December 10, 2025

Jessica Lemley helps to bridge the gap for students as the new director for Ferris State’s Grand Rapids Student Success Hub

Jessica Lemley has long appreciated Ferris State University’s mission of providing an accessible transformational education, and will work to support students and community in her new role as director for the university’s Grand Rapids Student Success Hub.

Lemley previously served in Ferris State’s Office of Admissions at Ferris State from 2013-2020. While managing recruitment for West Michigan for Ferris State, she also managed progressively responsible initiatives, including Student Admissions Representatives, strategic recruitment initiatives, and the visit experience.

Since 2020, she’s worked at Michigan State University in multiple roles, with the most recent being the director of Recruitment.

Her return to the Bulldog community was influenced by the opportunity to be part of the evolving landscape of college education.

“It's a privilege to return to Ferris State in this capacity,” Lemley said. “I've been a longstanding advocate of Ferris' mission of accessible education for all, and through this role, we're able to increase access in impactful ways.

“We'll work to create bridges and pathways with school districts and regional community colleges, supporting learners of all kinds; non-traditional, career-changers, those looking for upskilling opportunities, and our traditional college-going students who find Grand Rapids and KCAD to be a best-fit for their needs and goals,” she said.

Lemley also highlighted the importance of Ferris State increasing its presence in West Michigan by preparing to meet growing educational demands in the region.

The Grand Rapids Student Success Hub continues to serve as a critical resource for students searching for higher education at a larger university. Regarding satellite campuses, Lemley says the hub can help attract more prospective students to become Ferris State Bulldogs.

“The Grand Rapids Student Success Hub seeks to serve every current and prospective Ferris student who finds themselves in the Greater Grand Rapids area,” she said.

Although other universities have multiple campuses to bridge the gap for student access, having similar programs or amenities that its main campus offers is not always the case.

As Ferris State’s Grand Rapids campus grows, Lemley said the opportunities for students are also trending upward.

“The Hub brings student resources and other amenities to Grand Rapids that previously were only offered on our main campus,” Lemley said. “Having this true campus feel is great for recruitment, retention, brand awareness, and community building.

“Our hub also seeks to serve as a bridge with the community, and we'll work to foster relationships with community organizations, chamber groups, and area businesses to think about how we strategically expand program offerings, aligning with industry needs in West Michigan,” she said.

The Grand Rapids Student Success Hub is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with front desk staff able to help students navigate the building and find contact information for those inquiring.