The Ferris State Torch NINETY YEARS OF ILLUMINATING THE TRUTH

Big Rapids, Michigan Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 www.fsutorch.com Remembering our female founder A look back at the legacy of the woman pivotal to Ferris’ founding: Helen Ferris

Jessica Oakes News Reporter that confront me, I shall ever first began teaching at age 16 ask, ‘What would Mrs. Ferris and later taught at the Industrial suggest or advise, if she were from 1884-1901. While a statue of university at my side?’ Her ideals were the W.N. Ferris is known for being founder Woodbridge Nathan Fer- ideals described in the Sermon socially progressive and always ris stands proudly in front of on the Mount.” showed great pride in his wife’s FLITE library, Helen Ferris Hall Helen Ferris served as vice success. During the school’s was demolished in 2015. president and contributed great- early years, he wrote in a letter Today, her name ornaments ly to the founding of Ferris (then to his parents that Helen Ferris Helen’s Garden in the northeast- known as Big Rapids Industrial was teaching full time while ful- ern corner of campus, which she School) in 1884. W.N. Ferris filling household duties such as would have adored. W.N. Ferris himself often credited Helen raising their children. remembered his wife’s love of Ferris’ efforts in the building of “Mrs. Ferris furnished the natural beauty as “little less the Industrial. sunshine for her husband and than a religion.” “[Helen and Woodbridge] her two boys,” W.N. Ferris stated Still, Helen Francis Gillespie were absolutely partners. She in a tribute to Helen Ferris’ life. Ferris’ story runs deeper than was actually better educated Helen Ferris’ genius was, of the roots of hydrangeas. She than he was. So, she was emi- course, not only impressive to was much more than the found- nently qualified,” History profes- her husband. Michigan’s super- er’s wife. sor Dr. Tracey Busch said. “They intendent of public instruction Students may know W.N. Fer- were life partners, he respected H.R. Pattengill referred to her as ris as the founder and first pres- her greatly. If we were talking the best geometry teacher in the ident of Ferris State University, about a different century, you entire state. Her expertise and as well as 28th Governor of know, I think she could have just degree were used to promote Michigan and eventual sena- as easily been the principal or the university while recruiting tor. He did not, however, carry the founder.” new students. out this work on his own. Helen Ferris was educated in An excerpt from the Ferris In- “For the best service I ren- her home state of New York at dustrial Advertiser published in dered Michigan, Mrs. Ferris de- Mrs. Caldwell’s private school May 1915 shared words of ap- serves a large part of the mer- for girls and Falley Seminary. preciation for Helen Ferris’ work. ited commendation,” W.N. Ferris She met W.N Ferris while attend- “As a teacher, she was thor- wrote. “Her sense of justice, her ing Oswego Normal and Training ough, inspiring, helpful. She purity of motive, her Christian School. From the young age of was never too busy to give democracy illumined my path- 15, Helen Ferris was praised Courtesy of the Ferris State University archive way. In solving the problems for her mathematical wit. She Helen Ferris| see page 2 Despite her enormous controbutions to the university, Helen Ferris’ story is seldom told.

New program at Ferris will have eight Ready For (college) Life students in fall of 2021

Trenton Carlson Freelance Reporter

Ferris is now the first public universi- ty in Michigan to host Ready for Life, a nonprofit giving students with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to attend uni- versities. Ferris is known for its commitment to diversity and education for everyone. This symbolizes Ferris’ next progressive step, welcoming students to a curriculum that aids in preparing them for life on their own as well as six college credits a semester outside of their Ready for Life curriculum. Cole Schepers, Xavier Bailey, Kirk Daum and Evan Bomay are four of the expected eight students that will be en- rolled in this program in the Fall of 2021. Three of the four future Bulldogs, exclud- ing Bomay, who was absent from their Photo by: Trenton Carlson | Freelance Reporter Ready For Life| see page 2 (From left) Xavier Bailey, Kirk Daum and Cole Schepers attended orientation for the Ready For Life program that will start this fall at Ferris.

Got news? Let us know. Like us on facebook Follow us on Twitter Add us on instagram Watch us on tiktok Email: [email protected] Ferris state Torch @fsutorch fsutorch FsuTorch Phone: 231.591.5978 Connect with us on social media - Read articles online at www.fsutorch.com 2 News Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch NEWS Noah Kurkjian| News Editor | [email protected]

READY FOR LIFE said. “He watched his brother Continued from front page go away to college and this is his chance.” orientation, saw their classroom This opportunity gives Kirk a and their living quarters in North chance to get this college experi- Hall, for the first time on Tuesday, ence without being far from home March 23. Their eyes filled with ex- since the Daum family is part of citement as they saw the multiple the Big Rapids community. Kirk games and lounging areas on the is an alumnus of Big Rapids High main floor of North Hall. School. Family members of the future His father’s hopes for him are students were also shocked at the shared among all parents whose university’s newest hall, admitting children are enrolling in the uni- times had changed since they at- versity. The hope is for them to tended college. A murmur from the become as independent as possi- crowd stated, “I feel like I’m in a ble and be active and productive five-star hotel.” members of the community. Following a brief walk-through What these students get out of of North Hall, the orientation group the program is entirely up to the went to their future classroom lo- skillsets they bring to the table ac- cording to Stakley. They could earn cated on the first floor of the Arts Photo by: Trenton Carlson | Freelance Reporter and Science Commons in room certificates in skillsets or achieve Ready for Life will offically start in the fall of 2021 with an expected class of eight students. 1015. There the group was greet- a bachelor’s degree, but the take- ed by Deedee Stakley, director of away is for them to experience col- es that they are enrolled in as well inclusion means and the differ- Ready for life was inspired secondary school partnerships, lege life, gain living skills and edu- as socially, teaching them the way ence between inclusion and be- by students according to Per- Emily Perton, director of Ready for cate themselves along the way. of college life. longing. Integrating into the univer- ton, launching out of Christian Life, and their instructor, Sandy One parent, Sarah Bailey, moth- “People with disabilities need sity giving these future students Learning Center, when students Baker, a former special education er of Xavier, held back tears as she to be integrated, fully integrated,” equity while being apart of the stopped asking the question, “can teacher who also has a child with expressed that she hopes her son Baker said. According to her Ferris Ferris community, is how they plan I go to college,” and started asking down syndrome. gains many opportunities through has done this with open arms, put- to execute it. “where am I going to college?” The future students walked Ready for Life, even if it means ting their classroom precisely next Baker spoke of her son, Eric “Everyone deserves an educa- the room admiring the seating working hard for them. to the disability’s office. Her hope Baker, stating that after gradu- tion, Perton said, “Diversity goes arrangements and made small “It’s a win-win,” Baker states in is that students will be willing to ating high school, he once asked deeper than skin color and deep- talk with their instructor as family reference to the future students as aid in these future students’ edu- her where the high school quar- er than ethnicity, it includes dis- members, staff and future stu- well as the students actively apart cation in the coming years, acting terback, a friend of his, was cur- abilities. There is a huge push to dents were interviewed for the of the university. This is due to the as mentors. Because Ready for rently. She told him he, like many increase diversity on every college Miranda Show. In this room, stu- fact that students will now get to Life believes people with disabil- high school students, went away to campus, that should include dis- dents will meet regularly before de- share the campus with these new ities should be fully integrated, college. His response, something abilities.” parting to take their other college students, giving them opportuni- they plan to work alongside univer- Sandy stated she would never for- For more information involving courses. ties to work alongside them and sity events, involving themselves, get, “I want to go.” Unfortunately mentorship, or the Ready for Life “It’s perfect for us because it’s even aid in their education. Ready rather than hosting events of their for Eric, he is outside of the age organization, contact Sandy Baker going to allow Kirk to get the col- for Life is in search of volunteers own. qualifications of 18 to 26 for the at [email protected] or lege atmosphere and way of life,” to help these new students in the Perton stated a large setback is Ready for Life program. visit the Ready for Life website. Erich Daum, father of Kirk Daum, classroom with college-level cours- explaining to the university what Hiring stalls this year worry graduates Seniors gain help from resources in job hunting post pandemic

Jerry Gaytan since the start of the pandemic the hiring have direct contact info to send resumes News Reporter of new coming college graduates has fall- to,” Sekenske said. en by 45%. Companies that aid in internship op- As college graduates venture off to “COVID-19 has affected my job hunt portunities for the College of Business start their careers the search for a job or in terms of interviews, as most of them at Ferris State have been able to adjust like us on internship might be tougher than expect- want to be cautious and choose to do and provide an engaging internship expe- ed. them virtually rather than in person,” Se- rience for students virtually facebook at As stated by the Bureau of Labor Sta- kenske said. Internships are a great opportunity for tistics, as of Feb. 2021 the number of un- As stated by the National Associate of employers to “orientate and train employ- Ferris State Torch employed was around 10.0 million. This Colleges and Employers, employers are ees” while they are still attending school compared to the 5.7 million unemployed expecting to hire 7.2% more graduates of stated by Albright. in April 2020. the Class of 2021 than they did for the Megan Connaghan the internship di- “My thoughts on finding a job are cur- Class of 2020 rector for the College of Business at Fer- rently a little stressful,” dental hygiene “There are over 14k employment op- ris said that companies are “actively re- senior Maricruz Sekenske said. “Al- portunities listed daily in Handshake, cruiting” students for Summer 2021 and though there is a high demand for dental specifically for Ferris students and alum- future semesters. hygienists there is not a lot of demand in ni,” said Michele Albright CLACS Coordi- “Students are interviewing for intern- my current location which means I would nator of Career & Volunteer Centers. “In ships virtually,” Connaghan said. “Many have to relocate.” addition, employers are reaching out dai- internships are remote, but we do have While the COVID-19 pandemic has ly with hiring needs.” students completing in-person intern- changed the world around us from being Sekenske stated that Ferris has sup- ships.” in quarantine to social-distancing. With ported her job search by providing advice Graduates are looking forward to be- millions of college students graduating on what to expect during a job interview. ing able to apply the skills they learned Follow us on around the world the job hunt continues Along with instructors providing informa- during college to real-world situations. to be a time of worry and uncertainty. tion on job openings which has allowed According to the Wall Street Journal in for less stress on job hunting. twitter a study, they recently completed from a “This has helped tremendously be- labor-market analytics firm called Burn- cause we are receiving job ads without @fsutorch ing Glass Technologies. They found that even having to do much searching, and NewsNews 3 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 THIS WEEK IN MICHIGAN NEWS Catch up on news around the state Noah Kurkjian & Brendan Sanders News Editor, Sports Editor

Sports dog UCLA who already beat in state rival Michigan State in the Round of 68 play in Capitol Hill rules and should subsequently re- INDIANAPOLIS — The Michigan Wolverines game. The no. 11 seeded Bruins are coming move him from any investigations have punched their ticket into the Elite Eight off an overtime upset against no. 2 seed Al- A panel has been called to in- involving the governor in relation to with a win over Florida State in the Sweet abama to reach the Elite Eight. vestigate to determine if Macomb nursing home deaths. Sixteen. The Wolverines will take on UCLA on County Prosecutor Peter Lucido "As a legislator and candidate Michigan beat Florida State 76 – 58 in a March 30, with Michigan being given an can make an unbiased decision for county prosecutor, Mr. Lucido dominant win over the Seminoles. Michigan 80.2% chance of winning according to ES- as to whether Governor Gretchen went on the record saying, without jumped out to an 11 point lead going into PN’s matchup predictor. Whitmore should be held criminal- evidence, that Governor Whitmer half time and pulled away in the second half. ly responsible for nursing home had 'cold-blooded killed' nursing Michigan’s scoring was well spread out EAST LANSING — Michigan State point guard throughout the team, with four players Rocket Watts announced Monday that he deaths related to COVID-19. home residents and strenuously scoring 12 or more points on the evening. will be entering the NCAA transfer portal. suggested he would prosecute His bias was brought into ques- Freshman center Hunter Dickinson and ju- The announcement comes after a lackluster tion in a complaint filed Monday her," the complaint states, refer- nior forward Brandon John Jr. Each scored season from the Spartans, who barely made citing his bevy of public criticisms encing a June 19 interview Lucido 14 points on the evening. the NCAA tournament and lost in their first of the governor according to the did with journalist Charlie LeDuff. Sophomore guard Franz Wagner scored a four play-in game against UCLA. Detroit Free Press. This is an ongoing investigation, double-double, in which he scored 13 points In Watts’ tweeted statement, he expressed The complaint asks Michigan and the results may not end up be- to go along with 10 rebounds. He also led his gratitude to everyone at MSU and his Attorney Grievance Commission to ing public unless it is decided that the team in assists with five on the evening. coaches. Head coach Tom Izzo released a decide whether or not these claims someone committed professional Senior guard Chaundee Brown scored 12 statement that said the decision was mutual points. between Watts and the team. made as a state senator and pros- misconduct. Advancing to the Elite Eight, the no. 1 ecutor violate state and local ethic seeded Michigan faces the surging under-

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HELEN FERRIS Possibly the most admirable “A steady purpose attended by Corrections can be submitted through email at Continued from front page gift Helen Ferris ever gave was her increasing effort will accomplish [email protected] or by calling 231-591-5978 dwelling. more than we have yet dreamed “When it was difficult to give of. If we form that habit of giving to suggestions and encouragement housing, she boarded some stu- small matters our best endeavor, to the plodder and many an F.I. dents and gave them a job to help then great things must receive it. student owes his successes to her them pay their tuition. While help- I have come to feel that our pos- painstaking work,” it read. ing her take care of the children, sibilities and powers are almost This sentiment of grit and tenac- they would actually live in the Fer- unlimited if we will but listen to the - ON THE RECORD - ity is echoed by Helen Ferris’ own ris house,” Isler said. voice of duty and hold ourselves A roundup of this week’s crime at Ferris State University writings. Despite her enormous contri- responsive to the light.” “One of the chief elements of butions to the university, Helen “Submission to our mistakes is success in any line of work is the Ferris’ story is seldom told. Busch the climax of cowardice. Submis- power to take infinite pains with credits this to the great man theo- sion to the right is the height of that work. No part of a task should nobility.” A Wal Mart shopping spree be regarded as trifling, unworthy of “The two factors most essential attention,” Helen Ferris wrote. “Submission to to culture, growth and achieve- Noah Kurkjian issued, after the confirmation was According to University archivist ment, are to see the right and then News Editor made, as it could not be deter- Melinda Isler, Helen Ferris was de- our mistakes is to do it, to have the courage and mined if the package was request- termined enough to perfect the art force to work this into the web of ed or not. of teaching while W.N. Ferris pur- the climax of coward- life and carry our intuitions and Text troubles sued his political career. better impulses into action. We March 20, 3:19 p.m., a man Wrong time to use a fake ID “She remained focused as a ice. Submission to curb our ambitions and distrust reported that a woman had been March 23, 11:02 p.m., a driver teacher. Woodbridge went on to our ideals. When ease, comfort or sending him harassing messages was stopped by DPS for careless a lot of other things, but she re- the right is the height pleasure stand in the way of ad- and once officers arrived, the pair driving and proceeded to present mained dedicated to education in vancement, they must be swept made up. No arrests or citations a fake ID to officers. The driver the end. And while she wasn't al- of nobility.” away with a power as relentless as were carried out. was arrested on one count of un- ways the front-facing aspect of Fer- fate.” lawful use of a driver’s license and ris, she was critical in the Institute, Helen Ferris “Selfishness creeps in and whis- A Wal Mart shopping spree one count of misdemeanor care- and all of the things that it did,” pers some other time will do as March 22, 8:17 a.m., a student less driving. Isler said. well. The convenient time never reported a lost credit card to DPS This passion for education ry of history, in which society looks comes and to all eternity those im- which had been used for a shop- Third time was not the charm pushed Helen Ferris to support her for heroic men to attribute vast in- pulses, which, carried into action, ping spree at Wal Mart. There March 25, 8:52 a.m., officers students outside of the classroom novation to. While W.N. Ferris’ lega- would have conveyed happiness were no suspects at the time of were dispatched to the sports as well. Even into her later years of cy deserves preservation, perhaps and joy, remain unused.” reporting. complex as the lock securing the life, she would open her personal not in a way that overshadows his athletics locker room was broken library to students who were strug- wife and partner’s. This story was written as part You’ve got mail for the third time. The case was gling with coursework. She would May Helen Ferris be remem- of The Torch’s Women’s Histo- March 23, 12:02 p.m., officers closed due to a lack of leads. often read stories aloud in her bered in the wonderful light W.N. ry Month edition. Check out the were dispatched to Ward Hall af- home to upwards of 16 boys during Ferris always shone upon her in his insert for more Women’s History ter a package arrived that was her son Phelp’s childhood. words. May her own words live on Month content! assumed to contain marijuana. as well. No arrests were made, or citations 4 News Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch Polish, persistent and proud Ferris state Polish CEO is this year’s Fulbright foreign lecturer

Jessica Oakes school, I started having regular classes. And that was News Reporter it. I was just English obsessed,” torch In 1994, Rogozinska graduated from a school of On April 8, Ewa Rogozinska will deliver the address pedagogy now known as the University of Opole. She

majored in English and American literature. Because t “In the Company of Women: The Art of Global Leader- rsi y Ferris State Unive

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and A ccur ment, Rogozinska had limited access to academic acy s Rogozinska is the founder and CEO of Corporate i nH ce 1 931 Diplomats & Translators, based in Warsaw, Poland. resources. She also serves as the president of the Polish foun- “We didn't even have the proper books, or proper dation Sport and Education Build a Good Nation and amount of books, for every student. So, in order to, has established two foundations for women: In the you know, to pass the exam and be well prepared for Company of Business Women and The World Belongs the class, we actually had to rewrite the books,” Rogo- to Women. zinska said. Her research and lecturing are centered around Remaining persistent in her studies, Rogozinska gender intelligence and effective workplace communi- went on to earn her master's degree. During this time, cation between men and women. she was taught by Ferris English professor Dr. Chris- By telling her story, Rogozinska hopes she will in- tine Vonder Haar. spire the women of Ferris to remain persistent and “[Rogozinska] was in a second-year master's pro- motivated in the face of adversity. gram class that I was teaching. I taught rhetoric comp Grab a paper every “My success is that I survived so many downs, and and linguistics, and I've been in touch with her ever my success is that I still want to do more. I sort of in- since,” Vonder Haar said. vent in my head a new aim all the time and check just Vonder Haar has admired Rogozinska’s spirit for Wednesday to find out if it’s possible or not. This is the curiosity in nearly 30 years, referring to her as "madcap” and a life, you know, this is the success,” Rogozinska said. “dynamite person.” Born in the Cold War-era Polish People’s Republic, “When the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviets Rogozinska learned how to carry herself through life’s left Poland, and there was a new freedom for every- challenges independently. one. [Rogozinska] saw it and grabbed it,” Vonder Haar - OR - “I remember I was four, and my mother was forced said. to send me to the nearest shop to do shopping for the Vonder Haar was able to teach in Poland under the family. I had to be very careful and very responsible. I very program hosting this annual lecture, the Fulbright had to go very close to the wall of the building not to Scholar Program. According to Vonder Haar, the Ferris get hit by anything,” Rogozinska said. “Yes, I cannot Fulbrighters aim to expand the international presence Read ARTICLES online really forget this moment, this first moment of my life on campus with their stories. that I had to be responsible and arrange something Rogozinksa also has Vonder Haar to thank for the for the family.” origin of her successful translating company. at This self-sufficiency combined with her enduring cu- “She was so fascinated by the Macintosh desktop riosity allowed Rogozinska to fulfill her passion for the computer I brought with me,” Vonder Haar said. “It had English language. no internet connection, not in 1990 or 92, and she www.fsutorch.com “English was my obsession since I was 13, or some- wanted it for translation, typing and printing purposes. thing, because during communism, we couldn't really She bought it from me. And that was her startup com- enjoy the Western culture so much. It was forbidden,” puter for their business.” Rogozinska said. Today, Rogozinska continues to broaden her hori- Despite this, she was able to discover the clas- zons in her career while maintaining her passion for sic English literature of British Invasion rock music language. She is featured in the book “Never Give Up!” through illegal radio stations. alongside 20 other outstanding businesswomen. “The Beatles and all those groups of the 60s and A version of the book has been translated from Pol- 70s. And then, of course, I started searching for more ish to English by Rogozinska’s own translation com- and more and more,” Rogozinska said. “I desperately pany and will be gifted to a few lucky viewers of her wanted to know the lyrics. And at first, I started study- lecture. ing just the English language, the very elementary To hear Rogozinska’s full story, access the Zoom things on my own. I got a book, like a very primitive link located on Ferris’ university web calendar at 11 book, but it was enough to start it. And then in high a.m. on April 8.

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Email [email protected] for more information or to pitch a story! Opinions 56 Ferris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 OPINIONS Cora Hall| Editor in Chief| [email protected] The Ferris State Torch is published on 27 Wednesdays throughout the academic year. This student-run newspaper The peace and quiet is printed by The Pioneer Group. EDITOR’S COLUMN: By Cora Hall OUR LOCATION of Big Rapids Alumni Building 013 410 Oak Street Ferris State University Big Rapids, MI 49307 On its face, there’s really not much that’s at the same time, you can’t look away from the Taking time to be alone is a way for me to fsutorch.com/letter-to-the-editor/ special about Big Rapids. pure white surrounding you. avoid burnout. I had the house to myself when There isn’t a lot to do, not a ton of people; It was cold enough that your breath became all my roommates went home one weekend The Ferris State Torch really most of what exists here for students is little clouds of vapor and I wasn’t wearing a and it was such a relief to sit in the house welcomes comments on topics of on campus or right around it. I never thought coat. But there wasn’t any wind and I was alone. Those moments to yourself are import- interest to the general readership. Letters should not exceed 300 words that I would miss it. unbothered by the cold for a few minutes. I’m ant, whether they’re stolen here and there or in length and The Torch reserves the But as the months turned into weeks and not sure exactly why I went outside that morn- all weekend. right to edit for length. Letters will not then into days that I have left here, I’ve real- ing, but I remember pausing and thinking that Those moments can be found wherever you be edited for grammar, punctuation ized there’s one thing I will miss immensely: I would remember that moment for a long time. are if you look for them. Sitting in your car in or spelling. The Torch will not print the quiet. I even took a video, to try and immortalize the the driveway for a minute after you get home; letters deemed to be libelous or obscene. All letters must be signed There are very few places I’ve been in my life quiet. It was so peaceful it had an ethereal air taking a minute to look at the stars at night; by their authors and include his or where the early mornings are so peaceful you about it. feeling the relief of finishing in an assignment her phone number. could hear a pin drop. Not every morning was My life feels like it moves a hundred miles late at night and breathing for the first time Unsigned editorials appearing like this, but those mornings are ones that I’ll an hour sometimes. Somedays I blink and it’s all night. on this page are the opinion of The miss. I remember one specifically that lives in already 7 p.m. I’m moving to Kansas City this Don’t underestimate the power of a few Torch and do not necessarily repre- sent the opinion of the university’s my mind. summer and who knows where after that – moments of peace in your life. They may be administration, faculty or staff. There was about a half a foot of snow on the probably another large city. These moments hard to find in a world that never sleeps, but Signed columns represent the opin- ground at the end of January and everywhere will become few and far between. they’re worth seeking out. ion of the writer. Inquiries regarding you looked it was pure white. It was one of the As someone who is typically someone who editorial content should be directed few moments I found the winter climate truly speaks their mind with their full chest, it might to the Editor in Chief at (231) 591-5978. beautiful and enjoyed the snow in Michigan. A be surprising that I crave moments of silence few clouds were scattered across the sky that sometimes. While I thrive in fast-paced situ- To advertise with the Torch, contact was almost painfully bright blue and the sun ations, there are times I need to reset. There Danette Doyle at the Pioneer Group: bounced off the snow in a way that made them are times to hit pause in my brain and simply (231) 592-8391 or both almost unbearable to look directly at. But not think. [email protected]

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Special Editions Deadline for submissions every Friday by 5 p.m. 4. Email your opinion to the editor for a chance to Editor Noah Kurkjian Cora Hall | Editor-in-Chief | Email: [email protected] have your work published in our next issue! 6 Opinions Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch Finding How we tell women’s stories matters A woman’s story on its own has value, not which men she knows

yourself first Professor Rachel Foulk has a PhD in art history from Emory University and has conducted a summer archeology program for American Academy in Rome, Italy. Foulk has been teaching at Ferris since 2011 and is the director of the Museum for Growing on your own Sexist Objects located in FLITE. She is also the faculty advisor for the women and gender studies minor.

is more important than Rachel Foulk the situation got worse in the label’s this helps to explain the attention to Guest Contributor last sentence, which reads, “Grollier detail in her flower paintings. Didactic finding “the one” attained considerable fame, befriend- labels have limited space, but, for me, Our favorite places can sometimes ing such artists as Hubert Robert.” any of these details would have told a disappoint us with sexism. I’m an art What did I actually learn about more compelling story about a woman historian, so one of my favorite things Fuligny-Damas from the label? I learned who made a career as an artist at a to do when in a new city is to visit local that she was “famous enough” to have time when few women had professional Alyssa Hubbard Lifestyles Reporter museums. I was looking forward to my a friendship with a male artist. But careers. visit to the Los Angeles County Museum what about her own life? What more do How we tell women’s history frames of Art in 2018 because I was planning we know about her art? To characterize how we view women’s lives. This is Imagine breaking up with the person you’ve dated to teach a class on “Women and Art” a woman artist only by her relationships especially true in institutions like muse- since high school and realizing that you wasted time at Ferris and I wanted to take some with the men in her life does not tell her ums that tell stories for public audi- focusing solely on the relationship and not yourself. photos of works by women artists for story. This practice views a woman’s ences. When I teach my “Women and According to Brandon Gaille Marketing, in 2014, this class. life and value through a patriarchal Art” class, I encourage students to only 2% of marriages were “high school sweethearts.” A painting of a still life caught my lens that privileges the significance of recover women’s achievements within It’s also been found the likelihood of divorce increas- eye because it included a wreath of men’s lives. It is sexist, oppressive and a history of art often dominated by es for these “sweethearts.” flowers that looked so real that I could degrading. Our relationships make us male narratives. Feminism can give I’ve heard stories about high school lovers that almost smell them. I discovered that stronger, but we are all individuals with greater agency to women and their didn’t last long after they graduated because they it was an 18th-century painting by the our own lives and identities. accomplishments by writing women’s grew apart. More importantly, they grew up. French artist Charlotte Eustace Sophie Disappointed by the lack of informa- history on their own terms. Women’s In high school, teenagers are busy getting into de Fuligny-Damas, the Marquise de tion about the artist responsible for the History Month reminds us that we can relationships and falling in and out of love repeated- Grollier. Wanting to learn more about painting, I did a little research. Among choose to be more mindful of how we ly. While that’s a natural part of growing up, I think this artist and her work, I read the other things, I learned Fuligny-Damas tell women’s history. Likewise, as we they’re too invested in making sure they find “the museum label hanging next to the pic- lived at Versailles and catalogued some record our own histories, we can speak one” as soon as possible. They forget the significance ture. But I was disappointed to see of the royal gardens there. She was also our own truths and advocate for women of being in high school and being young. that the placard focused exclusively on a founding member of the Society of and other oppressed people. Scientists have discovered that people don’t fully Fuligny-Damas’ relationship with her Horticulture in France. Fuligny-Damas mature until the age of 25; both the body and the teacher Gerard van Spaendonck. But was an artist and a scientist. Certainly, brain are still developing before then. There is still much growing up to do after high school. Teenagers and young adults have opportunities to experience more of what life has to offer. I spent all four years falling in love with boys and Women are not the enemy hoping they felt the same. I got into relationships and became obsessed with the idea of love, finding the one I thought I was going to marry. However, none of The effect of internalized misogyny on women and genders studies those relationships lasted more than a year because, after some time, we realized we weren’t the same Happy Bainbridge is a senior studying sociology, criminal justice with a women and gender studies minor. Bainbridge chose people we originally fell in love with. all those fields of study because she thinks they’re essential to accurately understanding all demographics of society. Her When I was in high school, I wasted my time and goal is to one day work for a nonprofit organization or to continue her education and become a professor. experience searching for my potential life partner. While I learned from those past relationships, I missed out on the chances to explore my identity. Happy Bainbridge focused on women’s desire for over- Internalized misogyny has taught my High school is meant for experimentations. It’s the Guest Contributor arching independence. Additionally, it fellow classmates that because they time when you slowly begin figuring out your inter- was taught that the enemy was women rely on only themselves and reject soci- ests, the type of people you like and if you’re even As someone who grew up in a con- who did not identify as feminists. Rarely etal expectations, that they are the ready for a commitment. High school is about making servative town, feminism offered me were men addressed as a core issue face of feminism. Ironically, this is the mistakes, learning from them, and having fun while an essential outlet into discovering my in the fight for gender equality and same narrative that my professor was you do so. femininity and place in society. I was instead they were safeguarded with the teaching and in return while many stu- If someone chooses to date in high school, go for known for my feminist views, all of typical phrase of “feminism benefits dents fell deeper into their beliefs, it. Just remember that the first, second, or even the which I was certain of and proud to men too.” others, such as myself, began to reject third person you date is not the “end-all, be-all.” One embrace in the public sphere. At its core, yes, feminism does ben- feminism. day, life will transition to the next round of personal When I came to Ferris State as a efit men, however, it can’t do so until it It took me years to realize that my developments someone will go through. freshman, I had my heart set on obtain- benefits all women. Most importantly, dismissal of high heels and dress- People are always changing, becoming a different ing a Women and Gender Studies minor why are we still talking about men? es was actually my desire to “not be version of themselves every day. The person you fell in to further my knowledge of issues that Feminism is the advocacy of women’s like other girls” and how deeply I had love with back in high school is not the same person women face across the globe. As my rights on the basis of sex and there- embraced the idea that women are who walks around today. Neither are you. education began, however, I noticed fore men should never be the focus of lesser than men. I intensely aspired Take the time to understand yourself and what you a pattern of internalized misogyny the conversation. Men are the reason to be respected and listened to in the want. There’s no rush trying to meet “the one” when embedded, not only within my profes- women cannot walk alone at night same way that men were and because you have so much growing up to do yet. sors, but also within the female stu- or even during the day. Men are the of such I was repulsed by anything that dents surrounding me. reason that young girls grow up in a would group me with other women. I do Internalized misogyny, also referred society that creates constant compe- not blame myself for feeling this way to as internalized sexism, is the ideolo- tition amongst one another. Men are and I do not blame the women around Our guest contributors gy that women subconsciously embrace the reason that those same young girls me who are still stuck in this vicious sexist ideals and ways of acting out of will grow up to be insecure and sexist cycle. were asked to submit gender. This is most commonly seen in adults. What is most disappointing is Ferris how women treat each other and how While in the Intro to Women’s Studies State’s lack of investment in enlight- male validation still plays a crucial role class, many of my female peers boast- ened professors who are knowledge- columns as part of The in behavior and performance. ed about never wearing pink and how able and willing to teach both men and When I entered the Intro to Women’s they provide financial support to their women about how profoundly internal- Torch’s Women’s History Studies class, I was surrounded by boyfriends who don’t deserve it. These ized misogyny affects our everyday lives women and a handful of men. What I same young women claimed that they and institutions. There’s no excuse for Month edition. Read more gathered from my time in that class is will never need or rely on a partner. having educators who lack self-aware- that feminism has become intricately I am an ultra-feminine woman in a ness and critical thinking skills in ana- content in our insert! misconstrued with what it means to relationship with a heterosexual man lyzing why they still hate themselves be a modern woman in today’s patriar- who provides for me, so am I less of a and other women while covering it up chal society. A majority of the teaching feminist? with what it means to be a “feminist”. A Ferris State Torch special edition WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Living in a world where the default perspective isn’t yours

Torch (Female) Editorial Board Advocate.com and them.us report that well-meaning of the men in our lives often ally assaulted, the person who assaulted 50% of Gen Zers believe that the rig- fail to truly examine issues from our per- you will not receive a felony charge. The We live in a world that is dominated id gender binary is outdated and archaic. spective, unable to break out of the male precedent this sets at the State Supreme by the male perspective. From language This does not, however, foreshadow lens society functions in. Court level is terrifying. And it’s just an- itself to government legislation and ev- the destruction of gender as a whole. If This commonly arises as an issue other example of victim blaming. erything in between, men are the default anything, young people are aiming to de- when discussing more sensitive topics, It feels like in situations like this, wom- perspective. struct preconceived notions of the biolog- such as sexual assault. en’s perspectives are not taken into ac- It’s ingrained in our society, and frank- ical sexes while using gender expression In the age of the Me Too movement, count. In a court of law, all perspectives ly, we’re tired of it. There shouldn’t be one as a creative outlet. the prevalence of sexual assault and ha- involved should be taken into account. perspective that is held as the standard. One small example of this larg- rassment has been brought to light. Yet this is clearly not the case. There shouldn’t be one perspective that’s er concept is the evolution of the color The Rape, Abuse and Incest Network We challenge our readers to think seen as more valuable, simply because of pink. Many women recall having a deep (RAINN) is the biggest anti-sexual violence about these issues from women’s per- gender. hatred for pink as young girls. It was of- organization in the United States. It has spective. Rather than blowing us off as It impacts us and the world we live in, ten extended to all feminine things such found that college students are at a three over reactionary, think about what it’s in both simple and nuanced ways. Our ev- as dresses, or even other women. times higher risk of sexual violence than like to be reminded by your everyday lan- eryday language at its very core is man-fo- As women get older, we see the sense the general population. RAINN’s data guage that the world does not see things cused. Linguistics is one of the most of superiority connected to this ha- shows that 26.4% of female undergrad- from your point of view, and in most cas- obvious examples in the world as tred. So much of 2000s “tomboy” culture uate college students are victims of rape es, it’s an afterthought. male-unless-otherwise-indicated. Think stemmed from the need to be different or sexual assault through violence during Rather than telling us that the “you play about the word “man” in English. Soci- than other girls. With maturity comes an their time in college. like a girl” insults were jokes, try to un- ety uses this word to refer to all human- important question: what is wrong with According to the National Sexual Vi- derstand the way that planted seeds of ity. “All men are created equally” “man- other girls? olence Resource Center, 90% of sexual misogyny in us from a young age and led kind” “policeman” and even the action of Of course, this is a dead-end question. assaults on college campuses will not be us to hate anything feminine. Rather than “manning a ship.” The only thing wrong with other girls was reported. telling us that sexual assault is a gray sit- Of course, if “man” had not gained its the fact that they were girls. They adhered There is often a culture of victim blam- uation and you see both sides, consider new connotations since its origins, this to all the things that the world deemed ing surrounding assault. Women are the fear we live in, in a world where one would not be the problem. Upon first feminine. Tomboy culture was the result often asked what they were wearing or in five of us will be sexually assaulted at use, mann meant simply “a person.” of girls realizing that their gender is all too what they did to get assaulted, implying some point in our lives. The fact that the word was hijacked to fo- often used as an insult. that it’s their fault rather than that of the And don’t think of these things from cus only on the male perspective is one of We were told we played sports “like perpetrator. This was recently highlighted our perspective because you have a the initial problems. a girl” as a way to look down on us and in a Minnesota Supreme Court decision, mother, sister or daughter. Think of these Even outside of English, languages make us feel weak. The word “girly” it- which set an incredibly dangerous prece- things because women are people and tend to use the male format as gender self was an insult. These subtle, consis- dent for rape trials in the future. we have inherent value as human beings. neutral. Why? Why isn’t there simply tent attacks on our gender as children In a decision just this week, the court a gender-neutral term which does not left a mark. ruled that the man would not be charged The Torch (Female) Editorial Board, which alienate half of the population? While this This need to not be like other girls with felony rape because the woman had was created specifically for the Women’s isn’t the most significant issue of living in or feminine came from internalized voluntarily drank beforehand. The court History Month issue, is made of up Editor a world made for men, it’s one of the daily misogyny, which nearly everyone has to decided that the language in the law de- in Chief Cora Hall, Managing Copy Editor reminders that the status quo is male. some degree. But as we grew up, each termined a person should only be con- Kaylin Johnson, Lifestyles Editor Marissa As we discussed this editorial as a of us at some point all recognized how sidered “mentally incapacitated” and in- Russell, News Reporter Rebecca Vander- group, we all realized that we somewhat deeply it ran in us and attempted to un- capable of consenting to sex if they were Kooi and News Reporter Jessica Oakes. hated being girls growing up. There was learn these subconscious biases toward intoxicated with substances “without the a desire to be a “tomboy” and reject all our own gender. person’s agreement.” things perceived as “girly.” Unfortunately, this idea of internalized In simple words, if you chose to get Generation Z is known for our disillu- misogyny is novel to many, especial- drunk to the point where you are mentally sionment with traditional gender norms. ly the men in our lives. Even the nicest, incapable of giving consent and are sexu-

What’s inside Ferris alumna Dana King What feminism means in Women in construction Books to read by Ferris sculpts history college management and how female faculty they’re building their careers pg. 2 pg. 3 pg. 3 pg. 4 2 Women’s History Month Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch Dana King sculpts history

Photo courtesy of Dana King Alumna Dana King has taken many different turns in her career and they eventually led her to her love for art. She received her MFA in fine art painting when she was 48 years old. A Ferris alumna’s journey through journalism to finding her passion in art

Rebecca VanderKooi she always worked for men and she did not ducts. She aims to tell history truthfully and “I love history and research and I get to do News Reporter want them to tell her she had to change her accurately through her art. that with my art and I don’t have to put on appearance. So at the age of 52 she left the “When you tell stories on tv they last a nice suit or high heels or makeup to do it. At 61 years old Dana King exudes unbri- business to pursue different dreams. for two minutes and then they’re gone. I can be a bum in my studio,” laughed King. dled joy as she talks with passion about her But these stories that I tell in bronze will Even though she now lives and works in third career. King, whose love for life is con- Taking up space last as long as the material lasts and bronze California, she still fondly remembers Ferris tagious, has an infectious smile and a head lasts hundreds, even thousands of years,” State University and is grateful for the start full of long grey hair that dances everywhere King received her MFA in fine art painting King said. to a unique professional career. as she talks about her hopes, dreams and at age 48. However, a weekend sculpture King eagerly anticipates the new projects “I grew up in Big Rapids. I went to high accomplishments. course with a friend a few years later is what that are in store for the coming years. school there, went to college and I can al- “This is my third career. I’m going to retire changed the trajectory of her life. She was One such project is creating a sculpture ways come back. I’ve never forgotten that again when I’m 80 or so and maybe I’ll do immediately hooked. to honor the first cohort of black deaf stu- and I never worry that there won’t be a place something else,” King said. She is now represented by The Thelma dents at Gallaudet University from 1952. for me in the world. I’m very proud that I Harris Art Gallery and since 2012 she has Recently, she has been commissioned by went to Ferris,” King said. Disaster Queen been a full-time artist. She specializes in the San Francisco Giants to create a sculp- Even though King lives on the other side creating sculptures of black bodies out of ture honoring Toni Jones, an African Ameri- of the country, she has been able to use her King graduated in 1982 from Ferris with bronze. can woman who was the first woman to ever connections on the West Coast, especially a degree in marketing. She worked for five “Sculpture inhabits space and space is play major league baseball in the United with the Oakland Museum, to be a cabinet years at LA KNBC and KABC as a marketer. power and it’s really important for African States. member for the new Jim Crow museum that When her boss fired the only black report- descendants to see their memories, their “(I’m creating this) for all the little girls is set to be built on the Ferris campus. She er at KABC LA, there was panic as to who stories out in the world,” King said. “It’s es- and little boys who play baseball, but really noted that all these years later she is grate- would replace her. The office secretary rec- pecially important for children to see sculp- for the little girls so that they know that if ful to be at a place in her life where she can ommended hiring King and they did, even tures of people who remind them of their they desire to do it, that it has been done give back to the school and the Ferris com- though she did not have any intention of grandparents, or their parents, or uncles and it can be done again,” King said. munity. working in journalism. and aunts. That they actually see them- From marketing, to journalism, to art, “You might hire me because I’m black, but selves in the world and know that their his- Looking Back King’s career has had many twists and turns. you won’t keep me because I’m black. You’ll tory is important to the building of America.” However, her dedication to telling important keep me because I’m good,” King said with King detailed that creating a sculp- Looking back over her beginnings at Fer- stories and sharing the truth with the public a chuckle, as she notes that she was terrible ture is a multiphase process which starts ris decades ago and her career to date King has not wavered. As she assists in the devel- at first. with making a clay piece in her art studio, explained that everything she has done in opment of the new Jim Crow Museum she This was the humble beginning to a 25- which typically takes 4-6 months. Through her life informs what she does today. She is desires to teach the community about the year storied career in broadcast journal- various phases in the foundry and making grateful for each career she has been able horrors of racism and to encourage museum ism. She covered disasters all across the molds, the final product is created by pour- to have and is especially grateful for where goers to think deeply. globe and her kids nicknamed her the ‘di- ing molten liquid bronze into the mold and she is right now. saster queen’. then chipping it out. Her first international coverage was in King has stayed remarkably busy with Honduras after Hurrican Mitch decimated commissioned pieces that have been in- the country. In fact, she won a local Emmy stalled across the United States, from Con- award for her reporting from 1998-2020 necticut, to Alabama, to California. covering the effects of the hurricane. Most recently, she finished a sculpture “Everybody lost so much, but they banded of Dr. Huey P Newton, who was the cofound- together and helped one another and that er of the Black Panther party, per his widow was so eye opening to me,” King said. “I Frederika Newton’s request. saw that again in New York City when I was The statue is going to be dedicated and the first television reporter from the west installed in West Oakland on Oct. 24. Huey coast to make it to New York City three days was born and died in West Oakland, so, in a after 9/11.” sense, this sculpture is bringing him home, King explained that although she report- King explained. ed on many devastating disasters, covering Another piece that King created was in- 9/11 was one of the hardest stories of her stalled in New Haven, Connecticut in Sept. entire journalism career. 2020. The sculpture tells the story of an Afri- "In my career I went places where peo- can descendant who helped build the city’s ple needed help from the United States infrastructure. and here I was in my own country watching it “His history wasn’t known and his history receive the same assistance that I had seen was so important to New Haven and now the around the world,” King said. history is being told,” King said. King always knew that she didn’t want Behind every sculpture there is an im- to work in television after age 50 because mense amount of research that King con- Photo courtesy of Dana King Dana King poses with one of her life-size sculptures. Women’s History MonthWomen’s History Month 3 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Books to read by our female faculty Equality for all There’s space for everyone in the March is also National Reading Month and in honor of that, we wanted to highlight a few books written by our female faculty members. feminist movement today Dr. Deirdre Fagan is a professor in languages and literature as well as the coordinator for the creative writing program at Ferris. Her first book was published in 2007, called “Critical Compan- ion to Robert Frost.” Her latest works include a chapterbook of poetry called “Have Love,” which was published in 2019. Her most recent work was a short story collection published in the fall of 2020, called “The Grief Eater.” Dr. Kasey Thompson is a professor in Ferris’ College of Busi- ness. Her career path took her all the way to the position of Director of Menu Innovation at McDonald’s, in which she over- saw 35,000 restaurants around the world. She wrote Fall Down, Gritty Up in the hopes of sharing the lessons and experiences she has had with the next generation. It is currently scheduled for release in April.

The Grief Eater by Dr. Deirdre Fagan — out now

“My first year of col- lege, I lost a brother to suicide, and the May I graduated with my Kendall Rooks for their mind to work and be a visionary. So, bachelor’s, my mother Lifestyles Reporter I like the idea that universities take a leading was diagnosed with can- role in inspiring change in the feminist move- cer,” Fagan said. “She The very first wave of feminism in the Unit- ment, however they see it,” Byars said. “I think passed three months ed States began at the 1848 Seneca Falls academia overall is the leader in the feminist later. Through these ear- Convention in Seneca Falls, New York at the movement because that is where young peo- ly losses, I discovered a great deal about peo- Wesleyan Chapel. According to a History.com ple can be introduced to these ideas, accept ple’s responses to grief article, Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott pro- them as their own and adopt them.” and my own. At 36, I lost claimed, “We hold these truths to be self-ev- It is easier to find like-minded women who my father and remaining brother two weeks apart, and then I ident; that all men and women are created stand alongside one another in the movement lost my husband and the father of my children to ALS six years equal,” and that therefore, women deserved when there is a female majority in higher ed- later. They say write what you know, but it was not a conscious the right to vote. ucations. According to University Stats, there decision as much as an emotional one. Fortunately, the feminist movement has were 7,130 female students and 6,120 male “The Grief Eater collection is driven by perspectives I gained aided in substantial progress for the rights students at Ferris during the 2018 - 2019 ac- through my own experiences with grief, but it is largely an op- of women. In the 2010s, feminists brought ademic year. There is a deep recognition for portunity to open a discussion about how grieving people re- spond to loss, what is considered socially acceptable, and to light prominent cases of sexual assault, fo- personal worth among women on college cam- also raise questions about what should be. Grief is a univer- cused on combatting misogyny and ensuring puses today. sal experience, but our experiences with grief are individu- women have equal rights. As the movement Foulk explained that feminism present al. The collection is also an opportunity for readers to devel- progresses, the agenda for the movement on the Ferris campus will only work to better op empathy for themselves and others when confronted with evolves as well. Women also think about femi- everyone else’s lives, no matter what gender what appears unbearable.” nism in different ways. you are. She added, “Young people are going “Feminism [to me] is an ideology and range to college to become educated and start their of social movements that advocate for equality careers. You are the leaders of our country and and equity of genders,” humanities professor our world. I think that it is important we recog- Fall Down, Rachel Foulk said. “There are many different nize we still have work to do and that you can waves and many different approaches, but I make an impact.” Gritty Up think at its core feminism is about equality of There are multiple ways to make an impact by Dr. Kasey genders.” and be an active feminist. Byar expressed that The ‘wave’ metaphor confirms Foulk’s idea there is a space for everyone to support the Thompson— that gender activism in the United States has feminist movement; feminists do not have to for the most part been unified around one set be an only-female movement. She said that coming soon of ideas, known as feminism, which focuses on everyone can consciously make the effort to equality for all people. support, whether it be financially or through 2021 “There are certainly many branches of femi- attending events and volunteering. Foulk feels nism, and they have evolved,” humanities pro- everyone needs to be more mindful of their fessor Ann Byars said. “How I view feminism biases. Each person has been subject to bias is much like how I would view something like societal systems, and examining these can be “Fall Down, Gritty Up religion or your political leanings: it’s a value helpful to the movement as well. celebrates where we to me more than a belief. Sure, everyone has “In our everyday life we need to make sure are. Right here. Right a definition. But, as I get up there in years, it we are advocating for others,” Foulk said. “Let’s now,” Thompson said. changes for me, and now I see myself more as say you’re hosting a group discussion online. “It draws on us to ac- an active facilitator of crusades and a support Make sure that women, men and non-gender cept and rejoice in the reality of our current state—today’s loca- system because I have gained wisdom over binary people are included. We also need to- tion on the path to achieving our desires. the years.” where we can safely-call out injustices when The book serves as a personal challenge to embrace the en- Feminism has been widely welcomed on we witness them.” ergy of all life experiences—from the most painful to the most college campuses as wide ranges of new Being a feminist means fighting for the joyous—and to learn how to harness that energy and convert it ideas and concepts are introduced to college equality of all people. Feminism allows people into a fuel that propels you toward fulfillment. students. According to the National Center for to look at the world not as it is, but how it could My ultimate hope is that after reading my book, you will Education Statistics, 11.3 million college stu- be. Byars said,“In the last five years I have be inspired to “gritty up” in the areas of your life that require dents are women compared with 8.7 million seen the most active, politically passionate, strengthening so that you, too, will always find a way to over- men, and 63 percent of these women identify driven people in my classrooms. It is outstand- come whatever obstacles life presents—and then, ultimately, as feminists. ing what I am seeing, and you’re ready.” continue on your path to becoming your own hero. “As a whole, academia is where people By ‘gritty up’ I mean, let’s get the hell up from whatever has are given creative freedoms and openness knocked you down—and get going toward your goals.” 4 Women’s History Month Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch Women building a career Ferris women talk about navigating male-dominated field of work boots and hard hats

Cora Hall, Marissa Russell tion, the field will continue to see more women Editor in Chief, Lifestyles Editor involved. As of right now, though, Price often is still the Imagine trying to complete some of the sim- only woman on site and will get the kind of atten- plest tasks of your job and being met with laugh- tion she doesn't always know how to respond to. ter. This isn't a hypothetical for building construc- The flirting and getting asked out while at work tion technology senior Hannah Price, it was her is something that doesn't necessarily get to her, reality as an intern. but it's difficult to find the balance of responding Price was in charge of a project on her build- in the right way. ing site, which meant she was tasked with ev- "You want to joke back, but then you can't, erything from ordering supplies to scheduling. because then you can give them the wrong im- With the flooring scheduled soon, she went to the pression," Price said. "But then it's also, I don't electricians to tell them the wiring needed to be want to come off as, I don't want to be totally like finished because the flooring was going in soon. closed off because I wanted to gain that relation- Instead of listening, they laughed in her face, not ship with them." believing she knew when the flooring was getting She began to learn who to joke around with done. and who to be serious with and eventually found Once she got them in a room with her superi- other men on site who became good friends and ors, the mood changed and the electricians were advocates for her if someone else was really bug- on site shortly after. "I was trying to get these ging her. But she still struggles with speaking out guys to do something for three weeks, and it took at times, not wanting to "pull the girl card" and five minutes for these guys to do it," Price said. having others think she can't look out for herself. "I know it's not just a woman thing, it's an 'I was "I didn't want them to think that I was like, 'Oh, only in the field for seven months so I don't have I'm the girl on site and everybody needs to help as much experience' thing, but still, I told you me, look out for me, this and that,'" Price said. "I word-for-word to do the exact same thing, and wanted to be able to [handle] everything myself you're gonna laugh at me, but he's gonna tell you and not have to involve other people." when you'll go do it." Pettinger has worked as an intern for two years Women only make up 9.9% of the construction for a company working with power plant projects. industry in the United States according to the Bu- She said that while there are a good amount reau of Labor Statistics. The number is mirrored of women in director positions at her company, in Ferris' construction management program, that's not always the case. with 26 of 285 students being women. Suzanne Career advancement for women in construc- Miller, the program's coordinator since 2013, tion is not always easy. said that number has doubled since she came With the lack of women in the field in the first to Ferris. place, it's typical for managers to circle back to Part of the problem with recruiting women in the men when thinking of promotions. Part of the field is the fact that most people do not know this is the personal relationships outside of work. what construction management entails, the com- Pettinger said she's not getting a beer with the Photo courtesy of Hannah Price plexity of the process and the coordination skills men after work or going on hunting trips with co- Hannah Price often feels like she has to work harder to be accepted as the only woman required. workers. on most work sites. While Miller said she didn't face obstacles nec- "With being such a male-dominated environ- essarily due to being a woman, she experienced ment, there's a lot of conversations that happen ageism, which she said is all too common of an outside the workplace that most women aren't attitude towards new graduates. involved with," Pettinger said. "At the end of the Price feels like she has to fight a little more day, it doesn't really bother me because if I want for respect and acceptance often being the only to do what I want to do, I'm going to work my butt woman on site. off to get there and it might take a little bit longer "It's hard, because if you try too hard, then they for me because I'm a woman ... but I think that kind of back away from you, but if you don't try in a lot of environments, you have to work to get hard enough, then you'll never get included, you'll where you want and it's no different for me." never get respected," Price said. Price feels that women are often seen as the For construction management senior Sadie ones to do the simple tasks, and when she's on Pettinger, being the only woman in the room the job people would come to her for copies, even doesn't bother her. In her eyes, respect is earned, though her male peers that are just a year or two regardless of gender, but there are still times ahead of her never touch office work. when being a woman in a male-dominated field She has seen women in the field struggle to means she gets treated differently. advance and get promoted, even when they're "There are people that aren't going to respect qualified. you because you're a woman," Pettinger said. "The women in the field that I know moved up a "I've encountered men that don't want to respect lot slower than the other guys did and that's kind me because I'm a woman, but at the end of the of disappointing to see," Price said. "Even pay is day, in order for all of us to get our jobs done, we different, they're not in the same position they all have to work together." should be." At five-foot-two, most people give her funny Gaining respect from her coworkers is one of looks when Pettinger tells people she's in con- the ways Price has succeeded in her field. Asking struction. They'll ask her if she's the one out there questions when she didn't know something and swinging the hammer when in reality her career letting her male coworkers work through their goal is to be a project manager. personal process allows them to feel valued in Price wants to be a superintendent for com- Price's opinion and helps her work her way up. mercial construction, a position she grew up Regardless of the issue faced, both women watching her father in, who is a Ferris alum. are proud to be in the field and of the experience "I always loved the idea of construction," Price they've earned already in school. For Pettinger, said. "I thought it was really cool to see how any challenge, whether it's because of her gender things happen, like to get to see the inside peo- or not, is one she is ready to take on in her career. ple how buildings built and everything so I went to "I think that the biggest thing that I am proud the job sites with my dad." of is the fact that I have continued to take these Construction management is a career that challenges," Pettinger said. "Whether it's a fe- was traditionally promoted towards the boys in male-related challenge or just normal challenges high school due to the idea that it was manual everyone's facing, and take it as a challenge and labor. Neither Price or Pettinger dreamed of go- not take it personally, not let it like bother me, but ing into this field as kids. Price was dead set on just take it head-on and do what I can to better being a cashier and Pettinger a teacher. Pettinger myself and to face this challenge." believes with the management side of construc- Photo courtesy of Sadie Pettinger At five-foot-two, Sadie Pettinger often gets looks of surprise when she tells people her major is construction management. Lifestyles 7 Ferris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 LIFESTYLES Marissa Russell | Lifestyles Editor | [email protected] Representing first-gen The rollercoaster experience for Ferris first-gen students

Alyssa Hubbard SA, or are homeless because they cannot Lifestyles Reporter get along with their suitemate and do not know the protocol, it is our sense of duty to These students are doing something their provide for them." parents didn't do, couldn't do, or weren't Another way Ferris provides resources able to finish doing: they're going to college for first-gen is through hosting workshop and getting their degrees. events. The name for these kinds of students is Associate professor of developmental first-generation college students. This is be- curriculum Dave McCall assists in creating cause the students' parents didn't go to a helpful 30 minute workshops every Wednes- college or university for higher education or day via Zoom. they weren't able to get a degree. So, these "The aim of the First-Gen initiative is to students are the first generation in the fami- support and celebrate our first-generation ly to accomplish that. students," McCall said. "The Wednesday Automotive engineering technology soph- Workshops are just another opportunity for omore Logan Bury is one of the many first- us to help support our students. While they gen students at Ferris. are promoted to First-Gen students, they are Bury's parents couldn't afford to attend really open to all students." college because they didn't have the time or McCall was also a first-gen student when money. Between raising two kids and having he attended and graduated from Ferris. His jobs to support them, it wasn't really an op- empathy drives his passion for this initiative tion for them. to help current and future first-gen students. Around the time Bury was about to grad- The workshops have many goals when uate from high school his parents told him reaching out to students. that he'd either have to go to college or join Most importantly, McCall and everyone the military. else involved wants to help students "learn So he chose both. valuable skills and strategies" for success. Not only is Bury a full-time college stu- The workshops also connect students in dent, he is also involved with the United similar situations and can then build rela- States Army. tionships. These events also show students Bury decided to go to Ferris and pursue how to navigate topics that they might not a degree in automotive engineering tech- know how to do on their own like class nology because "it is very difficult to find scheduling, study abroad, or financial aid. a good paying job that someone can com- Students can also depend on First-Gen Al- fortably live off of without some form of lies around campus. These are faculty, staff higher education." and administrative members who agreed And he likes cars. A lot. to be contacts for students when they need Hospitality and event management ju- guidance or have questions. nior Emma Franklin is another Ferris first- Graphic by: Charlie Zitta | Production Manager McCall added that not only do first-gen gen student who wanted to give herself students benefit from these resources, but more opportunities. made sure that we knew how college would sources, camaraderie [and] self-mentoring any students. "Ultimately, I decided to pursue a higher benefit us in the long run." with the students who are farther in their "What is great about the First-Gen initia- education because I wanted to pursue a Life for a first-generation student is by program and have been on campus lon- tive is that if we do what is best for First-Gen wider variety of jobs," Franklin said. "I want- no means easy. In fact, it tends to sup- ger." The overall goal is to ensure first-gen students, we are really doing what is best for ed to be able to open more doors for myself ply many more obstacles while trying to students are comfortable in the college en- all students," McCall said. "There are many professionally and to not settle for a life that get that degree. vironment, they have necessary information students who may not technically be a First- I didn’t dream of." Typically, first-gen students come from to help them and that they feel proud to be Gen student by definition, but they will still Franklin's parents grew up in a small low-income families. So affording college ex- first-gen students. benefit if we create and develop things from rural town and they got married right after penses for one or more students in a low-in- Kelenske can relate to these students be- the perspective of a First-Gen student." high school. Her father followed his dreams come household is a difficult task. cause she was also a first-gen student when These campus resources, among others, of becoming a well driller and other trades According to the First Generation Founda- she attended college. She said that she "un- are steps to lead first-gen students in the work, while her mother wanted to become tion, nationally, 89% of low-income first-gen derstands the lost feeling" many students right direction so that they may achieve their a wonderful caretaker when Franklin and students don't make it to graduation. More face while navigating their unique college professional and personal goals. her brothers were born. Franklin add- than 25% of these students leave after their life. For Bury, he'd like to test drive cars for a ed that "neither of them felt like college first years in college. These are odds that One aspect of the First Generation RSO while after he graduates and hopefully de- was their calling" and they chose other Bury, Franklin and Ferris State University are that Kelenske loves is the student members' sign a vehicle of his own to "make [a] mark directions in life. determined to beat. energy. on the automotive industry." Above all, Bury Her parents were constantly encouraging Additionally, in 2019 Ferris was one of "This particular group of students are wants to do his best and make his family Franklin and her brothers to attend college 80 institutions in the United States and some of the most resourceful people I have proud. when they were old enough, though it would one of only two in Michigan to be awarded ever met," Kelenske said. "They amaze me For Franklin, she hopes to get involved always be their children's final decisions. for being a First-Gen Forward institution often. This is the true reason I feel hon- with wedding and event management after They told Franklin to work hard and follow through the Center for First-Generation ored to get to know as many individuals she graduates. She would also like to do her dreams, which may require a degree Student Success. as possible." something in digital media, maybe social from higher education. Ferris offers first-gen students various op- Kelenske believes that it is very important media marketing. "Although they were always loving and portunities to help them succeed in school to help and supply resources to first-gen col- "Wherever I end up, as long as I am pas- kind, they had high expectations for us in and graduate. These include designated lege students whenever possible. sionate about my work, I will be happy," high school and pushed us to do our best RSOs, helpful workshops and scholarships. "The first-generation college students Franklin said. to find scholarships, grants, unique opportu- Michelle Kelenske has been working as struggle is real," Kelenske said. "If we have Students are able to find more informa- nities and more," Franklin said. "Ultimately, the advisor for the First Generation RSO on the ability to assist [them], why not? Wheth- tion regarding resources and opportunities they supported us in all of our decisions, but campus since before it was reinstated in er they are hungry, need more money for through the Ferris First-Gen webpage at Oct. 2019. This group strives to "provide re- books, do not know how to fill out their FAF- https://www.ferris.edu/RSS/firstgen/. 8 Lifestyles Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch A place to be yourself Events calendar WEDNESDAY March 31 First-Gen Wednesday Workshops - Internships Contact: Dave McCall [email protected] Location: Virtual Time: 11 - 11:30 a.m.

Exit Rich: How to Build a Sustainable, Scalable, and Sellable Business - Webinar Contact: Lynn Miller [email protected] Location: Virtual Time: 12 - 1 p.m.

LGBTQ+ Resource Center Coffee House Contact: Sarah Doherty [email protected] Location: Virtual Time: 4 - 6 p.m.

Photo by: Cassidy Jessup | Multimedia Editor Social work senior Alyssa Caron is interning at the LGTBQ+ Resource Center on campus, a place she says you can walk in and “drop any and all baggage” and be yourself. THURSDAY April 1 Mid-Semester LGBTQ+ center provides safe space for all Recess students of community

Kendall Rooks In 2018 Ferris opened its first the climate at Ferris and in Big Lifestyles Reporter LGBTQ+ Resource Center. Ac- Rapids for LGBTQ+ people. cording to the LGBTQ+ Resource “The students who use the Re- Many universities are working Center homepage, the goal is to, source Center include LGBTQIA+ to make their campuses more in- “foster a supportive environment students who can find community, FRIDAY clusive for students. The LGBTQ+ that is open, safe and inclusive for support, space to vent, space to April 2 Resource Center exists on campus students of all sexual orientations, dream of a queerly fabulous future at Ferris to ensure there is a wel- gender identities and gender ex- and also straight and cisgender Mid-Semester coming and inclusive environment pressions.” students. Any and all students who for students in the LGBTQ+ com- LGBTQ+ Resource Center coor- are interested in improving their Recess munity, while also offering support dinator Sarah Doherty explained cultural competency or account- services, resources, programs, that the founding of the center was ability, their professional practices, training and counseling. a part of the diversity plan for the university to address issues with LGBTQ+| see page 9 TUESDAY April 6 Tune in to our Podcast: How Seemingly Small Things Have Big Impacts on Our Motivation and Behavior Contact: Karen Royster-James the fire pit (231) 591-3771 Location: Zoom Time: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. hosted by: Finance Division Meetings Contact: Elizabeht Huerta [email protected] Location: Virtual Marissa Russell, Brendan Sanders & Time: 5 - 6 p.m. FSU Student Government Associ- Noah Kurkjian ation General Assembly Meeting Contact: Allyson Faulkner [email protected] Location: Virtual Scan the Spotify link t0 Time: 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. National Poetry Month Literature in Person: Poet Kai Coggin listen to our Podcast Contact: Dr. Deirdre Fagan [email protected] Location: Zoom Time: 7 - 8 p.m.

For more events, check out calendar.ferris.edu Graphics made by Production Manager Charlie Zitta 9 Lifestyles 9 Ferris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 LGBTQ+ The center provides a wide range of services, including gender Continued from page 8 identity specific group meetings their understanding of the breadth for students, LGBTQ+ sensitivity and depth of human diversity." training and a gender affirming Social work senior Alyssa Caron closet. One of the reoccurring is the Senior BSN Intern at the cen- events provided by the LGBTQ+ re- ter and believes the center should source center is their Wednesday have been developed on campus afternoon Coffee Houses. Each a long time ago, but she is happy Wednesday the resource center that it is available now. hosts a discord chill session from “As a freshman I got involved 4-6p.m. Students are invited to with one of the LGBTQ+ RSOs. The hangout online in an open space resource center wasn’t here when while doing homework and meet- I got here so we were all really ex- ing friends. cited and so happy to have it. We According to the Human Rights even started to have our meetings Campaign Foundation, LGBTQ+ there," Caron said. young people are more than twice Caron believes the center pro- as likely to feel suicidal and more vides a sense of community and than four times as likely to attempt is a space where anyone can be suicide compared to heterosexual themselves. youth. Which is why it is so import- “You can walk in the door and ant that safe spaces are created drop any and all baggage that you and maintained on campus for have and one hundred percent be LGBTQ+ students. yourself," Caron said. "It goes with- Doherty said that the resources Photo by: Cassidy Jessup | Multimedia Editor out saying that, even though it is provided by the center are crucial When Alyssa Caron first came to Ferris, the LGBTQ+ Resouce Center didn’t exist on campus. a tiny space, it is really amazing for many students. “It is important Ferris invests to feel so accepted. As a student everyone focus on what they need Graduation will be opened up to the LGBTQ+ community means to in the well-being of the LGBTQ+, it was frustrating when I was look- to succeed. students who graduated in winter them. Two-Spirit and same gender loving ing at schools to come to, know- At the end of the semester the of 2019 and 2020, as well as stu- If you are interested in getting students and to invest in meeting ing that there wasn’t [a resource LGBTQ+ Resource Center will be dents who graduate in spring and involved in any of the activities the specific needs of traditional- center] already [at Ferris] and celebrating their LGBTQ+ and ally summer of 2021. offered by the LGBTQ+ Resource ly underrepresented and under- not knowing if we would ever get graduates. Lavender Graduation, Students who want their ac- Center you can access links to the served students," Doherty said. one. Now that there is one, there taking place via zoom on April complishments celebrated can fill discord on the Ferris homepage Doherty said that if just one is a problem with sustainability. 28 at 5 p.m., honors members of out some basic information in the or contact Sarah Doherty at Sar- conversation helps a student to The physical space is essentially the community who are graduat- Bulldog Connect link and email [email protected]. The center be more open and respectful, or a closet and if that’s not ironic I ing and those who were leaders Doherty a picture or short video is located in the University Cen- helps a member of the LGBTQ+ be- don’t know what is.” in the LGBTQ+ community. Due of themselves explaining what ter, but is currently closed due to come more comfortable, it helps to COVID-19, this year Lavender graduating as a member or ally of COVID-19.

Senior Spotlight Derek Doublestein reflects on his time at Ferris

Meghan Hartley to know in the technology world. Wesley Freelance Reporter House is a campus ministry that allows students to expand their faith, whichev- Rolling into spring, graduating seniors er it may be, engage with it and develop are beginning to pull out their caps and leadership skills to become a better hu- gowns and are saying goodbye to their man being. school days with an eagerness to finally Doublestein has been president of both be done with classes and enter the real groups. This position has made him com- world. municate healthily, plan events and man- Derek Doublestein is a senior gradu- age time, which has allowed him to "hone ating this May, earning his bachelor’s de- in on his leadership skills". gree in computer information technology He said he will miss the people he met after three years of being on the Big Rap- within those two RSOs the most as they ids campus. In his second year of college helped build a Ferris family, long lasting he transferred from Grand Rapids Com- friendships and memories he will always munity College. remember. His fondest was going down to Throughout his time here Doublestein Panama City, Florida on a mission trip and has learned more than he imagined he working on hurricane cleanup. would when first coming here, such as the When asked if he would go back and connections that can be made through change anything Doublestein said he simply being in class. didn’t regret anything except for not com- “I’m in a small major,” Doublestein ing to Ferris sooner to begin building that said. “Usually 8 to 10 kids [will be] in a community and really diving into his ma- class and it was just a good way to get jor. connected and have a good relationship For underclassmen Doublestein ad- with the professors. I’ve had professors vised them to dive into campus life help me write recommendation letters to through RSOs, campus events, or even get internships [and to get] into a masters a campus job. Something that can allow program.” you "to step away and take a minute to Professors were able to guide Dou- put your mind on something else before blestein in more ways than one, from ac- returning to homework." ademic support, to understanding how to “Take the initiative to meet other peo- go through an interview with the proper ple as soon as possible,” Doublestein resume to landing a job within his field. said. “Academics are important, but you “One of the best things a professor can’t put 100% focus into academics or has ever told me was that the job is never else you’ll become a zombie. I mean you’ll yours to begin with, so if you get turned stay up late doing homework every night. down it’s not a big deal.” You just need to get a social life. You can’t Doublestein was also surprised at how just focus on academics. [Having a social much community he could feel when life] definitely helps.” meeting others in his classes and his two Doublestein plans to return to his home- RSOs: the Bulldog Computer Profession- town of Grandville, Michigan in hopes of alism group and campus ministry Wesley finding a technical position while earning House. a masters degree. He is hopeful for what BCP is a group of computer major is to come next and is glad he decided to students who focus on creating the next come to Ferris and be a bulldog. Photo by: Cassidy Jessup | Multimedia Editor steps, from academics to industry. Mem- Derek Doublestein enjoyed the community he built from his time at Ferris. bers meet with industry professionals and understand what current students need 10 Sports Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Ferris State Torch SPORTS Brendan Sanders| Sports Editor | [email protected] Enough is enough Ferris women’s athletes speak out on inequalities in NCAA tournament

Austin Arquette Sports Reporter

Social media is a powerful weapon for change. It spreads so quickly and abruptly; inciting change should never be so dire that social media needs to be the driving force for ac- tion. On Thursday, March 27, Oregon Uni- versity basketball player Sedona Prince took to TikTok and Twitter in order to show the differences in equipment the NCAA pro- vided for the women’s and men’s teams. In Prince’s video, she shows the women’s training area that was provided which in- cluded only six pairs of dumbbells of varying weights, while the men’s area was furnished with numerous training racks, bars, plates, dumbbells and benches. Ferris women’s basketball freshman guard Kaydn Blanchard said she believes that the difference seen between what the men received as facilities and what the women did was “very uncalled for.” She believes that a set of dumbbells and some yoga mats weren’t enough. “I was just wondering what they think we do in the weight rooms at our schools, be- cause, at least here, we do a lot more than that,” Blanchard said. “I do understand that Screenshot taken from Twitter there is a difference in money being brought Reporter Molly Hensley-Clancy showed the contrast in weight areas for men’s and women’s teams. into the NCAA from the men and women’s side, but that doesn’t mean that the women Other Ferris women’s basketball players With Prince’s posts quickly gaining over ment of the year, nothing less, and McCart- don’t work as hard as the men do, and all of rose to this conversation such as senior 17 million views, it caught the attention ney made this point very clear. the teams who made it there deserved bet- guards Shaniya Huggins and Adrienne An- of multiple companies that took off to help “I would’ve hoped by now that women’s ter than what they got.” derson, along with sophomore guard Mallo- the women athletes. Dick’s Sporting Goods athletics would have the same respect as The NCAA is a nonprofit organiza- ry McCartney. All three Bulldogs expressed and Planet Fitness both commented and men’s, but women are going to continue tion, therefore it must abide by Title IX of the that the NCAA needs to take drastic action created posts of their own as they claimed to fight for as long as they must. I wish we Education Amendments Act of 1972, which to make sure this never happens again. they had equipment ready for the NCAA didn’t have to, but if this is what it takes, I is federal law. The concern of the NCAA fol- Shaniya Huggins was angered by the fact to give to the women’s teams for a bet- think all women athletes are up for it,” Mc- lowing Title IX regulations is now brought the the NCAA only reacted after they re- ter weight room. Cartney said. “It’s sickening seeing the dif- back to attention. ceived backlash for the event, stating that The NCAA didn’t respond to either com- ference between the men and the women’s, On the NCAA website, they clearly define if they wouldn’t have received backlash, the pany. Instead, according to PEOPLE.com, a but how the women were able to realize they Title IX as: “No person in the United States NCAA wouldn’t have even acknoleged that spokesperson said that the NCAA informed deserve better and used their platform to shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from issue. the companies they appreciated the offers show it was very powerful and influential.” participation in, be denied the benefits of, or “I do not feel that the NCAA cares for their but already had new equipment covered. The number of inequalities between the be subjected to discrimination under any ed- athletes, because if they did this would not The four Bulldogs expressed their men’s and women’s teams are seen and ex- ucation program or activity receiving Federal have been an issue. They need to be better thoughts and feelings on this change. posed now more than ever. Ferris Bulldogs financial assistance.” all the way around, no exceptions,” McCart- Huggins said the change meant ev- are feeling the trickle-down effect, as they And even into Title IX benefits on the ney said. erything for her to see, but that it was a feel that the NCAA cares but has more work NCAA website, Title IX claims, “...the equal Adrienne Anderson explained that ath- shame it got so far out of hand. Anderson to do. Blanchard said the NCAA has people treatment of female and male student-ath- letes of both genders need the same sup- expressed that she wasn’t all that surprised, who will fight for equal rights between men letes in the provisions of (a) equipment and plies to be successful with both men’s and as it’s not a new problem, but it does need and women athletes, but she also feels supplies; (b) scheduling of games and prac- weomen’s teams deserving equal support to be resolved. Blanchard stated that while there are some people who have one way of tice times; (c) travel and daily allowance/per from the NCAA. it was nice to see attention brought up and thinking that just won’t change. diem; (d) access to tutoring; (e) coaching, “They need proper food, facilities to prac- something changed, the fight will continue. While the world continues to grow in fight- (f) locker rooms, practice, and competitive tice and lift, the big dance gifts, etc. How- McCartney said that the change devel- ing for equality across genders, it goes to facilities; (g) medical and training facilities ever, women do as well. There is no differ- oped was fine to see but still not acceptable show that the world has come a long way. and services; (h) housing and dining facili- ence when it comes to that,” Anderson said. that a change even was needed. Just like However, we still have a lot more work to do ties and services; (i) publicity and promo- “Both men and women made it to the tour- their male counterparts, women athletes in order to ensure equality for all athletes, tions; (j) support services; and (k) recruit- nament, so they both should get the proper deserve the very best at the biggest tourna- regardless of gender. ment of student-athletes.” resources and support from the NCAA.”

Volleyball Women’s Soccer Men’s Tennis WEEKEND March 26 - Ferris 3, Wis- March 26 - Ferris 1, Saginaw March 26 - Ferris 5, North- consin-Parkside 0 Valley State 0 wood 2 March 27 - Ferris 3, Wis- March 28 - Ferris 2, Ashland 0 SCORECARD consin-Parkside 0 SportsSports 11 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of March 31 - April 6, 2021 Vander Laan starting new chapter Former Bulldog and Harlon Hill Winner named new Rockford High School Offensive Coordinator Brandon Wirth of total offense, 166 touchdowns, ford and are looking forward to set- Sports Reporter and a 37-9 record in his four sea- tling down there for several years.” sons as starting quarterback. He When asked what the thought After four years in the NFL, Jason was signed as an undrafted free process was to Vander Laan as the Vander Laan officially decided on agent in 2016 by the New York Jets, choice as offensive coordinator, March 10 that he would be trading but he was not to take snaps under Rockford Athletic Director Cole An- in his cleats for a headset. center. drews said his intelligence and com- After opting out of the 2020 NFL “I didn’t have many options in the munication were key reasons. season like many other players, NFL as a quarterback,” Vander Laan “Jason has an incredibly high foot- Vander Laan took the year to pre- said. “29 of the 31 teams at my pro- ball IQ and outstanding communica- pare for his future. day looked at me as an athlete and tion skills,” Andrews said via email. “COVID gave me an extra year to wanted me to play tight end.” “Even though he doesn’t have any finish up school. From this spring, I Despite the change in position, coaching experience, we believed knew I was going to go after coach- Vander Laan embraced the oppor- he was a diamond in the rough.” ing adventures.” tunity to play on football’s greatest Along with his high intelligence, “I’m excited to be a Ram,” Vander stage. Vander Laan believes the relation- Laan said in the official press re- “It was a struggle, but I like chal- ships he can build with the players lease. “Rockford has a tremendous lenges. It drives me to this day... go- will be important. history of excellence, both on and ing after something that’s going to “I want to be a guy that’s going off the football field. I cannot wait to be difficult and approaching it head to be there for the kids, build rela- be a part of this program.” first.” tionships with them and help them During his time as a Bulldog, Following other stints with the succeed on and off the field. I also Vander Laan became one of the Panthers, Patriots and Colts, Vander believe I’m a fun guy to be around.” best Division II players in the coun- Laan found his way to New Orle- Despite moving around each year try. While he not only won back-to- ans in 2019. He appeared in two during his four NFL seasons, Vander back Harlon Hill trophies as the games in the 2019 season before Laan was able to experience and NCAA Division II Player of the Year in being placed on the Injured Reserve learn from many different team cul- 2014 and 2015, he was also tabbed list after suffering a concussion. tures and coaches. This included as the “Nation’s Top Dual Threat During his recovery, the former Bull- six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Quarterback.” dog knew his career was going to Belichick and two-time Coach of the Ferris State Football play-by-play change. Year Ron Rivera. broadcaster Rob Bentley talked “[With] the way my head was “Belichick and Rivera have com- about the Vander Laan’s tenure feeling during working out, I wasn’t pletely different coaching styles,” here at Ferris. necessarily comfortable going back Vander Laan said. “I’ve been able to “Jason devoted time to make on the field,” Vander Laan said. “We see how the players respond to that himself the biggest, fastest and knew it was the right decision for me comfortability and the relationships strongest player he could be.” Bent- to retire.” they build. At the end of the day, I ley said. “He was also highly intelli- In his search for offensive coach- can say what I agree with and don’t gent and the winner of the National ing opportunities, Vander Laan was agree [with].” Scholar-Athlete of the Year award as not initially looking to return to the As Vander Laan ‘fine tunes’ his the top student-athlete in the coun- mitten state. coaching tools and skills for the up- try twice. All of that translated to the “I’m from [Frankfort], Illinois and coming season, there is one thing field where his toughness and dura- was in Northwest Indiana. I was he can count on: support from the bility was also unmatched.” originally looking at schools around Bulldog faithful. After watching Vander Laan first- there.” “I’m excited for his success and hand for his four seasons, Bentley After not receiving any preferred know he will do well,” Bentley said. saw his impact go past the yards offers, Vander Laan opened his “It has been a ton of fun watching and touchdowns. search to “where his name goes a him pursue a career in the National “He was an outstanding leader little bit farther” in Grand Rapids. Football League, but now that he’s and teammate,” Bentley said. “He Despite other high school and col- moving away from competing at was first to thank his offensive line- lege teams giving him legitimate of- such a high level, I know he wants man and fellow teammates for all fers, the former quarterback found to get into coaching and believe he’ll the recognition he received. It was the perfect fit with Rockford. be great at working with student-ath- awesome to be able to promote and “Rockford has a great culture and letes for years to come.” work with him throughout his time at great community support. The of- Vander Laan’s coaching career Ferris State.” fer they had for me to be the ‘head will begin Aug. 26 when the Rock- Torch File Photo Vander Laan’s outstanding career coach of the offense’ was a perfect ford Rams host Sterling-Heights Ste- Jason Vander Laan is is widely regarded as the best quarterback in Ferris as a Bulldog included 14,193 yards situation. My family and I like Rock- venson. State Football history.

Brendan Sanders Sports Editor

Senior outside hitter Katie O’Con- Katie O’Connell nell continued her dominance on the court over the last week. In game one of the weekend, O’Connell finished second on the team with 10.5 points. She regis- Can’t COME tered seven kills in the 3 - 0 victory over Wisconsin-Parkside. to a Ferris In game two, O’Connell totalled 16 points, scoring seven more points over the next closest team- SPortING event? mate. Ferris would also win 3 - 0 over Wisconsin - Parkside in the contest. WE’VE GOT YOU O’Connell currently leads the team in kills with 137, forty more COVERED kills than the next closest player. O’Connell and the rest of the Bull- Follow us on twitter dog volleyball team will wrap up the @fsutorch for live up- regular season against Saginaw Val- dates on the game! ley State on Friday, April 2 at 7 P.M. and Saturday, April 3 at 4 P.M. 12 Sports Week of Wednesday - Tuesday Ferris State Torch Back to their winning ways Bulldog soccer 4-0 after 2-1 win over Ashland on Sunday

Brody Keiser Going forward, Henson said he will continue to evaluate Sports Reporter on a game-by-game basis to determine which goalkeeper will draw the start. He acknowledged that both Meiste and The last time Ferris women’s soccer took the field, they Potter performed well in their respective starts. lost to Grand Valley State University in the GLIAC Semifi- Henson emphasized that his team wants to continue to nals. be strong defensively. That was Nov. 15, 2019. “It’s an old cliché that I like to use... if they don’t score, we Fast forward 16 months, and the Bulldogs are back. can’t lose,” Henson said. “That’s where we want our focus The Bulldogs finished their 2019 season 13 - 5 - 2. Due on... playing strong defensively. I thought we did that well to COVID-19, their usual fall season was pushed back to in both games and limited our opponent’s opportunities.” the spring. To start their spring 2021 season, Ferris got Offensively, Ferris got their lone goal against the Rangers right back in the ‘win’ column with back-to-back victories. of Wisconsin-Parkside from junior forward Emily Mergener. On Friday, March 19, they beat Wisconsin-Parkside 1 - 0. Junior forward Grace VerHage scored two goals and re- They followed that shutout with another shutout 4 - 0 Sun- corded an assist in Ferris’s 4 - 0 win over the Pride of Pur- day, March 21 against Purdue Northwest. due Northwest. Head coach Greg Henson appreciated having the oppor- “I think for me it was more of just a confidence thing,” tunity to play soccer again. VerHage said, regarding her strong performance against “It’s great; it’s been a long time coming,” Henson said. Purdue-Northwest. “In practice I’ve been feeling a lot bet- “We’ve put a lot of hard work and time into a very unusual ter. Any athlete will always say that when they’re playing year, and I’m just really happy to see the girls back on the confidently, they’re playing better, so it felt good for sure.” field competing. Obviously, we got off to a great start, and The Bulldogs faced Saginaw Valley on Friday, March 26 we’re looking forward to the rest of the season and the for their home opener. The GLIAC announced that up to opportunity we have in front of us. 375 fans would be allowed at outdoor spring sport games. Henson noted that his team has two main goals for this Before the game, Henson talked about getting to play at season: to compete for the GLIAC championship and to home in front of fans. host the first round of the tournament playoffs. Two wins “It’s just nice to be back on campus and playing,” Hen- to start the season put them on a good track to achieve son said. “It’s always nice to play where you train. I’m really those goals. excited about the GLIAC’s announcement to allow fans. I In their matchup with Parkside, the Bulldogs started ju- know it’s really important for our players to get to play in nior goalkeeper Taryn Meiste in goal. The Rangers recorded front of family and friends. I’m just excited for them to get no shots on goal, and Meiste got the shutout. to have a little sense of normalcy playing at home in front “I wasn’t tested too much,” Meiste said. “It was really of loved ones.” important for me to keep my back line organized and [to] Ferris won against the Cardinals 1 - 0, moving their re- stay calm when the ball was on our half.” cord to 3 - 0. They also played on Sunday, March 28 against Against Purdue-Northwest, sophomore goalkeeper Nora Ashland, winning 2 - 1 and improving to 4 - 0. Potter got the start and also recorded a shutout. She re- The Bulldogs will continue pushing towards their goal of corded one save. competing for the GLIAC championship in their next con- Photo by: Cora Hall | Editor in Chief test on Thursday, April 1 against Davenport. Mackenzie Dawes found the back of the net first in Ferris’s 2 - 1 win over Ashland Detroit Tigers looking for improvement Finding their roar in 2021 after years of disappointment Brandon Wirth Marlins opening day starter Jose Urena to join Spencer Turn- that seemed to have big potential. The problem was former Sports Reporter bull and Matthew Boyd in the starting rotation. Former sil- manager, Bo Porter, did not really give many young guys a ver-slugger catcher Wilson Ramos also signed a one year, shot in the majors. Hinch changed this by calling up and Despite the lackluster 358 – 507 record since their last two-million-dollar contract to rejuvenate his career behind constructing notable prospects to give the team a spark. playoff appearance in 2014, there are many reasons to be the plate. The Tigers also bolstered their outfield depth by Who were these prospects? Future 2017 World Series MVP excited about wearing “‘Ole English D” ballcaps in this up- adding eight-year veteran Robbie Grossman from Oakland George Springer, Former 2011 #1 overall pick and Rookie of coming 2021 season. and former rookie sensation Nomar Mazara from the rival the Year Carlos Correa, and upcoming 21-year-old All-Star After a sudden retirement from former manager Ron Gar- White Sox. Lance McCullers. With the load of talent on the Tigers roster, denhire, the Tigers made the decision on Oct. 31 to hire for- “I’m looking for a fresh start,” Mazara said to the media. don’t be surprised to see major prospects like Matt Manning mer Astros skipper A.J. Hinch. A 2017, World Series cham- “I’ve come to really appreciate coming to Detroit as a visiting and Spencer Torkelson get their shot during 2021. pion for the Houston Astros before serving a one-year ban player and can’t wait to join their baseball community this 3. An urgency to win from baseball due to a “sign-stealing” scandal during his season.” It has been almost a decade since the Tigers’ juggernaut time with the Astros. Rounding out the roster are the notable names who have stretch with Jim Leyland. Since then, with former managers solidified their spots in the starting lineup. This includes ver- Brad Ausmus and Ron Gardenhire, the team has certainly YOUNG & UPBEAT TEAM satile upcoming star Niko Goodrum, who batted .321 and inadvertently fell to inferiority. However, there is still hope. The Tigers new coaches will be tasked in turning a for- fielded perfectly at seven different positions in 2019. Up- Owner Chris Ilitch and Al Avila knew there was a guy that mer 47 - 114 record ball club two years ago into the playoff start shortstop Willi Castro joins veterans Jeimer Candelario once built a team from “rock bottom” to World Series Cham- powerhouse it was from 2011 - 2014. While the team may and Jonathan Schoop manning the infield. The outfield will pions in two years: A.J. Hinch. With the recent team success not have as much start-studded firepower as the previous also remain very young, including farm-system developmen- of newly hired coaches like Fetter and Lombard, there will teams, there is plenty of promising talent to lead this team tal players like Victor Reyes and Jacoby Jones. Rounding out certainly be an urgency to turn the tables around. Could this from “rock bottom.” Detroit’s roster is the fan-favorite, future hall of famer Mi- mean more spending in the off-season? Fans will have to Many of the Tigers’ hottest prospects made debuts late guel Cabrera, who will begin his 14th season with the Tigers wait and find out. in the 2020 season, including MLB.com’s third highest likely as a designated hitter. overall pitcher Casey Mize, number two left-handed pitcher Tarik Skubal, and tenth ranked third baseman Isaac Pare- THREE THINGS TO EXPECT des. While the rookies had their share of bumps in the road, After a COVID-impacted 2020 season, lots of fans are Detroit Tigers Schedule the month of action certainly will help them coming into the wondering what Detroit will be like in their first full sea- 2021 campaign. son back since 2019. Here are three things that will likely Date Against Home/Away There are also many other prospects that have not seen change or be expected of the 2021 Tigers: the field on the big stage. Outfielder Riley Green, who was 1. More media and television coverage 4/1 Cleveland Indians Home drafted fifth overall in 2019, has made noise by climbing With the nature of Hinch’s past actions, many people will up three levels to Class A’s West Michigan Whitecaps in his be interested in seeing him succeed or fail. Many fans and 4/3 Cleveland Indians first season. Starting pitcher Matt Manning has progressed analysts will now be forced to stay up to date with Detroit Home his way farther up the chain to the Double-A level with his Baseball to see the narrative play out. The Tigers have also Cleveland Indians Home improving pitch control. Last year’s number one overall pick reported that they will allow only 1,000 fans into Comeri- 4/4 Spencer Torkelson has shown his patience and power in in- ca Park to start the season in cooperation with statewide 4/5 Minnesota Twins structional league and spring training games over the past COVID-19 mandates and protocols. This means over 42,000 Home six months. potential attendees will be forced to watch Detroit take the 4/6 Minnesota Twins Home “We’re going to keeping rolling him out there and getting field from their living rooms this April instead of watching in him some experience.” Hinch said to MLB.com on Torkelson person. 4/7 Minnesota Twins Home attending spring training. 2. More emphasis on young player experience To go along with these young prospects are the seasoned One of the big reasons Hinch has been successful as an veterans and newly acquired free agents. While the start- MLB manager is his ability to build young talent. When he 4/9 Cleveland Indians Away ing rotation lost Jordan Zimmerman, Fetter gained former originally started in Houston, Hinch was given a young team