Winona, MN (August 1, 2025) - Minnesota State College Southeast is thrilled to announce the extension of the College Opportunity Program, a program that ensures access to a college education at Minnesota State College Southeast to every eligible student graduating from a Winona high school or homeschool program.

Originally launched as a three-year pilot, the program has now been extended to include the Class of 2026. This means every student residing in the Winona Area Public Schools district who graduates through 2026 will be eligible to attend Minnesota State College Southeast tuition-free.

“We are deeply grateful to our generous donors whose continued support has made it possible to extend this vital program. Their commitment continues to transform lives and grow talent for the regional workforce,” stated Dr. Marsha Danielson, President of Minnesota State College Southeast.

This opportunity is available to students graduating from Cotter High School, Hope Lutheran High School, Riverway Learning Community, Winona Area Learning Center, Winona Senior High School, and homeschool graduates within the district.

The College Opportunity Program was initially funded by a group of visionary investors committed to supporting the first three years. This year, three additional companies have joined the effort. Current program supporters include: Benchmark, the late Bob Kierlin and Mary Burrichter, Fastenal Company, Emplify Health by Gundersen, Miller Ingenuity, RTP Company, The Watkins Company, Watlow, WNB Financial, Winona Health, and Xcel Energy.  

The College Opportunity Program covers the full cost of tuition and fees and provides a stipend for books, supplies, and tools. Students graduating in 2026 will receive up to 70 credits over two years, plus $500 per year toward educational materials—up to $1,000 per student. The estimated savings for tuition and fees is approximately $16,000.

Students can earn a certificate, diploma, or degree from any program taught at Southeast, and will graduate career-ready or prepared to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution. 

“The College Opportunity Program has been a game-changer—we’ve opened doors for students who might never have imagined college in their future. This is what transformational impact looks like, and we’re just getting started,” added Danielson.

Melanie Vickmark, College Opportunity Program Coach, shared her enthusiasm, “It has been so wonderful to watch our students grow and thrive during their time at Southeast. This program has allowed our students to find success and accomplish their goals without a financial barrier. We are thrilled to extend this opportunity to another cohort of students."

For more information about the College Opportunity Program and answers to frequently asked questions, go to www.southeastmn.edu/Opportunity.