Phil Keiser, NorthWood graduate of 1974 and CEO of Culver’s Frozen Custard, prepares to toss the coin before NorthWood’s home game against Fairfield Friday, Aug. 29.

Phil Keiser, chief executive officer of Culver’s, the frozen custard restaurant chain, visited his alma mater, NorthWood High School, during a two-day stay in his hometown of Nappanee, Thursday and Friday, Aug. 27 and 28.

Keiser and his wife, Betsy (Best), both graduated from NorthWood in 1974 and married three years later. Currently living in Sauk City, Wis., they have three adult children and four grandchildren.

Keiser addressed the Panther football team after its Thursday practice and Culver’s restaurants from Goshen, Elkhart and Warsaw provided custard for the players.

Friday Keiser spoke on the topic, “Leadership: You Can Do This, Too,” to six business classes at the high school.

Culver’s provided custard as part of the Captains’ Club fundraiser meal from 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. in the high school cafeteria.

The centerpiece of Keiser’s visit was Friday’s home football game against Fairfield. Keiser was honored to perform the pre-game coin toss and watched Panther’s 55-7 victory with the coaches and players from the NorthWood sideline.

During the second half, the school’s cheerleaders tossed mini footballs and T-shirts into the stands and Culver’s corporate mascot, Scoopie, made an appearance.

As patrons exited the field, they were greeted with servings of custard. Culver’s served about 3,000 cups of vanilla custard to the fans.