September 16, 2025

Stormy Kromer partnership raises $5,000 so far for Ferris State students, with exclusive styles available at Homecoming

A proud partnership between Ferris State University and legendary Michigan cap-maker Stormy Kromer has already raised nearly $5,000 for student scholarships — and the total is still climbing as Homecoming approaches.

The collaboration reflects a shared dedication to legacy, craftsmanship, and making quality education more accessible to future generations.

In celebration of this success, leaders from Stormy Kromer — the beloved Upper Peninsula brand known for its timeless wool caps — are making their way to Big Rapids for Ferris State’s Sept. 20 Homecoming festivities, bringing with them a special surprise.

The custom Ferris State cap, proudly stitched with the Bulldog logo, will be available in two new styles: a striking solid black and a classic red-and-black plaid, joining the original solid red version.

For every cap sold for $55 through Homecoming, the company will donate $20 directly to Ferris State’s Legacy Scholarship. Stormy Kromer will be on-site during tailgating festivities prior to the 3 p.m. football game against Rio Grande University, selling these exclusive caps along with other merchandise that highlights their renowned Michigan craftsmanship.

Sales have raised $5,000 for the scholarship – so far.

Launched last month, Stormy Kromer’s new Collegiate Collection blends the fierce pride of university spirit with the rugged elegance of Michigan-made apparel. While 18 universities are represented in the collection, Ferris State stands alone in offering three unique cap designs.

“Ferris State and Stormy Kromer actually have a lot in common,” said Brandi Behrenwald, executive director of the Ferris State Alumni Association. “We’re both Pure Michigan institutions with legacies stretching back more than a century with unmatched pride that is known throughout the country.”

The Legacy Scholarship supports students who continue the proud Bulldog tradition within their families — recognizing academic achievement and leadership in those whose parents, grandparents, siblings, or children are Ferris State alumni.

Each Stormy Kromer cap is handcrafted in Ironwood, near the Wisconsin border, by a team of about 70 skilled artisans at Jacquart Fabric Products — the family-owned manufacturer behind the brand. Known across the globe for its signature wool construction and iconic front-tied ear flaps, the Stormy Kromer cap has become a symbol of hard work, tradition, and Michigan pride.

“Being a company in a small town, giving back is part of what you do,” said Gina Jacquart Thorson, CEO of Jacquart Fabric Products. “We do a lot of that here locally, but we’re always looking for other partnerships that have a charitable component. In this instance, with Ferris State wanting to partner so closely in all kinds of ways, we’ve got all kinds of fun things coming up, having a component to give back made sense to make it a full-circle partnership.”

Among the 18 schools featured in the Collegiate Collection, Ferris State currently trails only the University of Michigan in sales — a testament to the strength and spirit of the Bulldog community.

The Stormy Kromer story itself is steeped in tradition. Born in 1903 from love and necessity, the cap originated when railroad engineer and semi-pro baseball player George “Stormy” Kromer asked his wife, Ida, to redesign his hat so it wouldn’t blow off in the wind. Today, it’s more than just a piece of clothing — it’s a Michigan icon.

“It’s more than just a hat you wear,” Thorson said. “It’s something that becomes part of people’s lives and has meaning for them.”

That meaning is woven into every stitch — from the durable wool fabric to the cozy, pull-down ear flaps that have stood up to Michigan winters for generations.

“Many people have fond memories of their grandfather wearing the hat, or other members of their family,” she said. “It has become a tradition in many families. Like, the first year you go to hunting camp, you get your first Kromer. We hear all these stories about traditions and nostalgia. It has a bit of an old-fashioned look. It’s not super-modern. I think for a lot of people it brings back good memories and a connection to the outdoors.”

The Collegiate Collection bridges this deep-rooted love for Michigan’s natural beauty with the pride that students, alumni, and fans feel for their schools and teams.

Together, Ferris State and Stormy Kromer are stitching legacy into every cap — honoring family, education, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Michigan.