Adrianne Hernandez aspires to provide the environment students need to succeed

As president of the HFC’s Future Teachers Association (FTA), HFC student Adrianne Hernandez has breathed new life into the student organization.

“FTA provided a space where I could connect with other aspiring educators, gain leadership experience, and grow both personally and professionally,” said Hernandez, of Detroit. “As president, I’ve worked to increase engagement, create more opportunities for student involvement, and foster a strong sense of community among future educators. Creating an inclusive and supportive space where education students feel empowered and connected has been my proudest accomplishment.”

Every student should feel seen, supported, and empowered

The middle of five siblings, Hernandez speaks fluent English and Spanish and is an alumna of Riverview Community High School. She is majoring in pre-elementary education and liberal arts at HFC and will earn her associate degree at the end of 2026. Afterward, she plans to transfer to Wayne State University and major in elementary education.

She spoke about her decision to become an educator.

“I have always had a passion for working with children and creating positive, inclusive learning spaces,” explained Hernandez. “I want to build strong relationships with my students, bring culture into the classroom, and collaborate with other educators to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and empowered. My goal is to become a caring and culturally responsive educator who creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment while working closely with fellow teachers to support student success.”

Hernandez is grateful to have started her journey into higher education at HFC.

“The College’s welcoming environment, excellent education program, and focus on student success drew me in. I felt it was a place where I could grow academically and personally,” she said. “HFC offered the support, affordability, and strong academic programs I was looking for. It also gave me the opportunity to connect with passionate faculty and fellow students who share my commitment to education.”

A strong sense of community

Both HFC biology instructor Danielle Jafer and HFC Pre-Education Director Dr. Carolyn Casale have had a positive influence on Hernandez. “Professor Jafer made learning engaging and always supported her students,” said Hernandez. “Dr. Casale also made a strong impression on me through her dedication and mentorship.”

Casale has worked closely with Hernandez and is proud of her accomplishments.

“Adrianne is a thoughtful and kind person. She is on the journey to becoming an amazing teacher,” said Casale. “She is a critically reflective practitioner. She is currently observing in her senior-level course, Foundations of Education with Practicum Experiences. In this process, she is always asking questions of me, the mentor teacher, and of her classroom teacher, HFC pre-education instructor Laura Scheuer. I appreciate how Adrianne delves in and dissects teaching and learning. I am excited that she is becoming a teacher!”

Hernandez is confident that HFC has prepared her for Wayne State.

“HFC has equipped me with the academic foundation and confidence I need to successfully transition to the next stage of my education,” she said. “I would recommend HFC because it provides a quality education, dedicated instructors, and an encouraging environment for students at all stages of their academic journey. The supportive faculty and the strong sense of community make HFC a special place to learn and grow.”