May 23, 2024
Ferris State President Pink joining leaders from University of Michigan, Michigan State, and Wayne State for Mackinac Policy Conference panel on developing talent
Ferris State University President Bill Pink will join leaders from University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University on a panel discussing higher education’s role in building a talented workforce at the Mackinac Policy Conference.
The annual conference is organized by the Detroit Regional Chamber and attracts lawmakers, leaders, and journalists from across the state and nation. The four-day event takes place on Mackinac Island, beginning on Tuesday, May 28.
The theme of the 2024 event is “Bridging the Future Together” to inspire radical collaboration across divides. Conference speakers and sessions will focus on key themes critical to Michigan’s future, including attracting businesses and jobs, improving education outcomes to ensure workforce readiness, strengthening infrastructure, and leading with innovation and equity.
Pink is on a panel with U of M President Santa J. Ono, Michigan State President Kevin Guskiewicz, and Wayne State President Kimberly Andrews Espy. Michigan Radio Political Director Zoe Clark will host the discussion.
The panel is planned for Thursday, May 30 from 10:55 to 11:30 a.m. in the theater of the Grand Hotel. A livestream of the event is available here.
“Developing talent and creating opportunities for all people to thrive is what Ferris State University has done for nearly 140 years,” Pink said. "We move at the speed of industry so that our students can step off the stage at commencement and directly into a rewarding career.”
Pink said Ferris State provides students with the dynamic skillset to power Michigan’s future across every industry, with more than 250 associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, and certificate programs in in-demand fields including artificial intelligence, criminal justice, pharmacy, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare careers.
Ferris State is home to Michigan’s only College of Optometry, the nation’s first PGA Golf Management Program, and the highly-recognized Kendall College of Art and Design.