Torch News Briefs 09.28.11

Anti-hazing activist coming to Ferris

National Hazing Prevention Week (Sept. 19-23) is being acknowledged by Ferris State University by bringing an anti-hazing activist to campus.

Hazing can be a problem on campus grounds, many instances being from Greek or sports communities. Travis Apgar, associate dean of students at Cornell University, will be speaking to Ferris students on Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. in Williams Auditorium.

Ferris State University Veteran’s Association

“Read Me Differently,” a disabilities awareness film

“Read Me Differently” is scheduled to be presented at Ferris State on Sept. 27 at 6:30 p.m. in IRC 120.

Entine, a first-time filmmaker who was diagnosed with dyslexia in 1978, produced the film. The film focuses on her personal experiences growing up with dyslexia and the struggles she was had to overcome.

“Read Me Differently” was elected for a CINE Golden Eagle Award in 2010, and in 2011 it won an achievement award at the Superfest International Disability Film Festival.

Veterans helping Veterans

The Ferris State University Veteran’s Association’s purpose is to provide a network of support to Ferris students who are military veterans.

“We’re an organization of veterans helping veterans – above and beyond,” said Steven Schijanow, president of the FSU Veteran’s Association. Schijanow said the Veteran’s Association helps veterans get connected to financial aid, their advisors, and act as a liaison to all student veterans. This includs helping with the G.I. Bill, the Veteran’s Hospital and mental health counseling.

Schijanow said the FSU Veteran’s Association works with the campus military support group and also participates in on-campus activities such as Homecoming and Ferris Fest. In addition, the group holds a silent auction and all proceeds go to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.

“We own a part of the highway for Adopt-A-Highway,” said Schijanow. The FSU Veteran’s Association also participated in the Hookin’ Up Heroes Fishing Tournament last summer. The group also has guests come from the Veteran’s Association to give information seminars.

Schijanow said, “We help vets with problems on and off campus.”

The FSU Veteran’s Association is located in Rankin Center 145 in the SERV office and meetings are held every Thursday at 11 a.m. For more information, contact Schijanow at schijas@nullferris.edu.