Freman Hendrix stands for Integrity . . . Transparency . . . Accountability . . . Opportunity . . . and the ability to Inspire Service across many stakeholder groups.
For three decades, he has dedicated himself to getting things done for the people and families of Southeast Michigan. Although he is is currently on leave from Eastern Michigan University (EMU), while there Hendrix focused on using his unique skill set and broad range of professional experiences to bring positive change to his alma mater as its Chief Government Relations and Special Projects Officer.
In his two years of serving in this cabinet-level position, Hendrix worked diligently to improve EMU’s image and strengthen its overall reputation by building bi-partisan coalitions in both Washington D.C. and Lansing, which in 2007 resulted in $3.5 million in research grants from Washington D.C. and in 2008 brought $31.5 million from Lansing for the university’s first major state-funded academic building renovation in more than 12 years.
Prior to this role at EMU, Hendrix served as Chief Operations Officer at a Detroit-based information technology staffing and solutions company that saw a 35 percent increase in sales revenue and expanded into two additional markets during his three-year tenure. As COO, Hendrix jointly oversaw the operations of the company’s 10 U.S. branches and was responsible for key strategic business development initiatives, as well as establishing a company-wide progressive professional development program.
As Chief of Staff and Deputy Mayor during former Detroit Mayor Dennis W. Archer’s two terms in office, Hendrix played a key role in Detroit’s resurgence, shaping policy and planning for 43 departments and 17,000 employees who provide essential services to nearly one million Detroit residents. His skillful management also helped lead the City to its first balanced budget in years, and an unprecedented and continuous upgrading of Detroit’s national bond rating.
Prior to joining the Archer administration, Hendrix held important posts in Wayne County government. Starting as Director of Community Development, Hendrix was soon appointed Assistant County Executive for Legislative Affairs, where he was responsible for advancing Wayne County’s interests at the state and federal levels.
Having heard the call to public service nearly 30 years ago, Hendrix began his employment in government in an entry level position in the city of Detroit’s Finance Department. Through extensive training and leadership development, Hendrix achieved great success, ascending to the top of his field. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Hendrix earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University.
A long-time community activist who co-founded the Rosedale-Grandmont Little League Baseball Program for 700 boys and girls, Hendrix is a life-member of the NAACP and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He and his wife, Elaine, reside in North Rosedale Park and are members of Christ the King Church. They have two children – Erin and Stephen, both graduates of the University of Michigan.
