May 3, 2024

Partnership allows some Ferris State students to celebrate commencement closer to family at Mott Community College in Flint

About 20 Ferris State University students will celebrate commencement in a crowded arena with full pomp and circumstance – but they’ll be handed their diplomas in Flint, not on the Ferris State campus in Big Rapids.

Mott Community College welcomes Ferris State graduates who can’t make it across the state to don caps and gowns, have their name read, and cross the stage during a portion of the Mott commencement so distance won’t prevent them from celebrating with family and friends.

"Sharing the stage at graduation is part of our long-standing tradition of partnering with Ferris State University and represents Mott Community College's commitment to student success and to the community at large,” said Jason Wilson, Mott’s vice president of Academic Student Success. “Many of our students transition to Ferris to continue their education through academic articulation agreements. It is always a pleasure to celebrate our graduates together."

Saginaw resident Jessica Willingham earned a degree in Early Childhood Education and said the ceremony in Flint makes it possible for her family and friends to join in the celebration. Her cheering section will include her mother, grandmother, sisters, aunts, and former preschool teachers.

“This will be a very exciting and rewarding moment for me,” she said. “With all that is taking place and has happened in our world I am just grateful to have family and friends to share this moment with me. This will be very memorable for me, a moment I will not forget. This day will be filled with celebration and spending time with my family and friends.”

Mott, located in downtown Flint, hosts one of Ferris State’s five Student Success Hubs, where students can connect with classes and support services.

The ceremony is planned for 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 at the Dort Financial Event Center on Lapeer Road. Traditionally, after the event’s keynote address, two Ferris State banners rise into place and the screens in the arena change to display the university’s graphics.

Kenyada Smithers, who is earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration, said the opportunity at Mott makes it possible for her family to join in the celebration.

“I'm very appreciative because my daughters will get to witness their mom graduating two weeks in a row,” she said, noting she also completed an associate degree at Delta College. “This has most definitely made it easier for my friends and family to attend. My fiancé, my daughters, my mom, my dad, and brothers will be there – and I'm hoping others surprise me.”

Janelle Hemingway is Ferris State’s executive director for East Michigan Operations and Strategic Initiatives. She said the university’s statewide and online programs make it possible for students of all ages to gain an education and advance in their careers.

The Student Success Hub at Mott offers access to a variety of bachelor programs a Human Resource Management certificate and certifications and endorsements for teachers. Students also have access to more than 30 online programs that students can schedule around home and work responsibilities.  

“As a full-time employee, homeowner, and mother, obtaining my degree would not have been possible without the option of the online program,” said Amanda Fertner, a Warren resident earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management. “I was able to achieve my goal while also meeting my responsibilities.”

Fertner said her husband, two daughters, siblings and parents will be at the ceremony at Mott.

“It really means a lot to me to have them there,” she said. “I am the first person in my family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree and this ceremony is allowing me to celebrate with the people most special to me.”