Arlen-Dean GaddyA Grand Rapids native and business leader, with strong community service connections, is proud to be joining the Board of Directors of The Ferris Foundation. Arlen-Dean Gaddy received approval to serve in that role by the university’s Board of Trustees.
Associate Vice President for Advancement Robert Murray said Gaddy, who is the director of market strategy for Erhardt Construction, has made an impressive entry in terms of becoming immersed and involved with the mission of The Ferris Foundation.
“Arlen has taken a special interest in Ferris’ Jim Crow Museum, as he and his wife Sandra brought in a large group from Grand Rapids for a tour, recently,” Murray said. “We are collaborating with Erhardt Construction with his assistance, developing plans for the museum’s new home, which is very exciting.”
Gaddy is a graduate of The Ohio State University, having earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Operations and Production Management. He began his higher education pursuits in Operations Management at Ferris.
“It is exciting to once again be part of the university,” Gaddy said. “I met my wife while I was at Ferris. I consider it to be the foundation of my professional growth.”
Gaddy has a variety of leadership roles in West Michigan, including duty as a secretary with the Inner City Christian Federation’s Board of Directors’ Executive Committee, and as a committee chair for Make-A-Wish Michigan’s Board of Directors.
“I feel it is important to take an active role in organizations that are focused on improving the lives of families and children in need,” Gaddy said. “I am also very excited to have the time and energy to support Ferris State University and The Ferris Foundation.”
Gaddy joins alumni Dr. Alton Smith, of Grosse Pointe Park, and Emily (Cramer) Hancock, of Indianapolis, as recent appointees to The Ferris Foundation Board of Directors.