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Radiography instructor Alex Howell named MSC Southeast's 2021-2022 Outstanding Educator of the Year
Winona, MN (April 15, 2022) -- Minnesota State College Southeast is proud to announce the selection of Radiography instructor Alex Howell as the college's Outstanding Educator of the Year. Alex will be among the educators recognized by the Minnesota State Board of Trustees at an online awards ceremony on April 20, 2022.
"Alex is a passionate educator who works constantly to help his students be successful," said Dr. Marsha Danielson. "His commitment to his profession, to his students, and to the college is exemplary and appreciated by everyone at Southeast."
Alex Howell has been an instructor at MSC Southeast since 2011. He earned an A.A.S. degree in Radiography at Western Technical College in La Crosse in 2003, then worked in the field for several years. In 2016 he completed a bachelor of science in Healthcare Leadership and Administration at Winona State University. He earned a master's degree at WSU in Educational Leadership in 2019 and is now completing a doctorate in Education Leadership at Minnesota State University Moorhead with an anticipated graduation date of May 2024.
"We selected Alex as our nominee because of his commitment. From helping students find internships to helping the college on all his committees, Alex's passion for making this a better college comes through in everything he does," said Chris Stout, who led the college's nomination committee. "If we were choosing an instructor as a template, he fits the ideal instructor in almost every way."
"Over the past 10 years at Southeast I have learned many things, but one is that teaching is challenging and rewarding," said Alex Howell. "I want to help students realize their potential not just in this profession but in their continuing life and careers after graduation."
Many students nominated Alex for the Outstanding Educator of the Year award. One quote from a student sums up what so many said: "Alex is a dedicated instructor with a great understanding of his profession. He is always willing to help us with anything -- big or small, no questions asked."
His students know that if any issues arise, they can count on him to answer questions or help when needed. For example, another one of Alex's students stated, "Alex has gone the extra mile to help me -- and even took time out of his busy day to jump start my car when I didn't know who else to call!"
Alex has helped graduates realize the potential for lifelong learning by helping create a two-plus-two articulation with Winona State University's Healthcare Leadership and Administration (HLA) program. Students can start taking classes at WSU during their second year of the radiography program, then can go directly into the HLA program to further their education.
Knowing that his students need direct help to pay for expenses like textbooks and travel to clinicals, Alex and fellow Radiography instructor Valarie Bere created a dedicated scholarship fund through Minnesota State College Southeast Foundation for students in the program -- further evidence of his deep commitment to his students.
In addition to his outstanding work with students, Alex is very engaged in service to the college. Since 2019, he has served as the MSCF Union President for the Winona Campus. He has served on Shared Governance, the Faculty Leadership Committee, and as the Health Division Liaison to the Academic Assessment Committee. He has volunteered for many search committees for new employees and served as a member of the college's Engagement Committee, which helps build a friendly, welcoming atmosphere at Minnesota State College Southeast.
"The entire college community is proud to have Alex represent Minnesota State College Southeast as 2021-2022 Outstanding Educator," said Dr. Danielson. "Alex's passion for lifelong learning transfers to his students, and his dedication to the community he serves inspires all of us."
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About Minnesota State College Southeast
Located in the historic river towns of Red Wing and Winona, Minnesota State College Southeast is a two-year technical and community college that prepares students for a lifetime of learning by providing education for employment, skill enhancement, retraining, and transfer. The Winona campus opened its doors in 1949; the Red Wing campus opened in 1973, merging with Winona in 1992. The two campuses now have distinctive characteristics but are one college in structure, policies, procedures, and mission. Both offer small class sizes, state-of-the-art facilities, and an environment that is friendly and supportive. In addition, more than 30 majors are available online. Minnesota State College Southeast is a member of Minnesota State. For more information, visit www.southeastmn.one.