Mary Holz-Clause, Chancellor, University of Minnesota Crookston

In an interview with Invest:, Mary Holz-Clause, Chancellor of the University of Minnesota Crookston, discussed the university’s commitment to workforce readiness and expanding educational accessibility. “We prioritize ensuring that our students are career-ready, equipping them with the skills and adaptability needed to succeed in a constantly evolving job market.”

Reflecting on the past year, what have been some of the key highlights and milestones for the University of Minnesota Crookston?

One of the main highlights has been the increasing number of students choosing to study at the University of Minnesota Crookston. A particularly significant achievement has been our engagement with business and industry in the region. The University of Minnesota Crookston, along with all five campuses in the University of Minnesota system, was recognized as a Carnegie-engaged university. This designation highlights our commitment to serving the community and workforce by ensuring our students are prepared to meet regional needs. In fact, I believe we are the only university system in which all campuses hold the Carnegie engagement recognition, making this a major achievement for both our campus and the University of Minnesota as a whole.

Another significant highlight for us is the impact we have on students’ lives. Watching over 400 students receive their diplomas, whether they move on to higher education or enter the workforce, is always a proud moment. We prioritize ensuring that our students are career-ready, equipping them with the skills and adaptability needed to succeed in a constantly evolving job market.

We also emphasize real-world engagement. Businesses and enterprises bring real-life challenges to our students, allowing them to apply their knowledge and think creatively to find solutions. It’s always exciting to see students approach these challenges with fresh perspectives. Of course, like any university, we take great pride not only in what our students achieve academically but also in their accomplishments in athletics, performing arts, and various competitions. These are the moments that make working in higher education so rewarding.

How is the university adapting its curriculum to meet the needs of an ever-changing job market, particularly in terms of what private companies require?

One of the ways we address this is through a partnership with a firm that serves as a concierge for companies across the United States. This collaboration allows us to design online curricula and programs tailored to corporate needs. The firm then works directly with companies to enroll students in our programs, ensuring that our offerings align with industry demands.

Another area where we’ve maintained a strong presence, especially over the past 20 years, is online education. We recognize that not all students can attend campus in-person, so we provide fully online degree programs. Currently, we offer 19 degree programs that can be completed entirely online, allowing us to meet the needs of both students and employers. Over the last few years, we’ve expanded our online offerings to include specialized programs, such as manufacturing technology and healthcare management. The latter is particularly beneficial for professionals transitioning from hands-on roles, such as nursing or healthcare technicians, into management positions overseeing clinics and healthcare facilities.

We continuously evaluate student interests and labor market trends to introduce new programs. For example, we recently added a sport media and communication program, launching this year in response to the growing specialization in the field. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that we are responsive to the evolving needs of businesses, students, and the broader job market.

Have you noticed an increase in enrollment or a rise in applications since introducing new online programs?

Yes, although our online student population is still relatively small — around 1,200 students — it has been steadily growing since the COVID-19 pandemic. In some years, we’ve seen up to 12% growth. This upward trend indicates that we are successfully meeting market demands.

During COVID, we experienced a temporary dip in enrollment, largely because many of the students we attract are working adults, with an average age of 32. Many of them had started college but hadn’t completed their degrees. When the pandemic hit, they had to prioritize work and family responsibilities, especially those in essential roles or with children, leading to a temporary decline in enrollment. However, in the past few years, we’ve been able to rebuild that momentum and expand our reach.

What trends or market dynamics are shaping healthcare education in Minnesota?

Minnesota is not only a major healthcare provider, but also one of the healthiest states in the country, thanks to strong access to healthcare and lifestyle choices. Most of the major healthcare education initiatives are centered around the Twin Cities and Rochester, particularly in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic. However, the University of Minnesota is actively forming new partnerships with major healthcare providers across the state.

At Crookston, our focus in healthcare education is primarily on healthcare management. While we don’t have an extensive portfolio in clinical healthcare, our programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare administration. As the demand for healthcare professionals grows, I anticipate we’ll see further expansion in this area across the University of Minnesota system.

Are there any upcoming projects, expansions, or renovations planned for the university, whether in terms of facilities, new faculties, or other initiatives?

Across the University of Minnesota system, which serves approximately 70,000 students across five campuses, we are actively defining our role in healthcare education and strengthening partnerships with major healthcare providers. While these efforts are still in development, they represent an exciting opportunity for the future.

At Crookston specifically, we’ve been focusing on upgrading our scientific laboratories, particularly in agriculture, life sciences, and biological sciences. These state-of-the-art facilities provide students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge research and technology. Additionally, the University of Minnesota places a strong emphasis on the intersection of agriculture, food systems, and health. Given our state’s role as a major agricultural producer and exporter, we are heavily involved in providing a safe food system, quality assurance, and sustainability, ensuring that students gain expertise in these critical areas.

How does the university support students in terms of financial aid, scholarships, or other methods to make education more accessible?

About a third of our students qualify for Pell Grants, which means they meet certain economic criteria for financial aid. Nearly half of our students are also first-generation college students. We provide comprehensive support, including student success initiatives, mentoring, and tutoring, to ensure they not only enroll but also graduate successfully.

The Minnesota Promise Grant and other state and federal programs help make education more affordable. Additionally, we are fortunate to have a strong philanthropic community that provides scholarships and financial assistance. We also encourage students to borrow only what they need to minimize student debt. Ultimately, higher education provides a significant return on investment, not only in terms of earnings but also in personal and civic engagement.

Higher education isn’t just beneficial for individuals, it’s crucial for economic development and society as a whole. Ensuring access to education has long-term benefits for communities and the country.