Contact: Katryn Conlin, Director of Communications
kconlin@southeastmn.edu, 651-385-6364
Michelle Larson, Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, honored by MSC Southeast with Red Wing Outstanding Alumni Award for 2022
Red Wing, MN (May 17, 2022) -- At its Commencement Ceremony held in Winona on May 13, Minnesota State College Southeast named Michelle Larson, Class of 2014, the Red Wing Outstanding Alumni Award winner for 2022.
Michelle was nominated for the award by MSC Southeast Director of Communications, Katryn Conlin. "Starting with a degree from Minnesota State College Southeast has led Michelle to advance herself through a series of exciting career choices. Today she holds a critical role in the Red Wing business community as the President and CEO of the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce," said Katryn. "The college is proud to have Michelle Larson as an ally in helping meet the workforce development needs of the Southeast region -- and as an advocate for the entire community."
"I am honored to receive this award from Minnesota State College Southeast. I returned to school when my oldest son was three months old to set an example of perseverance for all three of my sons, to continue working towards my goals, and as a first generation graduate, to make my parents proud," said Michelle Larson. "The degree I received from the college helped paved the way for me to continue on my educational path and has led me to where I am proud to be today."
Michelle Larson graduated from MSC Southeast with a degree in Medical Coding in 2014 and worked in that field for Mayo Clinic as a Unit Coordinator for five years. At the same time, she finished a bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 2016 and an MBA in 2018, both from Saint Mary's University in Winona.
She served as the Executive Director of the Lake City Chamber of Commerce from 2017 to 2021. In addition, she was elected to serve as a school board director to Lake City Public Schools. She began her first 4-year term in January 2017 and is currently serving in her second 4-year term.
In February 2021, Michelle was appointed as the President and CEO of the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce, where she has continued her success as a community leader during the challenges of a global pandemic and beyond.
As the leader of the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce, Michelle works with leadership across the college to forge close ties between MSC Southeast and the region's industry and business. She serves as a member of the President's Advisory Council, providing valuable input and expertise to President Marsha Danielson, and is a member of the college's 2025 Strategic Plan committee.
"Michelle Larson truly represents what it means to be an outstanding alum of MSC Southeast," said Josiah Litant, MSC Southeast Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. "She is deeply invested and involved in the local region, and works diligently to build and sustain connections across business, industry, education, and other sectors. We are proud of her accomplishments, and grateful for her work in Red Wing and throughout Southeast Minnesota."
"Thank you to all of the staff and team at Minnesota State College Southeast for everything you do to create opportunity for all students," said Michelle Larson. "Your dedication to education helps pave the way for our successes in life."
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About Minnesota State College Southeast
Located in the historic river towns of Red Wing and Winona, Minnesota State College Southeast is a two-year technical and community college that prepares students for a lifetime of learning by providing education for employment, skill enhancement, retraining, and transfer. The Winona campus opened its doors in 1949; the Red Wing campus opened in 1973, merging with Winona in 1992. The two campuses now have distinctive characteristics but are one college in structure, policies, procedures, and mission. Both offer small class sizes, state-of-the-art facilities, and an environment that is friendly and supportive. In addition, more than 30 majors are available online. Minnesota State College Southeast is a member of Minnesota State. For more information, visit www.southeastmn.edu.