Janette Ward, an alumna of Ferris’ Criminal Justice program, began her position as coordinator of independent living and life coach for the Ferris Youth Initiative in October 2012, working with former foster care and low-income orphan students to support their success at Ferris State University.
As a part of her role, Ward coordinates the FYI Mentoring Team, university staff members who work with the program’s students to connect them with campus resources and support services within their home communities. The program’s structure is culturally sensitive, inclusive and responsive to the unique needs of its students, with the goal of preparing them for lifelong success.
“This is a really dynamic group of mentors who really give of themselves to help these students,” Ward said. “We are trying to make the world a better place for these students, and I am confident that our founder, Woodbridge Ferris, would be pleased by the efforts made in this program.”
In November 2017, the university secured grant funding from the state of Michigan to continue the program. The three-year award supports Ward’s duties and the efforts of FYI mentors, who meet with each student for four hours per month during the academic year. The program averages 15 students annually but has the capacity to serve up to 22 students each year.
“We have discussions on problem-solving and other skill development that will be helpful to them in their studies, careers and lives,” Ward said. “We also plan events that provide our students with new perspectives. We have had them visit the ropes course at Eagle Village with their mentors. That gives them insight on building trust and participating in these activities helps them develop character.”
Ward and the FYI mentors received Ferris’ Distinguished Team Award in 2016, in recognition of their efforts through the program.
Nicholas Campau, Ferris’ associate dean of Student Life and director of Student Conduct, said the grant provides $115,960 a year. After the initial three-year term, two one-year funding extensions may be sought. Campau said that, beyond assistance to operate the Initiative, the university provides considerable assistance in the form of scholarships to help the students meet the financial demands of higher education.
“It shows that Ferris is vested in the growth and success of these students and their pursuit of excellence,” Campau said.
Ward has been witness to many success stories during her time with the program. Upon graduation, some FYI program students have entered careers, while others have gone on to pursue additional educational challenges, such as advanced degrees.
“We have students who were part of the Initiative who have entered law school and begun graduate-degree programs,” Ward said. “One has earned a role as a graduate assistant. We are excited when they report back on securing full-time employment, following their graduation. It is important they understand that they remain a part of FYI after they leave us. That continued communication and sharing of success is important to our staff, the mentors and new students who will benefit from the program.”