Daniel de Moraes Serves as Dean of Liberal Arts and K–12 Partnerships at Minnesota West

Worthington, MN – Minnesota West Community & Technical College last month welcomed Daniel de Moraes as the new Dean of Liberal Arts and K–12 Partnerships. With over a decade of experience in faculty leadership, academic program development, and statewide equity initiatives, de Moraes is recognized for his student-centered approach and innovative strategies that help shape the future of higher education in Minnesota.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Daniel de Moraes to our leadership team. His deep commitment to equity, innovative thinking, and collaborative leadership style align perfectly with Minnesota West’s mission,” said President Gaalswyk. “Daniel’s experience across the Minnesota State system will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our liberal arts programming and expand partnerships that support college readiness and student success in our region.”

De Moraes joins Minnesota West from the Minnesota State system office, where he served as Director of Program Support and Quality Assurance. In this role, he led system-wide initiatives that addressed educational equity, legislative compliance, and program quality across 30 colleges and seven universities. His leadership in implementing the Academic Program Review Process ensured institutional alignment with Higher Learning Commission (HLC) standards while advancing Minnesota State’s Equity 2030 goals.

In addition to his administrative leadership, de Moraes brings a strong academic background. He served as a faculty member and coordinator of the Exercise Science Department at North Hennepin Community College from 2012 to 2023. His teaching and research empowered students to bridge academic theory with real-world application, resulting in greater student engagement and success.

He also contributes at the state level as a Board Member for the Minnesota Education Equity Partnership (MnEEP) and a Council Member on the College Race Equity Advocacy Advisory Council (CREAC). In these roles, he offers thought leadership to advance educational equity and racial justice throughout Minnesota.

“Education is a powerful catalyst for individual growth, collective impact, and societal change. As a fundamental human right, it should be inclusive, adaptable, and focused on creating long-term positive outcomes,” said de Moraes. “In my work, I focus on innovating within higher education to empower learners to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” states de Moraes.

Minnesota West looks forward to the leadership and insight de Moraes will bring to the college’s liberal arts programs and its growing partnerships with K–12 schools throughout the region.