Contact: Lisa Samuelson, director of Student Activities, 218-281-8507 (samue026@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Janessa DeBoer, student personnel coordinator, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281- 8673 (deboe053@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281- 8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Name	Major	Minor	Honors
Adelman, Paul	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S	Coaching	Distinction
Ahmed, Shukri A II	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
Alleman, Bill Casey	Natural Res B S
Anderson, Christopher	Natural Res B S
Anderson, David Thomas	Business Management B S
Anderson, Dominique Nicole	Applied Health B A H
Arndt, Casey Jean	Agricultural Business B S	Equine Science
Arnspiger, Chelsi Marie	Criminal Justice B S
Babbish, Yuko	Quality Management B M M		High Distinction
Becker Jr, William Charles	Business Management B S
Bedard, Shannon Marie	Applied Health B A H
Beger, Kyle J	Natural Res B S
Blackwood, Lisa	Communication B S
Blakey, Roy Jr	Manufacturing Management B M M		High Distinction
Blom, Joann Cathy	Marketing B S
Braaten, Jeremy Carl	Manufacturing Management B M M
Broas, Kevin Gordon	Applied Studies B S
	Hlth Infor Sftware Eng/IT Prof
Brooks, Brett Duane	Manufacturing Management B M M		Distinction
	Business Management B S		Distinction
Buse, Karissa M	Equine Science B S
Chiejina, Stephen Nnamdi	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S	Coaching
	Business Management B S
Cloutier, Michael Anthony	Business Management B S
Cody, Claudia Gangana	Business Management B S
Curry, Trista Jean	Applied Studies B S
Debeltz, Beth M	Health Management B S
Dixon, Christiana Olubukola	Business Management B S
Dohmeier, Nicole Marie	Accounting B S	Business Mgmt
Dolezal, John	Manufacturing Management B M M
Eckroad, Joseph Allyn	Quality Management B M M
	Manufacturing Management B M M
Fennell, Danae L	Organizational Psychology B S
Ferrara, Lauren	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Garcia, Salvador E	Applied Studies B S
Gilbert, William Sidney IV	Manufacturing Management B M M
Gomez, Maria Eugenia	Applied Studies B S
Granfors, Jacob William	Natural Res B S		Distinction
Grefsrud, Daniel R	Agronomy B S
Gregory, Stephen L	Manufacturing Management B M M
Grillo, Sonya M	Applied Studies B S
Grinnell, Jessica Lynn	Natural Res B S
Groves, Daniel A	Agronomy B S
Gurung, Yangchen Dolker	Business Management B S	Communication	High Distinction
Hagen, Melissa I	Animal Science B S	Agric Business
Haney, Travis James	Natural Res B S
Harreld, Nicholas William	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Heil, Jonathan	Natural Res B S
Herder, Jeremy James	Criminal Justice B S
Hoffman, Kindra Marie	Natural Res B S
Hoium, Erin N	Animal Science B S	Equine Science
Holmstrom, Nathan Edward	Golf and Turf Mgmt B S
Huang, Zheng	Software Engineering B S	Info Tech Mgmt
Huynh, Tina	Applied Health B A H
Iticha, Abbi M	Business Management B S
Jin, Jing	Software Engineering B S
Johnson, Carrie L	Applied Health B A H
Johnson, Charles L	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S
Johnson, Drew	Natural Res B S
Jorgenson, Colin M	Natural Res B S
Kezar, Katherine A	Natural Res B S
Kim, Min-Seong	Hotel/Rest/Tourism Mgmt B S
Klehr, Nicholas Allen	Natural Res B S
Koch, Kristen Leigh	Communication B S
Koenig, Adam M	Criminal Justice B S
Koethe, Nicholas Jay	Natural Res B S
Krause, Michael Joseph	Criminal Justice B S
Langner, Miranda Jo	Accounting B S
Lee, Sang Hyung	Software Engineering B S
Lestingi, Lydia H	Animal Science B S
Lohmann, Jacob D	Criminal Justice B S
Lombardi, Brian O	Accounting B S
Lopez, Alexander Ray	Communication B S
Lorenz, Craig Patrick	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S
Maanum, Mitchell Wade	Natural Res B S
Matzke, Jarod T	Natural Res B S
Meissner, Brendan	Agricultural Business B S
Melbye, Jordan	Communication B S
Meyer, Todd James	Applied Health B A H
Pokela, Darrin E	Quality Management B M M
Qian, Jie	Business Management B S	Accounting
Rasset, Christopher Gary	Manufacturing Management B M M
Reichert, Charles Andrew	Manufacturing Management B M M
Roberts, Christopher D	Applied Studies B S		Distinction
Roder, Ashley Megan	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S	Business Mgmt	Distinction
Rohloff, Christian Lee	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Sanders, Jacob Charles Marvin	Biology B S
Sathoff, Elizabeth April	Applied Health B A H
Schmitz, Matthew Paul	Natural Res B S
Selzler, Darin Bernard	Criminal Justice B S
Seufert, Matthew William	Natural Res B S
Sherod, Kayla Ann	Animal Science B S
Sibert, Jeremy L	Criminal Justice B S		High Distinction
Sikorski, Jacqueline Marie	Applied Health B A H
Sletten, Ashley Renee	Business Management B S
	Health Management B S
Snyder, Ryan M	Natural Res B S
Sorlie, Katherine Marie	Business Management B S
Sperling, Shawn D	Natural Res B S
Spurdens, Karlie Elizabeth	Animal Science B S
Sun, Guangxian	Software Engineering B S
Sutterfield, Samuel	Marketing B S
Teixeira, Leonardo Cotrim	Business Management B S
Thorne, Natalie Pixieann	Applied Studies B S
Ulschmid, Danielle	Early Childhood Education B S
Undis, Nicholas Mark	Manufacturing Management B M M
Walsvik, Benjamin Joel	Natural Res B S
Wangen, Coty Allen	Agronomy B S
Weisner, Cory Robert	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S
Wentzel, Meredith Susannah	Hlth Infor Priv Sec Hlth Care
Zaharia, Andrew	Agricultural Systems Mgmt B S	Agric Business
Zwach, Peter A. Jr	Sport & Recreation Mgmt B S

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, marketing, and public relations, 218-281-8432 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, marketing, and public relations, 218-281-8432 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Jack Geller, head, Liberal Arts and Education Department, 218-281-8248 (gelle045@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 281-218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Sue Brorson, head, Business Department, 218-281-8186 (sbrorson@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Janessa DeBoer, student personnel coordinator, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8673 (deboe053@umn.edu); Eric Morgan, student personnel coordinator, Center for Adult Learning, 218-2818685 (morga365@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, co

Contact: Twyla Treanor, assistant professor, Math, Science, and Technology Dept., 218-281-8181 (ttreanor@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Sue Brorson, head, Business Department, 218-281-8186 (sbrorson@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Jingpeng Tang, associate professor, Math, Science, and Technology Dept., 218-281-8182 (jptang@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Janessa DeBoer, student personnel coordinator, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8673 (deboe053@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Janessa DeBoer, student personnel coordinator, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8673 (deboe053@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Ken Bulie, lecturer, Business Dept., 218-2818194 (bulie001@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: : Lorna Hollowell, director, diversity and multicultural programs, 218-281-8580 (lhollowe@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Number of degree-seeking students nears 1800

While the final numbers will not be available for some time, enrollment at the University of Minnesota, Crookston appears to have surpassed previous record levels, continuing a six-year trend.  Preliminary, unofficial reports put enrollment at 1,773 degree-seeking undergraduates--the highest enrollment in the history of the campus.  That number beats 2011's all-time record of 1,600. 

A major contributing factor to the growth is the number of undergrads pursuing their degrees online.  Approximately 700 students enrolled for fall 2012 are considered "online-only" students, which means all of their courses are taken online.  The U of M, Crookston currently offers ten of its twenty-six degree programs entirely online in addition to on-campus. 

"There is no question we are serving two very distinctive groups of students," said Fred Wood, chancellor of the U of M, Crookston.  "We remain strongly committed to those students who are pursuing their degrees in the traditional sense of living on or commuting to campus and interacting with our faculty and staff in person.  We've proudly served as a residential campus all the way back to our first days as the Northwest School of Agriculture in the early 1900s, and this will continue to be a great strength of the campus," said Wood, "but there is also clearly a need for non-traditional students to access high quality online degree programs. By meeting this need we also are helping our online students achieve their educational goals consistent with the mission of a modern land-grant campus."

The number of students pursuing the more traditional on-campus experience remains near 1,100, and campus residence halls are at maximum capacity.  Lounges and other areas in the halls have been converted to student rooms for fall semester, and beyond that, as of Wednesday, August 29, more than 30 students are being housed at the America's Best Value Inn just south of campus in Crookston.  A new residence hall is currently under construction for planned occupancy in January 2013 when the U of M, Crookston begins its spring semester.

"We provide a nationally-recognized residential living and learning atmosphere that focuses on experiential learning for those students who choose the residential college experience, and we plan to build on that," said Wood.  "We have a campus strategic plan to pursue enrollment growth both on-campus and online, and we now plan to finalize our strategic plan for online programs," he added.  "Growth in online enrollment has been phenomenal--more than 45% compared to fall 2011--and we want to ensure a high quality experience online to match the high quality residential experience we offer."

Final official enrollment statistics for the Crookston campus, as well as the other campuses of the University of Minnesota system, will be available in mid-October after they are reported to the U of M Board of Regents.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu), Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director, development and alumni relations, 218-281-8434 9ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Lorna Hollowell, director, diversity and multicultural programs, 218-281-8580 (lhollowe@umn.edu) Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Sue Brorson, head, Business Department, 218-281-8186 (sbrorson@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

Contact: Jack Geller, head, Liberal Arts and Education Department, 218-281-8248 (gelle045@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A reception in honor of University of Minnesota, Crookston Chancellor Charles H. Casey and First Lady Barbara Muesing will take place on Thursday, June 14, 2012. The reception, which is open to all, will take place in the Northern Lights Lounge, Sargeant Student Center from 2 - 4 p.m.  Crookston Mayor Dave Genereux will announce June 14 as Chancellor Charles H. Casey and Barbara J. Muesing Day at 3 p.m. the day of the reception.

Casey began his appointment as chancellor at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on September 12, 2005. Prior to his appointment he served as dean and director of the University of Minnesota Extension Service. From 1979 to 1991, he was a member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents and from 1989-1991 served as chair. He was the vice chair of the North Central Extension Directors, as well as serving on the University of Minnesota Foundation Board, Hubert H. Humphrey Institute Advisory Board, and the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development Board.

Barbara J. Muesing began working for the U of M in 1965, serving as an extension educator, program leader, and district director. She also served ten years as the executive director and corporate secretary to the U of M Board of Regents. She has dedicated herself to a variety of pursuits including University outreach, continuing education, rural health, and vital aging.

Chancellor Casey and Barbara have worked diligently throughout the years on behalf of the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Their service, leadership, and dedication have benefited the campus in countless ways. We thank them for their support and wish them the best in the future.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: First Lady Barbara J. Muesing and Chancellor Charles H. Casey

Contact: Andrews Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438, (asvec@umn.edu); Ruth Navarro, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (nava0085@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A ground breaking ceremony will be held for the construction of a new $9,800,000 residence hall at the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. The ceremony, which takes place at noon, will be held on the construction site located west of Evergreen Hall and adjacent to Parking Lot E. The public is invited to attend.

Among those speaking will be Chancellor Charles H. Casey, Crookston Student Association President Alisha Aasness, and Gary Willhite, director, Residential Life and Security Services.  Representatives from the University, Michael J. Burns Architects, and Community Contractors will also be on hand. 

The 43,043 square foot, two-story building will house 145 students in  35 two-bedroom suites furnished with a study room and bathroom facilities--approximately 700 square feet per suite. Public areas will include kitchenettes, study rooms, game room, fitness/exercise areas, and laundry rooms.

An academic classroom adjacent to the north side of the building will seat 100 some in approximately 5,000 square feet with a lounge and additional study areas.  The classroom will also serve as a multipurpose facility for students, faculty, and the public. The residence hall will be built using Minnesota B3 Benchmarking. B3 Benchmarking is a building energy management system for public buildings in Minnesota including state, local government, and public school buildings.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Architectural rendering of new residence hall.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director, communication, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston was one of five campuses in Minnesota named to the Honor Roll with Distinction as part of the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for 2012. The campus has been on the Honor Roll every year since 2006 with the exception of one, but this is the first year the campus has been recognized on the Honor Roll with Distinction. Other Minnesota campuses honored with the distinction designation include Augsburg College, College of St. Benedict, Metropolitan State University, and Winona State University.

To be named to the Honor Roll, a school must demonstrate that its students, faculty, and staff are engaged in meaningful service that achieves measurable results in the community.  This national level honor recognizes a college or university for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning, and civic engagement. A total of 642 campuses were recognized on the 2012 Honor Roll from across the country.

Honorees are chosen based on a series of selection factors, including the scope and innovation of service projects, the extent to which service-learning is embedded in the curriculum, the school's commitment to long-term campus-community partnerships, and measurable community outcomes as a result of service.

At the U of M, Crookston in 2011, students tallied 59,683 hours of service through academic service-learning courses, club and individual community service, community-based work study primarily through the America Reads Program, community service internships, and AmeriCorps.  They served on their campus, in Crookston, in their local communities, and across the country. Service-learning courses are found across all departments, and each of the nearly 40 student clubs and organizations strives to complete two service projects per semester.

Lisa Loegering, who directs efforts in service learning and civic engagement on the Crookston campus, says meaningful service in the lives of students is invaluable. "Students engaged in service learning or in community service gain context for study in the classroom," Loegering says. "Their student experience is enriched as they discover the power of commitment to helping others and improving the community in which they live. We hope our students take these service experiences with them wherever they go."

The Corporation for National and Community Service and the U.S. Department of Education announced the 2012 Honor Roll recipients at the American Council on Education's 94th Annual Meeting "Ahead of the Curve" on March 12, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif. The President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, launched in 2006, annually highlights the role colleges and universities play in solving community problems and placing more students on a lifelong path of civic engagement by recognizing institutions that achieve meaningful, measureable outcomes in the communities they serve.  For more information, visit www.NationalService.gov/HonorRoll.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Lisa Loegering, assistant director of service learning, 218-281-8526 (loege005@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota, Crookston has been named to the Princeton Review's "Best Value Colleges: 2012 Edition."

The list of best value colleges, announced Tuesday, February 7, 2012 on the Princeton Review website and in USA TODAY, features 75 public and 75 private colleges and universities.  The U of M, Crookston was listed among the 75 "Best Value Public Colleges."  The annual list is a project the education services company launched in 2004 identifying America's top undergraduate schools offering excellent academics, generous financial aid, and/or relatively low cost of attendance.

The Princeton Review bases its rankings on surveys of administrators and students at 650 institutions it identified as having excellent academics. The selection criteria examined more than 30 factors in the areas of academics, cost of attendance and financial aid, using data from surveys conducted from fall 2010 through fall 2011. This year's list included colleges in 37 states and the District of Columbia, with California having the most schools represented: 19.  Fifty-six colleges, including the U of M, Crookston, are new to the list this year.

Using institutional data and the student opinion surveys collected, the Princeton Review selected its "Best Value" list based on data supplied by more than 650 colleges.  The top schools were chosen based on academics, the cost of attending, and the amount of aid provided to students.  The Princeton Review asserts some of the high-tuition schools on the list keep out-of-pocket costs down by offering generous financial aid packages.

More than 30 data points were assessed across three primary areas: academics, cost of attendance, and financial aid. Cost and financial aid data along with academic data came from the Company's surveys of school administrators. The Princeton Review also factored in data from surveys of students attending the schools who shared assessments of their professors and their satisfaction with their financial aid awards.

4 colleges in Minnesota made the list of 150:

     Crookston / University of Minnesota - Crookston
     Minneapolis / University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
     Northfield / Carleton College
     St. Paul / Macalester College

No North Dakota colleges were named to the list this year.

In recent years, the U of M, Crookston has seen its academic reputation garner national recognition including being named in the top three in the U.S.News and World Report "Top Public Regional Colleges" and the their inaugural Top Online Education Program rankings.

Another important feature of the Crookston campus is its "one-rate" tuition, which maintains the same rate for students from any state or country as for Minnesota resident students.

For more information, visit www.princetonreview.com/best-value-colleges.aspx. USA TODAY's coverage can be found at bestvaluecolleges.usatoday.com. Users can click on an exclusive interactive map and access a database with stats and facts about each "Best Value" college plus a report on why the Princeton Review colleges were named a "Best Value." The Princeton Review has teamed up with USA TODAY to present this resource online since 2009.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, December 3, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, December 3 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Schultz, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, November 19, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, November 19 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and 36 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of 1,600 undergraduates from 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Schultz, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The number of degree-seeking students enrolled at the University of Minnesota, Crookston fall semester 2011 has surpassed previous record levels, continuing a five-year trend of increasing enrollment and a fourth year of record high enrollment.  Official enrollment figures for all University of Minnesota campuses were announced at the Board of Regents meeting this afternoon.  

Enrollment data puts the number of degree-seeking students attending the Crookston campus at 1,600 for fall semester 2011. That number bests 2010's all-time record of 1,462 undergraduates and signifies an increase of 9.4% since last fall.  When comparing fall 2011 enrollment to fall 2006, the percentage is even more remarkable, reflecting an increase of 52% in degree-seeking students over that five-year period.

The number of undergrads pursuing their degrees online is also up, bringing the total of online-only students to 464.  The U of M, Crookston now offers ten degree programs entirely online, adding its on-campus programs in communication, information technology management, and health management to its online offerings this fall.

Not surprisingly, the growth in enrollment resulted from an increase in applications, but the Crookston campus also has made strides in retention and graduation rates.  It continues to attract quality students, indicated by the rise in the average ACT score for incoming students, which rose from 21.6 last year to 21.8 for fall semester 2011.

While the reputation of the Crookston campus has continued to advance--enhanced most recently by receiving recognition and "Best College" designations from both U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review again this fall--the enrollment growth is attributed to additional factors.  "Students are definitely attracted to the University of Minnesota brand, the educational options and degrees we provide, and the personal attention they receive here," says Charles Casey, chancellor of the U of M, Crookston.  

"Prospective students and their families who visit the campus instantly understand our marketing theme, 'Small Campus. Big Degree.'  They often comment on the friendly, personal feeling and compare it to that of a small private school," says Casey. "When I visit with our graduates and their families at commencement in spring, they express how important the attention and mentorship from faculty and staff have been to them," he adds.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston now delivers 26 undergraduate degree programs--ten of which are also available entirely online--and welcomes students from more than 25 countries and 40 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu) Robert Nelson, registrar, 218-281-8560 (nelson@umn.edu) Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, October 22, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, October 22 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentations begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A scholarship assisting "non-traditional" women in completing their education at the University of Minnesota has been awarded to three students from the Crookston campus. Recipients of the Carol E. Macpherson Memorial Scholarship include: Senior Beth Debeltz, a health management major from Embarrass, Minn.; Junior Donna Malarkey, a quality management major from Crookston, Minn.; and Sophomore Nan Wright, an organizational psychology major also from Crookston.

"It is an honor for our campus to have three women awarded the Carol E. Macpherson Memorial Scholarship," says Melissa Dingmann, director of financial aid at Crookston. "We know that sometimes students can feel daunted by the thought of re-entering the academic world, but help exists in the form of scholarships designed to assist them in the transition. These three award recipients are most deserving, and they are dedicated, hard-working students who are committed to their educational goals."

"I hope to develop and capitalize on my experience at UMC," says Malarkey.  "My mother was a 1945 graduate of the Northwest School of Agriculture, and I hope to be able to follow her example and call myself a U of M, Crookston alumni in 2012. As a non-traditional student, self-supporting, with limited resources, the scholarship assistance is deeply appreciated."

Recipients of the scholarship are chosen by a selection committee including University staff and faculty with particular interest and expertise in assisting non-traditional women students. In order to be considered for the scholarship, a student must be 28 years or older, been out of school for at least five years, be in good academic standing with the U of M, and meet half-time enrollment status. A weighted list of selection criteria includes the strength of the student's written personal statement, reference letters, and other special circumstances.  

Wright appreciates her scholarship. "I am grateful to the foundation and family for their belief in and support of me, and I assure you, I will do all I can to be worthy of the honor," she says.

It is much the same for Debeltz, an online student, "First of all I would like to say thank you to the family of Carol E. Macpherson. It is an honor to be selected and I am very grateful. I also would like to thank the staff and faculty at the University who selected me as well. This scholarship will help me attain my career goals as a wife and a mother, and I look forward to paying it forward to others in the future."

The scholarship was created in the late 1970s and is sustained through the generosity of Macpherson's family. To learn more about the scholarship, visit www.umn.edu/women/macphersonHistory.html.

The three recipients have been invited to attend an awards and recognition event on October 21, 2011, in Memorial Hall in the McNamara Alumni Center on the Twin Cities campus. The Celebrating University Women Awards & Recognition event, which takes place from 3 -5 p.m., is designed to honor outstanding U of M women students, staff, and faculty. It is free and the public is welcome. RSVP online at z.umn.edu/2011wmcawards.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,450 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Melissa Dingmann, director, financial aid, 218-281-8576 (Dingmann@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, September 24, 2011, to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along for the in depth look at campus.  

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, September 24 by visiting  www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentation begins at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, participate in a question and answer session, tour the beautiful campus, and enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including 10 online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students are invited to visit the University of Minnesota, Crookston on Saturday, July 16, 2011,  to learn more about the campus during Preview Day.  Students are encouraged to bring their families along to visit the campus.

Students may go online to register for the Preview Day on Saturday, July 16 by visiting  www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569. The welcome and admissions presentation begin at 10 a.m.

During Preview Days, students have the opportunity to interact with current students, faculty, and staff as they learn about the U of M, Crookston. Throughout the day the students will be able to receive detailed information about the various opportunities available on the Crookston campus, enjoy lunch in Brown Dining Hall, participate in a question and answer session, and tour the beautiful campus.   Preview Day is designed to help students and their families as they make decisions about college.

For more information, visit www.umcrookston.edu/admissions.

 Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers 29 bachelor's degree programs, 18 minors, and more than 40 concentrations, including several online degrees, in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,400 undergraduates from more than 25 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans, director, admissions, 218-281-8568, (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The number of degree-seeking students enrolled at the University of Minnesota, Crookston fall semester 2010 has hit historic high levels, marking a five-year trend of increasing enrollment and a third year of record enrollment.  While these figures are preliminary until the University of Minnesota Board of Regents meets in October, the Crookston campus expects to see an eleven percent increase over last year's record.

According to the preliminary data, the number of degree-seeking students attending the Crookston campus is reported at 1,462 for fall semester 2010.  That number bests last year's all-time record of 1,310 undergraduates and signifies an increase of 11.6% over fall 2009.  Total enrollment for the Crookston campus including all degree-seeking and non-degree students reflects an increase of 10.9 percent, from 2,279 last year to 2,528 this year. Non-degree students include those taking part in programs such as College in the High School, Post-Secondary Enrollment Options, and English as a Second Language.

 

Not surprisingly, the increased number of enrolled students resulted from an increase in applications.  Amber Evans-Dailey, director of admissions and enrollment management at the Crookston campus, reported applications for admission for fall 2010 were also at a record high, up nearly four percent from last year.  "Our admissions staff along with our faculty, staff, and coaches are dedicated to helping students find the right major and the right fit with the U of M, Crookston.  We've found that visits by students to campus essentially seal the deal, and our conversion rate from admission to enrollment is extremely high among those who've visited the campus.  Our marketing theme, 'Small Campus. Big Degree.' seems to resonate with prospective students, and when they see how welcoming everyone here is, these students and their families immediately feel at home."

 

The number of new online-only students--110 this fall--is up, bringing the total of online-only students to 353, and online credit hours have increased by 25 percent for fall semester 2010 compared to fall 2009.  The Crookston campus now offers seven degree programs entirely online, adding programs in accounting and marketing this past year.

 

Student housing on campus is also at record levels.  According to the Office of Residential Life, 600 students currently live in campus residence halls and apartments, and eight students have been assigned overflow housing at the Northland Inn, located less than half a mile south of the campus in Crookston.  The high demand for student housing on campus was accommodated last year with the construction of Evergreen Hall, a new 128-bed apartment-style residence hall.  As that structure enters its second year, it is at maximum capacity, as are the three other campus residence halls. 

 

This semester the Crookston campus launched a new bachelor's degree program in environmental sciences.  The program prepares students for a broad range of careers including environmental protection specialists, water quality managers, aquatic scientists, forest carbon specialists, ecotoxicologists, and environmental health and safety specialists, among others, and it also prepares students for graduate-level studies.

 

The U of M, Crookston received "Best College" designations from both U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review again this fall.  It was the thirteenth consecutive appearance on the U.S. News list as one of the top four public colleges in the Midwest in its category, and it was the fourth consecutive year of acknowledgement by The Princeton Review.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston now delivers 29 undergraduate degree programs--seven of which are also available entirely online--and welcomes students from more than 25 countries and 40 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

 

 

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Robert Nelson, registrar, 218-281-8560 (nelson@umn.edu)

A bachelor of science degree in accounting offered entirely online through the University of Minnesota, Crookston Online was approved by the University of Minnesota Board of Regents at their June meeting. The online accounting program will launch in fall 2010.

The accounting program in the Business Department at the U of M, Crookston is designed to provide students with both the theoretical and the analytical framework they will need in the workplace and gain the skills required to work effectively in public, private, or governmental accounting. Offering it online allows students interested accounting to earn their degree on a schedule that fits their personal and professional lives. It provides greater convenience and flexibility for working adults and part-time students. It also benefits students who desire a University of Minnesota degree, especially those not living in close proximity to the campus or the ability to attend a physical classroom due to work schedules or personal commitments, to earn an accounting degree from the U of M.

The Business Department at the U of M, Crookston offers online baccalaureate degrees in management, marketing, manufacturing management, and quality management. Sue Brorson, Ph.D., professor and head of the U of M Crookston Business Department believes "the accounting degree online allows us to offer a diverse and comprehensive curriculum for all business degree seeking students.  The online accounting degree was creatively crafted with a focus on meeting the expectations of the accounting profession while exposing students to the technologies and economic trends that are reshaping business today.  A unique feature of the accounting curriculum is that it will feature an optional fifth year of study focused on preparation for the CPA exam.  This program enrichment is not only available to U of M, Crookston students but is also available to accountants that simply desire to prepare for certification."

With the addition of accounting to the online degrees, the Crookston campus delivers seven degree programs entirely online. Michelle Christopherson, director of the Center for Adult Learning, is excited about what this means for students. "The B.S. in accounting available entirely online is another feather in UMC's hat," Christopherson says. "Accounting is a popular degree and having it available entirely online is just one more opportunity to educate many and assist others in completing their degrees without leaving their personal or professional lives."

The U of M, Crookston has demonstrated expertise in online education and the campus has experienced significant enrollment growth since they began offering online degrees in 1996. The number of students taking online courses continues to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--many of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and personal satisfaction while earning a prestigious U of M degree.

Along with approval of the online accounting degree, the Board of Regents also approved the addition of a minor in hotel, restaurant, and tourism management.

For more information on the University of Minnesota, Crookston Online, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online or contact the Center for Adult Learning at 218-281-8681 (cronline@umn.edu).  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Michelle Christopherson, director, Center for Adult Learning, 218-281-8679 (mchristo@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

A partnership between Crookston's elementary schools and the University of Minnesota, Crookston encourages elementary students to think about attending college at an early age. Project Strong Start was designed as a college day, bilingual-learning experience prompting  fourth, fifth, and sixth  grade students, to  aspire to a college education.  There were 112 fifth grade students visiting the campus on Thursday, May 27, 2010, as part of Project Strong Start. The project was fully funded through a grant from United Way.

The learning objectives of Project Strong Start were to inspire college readiness, demystify the college experience by addressing the practical concerns of preparing for and paying for college, and learning about local colleges and career opportunities available to students.

Tim Menard from the Office of Admissions at the U of  M, Crookston was happy with the students' interest and enthusiasm. "The learning experience, based in the Wiley's Way curriculum, consists of three activities which let students know that they are expected to prepare for college by working hard and taking rigorous courses," explained Menard. "It's never too early to begin thinking about and planning for college."

Along with campus tours and lunch in Brown Dining Room, Regal the Eagle was on hand to meet the fifth graders. Funding from the grant was also used to provide a chapter book for each.  

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Tim Menard, admissions counselor, addresses fifth graders from the Crookston elementary schools as part of Project Strong Start. (Photo courtesy of the Crookston Daily Times.)

Contact: Tim Menard, admissions counselor, 218-281-8571 (menar021@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

The first two recipients of the Zak American Indian Scholarship were announced recently at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The 2010-11 recipients of the scholarship were Junior Dustin Roy, a natural resources major from Waubun, Minn., and Senior Krystal Caldwell, an agriculture major from Warwick, N.D.

Certificates were presented to the recipients after the first annual powwow held on the Crookston Campus on Saturday, April 24, 2010. For a student to be eligible for the scholarship, he or she must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe; must have completed at least one year of college; and have a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

The Zak American Indian Scholarship was established in 2010 by John and Deborah Zak.  John works in University Relations at the U of M, Crookston, and Deborah works for the University of Minnesota Extension where she is the campus regional director, Extension Regional Office, Crookston.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo (l to r): Students Dustin Roy and Krystal Caldwell with Deborah Zak.

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director, development, 218-281-8434 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during Campus Preview Day on March 6, 2010.  Families are also encouraged to attend Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.

Preview Day provides time for new students to interact with faculty, current students and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, eating lunch in Brown Dining Hall, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.

Students may go online to register for Preview Day on Saturday, March 6 by visiting www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director, admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)

Designed for employees to network and share best practices, the annual, systemwide University of Minnesota Quality Fair is all about driving excellence. Included in this year's top finishers during a poster session was a poster by Melissa Dingmann, financial aid director and Emily Knutson, a financial aid counselor and workstudy coordinator at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.  Their poster, entitled "Tracking Workstudy Study Funds Effectively Across Campus," was awarded third place overall of the 35 posters entered in the Quality Fair. Each year the top six entries in the poster session are recognized with a $500 prize for the department responsible for the poster's creation.

Dingmann and Knutson were interested in a better way to manage student workstudy. In 2007, the two enlisted the expertise of Tom Mulvaney, an information technology professional on the Crookston Campus. Mulvaney, in turn, built an online, Web-based database for them as a better way to manage the workstudy funds while allowing access by students, faculty and staff to help with such tasks as printing contracts and tracking hours. The database also automatically sends out timecard notices and let's students and their employees know when they are close to exhausting the available hours.
 
"It gives a lot of people access to information that is important to them," Dingmann says. "Before we had this tool, the whole process of keeping everyone informed was extremely time consuming."
Knutson, who works with the information daily, is especially pleased with the way they can track important information and how it gives easy access to those who need it. "We are looking at next steps to improve the database," Knutson explains. "We will be adding new things as time goes on and are currently considering the creation of a paperless timecard submission process." In 2008, the Morris campus decided to implement the database as a way to track the workstudy funds on their campus.

The U of M, Crookston also was represented by another poster during the session.  Rand Rasmussen, Ph.D., director of the Academic Assistance Center and Professor Bill Peterson from the Math, Science, & Technology Department presented a poster on "Caring for the At-Risk Student."

The 2010 Quality Fair, held on February 4 at the TCF Stadium on the Minneapolis campus, was one of the most successful in its history with some 1,000 registrants. A keynote address was given by Stuart R. Levine on "Strengthening Your Leadership Capacity to Achieve Quality Results with Passion." Levine is current chairman and CEO of Stuart Levine & Associates LLC, an international consulting and leadership development company, and former CEO of Dale Carnegie & Associates, Inc.

The U of M Quality Fair is designed to positively impact service and productivity, reduce costs, enhance revenue, education and research. It is sponsored by the Office of Service and Continuous Improvement (OSCI), an internal consulting group created by President Robert Bruininks in 2004 to enhance service, value, and efficiency at the University of Minnesota. To learn more about the Quality Fair, visit http://www1.umn.edu/osci/programs/q_fair/index.html.
 
Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

In the photo: Melissa Dingmann (left) and Emily Knutson with their poster entered in the poster session at the University of Minnesota Quality Fair. 
 

Contact: Melissa Dingmann, director, financial aid, 218-281-8576 (dingmann@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during Preview Day on February 20, 2010.  Families are also encouraged to attend Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.

Preview Day provides time for new students to interact with faculty, current students and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, eating lunch in Brown Dining Hall, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.  

Students may go online to register for Preview Day on February 20 by visiting www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture and natural resources; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; and math, science and technology.  With an enrollment of about 1,300 undergraduates, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree.  "Small Campus. Big Degree."  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director, admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director, communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during an upcoming Campus Preview Day scheduled for Saturday, November 21, and Saturday, December 5, 2009.  Families are also encouraged to attend Campus Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.
    
Campus Preview Days provide time for new students to interact with faculty, current students and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, enjoying lunch in Brown Dining Room, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus. 

Students may go online to register for Campus Preview Day on November 21 or December 5 by visiting www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC) delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. Invent yourself at the University of Minnesota, Crookston - become a leader, innovate through technology and research and secure the career you want. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director of admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents recently granted approval to the University of Minnesota, Crookston to offer two new bachelor's degree programs.  Coursework for the two programs--the Bachelor of Science in Marketing and the Bachelor of Manufacturing Management in Quality Management--is set to begin in January 2010.  A minor in marketing was also approved.

Both of the new degree programs will be offered on the campus as well as entirely online, bringing the number of online degree programs the Crookston campus offers to six. 

The U of M, Crookston's new marketing program builds on the strengths the campus has developed within its Business Department.  For many years, students have had the option of selecting a marketing emphasis within the bachelor's degree program in business management, but strong student interest, faculty expertise, and strategic planning to widen program offerings led campus leaders to pursue a full degree program. 

Business Department Head Susan Brorson, Ph.D., said, "We have been attracting an increasing number of students--both online and traditional students--into our business programs.  There has been a great deal of interest in a full-fledged bachelor's program in marketing, and we are pleased we can now offer that option to our students." 

Brorson believes the program is also attractive to transfer students who have completed associate degrees from regional technical and community colleges and who see the value in pursuing their bachelor's degree in marketing at the Crookston campus.  "There is no question the University of Minnesota is highly regarded as a brand name in education.  We look at that reputation as a benchmark for quality, and we work hard to exceed expectations. Our programs reflect our commitment to an exceptional student experience, and I believe our alumni as well as prospective students recognize that."

Since the mission of the campus involves offering students an applied, career-oriented education, the new marketing program has a strong connection to current marketing practices from today's information-rich business climate.  Technology is also directly integrated into the curriculum through the U of M, Crookston's laptop computer initiative, and that focus is clear in classes that lend directly to new and emerging marketing practices facilitated over the Internet.  Courses like Integrated Marketing Communication, Internet Marketing, Brand Management, and International Marketing reflect the contemporary, real-world aspects and the entrepreneurial nature of the program.

The second new degree program, quality management, also reflects a strong tie to today's workplace.  With a solid foundation in the U of M, Crookston's emerging strength in manufacturing management, this new degree exposes students to the global environment and prepares graduates for quality management positions in the manufacturing industry as well as in state and federal regulatory agencies.

The curriculum focuses on business operations, product functions, quality and cost analysis, as well as consumer expectations and profitability.  The degree program was designed to respond to increasing employer demand for professionals who possess a background in manufacturing techniques and who understand the roles and responsibilities in assuring high standards of product or service quality.  Many companies that outsource production have discovered the need for more stringent quality assurance of products, especially those made in foreign countries, causing an increased need for graduates with a background in quality management.

While the program will be offered on campus in a more traditional learning environment, it is a perfect fit to offer online as well.  Christo Robberts, M.B.A., explained, "This program is tailored to technical and community college graduates in industrial and business fields who have considerable experience in manufacturing or in other processing environments.  It is especially tailored to those working adults who would like to become part of the quality management team within their workplaces." 

The U of M, Crookston has demonstrated expertise in online education, and it has seen significant growth in enrollment in its online offerings. The number of students taking online courses has continued to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--many of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and the prestige of a University of Minnesota degree. 

Information, including course requirements, about the two new programs is available online at www.umcrookston.edu/marketing and www.umcrookston.edu/quality, respectively.

To learn more about the University of Minnesota, Crookston's online degree programs, visit www.umcrookston.edu/online.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 bachelor's degree programs, and welcomes students from more than 20 countries and 35 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu); Susan Brorson, Ph.D., head, Business Department, 218-2818186 (sbrorson@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn.  - New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during Preview Day on Saturday, November 7, 2009.  Families are also encouraged to attend Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.

Preview Day provides time for new students to interact with faculty, current students, and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, eating lunch in Brown Dining Hall, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.

Students may go online to register for Preview Day on November 7 by visiting www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director, admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn. (October 8, 2009) - The University of Minnesota, Crookston continues on a growth trajectory.  The 2009-2010 academic year marks the second consecutive year the campus has seen record undergraduate enrollment.  As a reflection of that enrollment growth, campus residence halls, including a new apartment-style complex, are at capacity.

According to official enrollment data, the number of degree-seeking students attending the Crookston campus is reported at 1,310 for fall semester 2009.  That number bests last year's historic high mark for undergraduate enrollment and signifies an increase of 8.5% over fall 2008.  It also marks the third consecutive year the Crookston campus has recorded an undergraduate enrollment increase.  The number of degree-seeking students was 1,207 for fall semester 2008 and 1,142 for fall semester 2007.  Total enrollment for the Crookston campus has seen an increase of 3.6 percent, from 2,199 last year to 2,279 this year.

The number of students taking online courses continues to grow as more degree programs are offered entirely online and as more students--the majority of whom are already in the workforce--discover the benefits of online study and the prestige of a University of Minnesota degree.  The number of new online-only students, 107 this fall, has more than doubled as compared to fall of 2008, and online credit hours have increased by 30% percent for fall semester 2009 compared to fall 2008.

Again this year the profile of incoming students reflects improved academic preparation.  For the incoming freshman class, average ACT composite scores increased to 21.8 this year from 21.5 in 2008

This year's student body is also the most diverse in the history of the campus.  Of the 1,310 undergraduates, 99 international students representing 25 countries of origin account for 7.6% of the total, and 149 students of color represent 11% of the total.  

The number of students living on campus is also at a record high.  According to the Office of Residential Life, 563 students currently live in campus residence halls and apartments.  The newly-opened 128-bed apartment-style residence hall, Evergreen Hall, has helped address the demand for campus housing, and it is full, as are three other campus residence halls.  Gary Willhite, director of residential life and security services, said, "There has been increasing demand for campus housing over the past few years.  The fact that return rates for students choosing campus housing are higher than ever not only tells me students are satisfied with their experience here but also reinforces the concept that campus living directly helps retention."

In addition to improved facilities and expanded recruitment efforts, the U of M, Crookston has made strategic choices in widening its academic offerings.  This fall, the first students in a new criminal justice program arrived on campus, and the U of M Board of Regents recently approved two new bachelor's degree programs: marketing and quality management.  Coursework for those two programs--available both on campus as well as entirely online--is set to begin in January 2010.

Growth and change are nothing new to the Crookston campus, as it has seen a significant transformation over the past 16 years since becoming a baccalaureate-level university in the fall of 1993.  At the helm since 2005, Chancellor Charles H. Casey credits the dedication and hard work of the faculty and staff for where the campus is today.  "Students who choose the U of M, Crookston recognize the value of the friendly, personalized atmosphere and of the leadership opportunities provided by our exceptional faculty and staff," Casey said.  "More and more often we hear from students how they recognize the brand name value of a University of Minnesota degree and the quality it represents.  They also seem to understand how the day-to-day use of technology can help them achieve their career goals."  

The U of M, Crookston uses the phrase "Small Campus. Big Degree." when marketing the campus.  That phrase seems to resonate with students.  In a survey of this fall's incoming class, over 72% of those responding cited the size of the campus as the primary reason they chose to attend.  In the survey, which allowed respondents to select numerous reasons, 64% listed the type of academic programs offered as a top reason, 41% cited the U of M, Crookston's use of laptop computers and related technology for all students, and 35% acknowledged academic reputation.  Cost, availability of scholarships and financial aid, and the prestige and recognition of attending the University of Minnesota rounded out the list of top reasons student gave for choosing the Crookston campus.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs, and welcomes students from more than 20 countries and 35 states.  To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Andrew Svec, director of communications, 218-281-8438 (asvec@umn.edu) Robert Nelson, registrar, 218-281-8560 (nelson@umn.edu) Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn.  - New and prospective students will be able to connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston during two special events in October 2009. An open house will be held on Thursday and Friday, October 15-16, and a campus preview day is scheduled for Saturday, October 17.

While a schedule has been planned for the open house, students are welcome to stop by anytime during the two day event. Sessions are planned for the morning and afternoon that include an admissions presentation, campus tour and if students request it, faculty appointments can be arranged.

During the preview day, students can explore more than one area of interest and spend more time considering their options with activities that include eating lunch with faculty members in Brown Dining Hall, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.  

"Discover if the University of Minnesota, Crookston is the place for you," says Amber Evans-Dailey, director of admissions. "Preview days and the open house are great opportunities for any student interested in attending the University of Minnesota, Crookston. Our campus has a lot to offer and we would encourage students to take a look at what is available here and use these days as a chance to experience things firsthand."

Register online today for the University of Minnesota, Crookston open house or campus preview day on October 15-17, 2009, at www.UMCrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Admissions Office at 218-281-8569 or 800-862-6466.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director of admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)

CROOKSTON, Minn.  - New and prospective students can connect with the University of Minnesota, Crookston to learn more during Campus Preview Day on September 19, 2009.  Families are also encouraged to attend Campus Preview Day at the U of M, Crookston along with their new student.

Preview Day provides time for new students to interact with faculty, current students and staff as well as learn more about the Crookston campus. Highlights include receiving detailed information about opportunities for students at the U of M, Crookston, lunch in Brown Dining Room, interacting during question and answer sessions and touring campus.

Students may go online to register for Campus Preview Day on September 19 by visiting www.umcrookston.edu/admissions or sign up by contacting the Office of Admissions at 218-281-8569.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston (UMC) delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. Invent yourself at the University of Minnesota, Crookston - become a leader, innovate through technology and research and secure the career you want. To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

Contact: Amber Evans-Dailey, director of admissions, 218-281-8568 (evan0331@umn.edu); Elizabeth Tollefson, assistant director of communications, 218-281-8432 (ltollefs@umn.edu); Stephanie Onken, communications assistant, 218-281-8446 (onken015@umn.edu)