Riverland Community College, established in 1996 from the merger of several educational institutions in southeastern Minnesota, has long been a key player in the region’s workforce development and higher education. With campuses in Austin, Albert Lea, and Owatonna, the college is deeply rooted in its community. It offers a wide range of academic and technical programs to serve the evolving needs of its students and the industries in its service area.
A History of Transformation and Service
The Austin Campus, founded as Austin Junior College, is the oldest of the three, dating to 1940. Over the decades, the institution expanded its focus to include vocational training through the Austin Area Vocational-Technical School in 1951. The Albert Lea Campus was added in 1968 as a vocational-technical school, responding to the needs of local industries. The Owatonna Campus, founded in 1971, has grown from a local extension of Austin State Junior College into a full-fledged campus. In 2008, it became Riverland’s third official campus.
Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI)
In 2024, Riverland Community College proudly received its designation as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU). With 19.7% of its student body identifying as Hispanic, Riverland is on the path to meeting the 25% threshold required for full HSI status, reflecting the college’s commitment to serving its growing Hispanic population. This designation places Riverland in an exclusive group of Minnesota institutions working to enhance educational opportunities for Hispanic students, further solidifying its role as a leader in diversity and inclusion.
“We are thrilled to be recognized as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution,” said Riverland President Kat Linaker. “This milestone is not just a reflection of our growing diverse student population but also symbolizes our broader commitment to providing every enrolled student with the opportunity to reach their academic and career goals.”
Riverland’s programs are designed to meet the needs of its diverse student body, providing access to high-quality education and the skills necessary for success in today’s workforce. The college is particularly proud of its ongoing efforts to ensure that Hispanic students receive the support they need to succeed, from academic advising and tutoring to career services and financial aid guidance.
A Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
Kenneth A. Reid, the college’s vice president of strategic enrollment and equity, is leading Riverland’s strategic initiatives in equity and student access. Since joining Riverland in July 2024, Reid has been a driving force behind efforts to eliminate barriers to higher education for underserved communities. Under his leadership, the college is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
Reid’s background in student affairs, including his prior experience as Associate Vice President of Student Affairs at Lake Superior College, positions him well to lead Riverland’s equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. His vision is to foster a campus culture that embraces diversity, promotes social justice, and ensures that all students can succeed regardless of their background.
Looking to the Future
As Riverland Community College continues its journey toward becoming a full Hispanic Serving Institution, it remains focused on enhancing its academic offerings, expanding student services, and fostering a supportive environment for all learners. With its strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the college is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of higher education in Minnesota.
About Riverland Community College
A proud member of the Minnesota State system, Riverland Community College serves approximately 4,300 students annually through a variety of credit-based educational opportunities. The college’s campuses in Albert Lea, Austin, and Owatonna, as well as its robust online offerings, provide flexible, high-quality education and career training. For more information, visit www.riverland.edu.
About the Author
Kenneth A. Reid is Riverland Community College’s Vice President of Strategic Enrollment and Equity. With extensive experience in student affairs, Reid is committed to eliminating barriers in higher education, enhancing student support services, and fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community where all students can succeed.
