Staff
Professional Staff
Courtney B. Morris (PhD), Director, Upward Bound Expand dropdown
Dr. Courtney B. Morris, Director, Upward Bound
Bio
Personal Information
I love my job because
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Brooklyn Blevins, Academic Program Specialist Expand dropdown
Brooklyn Blevins, Academic Program Specialist
Bio
I graduated from the University of Michigan in 2024 with my BA in Communication and Media with a minor in Community Action and Social Change. My undergraduate experience was heavily shaped by my involvement with UM’s Black Student Union, which I was fortunate enough to be able to lead as Speaker in my senior year. Following graduation, I stuck around Ann Arbor working as an Admissions Counselor for one year before swapping out my maize and blue for some EMU green! I am currently pursuing my Masters’ in Library and Information Science through Wayne State University and hope to leverage my skills in information and my passion for community work to make an impact within Upward Bound!
Personal Information
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, and going for walks in my community. I am also an avid fan of live music and love nothing more than seeing my favorite artists in person. I have attended a total of over 50 shows and I hope to keep growing this list! I’m always open to checking out new song or artist recommendations or sharing my playlists!
I love my job because
There is nothing more rewarding than seeing students grow into our future leaders, change-makers, and innovators! In working directly with our scholars, not only am I able to witness their growth and development, but I am also able to learn from their experiences and perspectives to grow alongside them. Plus, there’s never a dull moment working with Upward Bound! Every day I am challenged to problem-solve, think, and dream in ways that continue to drive my passion for this work.
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Makyah Henderson, College Success Specialist Expand dropdown
Makyah Henderson, College Success Specialist
Bio
I am from Detroit Michigan and I started my journey here at Eastern in 2019 as a first generation college student. During that time I worked in the Office of Admissions where I became the first Tour Guide to create and start the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion role in 2022. In 2023, I received my Bachelors Degree in Social Work. I am currently pursuing my Masters Degree here at Eastern through the Social Work program with a concentration on Children and Family Studies. Through my experience here at Eastern I have grown to love high education and bringing a Social Work aspect to the roles that I am involved in.
Personal Information
I am a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. I love to spend time with friends and family along with traveling. I enjoy DIY projects and doing self care whether that is trying new foods or working out. I am a cheerleading coach for a middle school team in the inner city of Detroit and I often help teens with step shows. I also love rollercoasters and going to the movies with friends and family. In my free time I enjoy creating content for social media where I try new foods and go hang out with friends and my sorority sisters.
I love my job because
I am here to inspire and give students wisdom. I have the ability to create safe spaces where I am building a genuine bond with students who look just like me. I like how I can share my experiences and educate students on tips and resources they need to pursue a degree. This job pushes me to think outside the box and have a different perspective when working with students. Being at Upward Bound has kept me grounded while giving me the opportunity to blossom and explore my creativity.
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Kim L. Rankins, Senior Secretary Expand dropdown
Kim L. Rankins, Senior Secretary
Bio
I have worked a total 6.5 years at Eastern Michigan University in the Nursing Department and The Institute for the Study of Children, Families and Communities before starting with Upward Bound in 2008. I have Associate Degrees from Washtenaw Community College in Administrative Technology, Administrative Medical technology and a Certificate in Computer Applications. Currently, I am attending Eastern Michigan University and working toward completing my Bachelors degree in Business, Management, Marketing, and Technology.
Personal Information
I have two beautiful daughters and a wonderful grandson. I enjoy several activities with my family such as swimming, biking and traveling. My hobbies include crocheting and taking care of my flowers and plants. My participation in church is also very important to me.
I love my job because
The environment is very friendly. The staff and student workers work together in meeting the goal of Upward Bounds mission statement. I enjoy watching the hard work the students of Upward Bound do to excel as high academic achievers. It is an honor to be a part of this team.
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