By Simon Albaugh – Yemeni American News
Dearborn, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed Russell Kavalhuna, president of Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn, to serve on the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services.
MCRS serves to provide vocational services to people with disabilities throughout the state of Michigan. It works to do this through a partnership with businesses, offering solutions that meet the needs of individuals and industries, according to the state of Michigan’s website.
“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.
Russell Kavalhuna has served as Henry Ford College’s President for the past three years, starting as the sixth president of HFCC in 2018. His goal is to provide community college as a pathway to the Middle Class.
“As the son of an immigrant who attended a Michigan community college, he believes the community college model of education and service is the gateway to the American Dream,” reads a statement on the HFCC website.
His role on the MCRS will be to work alongside 16 other members of the board. The board will review, analyze and advise the state’s rehabilitation programs and services – specifically the services provided by the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons and Michigan Rehabilitation Services.
“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,” said Kavalhuna. “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.”
Kavalhuna’s term will last from Apr. 30, to Dec. 31, 2021. His appointment was due to a vacancy on the council.
The Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services oversees many of the state’s efforts to provide employment and education opportunities for people with disabilities. In previous meetings, the Council has worked with Disability Rights Michigan, the Developmental Disability Council, and the State Independent Living Council.
According to the Council’s website, this collaborative approach among various agencies is essential to providing rehabilitation services that lead to work success.
