Moving forward

Plans for the future of Ferris addressed at State of the University

Many faces of the university came together to discuss the future of Ferris.

“We will continue to create committees and communication that increases collaboration and provide the student body with what they want,” President of Student Government Andrew Kalinowski said.

The State of the University, held at 7 p.m. on April 2 in BUS 111, was a panel discussion of leaders from around campus. The panel included The Director for the Center for Leadership, Activities and Career Services (CLACS) Angela Roman, Ferris President David Eisler, Vice President of Student Affairs Jeanine Ward-Roof, Kalinowski, Director of the University Center Mark Schuelke and Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Bruce Borkovich.

Eisler spoke of the campus master plans and the future of academic and residence hall buildings.

Multiple extensions were discussed, including the Swan building and Dial-A-Ride Transportation.

“At the top of our list is an expansion of the welding facility, which will double the size of the Swan extension,” Eisler said.

Even though Westside Café will no longer be around after the University Center (UC) opens, Eisler said to expect the Ferris shuttle to continue.

Along with new food venues and more collaborative space, the UC plans to provide 383 new parking spaces to add to the current 7,000 parking spaces Ferris has.

“We’re creating this building for you,” Eisler said.

When the new CLACS office relocates to the UC, more space will be provided for RSOs to gather and plan events.

Five RSOs with 5-Star status will have the opportunity to have their own cubicle in the CLACS office.

Roman said this is the first year CLACS has noticed they need to address attendance at events.

“We are keeping an assessment of attendance at a variety of events, including how we publicize the events, to see if we could see a connection,” Roman said. “I can tell you we are three-quarters of the way through and we are not seeing any connection.”

Other topics of discussion included parking, getting involved on campus and opportunity for collaboration.

“Make the most of your opportunities at Ferris,” Ward-Roof said. “It’s a special opportunity.”