By Terrence Leas, Riverland president

As a comprehensive community college, Riverland continually strives to be a community college worthy of the name “Community” college &045; an entity that listens and responds to community needs, provides services to and collaborates with the community through partnerships. Part of this charge means providing access to our facilities to people across the region.

In the month of April alone, we offer numerous opportunities for residents to visit a College location and view, first hand, the breadth and depth of the programs and services we provide to a wide range of customers.

On April 14, Owatonna Chamber members are invited to attend “Good Morning Owatonna” at the Owatonna College and University Center and learn more about what the center, including Riverland Community College courses, is offering the Owatonna Community.

In Albert Lea, members of the Albert Lea/Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce are invited to the Albert Lea Campus to “Business After Hours” on April 20. Attendees may also participate in “Big Night On Campus” the same evening. BNOC is a college-wide event for everyone in the community of all ages. Participants can take a tour, learn about our programs, try hands-on activities, be entertained, and win prizes. BNOC will also feature concessions, performances and competitions, plus free child care!

On April 22, the Austin Campus will welcome more than 1,000 high school juniors and seniors to “Career Day.” Career Day features a series of 30-minute workshops about various career fields.

The workshops are presented by local business professionals and college staff. Students have the chance to learn about possible career areas, plus attend a college fair that includes representatives from more than 90 public and private colleges from Minnesota, Iowa, and other U.S. locations.

The Riverland Community College Foundation also provides an opportunity for community members to visit the college during “Riverland Live.”

“Riverland Live” is an hour-long informational session that highlights the college, the work of the foundation, and shares good news about students and staff. The event also includes a brief facility tour.

For more information about attending “Riverland Live,” contact Director of Institutional Development Heidi Schara at 507-433-0508.

With our three locations in three different communities, combined with the services we provide to residents from the surrounding areas, Riverland is a growing regional presence. A president’s report to the community and honor roll of donors publication will be distributed across the region, shortly. I am proud to deliver this report that highlights Riverland Community College’s successes and achievements from the past academic year (2002-2003), and acknowledges the generous donors whose financial and other contributions enhance our learning environment and support our students.

I hope you will join us in celebrating our connection with the communities we serve and will take advantage of an upcoming opportunity to visit your community college.

(Dr. Terrence (Terry) Leas is president of Riverland Community College.)