��������

As I begin my sixth year as President of ��������, I continue to be inspired by the generosity and commitment of this incredible community. Your support – through time, resources, or encouragement – helps open doors for our students and strengthens the future of higher education in Minnesota.

On Nov. 5, we gathered for our annual Celebration of Generosity to honor the many ways our community uplifts students. I was proud to welcome students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and partners to reflect on the power of giving.

This year, thanks to our generous donors, the NHCC Foundation awarded over $175,000 in scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year. The impact of these scholarships is best told through our scholarship recipients.

Evelyn Vang said, “Your gift has made a meaningful difference in my life. To know that my dreams are seen, heard, and supported is one of the greatest encouragements.”

Another student, Shaybreanna Braxton, expressed, “NHCC has helped me grow academically, professionally and personally. As a first-generation student balancing two jobs and health challenges, I’ve found NHCC to be a place of support, growth and opportunity.”

As a first-generation college student myself, I understand the courage it takes to step into uncharted territory. I was the first in my family to attend college and the first to earn a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and a doctorate. That journey was made possible by the belief in education and the generosity of donors who funded my scholarships. Over the past decade, more than half of our students have followed that same path as first-generation college students at NHCC.

Generosity also fuels innovation. Last spring, donor support allowed NHCC to purchase state-of-the-art braille technology enhancing access for nearly 40 blind or low-vision students. Student May Spooner shared, “The Braille embosser helps me finish homework, improve my reading and feel more confident. I’m happier and more comfortable now.”

Programs like Be Bold – Break the Mold continue to empower female-identifying students to pursue careers in fields where they’ve been historically underrepresented. With an incredible network of volunteer mentors from the community, students build confidence, discover their strengths and break barriers. It’s generosity in action.

In the same spirit of community-driven support, we’re also addressing students’ most immediate needs, including food and essentials, and you can help.

We invite you to join us for our Nourish and Flourish Food Drive 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Campus Center. This event supports the NHCC Food Cupboard, which provides resources to students facing food insecurity. If you're unable to attend in person, you can still make a meaningful impact by giving online at .

As the holidays approach, the need is more urgent than ever. On a typical Monday, the Food Cupboard serves up to 50 students. However, with SNAP benefits paused at the beginning of the month, we had 272 visits and distributed nearly 3,800 pounds of food over three days.

“The Nourish and Flourish event is more than just collecting donations,” said NHCC social worker Ellie McDowell, “It’s about the campus community coming together to support one another. It’s about dignity, support and ensuring every student has what they need to succeed.”

At NHCC, we know that lifting one student can uplift an entire community. Your generosity through the NHCC Foundation makes that possible. Whether through scholarships, food donations or mentorship, your support of the work of helps students thrive. Thank you for believing in their potential and in the power of education to transform lives.