History, Vision, Mission

President’s Message

Welcome to Minnesota North College!

We may have a new name, new brand, and new opportunities, but the six campuses of Minnesota North College are still open and rooted in their rich history of providing access and opportunity to higher education across northern Minnesota for over 100 years. You will certainly recognize our legacy college names still present at our six campus locations today:

Minnesota North College – Hibbing (Hibbing, MN)

Previously named Hibbing Community College, founded in 1916

Minnesota North College – Itasca (Grand Rapids, MN)

Previously named Itasca Community College, founded in 1922

Minnesota North College – Mesabi Range Eveleth (Eveleth, MN)

Minnesota North College – Mesabi Range Virginia (Virginia, MN)

Previously named Mesabi Range College, founded in 1918 and 1921

Minnesota North College- Rainy River (International Falls, MN)

Previously named Rainy River Community College, founded in 1967

Minnesota North College – Vermilion (Ely, MN)

Previously named Vermilion Community College, founded in 1922

Until May 2022, all of the campuses listed above operated as individually accredited colleges. Over the span of the last two of decades, both through necessity and new opportunity, the colleges collaborated in many ways, eventually coming together to share administrative leadership as well as human resources and business services functions.

After extensive academic and strategic planning, the decision to merge into one singly accredited institution with six campuses was made with the best interest of our communities and especially our students in mind. Dedicated staff and faculty leaders at all of our campuses and at the Minnesota State system office worked tirelessly to insure a seamless transition of operations and services, enabling us to offer the absolute best education to you – our students and stakeholders.

In February 2022 our accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission, approved our Change of Control application. A few short weeks later, the Minnesota State College and Universities Board of Trustees also officially approved the merger to operate as Minnesota North College – one college, six campuses. Minnesota North College will welcome its first cohort of students in fall semester 2022.

While this is an extraordinary new beginning to celebrate, our dedication to continuing our role as leaders in education, partnering with local schools, business and industry, and government to create opportunities for students and our region remains steadfast.  We look forward to serving you long into the future, so I’m excited to invite you to Head North and join us at Minnesota North College!

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Raich

Our Mission:

Minnesota North College prepares lifelong learners and engaged citizens through inclusive, transformative experiences reflecting the character and natural environment of the region.

Our Vision:

Minnesota North College will be the premier provider of life-changing education and the catalyst for regional prosperity.

We Value:

Access and Opportunity

We provide access to transformative education, equipping all learners to achieve their goals.

Community Engagement

We collaborate and build relationships within our communities to support and enrich our region.

Equity and Inclusion

We advance equity and social justice, striving to build more diverse, equitable, and inclusive communities.

Environment and Culture

We explore the history, culture, and natural surroundings of our region, recognizing their contributions to our unique learning environment.

Growth and Learning

We create a safe learning community that cultivates personal growth, critical thinking, and self-reflection.

College Learning Outcomes

1. Communicate Effectively: Students will apply writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills to effectively convey information and ideas. 
2. Demonstrate Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Students will apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to comprehensively explore ideas and form conclusions. 
3. Practice Ethical Citizenship: Students will explain complex issues from multiple perspectives and engage in activities that positively impact their community and environment.   
4. Integrate and Apply Learning: Students will demonstrate acquired skills, knowledge, and abilities across their curricular and co-curricular experiences.