The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) will join Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Mich., on Tuesday, Sept. 22, to connect high school freshmen and sophomores with college, career and workforce opportunities through the first regional MI Kickoff event.

The event is part of a five-event regional series designed to bring college and career exploration opportunities closer to students across Michigan. Students will participate in hands-on activities, explore programs including mechatronics, electrical automation engineering technology, music and entertainment business management, plastics and more.

MI Kickoff is part of MiLEAP’s broader response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Directive 2025-2, which called for expanded outreach to Michigan men and stronger connections to postsecondary education and career training opportunities.

• Jason Wilson, deputy director, MiLEAP Office of Strategic Talent Preparation

• Dr. Bill Pink, president, Ferris State University

• Dr. Sean Lancaster, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, Ferris State University

9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ferris State University, Williams Auditorium

783 S. State St.,

Big Rapids, MI 49307