Ferris Foundation for Excellence Gala

November 7, 2025, 5:30 PM, JW Marriott, International Ballroom in Grand Rapids

Tonight is the night!

Tonight, Friday, November 7, 2025, We will gather for the spectacular Ferris Foundation for Excellence Gala, an evening dedicated to celebrating student scholarships and Ferris State University Champions. We can't wait to share this memorable night with you, and we want to ensure your experience is as seamless and extraordinary as the event itself.

To help you prepare for an unforgettable evening, here are a few key logistics and details:

Event Essentials at a Glance

Date: Tonight! November 7, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception, 6:30 p.m. Program/Dinner
Venue: J.W. Marriott, International Ballroom, 235 Louis NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Attire: Black-Tie Optional
Hosted by: The Ferris Foundation

Get ready to mix, mingle, and make memories!

Our cocktail reception is more than just a prelude to the main event—it's an experience designed for pure enjoyment.

Here's what awaits you:

Professional Photographers on the Scene

Strike a pose! We'll have professional photographers circulating throughout the evening to artfully document every dazzling moment of your night. From candid laughter to elegant portraits, they'll capture all your special memories so you can simply focus on enjoying the celebration. These stunning, high-resolution images will be the perfect keepsake from an unforgettable night!

Step Into the Spotlight with the "Enchanted Mirror"

Lights, camera, action! Discover our interactive "Enchanted Mirror" Photo Booth, a full-length, touchscreen experience that adds a touch of enchantment to your evening. This isn't just any photo booth; it's an engaging, hands-free way to snap fun, interactive photos with fabulous props and custom backdrops. Get ready to laugh, pose, and receive instant, personalized printouts to take home!

Get ready to light up the night and make a difference!

During the cocktail reception only, students will be selling limited quantities of our exclusive Special Edition Bulldog Glow Rings. These aren't just a fun accessory; they're a symbol of support, and they'll add a dazzling touch to your gala attire.

100% of the proceeds from these sales go directly to supporting student scholarships, helping future Bulldog champions achieve their dreams.

Here's the deal: These highly sought-after rings are first-come, first-served, and once they're gone, they're gone forever!

Arrive early at the cocktail hour, find our student sellers, and grab yours before they vanish into the night! Let's make a brilliant impact together!

Smooth Arrival & Parking

We've arranged the following to make your arrival as stress-free as possible. The JW Marriott offers Self-Parking or Valet Parking on-site.

Self-Parking

To pay in advance for self-parking (you will need your parking ticket):
- Scan the QR code
- Scan your parking ticket
- You will see the event rate
- You can pay with Apple Pay, Visa, or Mastercard credit cards
- A receipt will be generated which you can save or email
You can scan the QR code and pay any time before exiting
- When exiting the parking structure, scan your ticket at the gate in the box labeled “1”.
- The system will recognize that you already paid and the gate will lift.

Please note: Currently, American Express is not accepted with the QR code; however, you can pay with an American Express at the exit and still receive the same rate.

Valet Parking

Pull up to the main entrance, leave your car with the valet service attendants.
At the end of the event, go to the valet cashier, pay for parking, and your car will be brought back to the main entrance.

Agenda Highlights

5:30 PM: Cocktail Reception

6:30 PM: Welcome Remarks

7:00 PM: Dinner Served

7:45 PM: Panel of Champions: Dr. Bill Pink, Jay Cooke, Sylvester Hester, Laurie Placinski, Jennifer Wheeler

8:15 PM: Building Champions Ask!

An Evening of Impact & Entertainment

Get ready for a night of inspiration and fun! You will experience the sights and sounds of Ferris State University everywhere you turn! We can’t wait to see you!