On Sept. 27, SCTCC celebrated the Grand Opening of its Advanced Manufacturing Center and 75th Anniversary, welcoming students, faculty, staff, and community members on campus.
During the Grand Opening, President Lori Kloos stressed the importance of the collaboration in the region that instigated the Center’s creation and how it will affect operations across industry. That Maker’s Space is available for experimenting, collaborating, and coming up with solutions, not just in class, but in practice for our community partners.
“It's collaborative. It brings in all disciplines, all programs, so that they can learn together, because it doesn't just stop at our manufacturing (programs),” Kloos explained to WJON reporter Jeff McMahon. “We can bring in our business program (students). We can bring in our liberal arts and science students for critical thinking skills, speeches, and presentations. It brings it all together, which is what you see in the business world.”
The Advanced Manufacturing Center was funded by a $2.5 million grant from the US Dept. of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration and $2.1million from the College. Current space was renovated and additional space constructed to make the 8,000-square-foot Center, which will include state-of-the-art equipment.
One of those pieces of equipment, the industrial metal 3D printer, is the only one in a college in the state.
“It’s the latest and greatest equipment that’s out there in industry,” said instructor Aaron Barker to KNSI reporter Jake Judd.
Minnesota State Chancellor Scott Olson also attended and spoke at the Grand Opening, the first time he’d visited SCTCC since becoming Chancellor this past summer.
“I think the future of education is more hands-on, more high tech with students using the very technology they’re going to be using, or even technology that’s a step ahead of where business and industry are now,” said Olson.
After the Grand Opening, guests were encouraged to join SCTCC for a celebration of its 75th Anniversary. President Kloos and Chancellor Olson each spoke at the celebration, and Mayor Dave Kleis read the proclamation that declared Sept. 27 St. Cloud Technical & Community College Day.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS: Education is a lifelong journey that empowers individuals, transforms communities, and provides the means for economic growth, innovation, and social mobility, contributing to our region’s health and success; and,
WHEREAS: St. Cloud Technical & Community College provides the education, training, and support necessary for equitable participation in our society, economy, and democracy with a commitment to be a community of learners rooted in meaningful relationships where everyone belongs and thrives; and,
WHEREAS: the faculty, staff, and administration at St. Cloud Technical & Community College have committed to the advancement of their students with unwavering dedication to educational excellence, inspiring innovative thinking, and fostering intellectual curiosity to provide the professional skills, tools, and knowledge needed for student success in a rapidly changing and evolving world; and,
WHEREAS: the students and alumni of St. Cloud Technical & Community College have made immeasurable contributions to various industries and sectors, embodying the values of leadership, integrity, entrepreneurship, and innovation while advancing the region’s economic prosperity and development; and,
WHEREAS: the collaborative relationships with business, industry, and nonprofit sectors has served to drive innovative, creative solutions for relevant training experiences that prepare students for successful, sustainable careers; and,
WHEREAS: the 75th anniversary of St. Cloud Technical & Community College symbolizes a legacy of collaboration, dedication, and resilience, serving as a testament to the commitment of College stakeholders to adapt to a changing world; and,
WHEREAS: the celebrations marking this significant milestone offer an opportunity to reflect upon past achievements, honor present endeavors, and envision a bright future for life-long learners as the College looks forward to the next 75 years of shaping minds, empowering individuals, and serving as an invaluable asset to the region.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that I Dave Kleis, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud, Minnesota, do hereby proclaim today, September 27, 2023 to be ST. CLOUD TECHNICAL & COMMUNITY COLLEGE DAY as it celebrates its 75th Anniversary within our community as well as the countless lives positively impacted by the College, extending heartfelt congratulations to the students, alumni, employees, and community partners who have contributed to its enduring success.
Following the celebration on campus, Cyclones Volleyball played at 6:30 p.m. across Northway Drive at Whitney for Cyclone Spirit Night. Players also honored the faculty and staff members who have helped guide them during their time as students.
- Kylie Winter: Kathy Robinson and Jen Evens
- Olivia Mortenson: Nancy Wallin and Matt Pichelmann
- Abri Hennen: Kelly Halverson
- Josie Hiltner: Diane Ehr
- Paige Rupp: Lori Groinus and Shaun Keeley
- Talimai Cornillez: Tim Benson and Linde Althaus
- Emily Kemp: Krissy Bauer
- Courtney Mathwig: Michele Timp-Pilon
- Kailee Beck: Hillary Vermillion
- Aria Peters: Caitlin Hickox and Mark Gucinski
- Abbi Graves: Becky Shand
- Liz Turner: Nate Hiestand
The Cyclones beat Ridgewater in four sets of close matches.
For more information about SCTCC’s upcoming Anniversary events, its history, and SCTCC stories, please visit sctcc.edu/75.