Get to Know HFC: Munira Kassim is a student advocate and HFC Title IX coordinator
HFC Assistant Director, Student Conduct and Compliance and Title IX Coordinator Munira Kassim is a self-professed "nerd" when it comes to compliance.
“I really enjoy the compliance aspect of my job,” said Kassim. “My primary duties are being a student advocate and a resource for faculty and staff at the College. I have to ensure that everyone is adhering to the Student Code of Conduct and Title IX policies. One of the challenges I face is keeping up with the constant changes in the applicable laws that I have to inform the HFC community about regularly.”
The 10th of 13 children
Kassim was raised in Dearborn with her 12 siblings.
“I’m the 10th of 13 children. I’m in the middle of that peanut butter sandwich,” she quipped. “My father was in the military, and I adopted his tough-but-fair attitude.”
Kassim is fluent in both English and Arabic and also practices Muay Thai kickboxing. A graduate of Fordson High School, Kassim attended HFC (then called Henry Ford College) as did three of her siblings. Her son, Ibrahim Saleh, also attended HFC and earned his associate degree in nursing in 2019.
“HFC was the only college we really knew growing up in this area,” said Kassim. “It was easier to start here than trying to navigate the university system. HFC is so well-known in this area. Some of my siblings and friends started here too.”
After earning her associate degree in liberal arts from HFC, Kassim transferred to Madonna University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration in mental health. She later earned her master’s degree in clinical psychology from the Michigan School of Professional Psychology in Farmington Hills.
She is working on her doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in forensic neuropsychology at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, CA.
“After I finish my Ph.D., I’ll probably get another degree,” said Kassim. “Maybe a law degree or a nursing degree, I’m not sure yet.”
A hub of the Dearborn community
Kassim has worked at HFC for five years. Although her title has changed a few times, her duties are in the same area.
Prior to joining HFC, Kassim was a clinical psychologist and program supervisor for more than six years at ACCESS, the Dearborn-based nonprofit organization focusing on community service, cultural and social entrepreneurship, education, and philanthropy, which helps the Arab immigrant population adapt to life in the United States. It is the largest Arab-American nonprofit organization in the nation.
During her time at ACCESS, Kassim oversaw the Victims of Crime, Victims of Torture, and the evidence-based employment programs.
“Within our culture, there is a stigma around mental health and sexual assault,” said Kassim. “I felt with my unique background and experiences, I could be an advocate for the community in many ways. I’m a resource. While it’s a tough job, it’s very rewarding most of the time. HFC is a hub of the Dearborn community. It’s one place I felt I could utilize my skills and provide access to resources that I know will really be needed.”
