Minnesota West Instructor Highlights Student Success Initiative at National Conference

Posted on October 20, 2026
Minnesota West English Instructor Abby Vercauteren presented national research on social-emotional learning in online dual-enrollment courses, highlighting strategies that increase student engagement, belonging, and college readiness.

Minnesota West is proud to recognize Abby Vercauteren, English Instructor, who recently presented at the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) Conference, sharing the results of an innovative project focused on strengthening student engagement and belonging in online dual-enrollment courses.

As part of the Increasing College Access Network (ICAN) project, launched in 2022 through Jobs for the Future, Abby collaborated with educational partners to explore how social-emotional learning (SEL) can be intentionally integrated into online dual-enrollment courses. The project focused on helping students build meaningful connections with peers and instructors while developing the confidence, skills, and academic habits needed to navigate college-level coursework.

Vercauteren stated, “I was honored to present findings from grant-funded research that demonstrated how integrating social-emotional learning into online dual-enrollment courses can support student success and foster a stronger sense of belonging. The conference also provided valuable insights and strategies for supporting PSEO students at Minnesota West, helping them feel connected, confident, and better prepared for the expectations of college-level coursework.”

Over three academic years, the project partnered with two community colleges and 58 rural high schools, engaging more than 520 students. Strategies tested through the initiative included team-building activities, emotional check-ins, self-assessments, weekly challenges, calendar-planning exercises, and individualized student support.

At the conference, Abby shared lessons learned from the project, including effective approaches for supporting instructors, strengthening partnerships between colleges and high schools, and creating engaging online learning environments that promote persistence and achievement.

The project team included:

  • Ashley Fellow, FullScale Learning
  • Steve Walvig, Greater Twin Cities United Way
  • Krissy Zeiser, American Institutes for Research
  • Abby Vercauteren, Minnesota West Community & Technical College

Through strong partnerships, innovative teaching practices, and a commitment to student success, faculty like Abby are helping expand access to college opportunities while ensuring students have the support they need to thrive.