In this week’s Fellow Spotlight, we are checking in with Branden Bufford. He fills us in on what he enjoys most about Detroit, his host company Wayne County Community College District, and what he enjoys most about being a Challenge Detroit Fellow

10259724_553650464777300_3073509975328808551_nTell us about living in Detroit. What neighborhood do you live in and what things make it unique and exciting?

My living in Detroit has been a little different from my co-fellows, I live in the Bagley community in an apartment above my grandmother’s house. My grandmother has lived here since the 70s, a lot of my neighbors have been here for the same time as she has. Bagley is adjacent to Marygrove College and University of Detroit-Mercy and the Livernois Avenue of Fashion. I get a chance to talk to them about the Detroit back then, their loyalty to the city and neighborhood. Having long tenured neighbors gives the place a more community feel.

What do you enjoy most about living, working, playing, giving and leading in Detroit?

I enjoy most that I get to make an impact on a place I call home. All my friends and family speak highly of the work i’m doing and it gives me energy to continue my efforts.

11014677_551105061698507_1627332505072007426_nTell us about your host company and your role in the organization.

I work at Wayne County Community College District, one of the largest urban community colleges in the nation educating over 70,000 students online and in person. I work split between student services and athletics. Within student services, I am on a strategic planning team to bring a workforce development program to the school called Year Up. Athletically, I help operate the department; I’ve launched and sustained the school’s athletic Facebook page #GoWildcats.

10477875_505442922931388_8686334838983951726_nWhat have you learned from Challenge Detroit so far?

That my efforts alone cannot solve the issue. It will definitely take a collaborative effort across multiple industries to truly be effective and efficient.

What kind of impact do you hope to have with your host company and within the city?

I hope my impact is felt in a positive way, I want my name on as many lips possible and remembered for the focused passion I brought to the table. For both WCCCD and Detroit.

What are you most looking forward to in the final months of Challenge Detroit?

I plan to finish strong, period.

Also, be sure to check out Branden’s video to learn more about his time in Detroit, so far.