Cassandra Fluker earns doctorate in community college leadership
Earning her doctorate was always a goal for HFC Director of Student Activities Dr. Cassandra Fluker.
“I’ve been wanting my doctorate for the past 25 years, but I set a goal to attain it five years ago,” said Fluker.
She achieved that goal in late 2024. Fluker earned her doctorate of community college leadership from Ferris State University.
A lifelong Detroiter, Fluker, who is the third of four children and who has two adult sons, is an alumna of Cody High School. After graduation, she enrolled at HFC (then Henry Ford Community College), where she earned her associate degree in business. Fluker transferred to the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in general studies. She subsequently earned her master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University.
“The objective of my dissertation was to gain insights that could improve support services in the interests of students’ career paths and futures," she said. "My research focused on student success. I wanted to learn the processes that students follow when selecting career pathways. Some recent college graduates experience high rates of underemployment and unemployment because they major in fields that are not in demand or do not meet workforce needs. Being aware of Detroit’s unemployment rate, I chose to study Detroit Promise students to understand their decision-making processes when selecting a career. It’s vital that students receive adequate guidance in choosing occupations that are current and lucrative, ones that can possibly enhance their quality of life and at the same time satisfy their interests.”
Helping students grow into leaders
“I chose HFC primarily due to its location and it was recommended by my sister, Denise Andrews, who is also an HFC alumna,” said Fluker.
Fluker has been in her current position at the College since 2003. She reports to HFC Vice President of Student Affairs Holly Diamond. As the Director of Student Activities, Fluker’s duties include:
- Overseeing HFC’s student organizations
- Developing and coordinating programming for the HFC student body
- Overseeing the Hawks’ Nest
- Assisting students in developing their leadership skills
- Serving as the Student Council advisor
- Participating in various committees
“I really like working with students. I enjoy helping them grow and develop into responsible citizens and leaders,” explained Fluker. “When they inquire about a leadership role in a student group, they often come to me and say that they do not know how to be a leader. I’d use their home life as context and ask them, ‘Do you babysit?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Do you sometimes prepare meals for your family?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Do you help your parents with chores or run errands?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Then those are examples of leadership because they show you’re taking initiative, taking charge, and making decisions. We’re all leaders in one way or another.’ It’s hard for them to envision it until they go through the process. It’s very gratifying to see students grow to becoming outstanding leaders.”
A personal and professional milestone
Now that she has completed her doctorate, Fluker has shifted how she spends her time.
“Earning my doctorate required a lot of sacrifice. Now that it’s over, I’m spending more time with my family, who’ve been very supportive. I’m currently volunteering again. I’m a tax preparer for the Accounting Aid Society, which helps low-income residents all over Michigan, including Detroit, with their taxes. I volunteer with them on the weekends, where I meet interesting clients and other amazing tax preparers. I also volunteer at Forgotten Harvest in Southfield. I look to help the community in other ways as well.” She added with a laugh: “I’m still trying to catch up on my sleep.”
Fluker also devotes her time to helping writers become published authors. She's been providing this service for the past few years.
"It gives me joy to help others accomplish their goals," she said. "Now that I think about it, I don’t have a lot of free time.”
"I want to congratulate Dr. Fluker on this incredible achievement! Earning her doctorate from Ferris State University is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and sacrifice—something I truly understand, having walked the same path. HFC is fortunate to have such a committed and accomplished professional as a longstanding member of the HFC team," said HFC Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations Dr. Shai James Boyd.
HFC Student Activities Associate Kayla Collins expressed her admiration for Fluker, who is her supervisor.
“I am amazed at Dr. Fluker's ability to achieve such a monumental milestone while continuing to passionately serve students and complete her duties as the Director of Student Activities here at the College,” said Collins. “Such a significant achievement does not come without hard work and sacrifice. This degree is a symbol of Cassandra's relentless dedication, perseverance, and passion for student success. Her academic and professional journey is impressive and inspiring, and this is now the pinnacle of her achievements. Congratulations, Dr. Fluker!”