New University Center Supports Students’ Academic Futures
Winona, MN (April
2, 2026) – Students at Minnesota State College Southeast have a new resource, one
designed to help them build their academic pathway.
Southeast will held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 2 to mark the
official opening of its new University Center.
The newly renovated space on the college’s Winona campus provides
students with a dedicated resource to meet with a transfer advisor or learn
about the next steps in earning their bachelor’s degree.
“Many of our students start at Southeast because they are not sure if
post-secondary education is right for them,” said Kate Parsi, Director of
Academic Support and Advising at Southeast. “Once they have success and start
to thrive in our college setting, they gain the confidence to continue their
education.”
Southeast offers 12 transfer degree pathways, from accounting to
business to criminal justice to psychology. Students earn their associate’s
degrees at Southeast, then seamlessly transfer to any Minnesota State
University or University of Minnesota, saving them time and money.
In fiscal year 2026, 30% of Southeast’s enrolled students are majoring
in one of the transfer degree pathway programs, and transfer degree students
account for 20% of Southeast’s graduates
annually. The vast majority of Southeast transfer students continue their
education at Winona State University.
The University Center houses Southeast’s transfer advisor, Barb Nascak, who
meets with students to ensure they are taking courses that will expedite the
amount of time they need to earn their bachelor’s degree after they leave
Southeast. Nascak’s position is funded by Southeast and Winona State
University, and she splits her time between the two institutions.
“This center is the realization of years of discussion and planning
dating back to 2023,” said Dr. Marsha Danielson, President of Minnesota State
College Southeast. “Southeast serves as both the technical and community
college for our region, and this space delivers on our promise to ensure every
step in our students’ educational journey is simple and achievable. Our focus
is on preparing our students to go on to earn their bachelor’s degrees.”
The center offers students guidance on what courses to take, university
connections and personalized support, whether they are already planning to
continue their studies, or just starting to explore earning a bachelor’s
degree.
In addition to academic advising related to transfer planning, the
center also hosts workshops and information sessions, provides support in
applying to other universities and assistance with financial aid and
scholarships. The center also provides a space where university representatives
from across Minnesota can meet with prospective students.
“Our goal with the University Center is to provide a place where our
Southeast students can start strong, transfer seamlessly, and succeed
anywhere,” Parsi said.