The Ferris State University Board of Trustees has voted to rename the University Center building the “David L. Eisler Center” in honor of current President David L. Eisler, who is retiring after more than 19 years with the university.
“When we were building the University Center, we intended to create a gathering place where students could connect and where students would stay on campus to build community. The University Center has become the crossroads of our university,” said Eisler. “I am humbled, shocked and overwhelmed. I have always thought that students are at the center of the university experience, and it is especially meaningful for me that this building which is dedicated to students, be named in my honor.”
Eisler first started as the 18th Ferris State University President in July 2003, and will be finishing his presidency on Thursday. He championed university philanthropic efforts, including a comprehensive campaign that went beyond its initial goal of $80 million and raised more than $125 million.
Eisler also helped strengthen the university’s infrastructure with more than $400 million in construction projects, including a $34 million project that renovated the University Center to include a new dining area and replace furniture, fixtures, equipment and several fireplaces, according to a release by FSU on Wednesday.
In 2019, Eisler and his wife, Patsy, established the Norris and Irene Johnson Scholarship Endowment to help former foster care youth pursue a bachelor’s degree at FSU.
“Since becoming president, Dr. David Eisler has given his heart and soul to Ferris and its students, and the Board could not think of a better show of appreciation and recognition than naming the University Center for him,” said FSU Board of Trustees Chair Amna Seibold. “The Center is the focal point for student engagement, becoming such an integral part of the Ferris experience. Dr. Eisler’s tenure as president truly embodies the Center’s mission and objectives, and we couldn’t be more pleased that his legacy and commitment to students and the Ferris community will forever have a place on the Ferris State University campus.”
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