Alumni Association Awards Banquet on Nov. 5, 2011, on Oakland University's campus. The university alumni honors recognize noteworthy achievements in business, community service, and volunteerism.

"Technical expertise, coupled with an unwavering commitment to the community, have made both Stamper and Ryska valuable members of the Chrysler team," said Fred Goedtel, Head of Assembly Operations, Chrysler Group LLC. "While establishing high standards for themselves, their leadership inspires others to do the same."

Stamper received the university's highest alumni honor which recognizes unrivaled volunteer leadership in service to the university or its alumni association. With more than 27 years of safety and management experience with Chrysler Group's Employee Relations, Stamper implemented an internship process at Chrysler that has been successful in preparing a number of college graduates to enter the safety and health profession.

In Stamper's nomination, Ken Hightower, Dean of the Oakland University School of Health Sciences, recognized Stamper's commitment.

"He's been a tireless advocate and ambassador for the School of Health Sciences and the university as a whole. He deserves this honor, which recognizes his peerless leadership and passionate service," said Hightower.

Ryska received the Spirit Award for his roles as executive liaison between the university and Chrysler Group, and supporter of the university's Society of Automotive Engineers Collegiate Chapter. The Spirit Award recognizes exemplary volunteer service to the university. Ryska joined Chrysler in 1995, and in 2011 was appointed Plant Manager at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant, where he oversees the daily production of the Ram 1500.

Wayne Thibodeau, Director of Career Services nominated Ryska for the Spirit Award because of his passion for making a difference for Oakland University students.

"He not only shows that Chrysler is a great place to work, but also gives his time, volunteer hours, regularly speaks with student groups. His contributions aren't just financial. He really is dedicated to help students achieve," said Thibodeau.

About Chrysler Group LLC

Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram, SRT, Fiat and Mopar vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler Group's culture of innovation, first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925, and Fiat's complementary technology that dates back to its founding in 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group's product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Challenger and Ram 1500. Fiat contributes world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.