In this episode of The Hidden Gem, host Maya Demishkevich sits down with Dr. Marsha Danielson, President of Minnesota State College Southeast, to discuss an innovative approach to bridging the gap between students seeking affordable education and employers struggling to fill critical workforce shortages.

Dr. Danielson shares the success of the Career Opportunity Program, a last-dollar tuition initiative funded by local employers to remove financial barriers for students while strengthening the regional talent pipeline.

Learn how her strategic approach to engaging key business leaders turned this vision into a thriving program that benefits students, employers, and the entire community.


Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how the Career Opportunity Program removes financial barriers for students through a last-dollar tuition model supported by local employers.
  • Discover the strategy behind securing industry funding by leveraging key influencers and turning a single partnership into a regional employer-driven initiative.
  • Hear why workforce development isn’t just about recruitment, but about expanding the talent pipeline to benefit both students and local businesses.
  • Find out how keeping employer partners engaged—through regular updates, student success metrics, and networking events—ensures long-term investment.
  • Understand how community colleges can scale similar models and make a compelling business case for industry-backed education programs.
  • Explore the impact the program has had so far, exceeding expectations in both student participation and retention rates.

This episode, part of the Enrollify network, is a must-listen for college leaders, workforce development professionals, and anyone looking to strengthen employer partnerships to better support students.

Dr. Marsha Danielson / President / Minnesota State College Southeast

Dr. Marsha Danielson serves as the ninth president of Minnesota State College Southeast. She sees the college as a vital resource in meeting the need for qualified employees in the region and believes that its students must graduate career-ready or prepared to succeed in a university environment. 

Dr. Danielson has served over 25 years in higher education. From 2007-2021, she served in several capacities at South Central College in Mankato and Faribault, MN. At Minnesota State University, Mankato she worked in several roles within University Advancement from 1996 to 2007.

Dr. Danielson earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management and a master’s degree in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration at Minnesota State University, Mankato. She holds a Doctorate in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University (MI).

In this episode of The Hidden Gem Podcast, host Maya interviews Dr. Marsha Danielson, president of Minnesota State College Southeast. They discuss an innovative approach to solving the dual challenge of education affordability and workforce shortages: The Career Opportunity Program. Dr. Danielson shares how the initiative is breaking barriers for students while simultaneously benefiting local employers and the community.

How Does the Career Opportunity Program Work?

  • The Career Opportunity Program is a last-dollar tuition and fee support program.
  • It covers 70 credits of free tuition and fees for students from five area high schools in Winona County, Minnesota.
  • The initiative helps underprivileged students pursue higher education while simultaneously providing businesses with a skilled workforce.
  • The program is in its second year and has exceeded expectations in student participation and retention.

Engaging Employers: A Unique Approach

  • Dr. Danielson secured initial funding by partnering with the largest employer in the region.
  • The employer, in turn, invited 20 other major businesses to a dinner meeting, securing widespread industry support.
  • The contributions are confidential, ensuring no employer feels pressured by donation amounts.
  • Funds cover financial aid gaps, plus an additional $1,000 stipend for students.

Keeping Investors Engaged and Committed

  • Regular semester meetings with investors to update them on program metrics.
  • Exclusive events like reverse job fairs and speed networking to connect students with employers.
  • Continuous communication and invitations to campus events keep funders engaged.

Success Metrics and Challenges

  • The program saw 35% of eligible high school graduates participate in its first year, surpassing the expected 20%.
  • Student retention has been 12% higher than anticipated.
  • Financial forecasting was a challenge due to the unexpected level of participation.
  • A lower-than-expected percentage of students (40%) qualified for federal financial aid, increasing the funding gap.

Expanding the Program: Future Vision

  • Plans to extend the initiative to 12 additional rural communities.
  • Discussions around incentivizing near-completers to return and finish their education.
  • Ongoing fundraising efforts have already secured three-quarters of the needed funds for program renewal.

Lessons for Other Colleges and Communities

  • Find a Key Influencer: Gaining the support of a well-respected business leader can open doors to broader partnerships.
  • Demonstrate Value to Employers: Positioning the initiative as a talent pipeline rather than a charitable effort makes it more attractive.
  • Maintain Investor Relationships: Keeping donors informed and involved ensures continued financial support.
  • Tell Impactful Stories: Showcasing student success and community benefits strengthens the case for investment.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Danielson’s Career Opportunity Program exemplifies how strategic partnerships between education and industry can create sustainable solutions for workforce development. Her insights provide a roadmap for other institutions looking to engage employers in meaningful and mutually beneficial ways.

For more information, Dr. Danielson welcomes discussions with other institutions interested in adopting similar models.