Ferris State President: “Rock-star” trustees and the talent crisis facing Michigan

Facts from the Front Porch – Mackinac Island Edition https://crcmich.substack.com/p/gvsu-p... In this special limited series of the #FactsMatter podcast – Facts from the Front Porch – Guy Gordon and Eric Lupher sit down with Dr. Bill Pink, President of Ferris State University, for a timely, wide-ranging discussion of university governance, Michigan’s population and economic challenges, and the state’s talent pipeline. Pink reflects on the value of Michigan’s appointed university boards, noting that Ferris has benefited from “rock stars as board members” selected through a thoughtful gubernatorial appointment process that considers competencies, geography, and alumni balance. He adds that appointed members tend to focus on service to the institution rather than on “self-promotion and political careers.” Pink emphasizes that this process results in strong governance, rooted in balanced expertise and alumni representation, which helps keep GVSU focused on student success. Their discussion then turns to Michigan’s long-term economic and population challenges. As the state slips from 19th to 40th in personal income and struggles to grow its population, Pink stresses that Michigan didn’t arrive at this point overnight and won’t reverse course quickly. The state must stop “starting over” every time leadership changes. He warns against letting major reports “sit on a shelf” and urges future leaders to build on, rather than discard, the work of the Growing Michigan Together Council. A major theme: talent. Business leaders continue to cite talent shortages as their top concern, and Pink argues that Michigan must shift its culture around higher education. He highlights Ferris State’s recognition as an “opportunity university,” where students benefit from both high access and strong post graduation earnings—evidence that a four year degree still delivers real value. Pink closes with a call for creativity and urgency to attract and retain talent in Michigan. He says talent is the key to restoring economic strength, supporting employers, and building the state’s future.