Leadership

For more than 75 years, we have proudly served the diverse needs of students and communities in southwestern Minnesota. Our commitment is to be your college of choice by offering career, transfer, and workforce development and education options in a caring and inclusive environment.

Executive Team

Dr. Terry Gaalswyk, College President

Dr. Arthur Brown, College Provost

Katie Meyer, VP of Human Resources

Diana Fliss, Interim VP of Finance and Facilities

Deans & Directors

Abdigaani Farah Abdullahi, Dean of Equity, Inclusion, and Student Development

Dillon Carlson, Director of College Facilities

Kent Dahlman, Interim Dean for Liberal Arts and K-12 Partnerships

Dr. Dawn Gordon, Dean of Science & Nursing

Cody Henrichs, Foundation Director

Katie Heronimus, Director of Admissions, Registration, and Financial Aid

Jackie Otkin, Dean of Allied Health

Linda Pesch, Director of Enrollment

Dr. Craig Peters, Dean of Management & Careers & Technical Programs

Kayla Richter, Business Services Supervisor

Rebecca Weber, Dean of Student Services & Enrollment

Minnesota West Strategic Plan

Equity 2030

The core value for Minnesota State is to provide an opportunity for all Minnesotans to create a better future for themselves, for their families, and for their communities.
Equity 2030
By 2030, Minnesota State will eliminate the educational equity gaps at every Minnesota State college and university.
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Equity 2030
Our work focuses on enhancing access and student success, providing Minnesota with the talent it needs, and anchoring the communities and regions we serve.

Accreditation

Minnesota West is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Many academic programs offered have received specialized accreditations, licenses or are approved by national, state or program-specific agencies.

Minnesota State

Minnesota West is a member of the Minnesota State system, which includes 26 colleges, seven universities, and 54 campuses, making it the third-largest system of state colleges and universities in the nation. The core commitments are to provide all Minnesotans with access to exceptional education, to be the preferred partner for meeting Minnesota’s workforce and community needs, and to offer the highest value and most affordable higher education options to students, employers, communities, and taxpayers.

System Governance

Board of Trustees - The system is governed by a 15-member Board of Trustees appointed by the Minnesota Governor and confirmed by the senate.

System Chancellor - The Chancellor is appointed by the Board of Trustees to serve as the system's chief administrator.

College and University Presidents - Each college or university president serves as the executive officer. Presidents report to the system chancellor.