Rick Duffett, executive director of the Ferris Foundation (second from left), accepts a $1,000 check from Tom Weaver, president of Local 1609 at Ferris State University. The donation from Local 1609 is one of 77 sponsorships that will help fund student scholarships through the annual Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit. With continued support, the Foundation is on target to meet its sponsorship and attendance goals. Also pictured, from left to right, are Jodi Nelson, chief steward of PM custodial; Carla Miller, associate vice president for Advancement; and Glenn Zobel, vice president of Local 1609. This is the ninth year for the Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit, to be held Friday, Nov. 9, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. Renowned sports broadcaster Dick Vitale is the guest speaker. All funds raised support The Foundation for Excellence Scholarship Endowment for Ferris students and the Exceptional Merit Grant Award program for faculty and staff initiatives that advance the University's mission. For more information, call Kim Erickson at (231) 591-2365.