Founders' Day
Aug. 31, 2023
On Founders’ Day the entire Ferris community comes together in celebration of Woodbridge and Helen Gillespie Ferris. All events are free and open to students, faculty, staff and community members.
Founders’ Day is a part of Bulldog Beginnings.
Schedule of Events
9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Center for Virtual Learning Dedication
Ferris State University will host a dedication ceremony for the new Center for Virtual Learning building by the entrance near the Robinson Quad.
11 a.m.
President's Speech
President Bill Pink’s address will again take place this year in the David L. Eisler Center Ballroom.
12 p.m.
Staff Picnic
All faculty and staff are welcome to join us for a lunch out on the Robinson Quad.
2 p.m.
Employee Service Awards
Join us in the David L. Eisler Center Ballroom as we honor employees for their dedicated service to Ferris State University.
3 p.m.
Founders' Day Extravaganza and Ice Cream Social
Come and enjoy some great food, great games and win lots of prizes. There is also a resource fair to discover places you can volunteer around the community, departments on campus that provide services for you, and your Crimson and Gold Registered Student Organizations. Check it out and get connected.
At 3 p.m., the annual Founders’ Day Community Ice Cream Social will once again feature the famous Jones' Homemade Ice Cream served up by local celebrities from the Big Rapids community. Free ice cream will be served as long as the ice cream lasts. Register to win awesome raffle prizes such as a large screen TV. Drawing will be held on the Robinson Quad at 6:00 p.m. and you must be present to win.
Hosted by the Founders' Day Committee (Presidents Office, David L. Eisler Center, Grounds, Dining, Catering, CSI and CAPS) and the many departments and local charitable organizations taking part in the event.
8 p.m.
Football Game: Ferris vs. Mercyhurst
Let's go, Bulldogs. Join us as we cheer on the two-time defending NCAA Division II National Champion Ferris football team in its first game of the 2023 season at Top Taggart Field.