More than a quarter century of support for Ferris State University’s mission has been
realized through The Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit celebrations. The 20th annual gala event funds scholarships and faculty/staff merit
grants while promoting the core values of the institution. This year’s Benefit is
set for Friday, Nov. 2 in Grand Rapids at DeVos Place, Exhibit Hall C.
Carla Miller, executive director of The Ferris Foundation, is viewing the Benefit’s relocation from the Steelcase Ballroom at DeVos Place as a pleasant and exciting change of venue.
“We will be able to showcase some exciting aspects of our educational programs, as we continue the celebration with our friends and supporters in the convention center,” Miller said. “Through interactive displays, there will be the opportunity to get ‘up close’ and reflect on Ferris’ important contributions in Grand Rapids, through the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Kendall College of Art and Design and Ferris-Grand Rapids. We will also feature our regional partnerships, athletic programs and glimpses of the beauty of our main campus in Big Rapids.”
The evening’s schedule begins with a cocktail hour at 5 p.m., and continue with dinner and the inspirational stories of student scholars. Miller said the evening’s keynote speaker is Ferris alumnus Tim Murphy, the former deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation under Robert Mueller and a member of The Ferris Foundation Board of Directors.
“We would be well served simply by considering Tim’s attributes, including his success on the national scale,” Miller said. “He is an ardent supporter of the university, its mission and The Ferris Foundation. We very much are looking forward to gaining the compelling and informative perspectives of this Bulldog for Life.”
“If not for others’ support, leadership and education, if not for Ferris, I would not be here today,” said Murphy, the president of Thomson Reuters Special Services, LLC in Fredericksburg, Virginia and a 1983 graduate of Ferris’ College of Education and Human Services. “To speak to an audience that does so much for others, gives others a chance to succeed, gives hope for a better future to many of those that may never have had the opportunity, is an honor.”
Kim Erickson, the administrative assistant for The Ferris Foundation, said the Foundation is looking forward to hearing from the hundreds of supporters, friends and members of the university faculty and staff who plan to attend the Benefit.
“There are a variety of ways to take part in the evening, and support the mission of The Ferris Foundation,” Erickson said. “Those who wish to purchase tickets, secure a table or sponsor the Benefit are invited to contact us prior to Friday, Oct. 19.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Tim Murphy, a 1983 Ferris State University alumnus and the former deputy
director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation under Robert Mueller, will be the
keynote speaker for The Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit on Friday, Nov. 2
in Grand Rapids.