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Ferris Students to Thank Supporters as Part of Global Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day

Ferris State University students will show their appreciation for the community’s support by participating in a global initiative to promote philanthropy and grow engagement on campuses.

Ferris will join nearly 70 educational institutions from the U.S., England, Canada, Australia and elsewhere in Student Engagement and Philanthropy Day on Thursday, Feb. 28. The initiative was organized by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, an international association that works to advance educational alliances between universities.

“The generosity that the Big Rapids community, businesses and alumni show us throughout the year is tremendous,” said Kevin Bunce, vice president of Ferris’ Student Alumni Gold Club. “By taking part in National Philanthropy Day, we are able to show how much we truly appreciate all of their support.”

SAGC members will surprise about 50 local supporters – individuals and businesses – with hand-delivered bags bursting with Bulldog pride-inspired gifts as a token of thanks.

“It is an honor to embark on this mission to recognize the givers of our community” said SAGC adviser Brandi Behrenwald, who also serves as assistant director for Alumni Relations. “We are proud to be a part of something so large, and to make it a priority to add Ferris to the list of universities acknowledging these outstanding contributors today.”

The 50-member SAGC is a student leadership organization on campus that aides Ferris’ Alumni Association on its signature events, such as Homecoming and The Ferris Foundation for Excellence Gala, and at regional events. The group also serves as ambassadors for the university by welcoming President David Eisler’s guests at home football and hockey games, alumni guest speakers and commencement ceremonies. SAGC, which also serves as official handler for the Bulldog Mascot program, serves the West Michigan community by holding two signature fundraising events each year: Rake ‘n’ Run and Cover the Seal.

SAGC is an active member of the CASE Affiliated Student Advancement Program, which provides programming, services and resources in advancement, including fundraising and alumni relations, for students and advisers at student alumni associations, student foundations and similar organizations at colleges and universities that are CASE members, such as Ferris.