Skip to Top NavigationSkip to ContentSkip to Footer
Ferris State University BulldogFerris State University Logo

Ferris State University Statement on U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals Affirmative Action Ruling

Recently a federal appellate court struck down Michigan’s Proposal 2, which limited the ability of state universities to increase diversity through affirmative action. Ferris did not support Proposal 2 and feels its passage increased the challenge of providing opportunity to all who seek a quality education; nonetheless, we have experienced significant success creating an institution that is global, diverse and understanding of differences. Through concerted efforts led by our Diversity and Inclusion Office along with the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, last year diversity enrollment at Ferris increased by more than 40 percent, a rate six times greater than any other public university in the state. This reflects the values of a university dedicated to providing access to higher education for all. Diversifying the university even under the constraints of Proposal 2 has been made possible thanks to the concerted efforts of our faculty, staff and students. We expect the status of the law may be in flux for months, if not years. Whatever is finally decided, Ferris will remain committed to its core values of Collaboration, Diversity, Ethical Community, Excellence, Learning and Opportunity. Guided by those values, we expect to see a more diverse Ferris State University in the years to come, no matter what the legal status of Proposal 2 may ultimately be.