HFC welcomes DeJanae Hayes, program advisor for computer technology

HFC Program Advisor for Computer Technology DeJanae “DeJa” Hayes has always found great satisfaction in helping people, so it is no surprise that she now advises students at the college level.

“Advising aligns with my morals and ethics,” said Hayes, of Canton. “Going home at the end of the day, I know I’m making the biggest impact that I can. For me, education is the best way to do that.”

Born in Ypsilanti, Hayes was raised in Detroit and graduated from University Preparatory High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public administration from Grand Valley State University, where she was a resident assistant. Hayes subsequently earned her master’s degree in higher education and student affairs and her graduate certificate in academic advising – both from Eastern Michigan University.

“I was an accounting and finance major before I switched majors. I learned that I did enjoy helping people. After deliberating with my advisors and some of my closest friends, I went into public administration, where I could still get joy out of helping others in the community,” said Hayes. “I kept reflecting on my college years, being on campus, being around students and faculty. I wanted to have a positive impact on students through advising because my academic advisor had the biggest impact on me during my undergrad days, and I followed in her footsteps.”

An 8-year veteran of higher ed

Hayes has been in higher education for approximately eight years. She began her career at the Texas Women’s University (TWU) in Denton and Houston, TX.

“I was the only nursing advisor serving students in a huge metropolitan area,” she recalled.

After TWU, Hayes served as the Assistant Director of Academic Advising at the College of Health and Human Services at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte. Hayes remained in this position for five years before joining HFC in late October 2024. She was attracted to HFC because she wanted to return to her home state and be closer to her family. She reports to HFC Director of Advising Jennifer C. Markin.

Hayes’ duties include:

• Focusing on students who have earned more than 20 credits in their computer science programs and working to help them earn their certification or associate degree.
• Having conversations with students about where they wish to transfer.
• Making sure students are making the best decisions to reach their goals at HFC and after HFC.

"DeJa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role at HFC,” said Markin. “Her dedication to student success and her ability to adapt quickly to the community college environment have made her an invaluable addition to our team.”

Making a difference in the lives of students

There was a bit of a learning curve for Hayes to go from a large four-year university to a community college, but she has adjusted.

“HFC is a very welcoming environment, and my colleagues have been very supportive,” said Hayes. “Their support has made a difference in transitioning here to HFC; they’ve been patient with me, even when I ask the same question over and over again,” she laughed. “Getting to know the students and the culture of the College has been exciting.”

Hayes says the biggest advising team she’s ever worked on has been at HFC.

“We don’t have true traditional students but students from all walks of life,” she said. “We have people from industry coming to the College for another credential to propel them to the next step in their career. We have students taking classes covered by financial aid. There are nuances, and we are able to support students through their struggles more than I’ve seen at other places.”

What keeps Hayes centered and motivated is the number of students she’s helped throughout her career, some of whom have sent her thank-you cards to express their appreciation.

“That is a reminder that as hard as it can be, we can still make a difference,” she said. “We’re still doing good work. If I’m not reaching every student, I take comfort in making a difference in at least one’s life.”