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New Trustees Excited to Join Ferris Board, Eager to Help Move the University Forward

Lori Gwizdala and Erin BrownFerris State University’s two newest appointees to its Board of Trustees, Erin Brown, of East Lansing, and Lori Gwizdala, of Bay City, are excited to work with their fellow trustees and administrators to lead the university forward.

Brown, who replaces Ronald E. Snead of Greenville, is a strategic adviser and project manager for Rockford-based Holton Research LLC, a position she has held since 2008. Brown also is an adjunct marketing faculty member at Michigan State University.

“I am honored to be appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to the Board of Trustees for Ferris State University,” said Brown, who holds a bachelor’s degree in legal and business administration from Grand Valley State University and a master’s degree in international management and marketing from Aquinas College. “I certainly look forward to supporting the general supervision of the university and working closely with my fellow board members.”

Gwizdala, who replaces George J. Menoutes of Flint, is executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer of Midland-based Chemical Financial Corp., where she has worked since 1985. Before serving in her current roles, Gwizdala held the position of controller. She is a certified public accountant and a member of MidMichigan Health’s audit and finance committees.

“It is truly an honor to be appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to the Ferris State University Board of Trustees,” said Gwizdala, who holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University. “I look forward to contributing as a board member, while working to continue the growth and prosperity of this exceptional university.”

The new trustees expressed a desire to move Ferris forward.

“Colleges and universities across the country are facing the unique challenge of controlling costs while increasing opportunities for students, and I know that Ferris State University is committed to meeting that challenge,” Brown said. “It will be exciting to support our students as they prepare themselves to meet the needs of a truly global economy.” 

Ferris’ current Board of Trustees includes: Menoutes, Snead, Vice Chair Sueann L. Walz, of Big Rapids; Arthur L. Tebo of Walloon Lake; Alisha M. Baker, of Mount Clemens; Paul E. Boyer, of Grand Rapids; Gary L. Granger, of Byron Center; and Dr. D. William Lakin, of Clinton Township.

The terms for the new trustees begin after the terms for Menoutes and Snead expire on Dec. 31.