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.