Ferris State University President David Eisler has withdrawn his name from consideration
for the position of president at Northern Kentucky University, where he was one of
three finalists for the position. Over the weekend he released the following statement
to the Ferris community, which read, in part:
“The past two weeks have been a challenging time for our family as we worked to determine
our future path and direction. We never expected the outpouring of support both my
spouse Patsy and I have received from so many people throughout our campus and the
many communities Ferris serves. We want to thank each and every person who called,
wrote, or shared these thoughts with us. We feel the same way about all of you.
“At this point I do not know if a decision has been made on the position at Northern Kentucky
University, but I want to share with you that we have made our decision and chosen
to remain at Ferris State University. As we considered leaving it became increasingly
clear we did not want to do so. The people here and our unique educational mission
are too important and dear to us. Through these past weeks we have learned that our
place is at Ferris. Based on this experience we have also decided that we will not
consider another presidency either now or in the future. It is an honor to serve
as the president of Ferris State University. I look forward to working with you in
the years ahead as we continue to build this great University and to help shape Michigan’s
future.”
President Eisler is entering his 10th year of leading Ferris State University. During
that time, enrollment has grown from 11,074 to 14,560. Major infrastructure projects
under his leadership include a new Michigan College of Optometry building, and exhibition
space for Ferris’ Jim Crow Museum in Big Rapids; and new Pharmacy and Learning Resource
Center, and renovated former Federal Building in Grand Rapids.
As one of the most senior university leaders in Michigan, President Eisler looks forward
to continuing to be a part of the discussion about issues affecting the future of higher
education in the state.