August 27, 2026
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters toured Ferris State University’s nationally recognized cybersecurity programs on Thursday, visiting campus as part of his 10^th and final motorcycle tour across the state.
“I’m very impressed. Ferris State is obviously at the forefront of both cyber education and education-related artificial intelligence, innovative programs, and I’m very, very proud of the work that’s being done here,” Peters said.
The senator, who opted not to see re-election and leaves office in December, arrived with 11 other motorcycle enthusiasts as part of his five-day “Thank You, Michigan” ride.
Peters toured Ferris State’s Center for Virtual Learning with Provost Sean Lancaster, and Dr. Greg Gogolin, director for the Center for Cybersecurity and Data Science, stopping in the  Faraday Lab, a dedicated space for digital investigations that provides students and researchers with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on experimentation and e-discovery. 
Senator Gary Peters arriving on Ferris State’s campus as part of his statewide motorcycle tour.
“It’s clear that the reputation for Ferris State is not just in Michigan; it’s national,” Peters said. “Especially the master’s programs, which are at the forefront, were early to be introduced, and since that time have grown and are having a major impact.”
Ferris State’s Artificial Intelligence program is the first in the nation to be validated in Secure Artificial Intelligence by the National Security Agency, reflecting the quality of the cutting-edge program aimed at filling the demand for people with advanced artificial intelligence and cybersecurity skills.
The Ferris State AI program, developed in collaboration with industry leaders and with support from the U.S. Department of War, was the second Bachelor of Science program in the nation.
The university’s Information Security and Intelligence program has been ranked No. 3 in the nation by Online Cybersecurity as a “2026 Best Online Cybersecurity Program.”
Peters, an avid and long-time motorcycle rider who founded the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus, will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour.
The senator started the tour in Bay City on Aug. 24 and will finish in East Lansing on Aug. 28.
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