SMSU Sees Record-Breaking Enrollment Growth and Unveils New Programs

Issue #111

15 Oct

In this Marshall Area Insider issue…

⛅ Marshall, MN Weather - Partly cloudy with a high of 52

🗞️ SMSU Sees Record-Breaking Enrollment Growth and Unveils New Programs

🗞️ $52 Million in Broadband Grants to Boost Connectivity Across Minnesota

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SMSU Sees Record-Breaking Enrollment Growth and Unveils New Programs

SMSU is experiencing notable growth, with a 14.9% overall increase in student enrollment this year.

President Kumara Jayasuriya addressed faculty, staff, and students during his annual State of the University address, sharing successes and future plans.

SMSU also saw significant jumps in international enrollment and transfer students, while retention rates improved to 73.4%.

In addition to current success, new academic programs are on the horizon. SMSU will reintroduce its cyber security master’s degree with an on-campus component and launch a full four-year nursing program in 2026. Both programs respond to growing regional demands in healthcare and technology sectors.

Jayasuriya also highlighted fundraising efforts through the university’s ongoing campaign, Run Together: Imagine the Impact, aimed at enhancing academics, scholarships, and facilities.

With a goal of raising $30 million, the campaign has secured $22.4 million so far, and SMSU aims to reach an additional $5 million this school year.

SMSU’s growth and strategic initiatives reflect its commitment to serving the region and ensuring long-term success for students and the broader community.

$52 Million in Broadband Grants to Boost Connectivity Across Minnesota

Governor Tim Walz recently announced a $52 million investment to improve broadband access for approximately 7,700 homes and businesses across Minnesota.

This initiative will target 24 counties through two programs: the Border-to-Border Broadband Program and the Low Population Density Program.

Local grants were awarded to Meeker Cooperative Light & Power Association, Lismore Cooperative Telephone Co., Federated Rural Electric Association, and Woodstock Telephone Company, with significant funding to expand connectivity in underserved rural areas.

Upcoming Area Events

 🗓️ Have an event to add? Send us the details!

Thursday, October 17th

  • Democratic-Farmer-Labor Pop-Up Tent at the Minneota Farmers Market from 5:00 - 7:00 PM

Friday, October 18th and Saturday, October 19th
Monday, October 21st
Friday, October 18th - Sunday, October 20th
Thursday, October 24th

  • Democratic-Farmer-Labor Pop-Up Tent at Knudson-Bosley Park (HWY 14) from 5:00 - 8:00 PM

  • Moonlight Madness in Downtown Marshall starting at 7:00 PM

Friday, October 25th
Saturday, October 26th
Sunday, October 27th
Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th (LAST TIME!)
Thursday, October 31st
Wednesday, November 6th (first Wednesday of every month)

  • Dementia Caregiver Support Group from 10:00 - 11:30 AM at Adult Community Center in Marshall

    • Open to everyone, come when you can, no cost or obligation to attend, refreshments available

    • For questions contact Jamie Lanners (507) 828-8891

Saturday, November 16th

  • Fall Vendor Show at KB’s Ballroom in Ghent from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

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