Welcome to 2022
Welcome back! I hope you had a restful winter break and are looking forward to spring semester as much as I am. As we begin our new semester, I would like to reflect on some recent accomplishments.
In December we completed training for 40 members of the National Guard, who now become Certified Nursing Assistants. This effort, a collaboration between Continuing Education and Workforce Development and the School of Nursing, helps meet a critical workforce need for Minnesota.
Last year, our campus community demonstrated exceptional support for students. Connecting our currently enrolled students with community support networks, resources and opportunities reduces obstacles to student success. We saw a 60% increase in the use of our food pantry, and our range of services expanded to meet student needs—a diaper drive, housing fair, Thanksgiving meal basket collection, school supply drive, Toys for Tots and winter clothing drive were all hosted on our campus.
We offered emergency funding to students as part of the Higher Education Emergency Relief III. This funding helped students impacted by the pandemic. More than 1 million dollars in emergency funding went to students during fall semester. We plan to support more students with American Rescue Plan funds in spring 2022.
Looking Ahead
I am optimistic that Minneapolis College will hold hybrid Commencement celebrations in May 2022. While this may not represent a complete return to in-person graduation events, we are determined to honor our students and recognize their achievements. Watch for details in March as planning moves forward.
We continue to work with state officials to monitor COVID-19 developments. We will keep you informed on all changes to guidelines and public health measures, including the availability of vaccines in our community.
As Minneapolis College makes plans for Commencement and looks ahead to fall 2022, we focus our efforts on the long-term success of our students, faculty and staff. In the coming months, we will rely on your partnership to accomplish key strategic goals.
I recognize the many challenges this past year presented to us. We continue to encounter uncertainties and economic fallout from COVID-19 restrictions, even while working to put Minneapolis College on a sustainable financial footing. Renewed movements for social justice reflect our society’s shortcomings, while calling each of us to be present for one another as we strive to promote equity and inclusion.
Whatever we face in the year ahead, I know we are up to the challenge. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Thank you for being here!
President Sharon Pierce