Three hundred and seventy people attended the seventh annual Foundation for Excellence Benefit held on Nov. 4 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, Mich.

More than $70,000 was raised to promote excellence among Ferris State University students, faculty and staff through the Foundation for Excellence Scholarship program, Exceptional Merit Grants Award program and other University endowments.

Big Rapids business owner and Ferris Foundation Chair Gary Trimarco welcomed guests to the benefit and graciously thanked everyone for their support. Ronald Mehringer, assistant professor in the College of Technology and Exceptional Merit Grants Award recipient, spoke on behalf of all the merit grants award recipients and demonstrated how faculty and staff are able to pursue projects that demonstrate exceptional merit in advancing the mission of Ferris State University.

Supporters at the benefit also witnessed the video premiere of "Creating Opportunities, Realizing Dreams." The video highlighted several donors of the University and showcased scholarship recipients, and how students benefit from the generosity of donors who care so much about Ferris and its students.

Roy Firestone was the highlight of the evening, as he entertained and amused the audience with his impressions, wit and humor. Firestone is recognized for his talents as an interviewer, journalist, commentator and stage performer.

The University and the Foundation would like to express their gratitude to the following businesses and individuals for their support:

A Special Thank You to the Sponsors of the Foundation for Excellence Benefit

Platinum Star Sponsor

Gold Star Sponsors

Silver Star Sponsors

Bronze Star Sponsors

Table Sponsors

The Ferris Foundation, through events such as the Foundation for Excellence Benefit, carries forward the message of Ferris State University's founder, Woodbridge N. Ferris, that the world improves over time through human action. By strengthening the University and benefiting its students through endowed scholarships, grant funding for faculty and staff, prudent stewardship and strong advocacy, Ferris State University is able to provide opportunities for students, faculty and staff that otherwise may not be available.

Thank you to everyone who made this year's benefit a success!