Governor Whitmer appoints President Kavalhuna to the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed HFC President Russell Kavalhuna to the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services (MCRS).

Housed within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the 17-member MCRS reviews, analyzes, and advises Michigan's rehabilitation programs and services. The MCRS works to improve public vocational rehabilitation services delivered by the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS).

Kavalhuna, of Dearborn, has been appointed to fill a vacancy on the MCRS representing the Michigan Workforce Development Board for a term commencing April 30, 2021 and expiring Dec. 31, 2021.

Kavalhuna earned his bachelor’s degree in aviation science from Western Michigan University and a juris doctor degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He has been the president of HFC since July 2018. Previously, he was the Executive Director of Flight Operations at the WMU College of Aviation, the nation’s third-largest collegiate aviation program. Prior to his position at WMU, Kavalhuna was a federal prosecutor and a commercial airline captain.

“I am honored to serve on this Council to improve opportunities for Michigan workers and create an inclusive, engaged workforce across our state,” said Kavalhuna. “Michigan Rehabilitation Services provides access to the workforce for individuals with disabilities and provides businesses with qualified, dedicated workers who will help grow our state’s economy. Preparing Michigan citizens for meaningful careers is a hallmark of the work we do at Henry Ford College. I look forward to joining the MCRS.”