FSU Announces Launch Of "I'm A Bulldog" Fund

Big Rapids, Mich. - Ferris State University has announced the launch of the "I'm A Bulldog" fund in conjunction with the debut of the Bulldog Athletic Association in an effort to enhance opportunities for student-athletes and the FSU Athletics Department.

The Bulldog Athletic Association is the new fundraising arm of Ferris State Athletics and supports student-athletes in 15 intercollegiate programs as they strive for excellence in the classroom, competition and in life.  The success of the Bulldog Athletic Association will provide opportunities for student-athletes, strengthen the university and reflect positively on the local community.

"The Bulldog Athletics family could not be more excited about the development of an annual funding mechanism through the creation of the Bulldog Athletic Association and the "I'm A Bulldog" campaign," said FSU Athletics Director Perk Weisenburger.  "This campaign is very important to us and plays a critical role in our on-going process of building a stronger financial model that will help us secure the future success of Ferris State Athletics."

By becoming a member of the Bulldog Athletic Association, donors will help both the current and next generation of FSU student-athletes.  Individuals can help Ferris State recruit and retain the best student-athletes by contributing to the newly-created "I'm A Bulldog" fund.  Contributions can be designated as unrestricted, meaning FSU Athletics can direct the gift to the greatest area of need, or gifts can also be directed to the varsity sport of choice.

"Ferris Athletics has a history of producing graduates who have an appreciation of education, sportsmanship and competition," said FSU President David L. Eisler.  "These are the qualities we want to nurture in our students and I hope you do, too.

"The life lessons learned by student-athletes on the field of play translate into the kind of victories that really matter - helping to build better lives for themselves, their families and their communities," he added.

Individuals or businesses can become members of the Bulldog Athletic Association and help contribute to the cause.  Six different levels of membership are available ranging from the Crimson and Gold donation ($50) to the Legends tier ($2,500).  Premimus fluctuate within the various levels, including tax benefits, decals, newsletters, advertising, chalk talks, merchandise, all-sports passes and more.

"Our goal is to ignite the spirit and passion that surrounds Ferris State University Athletics and makes us competitive both regionally and nationally," said FSU Athletics Advancement Officer William Goode.  "We want our former student-athletes, fans, friends, and community to continue their commitment of supporting the highest level of excel - lence in the classroom, competition, and in life."

Those wishing to join the Bulldog Athletic Association and contribute to the "I'm A Bulldog" fund can visit www.ferris.edu/sports/development and click on the "Make an Online Gift Now" icon.  Contributions can also be made by calling (888) 378-3647 via credit card by phone.

"The "I'm A Bulldog" campaign is designed to appeal to a wide range of alumni, donors, sponsors and casual fan who possess a connection to Ferris State University and Bulldog Athletics," Weisenburger said.  "Developing our ability to raise funds that annually strengthens our athletics programs through the Bulldog Athletic Association is our goal  and it will stay our goal on a yearly basis. 

"We hope you'll join us in support of the past, present and future student-athletes at Ferris State by  joining the Bulldog Athletic Association," he added.

For more information on the Bulldog Athletic Association or the fund, please contact William Goode at (231) 591-3818. Those interested can also visit www.ferris.edu/sports/development to watch the "I'm A Bulldog" video and find additional information on the Bulldog Athletic Association.