Ferris State University president awarded by Michigan College Access Network for his work to make college accessible
Bill Pink received the Lighthouse Award this year in his second year as president of Ferris State University.
Ferris State University president Bill Pink has been recognized by the Michigan College Access Network for his devotion to expanding access to higher education.
According to an article on Ferris State University's website, Pink said of receiving this award, “I am honored at being recognized by an organization that I have greatly respected since being here in Michigan. This recognition is reflective of the many colleagues I’ve worked with who are focused on students and their success and well-being. I am nothing without great people to work with.”
The Lighthouse Award was presented by the organization Michigan College Access Network for the first time this year, though it has been presenting other awards since 2015. The Lighthouse Award is intended to be given to people or institutions who have been “exemplary” in expanding access to higher education.
This year, Pink was instrumental in setting up Ferris State University's Success Hubs around the state, leading to his recognition. The hubs will be located in different regions throughout Michigan, including in Flint, Kalamazoo, Traverse City, Detroit, and Grand Rapids. The Success Hubs will be areas at which students can receive help and resources toward their educational success. Ferris State will be partnering with 20 community colleges in this effort.
Ryan Fewins-Bliss, who is the executive director of Michigan College Access Network, discussed the purpose of the awards, saying, “The College Access Impact Awards honor the individuals and organizations who have made extraordinary efforts to improve postsecondary attainment in Michigan, especially among low-income students, first-generation college-going students and students of color. The award winners play a crucial role in helping us reach Sixty by 30 through their dedicated efforts to improve college readiness, participation, and completion within their communities and across the state. By working to build inclusive college-going cultures, these award winners are helping create a brighter economic future for Michigan’s students.”
For more information about Ferris State University, visit the school’s website.