Campus News
January 11, 2008

A Message from the Dean of Student Life

Leroy Wright Dear Ferris State University Students:

On behalf of the Office of the Dean of Student Life, I welcome new and returning students to an exciting Spring 2008 semester. The theme of this semester's letter is "Being an Engaged Student Leader." Over the course of Fall 2007, you've experienced your share of unique challenges and have redirected those energies to create some amazing opportunities. I commend you for taking personal responsibility for yourself and I encourage those of you who may be struggling to seek out the plethora of resources available to help you be a successful and healthy student. During times of challenge or crisis our campus continues to demonstrate that we can come together on one accord to ensure that our community is vibrant, just, and caring. This is your season to be dynamic in your leadership. As we prepare to vote new leadership in our public offices across the nation, I invite all of you to think about how your learning both in and out of the classroom will help you become an even more engaged citizen. As college students many of you will or have figured out that being involved on campus and in your community has afforded you many opportunities not only at Ferris but also in your chosen professions. Please remember that as young leaders the focus is on you and what you are going to do to encourage a better future for our children and a stronger economy in Michigan.

Ways to be Engaged in Spring 2008
  • Take ownership in Ferris as your home away from home
  • Remember to stop and think about how your actions may not only impact your self but the University community as a whole
  • Take advantage of all educational and social programs developed to aid in your success
  • Practice personal safety by locking your doors, walking with friends, and knowing who your true friends are
  • Think about ways to strengthen your relationships in person and not just via Facebook, MySpace, or Text Messaging
  • Respect yourself by developing healthy attitudes about lifestyle choices
  • Embrace opportunities to learn about others and to become more informed about their struggle
  • Seek out and join a Registered Student Organization that fits your interest(s)
  • Exercise good character and civility in the classroom; which is important to your growth as an active learner
  • Get out and vote!
As always, please call upon faculty, staff, and your fellow students to assist you in realizing your leadership potential. Be an engaged student leader who promotes social justice, campus safety, servant leadership, and who over-delivers in academics. In the words of John Quincy Adams, our sixth President of the United States; "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader." Feel free to contact me at 231-591-3619 or send me an email at wrightl@ferris.edu, if you have a question, concern, or a suggestion. I'm here to help you! Go Bulldogs!

Leroy Wright
Dean of Student Life
Rankin Student Center, Room 104
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