The College of St. Scholastica, located in Duluth, has unveiled several ambitious initiatives aimed at enhancing its impact on the local community and beyond. As the institution marks its 114th year, President Barbara McDonald shared insights into the college’s commitment to education and community development, emphasizing the importance of its foundational values and the role of its approximately 33,000 alumni in fostering positive change globally.
In a recent economic impact study, the college revealed a direct and indirect contribution of over $227 million to the local and regional economy. This significant figure highlights the college’s integral role in promoting the economic health of the Twin Ports community. The results of this study serve as a testament to the institution’s ongoing efforts in community engagement and economic development.
Strategic Plan and New Programs
In May, the Board of Trustees approved the “Strategic Plan 2030: Innovating Today for a Dynamic Tomorrow.” This plan outlines four key focus areas: institutional sustainability, student success, academic programming, and the promotion of lifelong learning rooted in the college’s Catholic Benedictine heritage. A notable addition to the college’s offerings is the Center for Professional Training and Lifelong Learning, set to launch in January 2025. This center will provide professionals with opportunities to enhance their careers through short courses and certificates in critical fields such as artificial intelligence and health care.
Last spring, the college celebrated the graduation of over 1,100 students, many of whom have joined regional health partners, including Essentia Health and Aspirus St. Luke’s, to strengthen the local health care workforce. To expand its training capacity, the college is planning a renovation of its Science Center in 2027, which will feature a state-of-the-art advanced practice suite. This facility aims to provide integrated educational opportunities for its physician-assistant and nursing programs.
Commitment to a Holistic Education
The College of St. Scholastica emphasizes a comprehensive liberal arts education, offering students rich experiences across humanities, arts, sciences, and fine arts. Programs such as the Innovation Scholars Program involve significant undergraduate research, fostering a culture of inquiry and creativity among students. The college succinctly encapsulates its mission with the tagline “building the future,” focusing on pathways that lead to success for both students and the communities they serve.
In a significant leadership transition, President Barbara McDonald announced her retirement, effective July 3, 2024, after seven years at the helm and over 35 years in the field of education. McDonald expressed confidence in the groundwork laid during her tenure, which she believes will facilitate a smooth transition for her successor and ensure the ongoing success of the college and its community.
The initiatives outlined demonstrate the College of St. Scholastica’s proactive approach to education and community involvement. As the institution looks forward to 2026 and beyond, it remains dedicated to shaping the future for those in the Twin Ports region and beyond. The college’s commitment to innovation and excellence continues to resonate with its mission of serving and uplifting its community.
