Minnesota State College Southeast is pleased to announce the addition of Ashlesha Pawar to its administrative leadership team as the new Institutional Effectiveness Officer, effective August 2025.

Ashlesha brings more than a decade of experience in higher education, with deep expertise in institutional research, data analytics, assessment, data management, and accreditation. Her professional journey includes impactful roles at the University of Wisconsin–Parkside, University of Mary Washington, Luther College, University of West Georgia, and Purdue University Northwest. She holds a Master of Science in Computer and Information Systems from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside and an MBA from the University of Pune.

In this pivotal role, Ashlesha will lead the college’s efforts to identify, collect, analyze, and report accurate and accessible data that supports data-informed decision-making across all departments. Her work will be instrumental in enhancing institutional planning, assessment, and strategic initiatives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ashlesha Pawar to Minnesota State College Southeast,” said Dr. Marsha Danielson, President. “Her exceptional background in institutional effectiveness and data analytics will be a tremendous asset as we continue to strengthen our culture of evidence-based decision-making. Ashlesha’s leadership will help us build strategic and transparent systems aligned with our mission to support student success and continuous improvement.”
“I’m honored to join Southeast and contribute to a culture of data-informed decision-making that empowers student success and institutional growth,” said Ashlesha. “I’m excited to help build inclusive, transparent, and actionable systems to advance strategic planning, strengthen assessment practices, support effective data governance, and ensure accreditation readiness.”

Trade, Technical and Transportation Career Night in Winona on Tuesday, October 14 from 4:30 to 7 pm.

"Don't miss this one-stop opportunity! At Career Night, students and their families can explore all of our high-technology labs, speak with our experienced faculty, and talk to industry representatives about careers in the field," said Calvin Clemons, the college's Director of Trade and Technology. "Our trades, technology, and transportation graduates are in very high-demand fields and make great wages after just two years of college or less."

Prospective students and their families are invited to come to campus to meet with instructors, admissions, and financial aid staff, and visit with industry representatives in an array of high-demand, high-paying career fields such as:

• Auto Body Collision Technology
• Automotive Technology
• CNC Machine Tool   
• Computer Aided Design       
• Construction Technology
• Electronics/Biomedical
• Mechatronics
• Truck Driving
• Welding

The event is being held during Manufacturing Month, a nationwide initiative that recognizes the importance of manufacturing in our economy and showcases the exciting career opportunities available in the field. Attendees will learn first-hand how local education and industry partners are working together to build the future workforce.

Advanced sign-up to attend the event is encouraged. Register to win a $250 Southeast scholarship and/or Snap-on tools. Students who apply for admission to Southeast at the event will be entered to win an additional $250 scholarship or tools! Eligibility requirements apply, and must be present to win. To register, go to: southeastmn.edu/event.

Red Wing, MN (September 3, 2025)  - The artistry of handcrafted guitars takes center stage this fall at the Red Wing Arts Depot Gallery with the immersive exhibit, Shaping Sound: The Hand-built Guitar, running from August 29 through October 26, 2025.

 The exhibit celebrates the precision, creativity, and passion of lutherie—the art of building stringed instruments. Featuring a stunning collection of hand-built acoustic guitars from today’s finest luthiers, Shaping Sound invites visitors to explore the intricate craftsmanship behind each instrument, from tonewood selection and bracing to inlay work and finishing. 

 Minnesota State College Southeast’s Guitar Repair and Building Program, located in Red Wing, is proud to contribute to the exhibit by loaning a variety of materials that illustrate key stages of the guitar-building process. Visitors will gain insight into the transformation of raw wood into finely crafted instruments through detailed photos, descriptions, and hands-on examples provided by the college. 

 Whether you're a musician, an instrument enthusiast, or simply an admirer of fine craftsmanship, the exhibit offers a glimpse into the deep connection between the maker, the musician, and the music. 

“In an age where so much is mass produced, it is refreshing to see this old-world skill being celebrated,” said Tim Reede, luthier and instructor at Southeast in the Guitar Repair and Building Program. 

 Several of the luthiers featured in the exhibit are alumni and former or current instructors of Minnesota State College Southeast’s Guitar Program. The full list of artists featured includes T. Drew Heinonen, Charlie Hoffman, Philip Lang, Rachel Levin, Todd M. Lunneborg, James A. Olson, Lee Sadler, Tim Reede, Benjamin Williams, Paul Woolson, and music-inspired artworks by Wiley Harang and Bruce Hecksel.  

The Guitar Repair and Building Program is internationally recognized as one of the most respected guitar building and repair programs in the world. It has served as a launchpad for generations of luthiers who have gone on to work with legendary brands, open custom shops, and innovate within the industry. 

In the program, students learn the full spectrum of guitar craftsmanship, with emphasis on both traditional techniques and modern innovations, offering hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned professionals. 

The Red Wing Arts Depot is located at 418 Levee St in downtown Red Wing.  The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information and a list of special events, visit https://redwingarts.org/gallery-exhibits.