Ferris State’s Optometry Building receives donation
Ferris State University Michigan College of Optometry/Center for Collaborative Heath Education received a financial gift from Dan L Fortenbacher, O.D. Fortenbacher, a clinical professor with MCO, who was a member of MCO’s first graduating class in 1979. “I owe my education to the Michigan College of Optometry,” said Fortenbacher. He is a Board Certified Fellow of College of Optometrists in Vision Development and lectures extensively on development vision and vision therapy.
The grant money will support the Fortenbacher Center for Vision Therapy, which is located within the college’s learning center. These types of grants allow for Ferris students to gain hands-on experience with different leading edge technologies.
The MCO building, which opened in January 2011, is located at the corner of State Street and Ferris Drive next to the College of Allied Health Services. The MCO building features multiple training facilities for optometry students, as well as optometric/medical eye care to local residents.
In 2009, Ferris broke ground on the new MCO building. The 87,000-square-foot facility features a ground-floor eye and vision care clinic offering clinical training for optometry interns and optometric/medical eye care to area residents; optical and contact lens dispensary where student interns receive practical hands-on training in the fitting of optical devices; a laser surgery room for staff ophthalmologists allowing student interns to gain experience on campus in the handling of pre- and post-operative care of patients undergoing eye surgery; classrooms, laboratories and faculty/administrative offices; distance-learning facilities; research laboratories; and an Optometric Center for Lifelong Learning and Competency for the continuing education of MCO/FSU graduates.
This is an enormous gift given by Fortenbacher that will not only benefit the Optometry building, but also the students and staff involved. “The financial contribution to the university’s new MCO building creates a win-win situation for everyone,” said MCO Dean Dr. Michael Cron.
Disney College Program recruits Ferris students
The Disney College Program is recruiting Ferris State students. This opportunity will look impressive on a resume and is a once in a lifetime experience.
Participants will be working in front line roles at Disney Theme Parks and Resorts. They will also network with leaders, learn transferable skills, gain real-world experience, and be a part of a team of cast members from hundreds of job disciplines. There are many different programs that offer many outstanding opportunities for students.
This is a paid internship in Anaheim, Calif. and central Florida. Students of any major are welcome to apply and earn internship credit. Accredited classes are offered as well as transportation and housing. Participants also custom design a learning curriculum that best suits their needs and interests, complete education courses and specialized learning activities, and can possibly earn college credit while doing so. It is an opportunity to meet people from around the world, make lifelong friends, and have fun.
Disney Representative, Angie Walukonis, a junior at Ferris State University, will be available for any questions. She has completed two of the college programs and would love to share her experience with students. Information tables will be held throughout the month of March. Check the campus website for additional details. For more information, visit disney.go.com/disneycareers/disneycollegeprogram/ or visit the IRC Wednesday, March 16 from 1 to 4 pm. n