President Bill Pink

Dr. Bill Pink strongly believes in the power of education and is passionate about providing opportunities for students and furthering Ferris State University’s commitment to ensuring the success of all students.

Dr. Pink in July 2022 became Ferris State’s 19th president and is the first African American person to lead the university since it was founded in 1884.

Prior to guiding Ferris State University, Dr. Pink served as president of Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich. and was vice president for academic affairs at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Campus in Oklahoma.

Dr. Pink is involved in governance and policy development at regional and national levels, sharing expertise and gaining experience to share at Ferris State.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appointed him to be a leader on the Growing Michigan Together Council to help grow the state’s population and serves on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation executive committee, working to grow the state’s industry and workforce.

He is a member of the Higher Learning Commission board of trustees. He also serves on the American Council on Education board of directors, working with leaders from across the nation to shape public policy and to help more students gain a quality education.

In West Michigan, he serves on the boards of Corewell Health West Michigan, is board chair for the Heart of West Michigan United Way and board vice-chair for The Right Place.

Dr. Pink was named Newsmaker of the Year in Education by the Grand Rapids Business Journal in 2019 and was selected for the MCAN Lighthouse Award for expanding access to students of all ages across Michigan.

He is a sought-after speaker for events across the country with presentations focused on diversity, leadership, career and workforce development, and faith.

President Pink earned a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Oklahoma in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum, a Master of Education in Physical Education and Secondary Education from the University of Central Oklahoma, and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Professional Education from Oklahoma Christian University.