Leadership Profile

Leadership Profile: Carolyn Donoghue, HPSD Transportation Director 

Leading in good times is a challenge, leading over the last year is more than that, it is multi-faceted with moving targets, unreasonable expectations,  and dealing with difficult circumstances and people. 

The leadership of Carolyn Donoghue, Hemlock Public School District Transportation Director through the school shut down, return to learn plan, the retirement of a long-time mechanic, bus driver shortage,  and more have helped keep the wheels on the bus going round and round.

We like many have experienced some minor levels of disruption to services to busing from time to time this school year but like the old saying goes, where there is a will there is a way. In this case, much of that "will" is due to the hard work and dedication of our bus drivers, mechanic, and their leader Carolyn Donoghue. 

Superintendent Don Killingbeck said, “Carolyn cares about what she does, and for her, it is more than getting students from point A to point B, she is one of the best problem solvers I know and is tireless in her efforts.”

In 2019, Carolyn was named Director of the Year for the State of Michigan by the Michigan Association of Pupil Transportation. Her leadership and passion to serve families extend beyond our district as others around the region and State often look to her for insight, advice, and help solving problems.

Donoghue’s career in transportation includes over 25 years of driving and nearly 10 years of directing. She is a lifelong learner and always works to grow and improve both individually and in the department, she leads.

For those interested in becoming a bus driver, they should contact the district at (989) 642-5282 and start their journey today.