DEARBORN — Henry Ford College, formally known as Henry Ford Community College, is attracting widespread attention over its plans to offer some four-year degrees. 

HFC unveiled its new name and marketing brand Saturday, May 10 during its Diamond Anniversary Gala at the Ford Motor Company Conference and Events Center in Dearborn. 

In the last 10 years alone, 40 colleges have dropped the word “community” from their names, including Schoolcraft College in Livonia.  

The new name and logo, “Henry Ford College: Future Driven,” coincides with the institution’s plans to expand the types of degrees students can earn, including bachelor’s degrees.  

HFC President Dr. Stanley Jensen says none of the new degrees will compete with the University of Michigan Dearborn.

Jensen was hired last year, and he was inaugurated as the college’s fifth president the same day of the black tie gala. During the event, the College’s 75th anniversary was also celebrated.  

“I am especially thankful that I am the first president of Henry Ford College. Although our name has changed our steadfast focus and commitment to our community will never change,” Jensen said. 

The College’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously at a meeting April 21 to officially change HFCC’s name to HFC. 

Jensen said the college’s commitment to Dearborn and Dearborn Heights would only deepen under its new name. 

Jensen became the College’s president at a time when its deficit was projected to be $16 million. Today HFC is in better financial shape. A millage increase was approved by voters, and cuts, layoffs and program changes were implemented as well to address the issue. 

Speaking at the gala, Hussein Berry, president of the Dearborn Board of Education, said, “Last year at this time we were facing a significant deficit, however due to the dedication and commitment of our staff and community we were able to overcome our challenges.” 

HFC serves 18,000 students every year in southeast Michigan. It offers more than 100 associate degrees, career and university transfer programs. 

It was initially founded in 1938 as Fordson Junior College. Since then it has been a gateway to higher education for thousands of students who seek affordable college. HFC offers classes at two campuses situated in Dearborn. 

“I am very proud and humbled by the support our community, alumni and friends have shown us in the past 75 years. I look forward to continuing and maintaining these relationships as HFCC enters its next 75 years. The best is yet to come,” said Jensen.