Ferris State University marked Founders’ Day on Aug. 28 with reflection and celebration, honoring those who built the institution while looking toward its future.
Founders’ Day is an annual event held at the beginning of the school year to update students on the university’s plans and goals.
In his speech, President Bill Pink emphasized the university’s commitment to improving student life. He highlighted plans for new dorms and better living spaces, emphasizing that priority is to be placed on current students rather than focusing only on those yet to arrive.
Pink stated that campus life is central to student success and that updating living conditions remains a key step in supporting retention and creating a sense of belonging.
Pink further acknowledged that some facilities are outdated and explained that investing in residential spaces would also be an investment in Ferris’ future.
“Our students deserve to feel at home here,” Pink said. “It’s not just about attracting the next class and about taking care of the students who are already working hard every single day at Ferris.”
The president also praised professors and staff for their role in shaping student achievement.
Pink expressed gratitude for the dedication of the professors and emphasized that the work happening in classrooms has lasting effects on both students and the communities they serve after graduation.
“None of this is possible without the people who teach, mentor and support our students,” Pink said. “If you have ideas about how we can do better, I want to hear them.”
The afternoon celebration was located on the campus quad, where tents, food stands and activity stations created a festival-like atmosphere.
Ice cream was provided to students, in addition to carnival games to compete in and a mechanical bull to ride.
The ice cream social gave students an opportunity to learn about things to do around campus through information tents, which students could visit to talk to members of RSOs and pick up free merch.
Vice President of Communications David Murray explained that founders’ Day celebrates the Ferris mission and brings students together.
“Founders’ Day is a wonderful opportunity to commemorate the mission set in place by Woodbridge and Helen Ferris as well as celebrate all the fantastic things happening on our campus today,” Murray said. “It was so special to see students and employees coming together for events on the quad.”
For many, the event was about more than just fun, it was a reminder of Ferris’ traditions and a chance to build new connections.
Psychology junior Jordyn Watkins expressed doubt regarding the new building plans.
“I think that it’s a good idea,” Watkins said. “But Dr. Pink needs to focus on remodeling the old buildings instead of building new ones.”
Event organizers said the ice cream social is one of the most popular traditions of the year, with hundreds of students attending.
They further emphasized casual environment makes it easy for students to meet new people, learn about registered student organizations (RSOs) and unwind early in the semester.
Nearby, lines for carnival games stretched across the quad as students tested their luck at ring toss, bean bag challenges and inflatable obstacle courses.
Accounting sophomore Almmonique Strong emphasized the importance of comfortable living spaces for students.
“I think prioritizing student living spaces is crucial,” Strong said. “It affects how they learn. Students are a product of their environment.”
Students also had the opportunity to talk to professor and other staff volunteering at the event.
The event wrapped up with the kickoff of the home opening football game, which students were encouraged to attend and participate in the game’s theme.