Criminal Justice Instructor Greg Cady named "Instructor of the Year" at MSCSA General Assembly

On Saturday, April 11, Minnesota State College - Southeast Technical instructor Greg Cady was presented with a statewide teaching award by the Minnesota State College Student Association (MSCSA) at its annual Spring General Assembly, held at Breezy Point Resort in northern Minnesota.

Alyshia Brinkman, an individualized studies student at Southeast Technical, nominated Greg Cady for the award. "He is not only an incredible instructor but he is also an irreplaceable mentor and my hero," she wrote in her nomination. "He has the ability to impact people and challenge them to better themselves. He offers invaluable information and support to all of our students."

Accepting the award, Greg shared his philosophy of teaching. "I try to create a safe environment where community can be built among the students. When there is a sense of community, courage is triggered, empowering us all to take risks, become more open, and let learning begin."

He also shared his pride in the members of all the Minnesota College Student Senates, saying, "They are stepping up to the plate to make a difference, not only on each of their campuses, but in their community and our society!"

"Greg Cady is very deserving of this recognition, and that it comes from the students themselves makes it even more special," said Southeast Technical President Dr. Dorothy Duran. "Our students have told me about the impact Greg Cady has had on their lives. They have shared that he is a good listener, a great advisor, and that he goes out of his way to help them register for the right classes based upon their long-term goals."

Greg Cady began teaching at Southeast Technical College as an adjunct instructor in 2004, moving to a full-time tenure track position in 2007. Prior to joining the teaching team, he dedicated 18 years to various positions within the criminal justice profession in Minnesota and California. Greg is also a commissioned officer in the United States Navy Reserve with more than 25 years of military service. He attended St. Cloud State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in sociology and criminal justice as well as a master's degree in criminal justice.

This is not the first time that Southeast Technical has been recognized by MSCSA in recent years. In 2013, Peter Beurskens was honored as "Instructor of the Year," and in 2014 Jim Johnson was named "College President of the Year."