On April 8, 2025, Ferris State University announced a special event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Television and Digital Media Production (TDMP) program. This milestone event will take place on Saturday, April 12, in Big Rapids, Michigan. Established in 1975, the program initially offered an Associate of Applied Arts degree in Television Production, aligning with the evolving U.S. broadcast industry. Today, it has grown into a Bachelor of Science degree program. The celebration includes campus tours showcasing cutting-edge facilities, a media festival, and a banquet filled with memories and tributes from alumni who have made significant contributions globally.

A Golden Anniversary Celebration for Ferris State's TDMP Program

In the vibrant spring season of 2025, Ferris State University is set to honor five decades of innovation in digital media education. The festivities begin with an open house on the third floor of the Center for Virtual Learning, where current students benefit from state-of-the-art digital media technology, advanced editing suites, and extended reality capabilities. Additionally, visitors can explore the recently upgraded studio production space within the Interdisciplinary Resource Center.

Preceding the main event, the annual Ferris Media Festival will occur on Friday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a glimpse into the creative talents nurtured at Ferris State. Coinciding with these activities, a parade through downtown Big Rapids on Saturday at noon celebrates the university’s 2024 NCAA Division II National Championship victory by the Bulldog Football team.

That evening, guests are invited to a cocktail reception starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Eisler Center ballrooms, providing an opportunity for alumni to reconnect and reminisce about their time at Ferris. Following dinner, attendees will enjoy a program featuring speeches from both current and retired faculty members as well as successful alumni who have achieved national recognition. A highlight of the evening will be a sneak preview of a documentary celebrating 50 years of excellence in television and digital media production at Ferris State.

Registration for this memorable occasion remains open until Monday, March 31, via the website tdmp50.com.

As a journalist covering this event, it is inspiring to witness how Ferris State University has adapted to technological advancements over the past fifty years. Their commitment to fostering creativity and equipping students with relevant skills ensures that they remain at the forefront of the ever-changing media landscape. This anniversary not only celebrates past achievements but also looks forward to shaping future leaders in the field of digital storytelling.