HFC welcomes Logen Morales, project manager and lifelong learner

In late May, Logen Morales joined HFC as the Project Manager of Institutional Strategy, working with the Vice President of Strategy and Human Resources, Dr. Lori Gonko.

“I always wanted to come to a community college. I took classes at community colleges and enjoyed how small and close-knit a community college can be,” explained Morales. “I have friends who work here and speak highly of HFC. I worked next door at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, which has a close relationship with HFC, including the Learn4ward guaranteed transfer program. That’s one of the many things that drew me to the College. I was also drawn to the academic programming, which is rooted in strengthening the workforce, and I wanted to help in that goal.”

Pre-med route led to higher ed

A Detroit native, Morales is an alumna of University Preparatory Academy High School. After graduation, she enrolled at Grand Valley State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in allied health sciences with a minor in African American studies. During her time at GVSU, she completed coursework at Grand Rapids Community College and Lansing Community College. She recently completed her first year in the master’s program in public administration and policy at UM-Dearborn.

Her academic path has included some intensive transitions.

“When I started at GVSU, my major was physical therapy with a pre-med emphasis. My goal was to be a doctor or maybe a physical therapist. I eventually switched my major to allied health sciences. I then interned at a hospital and realized that the medical profession wasn’t for me. But I was a junior, and was so far along in the program that I stayed with that degree. I began taking African American studies classes, which eventually became my minor.”

Programs, grants, scholarships, project management represent a versatile skillset

Morales has been in higher education for nearly 10 years. At UM-Dearborn, she worked as a program specialist and a grant management specialist. She managed the Pell Grants program and the Federal TEACH Grant Program. She added the responsibilities of a scholarship coordinator.

“Logen impressed me during the interview process with her project management skills and a clear desire to jump right in and help. She has already demonstrated a strong commitment to two things that I value – teamwork and an openness to new challenges. I couldn’t be more grateful to have someone with her skillset on the team,” said Gonko, who assumed the role of HFC Interim President on July 1.

Morales’ duties include:

• Managing the Perkins Grant Program for Career and Technical Education.
• Project management of departments within the division, including HR, Institutional Research and Business Intelligence, Academic Advising, and Institutional Effectiveness.

Once she completes her MPA, Morales can see herself overseeing grant management and administration.

“Having that experience with writing and managing grants is something I’d ultimately like to do,” she said.

“I am thrilled to welcome Logen to the wonderful group of people who work on the third floor of the ASCC on the main campus,” said HFC Director of IRBI Dr. Jason D. Young. “As we collaborate on important initiatives, I believe Logen’s experience, passion, and fresh perspective make her a valuable addition to HFC. I’m excited to see the impact she will have in helping us advance our mission.”