This academic year begins as our University implements a vision for Ferris developed with much input from the entire campus community. The basis for this vision has three parts: Create a Learning-Centered University, Work Together and Become an Engaged Campus.
    Last year, University task forces examined key areas of this vision. They developed far-reaching ideas that stretch across University divisions and are critical for our future. Many people have worked very hard to move forward on these goals. The process has confirmed my belief that the commitment and vibrancy of the Ferris community is second to none. I want to update you on some of our exciting progress over the past few months.
    Learning begins in the classroom. As a Learning-Centered University we plan to renovate and improve classrooms, technology and furnishings across the campus. Our focus this last summer was the improvement of two groups of classrooms, and to convert three under-utilized spaces for instruction. With the assistance of state funding, we have begun a $7.5 million renovation of the Instructional Resource Center.
    We seek to more actively engage our students on campus, in our community and throughout the region. We have begun this effort by first assessing the effectiveness of student engagement activities. This spring we administered the National Survey of Student Engagement and will use those results to help guide future efforts.
    A Ferris education should be "state of the art." On campus we have adopted minimum standards for personal computers, laptops and software and implemented a process for replacing faculty and staff computers across campus that do not meet this standard. We have designed and implemented the first half of a wireless network that covers the campus footprint.
    Working Together, we need to create more public understanding for the value of a Ferris State University education. Through a competitive process, we have selected a new partner for campus positioning. We presented potential messages to the campus and more than 1,000 people provided feedback. Future issues of Crimson & Gold and other University publications will play an important part in disseminating these messages.
    In this period of strong enrollment growth, we have developed and implemented a funding formula that rewards colleges as they grow. Using this support, new faculty have been hired to teach the increased numbers of students both in Big Rapids and across the state.
    These are exciting times at Ferris State University and we want you to be a part of them. During this year through a series of national alumni caucuses we will be reaching out to you and soliciting your thoughts on the future of the University. I very much look forward to visiting with you and involving you in this discussion. Thank you so very much for your help and support of Ferris State University.

Sincerely,
David L. Eisler, President