HFC Counselor Norm Hurns’ passion for education is deeply personal
The financial crisis of 2008 led HFC Counselor Norman “Norm” Hurns to rethink his career options. He stepped aside from being a teacher and became a counselor.
“I was trying to teach world history, and my students and their families were losing their homes, their jobs, and struggling mentally,” said Hurns. “I decided to shift my focus to supporting families with their long-term needs.”
A first-generation college student who served in the military
Born in Warrensville Heights, OH (a suburb of Cleveland), Hurns is the middle of three siblings. He lives in Southfield with Dr. Kimberly Hurns, his wife of 23 years. They have three adult children.
A graduate of Warrensville Heights High School, Hurns was a first-generation college student. He attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH. There, he earned his bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a minor in history. He went on to earn his master’s degree in secondary education/social studies from Walsh University in Northern Canton, OH and his master’s degree in counseling from the University of Detroit Mercy.
Hurns is a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified to teach social studies in Michigan. He is also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and certified in counseling supervision. He is a doctoral candidate in educational leadership at the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, KY.
Hurns served in the Army Reserve, the Ohio Army National Guard, and the Michigan Army National Guard over a period of 17 years. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a historically black fraternity founded in 1906 with a commitment to leadership, academic excellence, and service to the community.
Drawn to HFC’s commitment to student success and diverse student population
Hurns was a teacher for 18 years, and has been a counselor for 12 years. Before joining HFC in 2024, he was in private practice at Positive Self Center in Bingham Farms and taught at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
“I was drawn to HFC because of its commitment to student success and its diverse student population,” said Hurns. “The opportunity to support students who are navigating complex educational and personal challenges aligned with my passion for academic advising and mentorship. HFC’s focus on accessibility and providing quality education made it an excellent place for me to contribute.”
Hurns is responsible for personal and career counseling, as well as managing the HFC Student Emergency Aid Fund. He reports to HFC Counselor Dr. Brenda Hildreth.
"Norman Hurns has been a wonderful addition to the Student Outreach and Support team at HFC,” said Hildreth. “He is committed to helping the students, and he does it with a smile."
HFC Counselor Dr. Gwendolyn Pringle agreed with Hildreth.
“Norman Hurns is an outstanding educator who displays exceptional leadership,” said Pringle. “If you discuss a project with Norm, in minutes he has completed the project and wants to know what’s next. He cares about students.”
An innate ability to connect with students
One of the biggest challenges of Hurns’ job at HFC is supporting students who are facing barriers that impact their education. Many students struggle with balancing school, work, and family responsibilities.
“It is difficult to see them overwhelmed or discouraged. While I do my best to provide guidance and resources, it’s always challenging when external factors make it harder for them to stay on track academically,” he explained. “Another challenge is ensuring that students use the resources available to them. Many students hesitate to seek help.”
HFC Henry Ford II Honors Program Director Chardin Claybourne has worked with Hurns.
“What I appreciate most about Norm is his ability to connect with students,” said Claybourne. “I have witnessed firsthand his skill at reaching a classroom full of students – some who were not necessarily enthralled at the idea of a Saturday morning workshop. By the end, they were all focused on Norm. Coupled with his compassion and relentless positive energy, it is no wonder he has had such a successful career as a counselor.”
Fulfillment through positive impact
For Hurns, the best part of being a counselor is being able to help students navigate their academic and personal journeys.
“Whether it’s assisting with course planning, discussing career options, or simply providing encouragement, knowing that I’ve positively impacted a student’s life is what makes this work fulfilling,” he said.
Hurns works with many departments across the College including the Honors Program, Detroit Promise, and Hawks Athletics.
“The best part of working at HFC is the sense of community and collaboration among faculty, staff, and students,” said Hurns. “The College fosters an environment where student success is a shared goal, and I appreciate working alongside colleagues who are just as passionate about helping students thrive. Their commitment to student success makes a significant impact.”
Hurns’ passion for education and mentorship is deeply personal. As a first-generation college student, he owes a great deal to the educators and institutions that believed in him, guided him, and ultimately helped “save my life by maximizing my potential.”
“My journey has been shaped by service, in education and the military,” he said. “I also have a deep love for traveling, experiencing different cultures, and broadening my perspectives. One of my proudest honors is my induction into my high school’s Hall of Fame – not for athletics, but for my contributions to education and community service. Most importantly, I have the incredible honor of being a husband to Dr. Kimberly M. Hurns and a father to Kyla, Rhyan, and Norman Jr., who inspire me every day to be the best version of myself. My mission is to pay forward the support I once received, ensuring that students – especially those facing challenges – know that success is within their reach.”