Get to Know HFC: Kayla Walsh is a third-generation HFC employee

Release Date
Kayla Walsh at her desk.

HFC Student Support Professional Kayla Walsh is a third-generation employee.

“I have a rich legacy here,” said Walsh, of Trenton. “My grandmother, Deb Hebert, retired from HFC. My uncle, Kevin Kaier, also retired from HFC. My mom, Kimberly Kaier, works as the special assistant for HFC Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Michael Nealon, after serving as the administrative assistant for Dean Janice Gilliland in the HFC School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.”

Wants to pursue career in marketing

Born in Wyandotte, Walsh is the second of four and the eldest daughter. After graduating from Trenton High School, she enrolled at HFC. Her brothers, Justyn Kaier and Andrew Kaier, also completed coursework at HFC.

Walsh is a two-time alumna of the College. She earned an associate degree in business in 2017 and an associate degree in business administration in 2025. She transferred to Eastern Michigan University, where she is completing her bachelor’s degree in marketing.

“When I first attended HFC, I was majoring in nursing, but I changed my mind,” she explained. “I chose business because there were many opportunities. My goal is to become an event and marketing coordinator, which is why I’m working toward a degree in marketing at EMU.”

A genuine passion for helping others

Walsh joined the College in 2014. She began as a co-op student in Career Services. She was hired on as a full-time employee, where she worked in Counseling for a year. Walsh then worked in Campus Safety for a year before becoming the secretary in Career Services, replacing her mother in that role in 2017. In late 2025, she joined Enrollment Services.

“Kayla has integrated seamlessly into the Enrollment Services team and consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to collaboration,” said Katrina Minnis, Enrollment Services Supervisor. “She not only shows a genuine willingness to be a team player but also effectively supports her colleagues while relying on them when needed. Her collaborative approach, reliability, and positive engagement have made her a valued member of the Enrollment Services team."

Walsh’s duties include:

  • Helping students and their families understand the financial aid process and providing them with education resources.
  • Assisting students with completing the FAFSA.
  • Communicating with students regarding their financial aid status.
  • Working with other departments to coordinate financial aid disbursements.

“I love the people here, especially the staff I work with, and the culture,” said Walsh. “Helping students is very fulfilling. I enjoy making a difference in their lives. I believe HFC is a great place to start, no matter what your age is, no matter if you want to go to a 4-year university or the workforce. The faculty and staff are very helpful and supportive and willing to assist as much as possible.”

Added her mother, Kim Kaier: “Kayla is the kind of person who makes life a lot brighter. She has a huge heart, a fantastic sense of humor, and a genuine passion for helping others. If anyone needs help or if a stray animal needs rescuing, Kayla is always the first to step up. She simply cares about everyone and everything, and she manages to make people laugh while she is busy saving the day. As her mom, watching her grow into this incredibly selfness and beautiful soul has been the greatest joy of my life! She inspires me every single day!”