Ferris State University prepares students for successful careers, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Through its many partnerships and its career-oriented, broad-based education, Ferris serves our rapidly changing global economy and society. The mission of the Ferris Foundation is to advance the mission and goals of Ferris State University by generating and managing private support for the university.

More than nine years ago, Kennari Consulting was contracted to establish Ferris State University Foundation’s Development Office in Grand Rapids. Kennari helped Ferris advancement staff to establish fundraising infrastructure and create a plan to cultivate major donors, a strategy which included establishing fundraising events and launching a major gifts program and volunteer committee.

In January 2018, Kennari was asked to consult on Ferris’ $80 million comprehensive campaign effort that was stalled at $60 million raised. Kennari is providing its full spectrum of consulting services including annual giving, campaign fundraising, and grant writing. In the first year of engagement with Kennari Consulting, an additional $20 million was raised toward the campaign goal. Given the immense progress that was made, Ferris State University decided to extend the fundraising goal to $115 million to include additional projects. This new goal was not only met, but surpassed, in 2021 and work is underway to complete campaign projects.

“Kennari has helped us with our clarity of communication, clarity of vision and clarity of purpose. This is a fantastic team and I cannot thank them enough for their continued partnership and guidance.” – Bob Murray, Associate Vice President for Advancement & Executive Director of The Ferris Foundation, Ferris State University