In 1884, Woodbridge and Helen Ferris started the school that would ultimately become Ferris State University. Woodbridge Ferris was an educator who already had extensive teaching and administrative experience, but was looking for a place where he could fully implement his ideas.
    One of those ideas had to do with equal opportunity for students. In that first class comprised of just 15 students, five were female. In 1906, Woodbridge announced that, "the Ferris Institute is thoroughly democratic - that is to say, it is a school for all people regardless of race or station." Gideon Smith became the first African American student at Ferris, enrolling in 1910 during a time when it was uncommon for institutions of higher learning to admit students of color.
    Today, Ferris State University has grown from that first class of 15 students in a single classroom to having a record enrollment this past fall of 12,547 students system-wide. Both the number of students and the size of the Ferris system - 26 different locations where students can earn degrees, as well as online - would surely astound Mr. Ferris.
    Or maybe not. As the only University in the state named for its founder, Ferris State University remains true to the ideals that Woodbridge Ferris set down more than 120 years ago, when he began a school to enable lumbermen, farmers and "girls who worked in Michigan factories" to better themselves. Our very name reminds us constantly of the goals, dreams and expectations that our founder envisioned when he began his school in a still largely undeveloped part of Michigan. At the time of his death in 1928, he was still looking to the future - to us - for the full flowering of his efforts to better others.
    Our two newest Board of Trustees members have witnessed many of the changes and growing pains of the University. As Alumni, George Menoutes and Ron Snead know first-hand the opportunities a Ferris education offers (see the article Through Fire and Unrest to a Stronger University). Trustees Menoutes and Snead know well the University and bring important perspectives and insights to its governance.
    With record enrollment and strong ties to our history, Ferris State University is well positioned to continue realizing Woodbridge and Helen Ferris' dream of providing a place where people can come to imagine more for their future. I am excited by an effort the Ferris Foundation has begun to increase need-based scholarships and financial aid at our University. As recently as 1996, the State of Michigan provided 54 percent of the cost of a student's education. Today the State of Michigan provides only 34 percent of a student's education. You can help our Foundation is this effort by contacting them at (231) 591-2391 or fsufdn@ferris.edu
    Einstein once said that imagination is more important than knowledge. A great university should be an environment where both qualities can thrive. Both that spirit and ideal are alive at Ferris State University today. Your continued involvement and support help make this possible for our students and University. Thank you so very much for your continued help and support.

Sincerely,
David L. Eisler, President