Hello! Across the 37 colleges and universities of Minnesota State, we find inspiring stories that speak to the powerful and effective resource Minnesota State is in ensuring equitable and economic prosperity for our state’s citizens and communities. It’s my pleasure to share with you today two of those inspiring stories.  Enjoy!

Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor, Minnesota State
Addiction Counseling alum reaching for her dreams
When Alisa Higgins joined Minneapolis College’s Addiction Counseling Program, it was a new beginning. Laid off from a 20-year career, Higgins joined the Dislocated Workers Program, designed to help people who have been laid off overcome difficult barriers.  
Respiratory Therapy student saves father's life
It was just a normal Saturday evening in the Vang household in St. Paul. Sam Vang, a respiratory therapy student in his first year at Saint Paul College, was at home with his mom when his dad came in from soccer practice complaining of a little chest pain .