Sharon McAlpine becomes the new bursar at HFC

Former Assistant Manager of Student Accounts Sharon McAlpine is the College’s new Bursar, succeeding Rhonda Johnson, who retired July 31.

“Following in Rhonda’s footsteps feels humbling and inspiring. She was a respected leader and mentor. Stepping into a role shaped by her legacy brings a mix of emotions, gratitude, responsibility, and maybe even a bit of pressure,” said McAlpine. “I am honored to continue the work she started, especially because she helped guide me in my career. At the same time, it’s a chance to bring my own strengths and vision to the role.”

A steady, invaluable presence at HFC

At HFC, the Bursar plays a central role in managing student financial operations and ensuring the institution’s financial health. McAlpine's duties include:

• Directing student accounts receivable operations, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and regulatory guidelines.
• Hiring, training, supervising, and mentoring staff in the Cashier's Office and In-House Collections.
• Overseeing student collections and helping increase registration while collecting past-due balances.
• Managing third-party sponsor billing and dual enrollment billing.
• Setting operational guidelines.
• Monitoring outcomes pertaining to retention and revenue from payment plan transactions.
• Coordinating with the Financial Aid and the Registrar.
• Overseeing accurate production and distribution of tax documents.
• Ensuring secure transportation of cash deposits.

McAlpine oversees a team of eight. She has a list of goals in her new role:

1. Making a positive impact: Shaping financial policies and processes that directly affect students, staff, and the College.
2. Streamlining operations: Modernizing and simplifying functions, including new systems or technologies.
3. Building relationships: Collaborating with departments, students, and leadership to help foster a strong financial culture and open communication.
4. Strategic planning: Contributing to long-term financial planning, helping ensure the College’s sustainability and growth.
5. Professional growth: Looking forward to new challenges and learning opportunities.

"Sharon has been a steady and invaluable presence at HFC for years,” said Leright. “Her promotion to bursar is well deserved, and I’m excited to see the impact she'll make."

Creating a culture of trust, accountability, and shared purpose

The eldest of four, McAlpine was born in West Helena, AR. She lives in Detroit and is the mother of four adult sons.

She is a graduate of Cass Technical High School. She earned her associate degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting from HFC, as well as a journeyman toolmaker certificate. She later transferred to Wayne State University, where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting.

McAlpine has worked in higher education for nearly 20 years. She worked as an office assistant at Wayne State, then began as a summer co-op at HFC in 2005 before returning full-time in 2009.

For 10 years, McAlpine worked in the skilled trades industry. When American Axle & Manufacturing shuttered its Detroit-Hamtramck plant in 2009, she pivoted and went into accounting. She has worked at HFC for 16 years.

“Having supported Rhonda for nine years in various capacities, I have gained deep insight into the role, the systems, and the challenges. Stepping into the bursar position means I am not starting from scratch – I am building on a strong foundation of experience and familiarity,” she explained. “Supporting students in achieving their educational goals is at the heart of what makes the bursar’s role so impactful. Whether it’s through clear communication about financial responsibilities, offering flexible payment options, or helping students navigate financial aid, we are creating a culture of trust, accountability, and shared purpose.”