I am Dr. Naz Hassan. I was born in Bangladesh and came to America in 1990 as an international student, carrying little more than hope and an unshakable belief in the promise of this country. Like many immigrants, I arrived with almost nothing. I worked every job I could find, including bagging groceries, cutting meat in freezer rooms, working fast food counters, and selling shoes. I rode my bike through snow and rain to get to work. There were moments of financial hardship, fear, and uncertainty, but I never gave up.
Thanks to the kindness of American friends, the strength of the community, and my own determination, I earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and economics from Morningside University in Iowa, a master’s degree in industrial engineering from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, and a Ph.D. in industrial engineering from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. I went on to build a fulfilling career in the automotive industry. My wife, Farzana Ferdous, and I are blessed with two children, Samin and Safaat.
For more than twenty-two years, I have been actively involved with the Michigan Democratic Party. I started as a supporter, then became a grassroots organizer, community coalition builder, and founder of the Michigan Bangladeshi American Democratic Caucus, and now serve as Vice Chair of the MDP. Throughout this journey, I have come this far through hard work, determination, and a steadfast commitment to my party’s values. I have also served as a precinct delegate in the City of Northville.
Throughout presidential and gubernatorial election cycles, I have led coalitions across communities to organize, register, and mobilize voters in support of Democratic candidates at every level. I have coordinated extensive election activities including phone banking, door knocking, fundraising, and rallies that have been recognized by party leadership. Beyond party work, I am a founding member of the Michigan chapter of the American Association of Bangladeshi Engineers and Architects. During my academic career, I served in student government as Vice President, Graduate Senator, and President of the International Students Organization, representing student interests and acting as an ambassador to the university administration.
My story is one of struggle, resilience, and hope. I know what it means to work hard, to sacrifice, and to strive for something better. That is why I will never stop fighting for the people I serve, because I understand firsthand what so many are facing.