Like all Americans in the days following last September 11th, I experienced a wide variety of emotions: sorrow, grief and frustration, to name only a few. Eventually those emotions gave way to reflection. I think all of us have asked ourselves what possible good could come out of those events. In the months that have passed has come a deep affirmation of the value of higher education, and with it a recommitment to the core values of American public education.
At Ferris State University, we take great pride in the career-orientation of our programs. We like to point out the ability of our College of Technology students to work with state-of-the art equipment in progressive laboratories, or College of Business students to work on the latest computer software programs, or students in Optometry, Pharmacy or Allied Health Sciences to work directly with patients during the course of their studies. We like to speak of the hands-on training received by Ferris students, and the exemplary skill-set graduates have when they leave Ferris and enter the workforce.
The unfolding events of the past seven months underscore another integral component of a Ferris education – instruction in the liberal arts and the experiences students have as part of their undergraduate education.
Students attending Ferris actively partake in a full menu of educational, experiential and civic activities. Humanities courses, taught by professors who actively involve students in considering the world around us, are shaping our future worldview. That view also is broadened by 140+ recognized student organizations at Ferris and the dozens of arts and lectures programs held each year. And of course, Ferris students are part of a very diverse academic community. Individuals from every county in Michigan, 46 states and more than 50 countries study, live and socialize on the Ferris campus.
Out of the tragic events of last fall and our continued efforts to address and understand them, comes a deeper appreciation of this great institution and its long tradition of facilitating the intellectual and cultural development of students. Each student that graduates from Ferris represents more than a young (or not-so-young) professional. Ferris graduates provide hope for a brighter future.
Indeed, good things can come out of the most tragic of events. Educated, socially responsible and actively involved citizens are essential to the promotion of civilized values both here and abroad. Ferris State University, and public education generally, lie at the heart of this challenge.

Sincerely,

William A. Sederburg
President