Lupema

Lupema is a TORCH alum and a Northfield Teaching Fellow through the Grow Your Own grant. She started her path to higher education by taking classes at the NCCC for 1.5 years, before transferring to Winona State University. She continues to work towards completing her education major.

Bachelor of Arts,
expected December 2026

Naidine

After completing her associate degree at the NCCC, Naidine transferred to St. Catherine University. She will be the first person in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree when she graduates in 2026 and she hopes to continue her education in a master’s program for library science.

Associate of Arts in Sociology,
graduated May 2025

Arturo

“The NCCC is not just a place to attend my classes, but a place that has helped me with so much more. It’s a place where I have felt accepted and listened to. They have provided support every step of the way!”

Associate of Arts,
graduated 2022

Samantha

“Without the hands-on support [of the NCCC], I probably would’ve dropped out the first year. They meet you where you’re at.”

Samantha is on track to graduate with her associate degree in May 2026.

Current Student

Ridwan

“I am so lucky to be part of the NCCC because they have been my biggest strong support. It is amazing how far an individual can go when the NCCC believes in them, like they did with me.”

Associate of Science in Nursing, graduated December 2023

Yailyn

After earning her associate degree at the NCCC, Yailyn pursued her bachelor’s at The College of St. Benedict’s. With continued support from the NCCC, she majored in communications and graduated in 2023.

Bachelor of Arts,
graduated May 2023

Ashley

Ashley graduated with her associate degree in May 2025 and started at Metropolitan State University later that summer.

Associate of Arts,
graduated May 2025

Natalie

Natalie graduated with an associate degree in May 2022! She will continue studying and working in the field of education.

Associate of Arts,
graduated May 2022

Jennifer

The most rewarding parts of Jennifer’s NCCC experience were getting a scholarship, going to class with friends, meeting new people, and getting support from staff. She’s currently studying business at Minnesota State University.

Associate of Arts,
graduated May 2024