Recently, leaders from across our region gathered on Coe College’s campus for Partnering for Progress, a powerful conversation between education, workforce, and community.
Hosted over breakfast, the event brought together educators, industry leaders, and alumni to explore how a liberal arts foundation, combined with real-world experience can power the future workforce. The message was clear: when education and industry collaborate with shared purpose, transformational outcomes are possible.
President David Hayes opened the morning by acknowledging both the challenges and opportunities facing small private colleges today. From shifting demographics to rising costs and evolving workforce needs, Coe is responding with bold action: expanding academic offerings, investing in student support, and strengthening community and employer partnerships. As President Hayes noted, “The most resilient colleges are those willing to reimagine themselves.”
That innovation came to life in the discussion of Coe’s 2025–2028 Strategic Framework, built around four core pillars: financial sustainability, academic excellence, student experience, and community impact. Attendees also learned about the work of Coe’s C3: Creativity, Careers, Community center, a top-10 nationally ranked career services center that bridges the liberal arts with internships, job shadows, resume feedback, career exploration and real employer connections.
The morning wasn’t just about ideas, it was about action. Conversations sparked new pathways for collaboration, from hosting Coe interns and grads to partnering on professional learning and investment in shared goals. Two new programs were announced as well – Coe’s new online degree and upskilling opportunities through certifications and credentials.
Now is the time to take action. If your organization is ready to build its talent pipeline, consider engaging with Coe’s C3 team to offer internships, job shadows, career fairs, or classroom partnerships. These connections not only strengthen your future workforce, they also ensure our region remains a vibrant place to live, learn, and work.
To explore partnership opportunities, contact Barb Tupper at [email protected] or 319.399.8662.
Together, we can shape the future one student and one connection at a time.