Multicultural Programs

T.O.W.E.R.S (Teaching Others What Establishes Real Success)
A leadership development program coordinated by the Office of Multicultural Student Services which aims to assist underrepresented students at Ferris State University, but is open to all FSU students to participate. The program encourages, motivates, and inspires Ferris students to become leaders by providing opportunities for student engagement, learning, and development outside of the classroom.

GEAR Up
The mission of GEAR Up is to provide an opportunity for underrepresented students to discover first-hand the potential of a college education and to expose students to the information, knowledge, and skills necessary to complete high school and prepare them for college entry and future success.

Multi-Cultural Graduate Recognition Program
The Multicultural Student Graduation Recognition Program is an opportunity for graduating minority students to be recognized for their contributions while on campus and the acknowledgment of their graduation from Ferris State University. Minority students receiving an Associates, Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate degree are recognized.

Minority Student Organization Leadership Summit
The Minority Student Organization Leadership Summit is an opportunity for newly appointed executive board members to learn how to effectively run/lead their student organizations. Session topics include organizational stability, development, and financial recording.

Minority Student Get Acquainted Day
Offered in September every Fall semester, Get Acquainted Day is an opportunity for incoming minority students to meet and greet fellow freshman and upperclassman as well as find information about registered student organizations.

National Mix-It-Up at Lunch Day
The event is coordinated by the Office of Multicultural Student Services and is a national campaign which was launched over a decade ago by Teaching Tolerance (a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center). The purpose of the program is to encourage participants to cross social boundaries with one another. OMSS coordinates the event to enhance the level of openness, acceptance of others and to overall offer a platform for intercultural connections.

Bulldog Beginnings
During the first two weeks of the school year, Bulldog Beginnings introduces students to Ferris’ vibrant and diverse campus life through collaborative efforts across the Student Affairs division. Events that enhance the welcoming campus atmosphere and engage students are hosted by offices across campus such as the Office of Multicultural Student Services, Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center, and the Office of International Education. All students, faculty, staff and Big Rapids community members enjoy the festivities.

Career Week
A cooperative initiative among the Office of International Education and the Center for Leadership, Activities, and Career Services (CLACS) to provide information and resources for international students seeking employment for graduate school in the United States as well as students seeking opportunities abroad.

Global Talent Retention Initiative (GTRI)
Ferris State University actively participates in this state-wide program that focuses on strengthening and diversifying the state’s economy through the retention of top international talent. GTRI provides international students and local employers with training and resources on relevant immigration regulations, information finding a job in Michigan, and help with the cross-cultural issues that both employers and international applicants may experience during the hiring process. 

The Big Event
The Big Event is a service oriented event that promotes campus and community unity as students come together for one day to express their gratitude for the support from the surrounding community. Every Ferris State University student is asked to participate in a one-day event to express our gratitude to the community that supports the university. This provides a wonderful opportunity for interaction between students as well as the community.