Graduates of Ferris State University’s College of Health Professions and the Michigan
College of Optometry will gain the perspective of an esteemed business leader, as
Johnson & Johnson Chairman and CEO Alex Gorsky will receive an Honorary Doctorate
of Health Professions, during their commencement ceremony on Friday, May 4 at 3:30
p.m.
Gorsky is recognized as a longtime advocate of diversity, inclusion and veteran’s issues, having recently been named one of the “100 Most Inspiring Leaders” by PharmaVOICE magazine. He also received the ROBIE Achievement in Industry Award from the Jackie Robinson Foundation, in 2017, and a variety of other awards throughout his career. Gorsky left the United States Army with the rank of captain, completing six years of service after graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. He has also earned his Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Some graduates will receive their second opportunity to hear Gorsky speak this academic year, as he offered thoughts on “Global Healthcare, Perspectives for Students and Faculty” during the fifth annual Victor F. Spathelf Lecture in Williams Auditorium on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017. Gorsky said his commencement remarks will focus on the immense career opportunities available in healthcare, today.
“We’re living in one of the most promising times in human healthcare and this industry needs passionate people, like these graduates, to help move the needle on health and wellness for the global community,” Gorsky said. “Their degree from Ferris State University will take these students wherever they want to go; wherever there is a need for better health and a big heart.”
Gorsky also was keynote speaker for the university’s inaugural Spathelf Lecture, in 2013.
Also receiving honorary doctorates in Ferris’ Spring 2018 commencement ceremonies will be Ferris alumna Teresa McKay, of the Department of Defense Finance and Accounting Service and Robert and Ellen Thompson, of the Thompson Foundation.
Approximately 1,900 Ferris students will participate in the Spring Commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5 in Big Rapids.
The university’s ticketed commencement ceremonies will be held in Jim Wink Arena in
the Ewigleben Sports Complex. Those guests without tickets will be able to watch the
ceremony via a live stream on the university’s commencement website.
PHOTO CAPTION: Johnson & Johnson CEO and Chairman of the Board Alex Gorsky will receive
an Honorary Doctorate of Health Professions in the commencement ceremony for Ferris'
College of Health Professions and the Michigan College of Optometry the afternoon
of Friday, May 4.