Congratulations, Students!
Congratulations, December 2024 Graduates!
Congrats to the newest graduates of Professional Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Customer Service, College Readiness Academy, Dietary Aide and Nursing Assistant Training! After many weeks of hard work, the 120+ graduates gained valuable skills that will allow them to pursue their career dreams, support their families and contribute to their communities in new ways. Students not only learn from the class material, but through interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds around the world. We love seeing their accomplishments in and out of the classroom and wish them the best in their future success.
Nineteen Entrepreneurship graduates passed their certification exam and are excited to start their new businesses. Students successfully presented their business pitches to a panel of business professionals, and two panelists will serve as business mentors to students.
Professional Leadership Training graduates developed their leadership skills, gained hands-on experience through informational and mock interviews, received one-on-one financial coaching sessions, and much more during the 12-week course. One graduate was so grateful that she created a beautiful wood carving signed by all students and presented it to the instructor.
Seventeen graduates completed the Customer Service Training. Part of the training involved students running a student store, where they manage inventory, balance the cash drawer and sell snacks and drinks to Institute staff.
Dietary Aide Training had 20 graduates complete the four-week course. Students took the Serve Safe Food Handlers Certificate exam as well as completing assessments in food service and nutrition. During their training, they visited a local nursing home and hospital to explore nutrition services and healthcare careers. Six students completed both the Dietary Aide and Customer Service trainings at the same time!
Thirty-five students graduated from our College Readiness Academy, twenty-four of whom earned Goal 7 credits through a partnership with Metro State University. Graduates advanced their reading, writing, study and computer skills in the class and gained valuable information on how the U.S. college system works and how to balance school, work and home life while enrolled.
Nursing Assistant Training graduated 25 students in December. Once they pass their certification exams, they will be ready to begin their career as certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Instructors said it was obvious that this group of graduates were natural caregivers who will excel in the field. Along with the coursework, the nursing students received free financial coaching and job-search assistance. They joined over 3,000 other CNAs trained by the Institute over the years.
We wish all graduates the best of luck in their future and know they will continue to give back to their communities and strengthen Minnesota as a whole through their contributions!
