MSC Appoints Schaefer as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives

Minnesota State College Southeast is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Molly Faber Schaefer as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives.

As Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Dr. Schaefer is responsible for developing and managing innovative initiatives to grow and sustain the college. This includes directing strategic and operational planning, marketing and communications, and workforce education. She will also oversee grant development, college accreditation, community partnerships, and institutional development.

Additionally, Dr. Schaefer will serve as Executive Director of the Minnesota State College Southeast Foundation, an important role that involves raising funds for the college and distributing student scholarships.

Dr. Schaefer brings over a decade of progressive experience in higher education, strategic partnerships, advancement, workforce development, and marketing and communications to her new position.

"Dr. Schaefer’s extensive background in strategic partnerships, funding acquisition, and community engagement makes her very well-prepared to serve as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Southeast," said Dr. Marsha Danielson, President of Minnesota State College Southeast. "Her passion for advancing student success and economic development through innovative strategies and impactful partnerships aligns perfectly with our institutional goals."

"I am thrilled to be serving as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Minnesota State College Southeast,” said Dr. Schaefer. “This role presents incredible opportunities to foster innovation and growth within the community.”

Dr. Schaefer's career is marked by her visionary leadership and ability to secure funding and create meaningful partnerships. As the inaugural Director of Strategic Partnerships and Operations at the Minnesota Polytechnic & Applied Learning Institute (MinnPoly), she spearheaded the institute's launch, establishing a partnership network that supports workforce needs, advances economic development, and promotes experiential learning for students. Her strategic site selection at Saint Paul College, known for its diverse student body, underscores her commitment to supporting underserved populations and promoting equity and inclusion in STEM disciplines.

In her previous roles at Minnesota State University, Mankato, including Director of Industry Partners and Director of Development, Dr. Schaefer demonstrated her ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, secure funding, and develop unique learning opportunities, all of which are crucial skills for her new role at Southeast.

Beyond higher education, Dr. Schaefer has made significant contributions to community engagement and workforce development. As the Northwest Iowa Regional STEM Manager, she dramatically increased STEM awareness and engagement through strategic marketing and outreach. Her efforts in expanding programming, coupled with her role as a spokesperson, showcase her ability to effectively communicate and advocate for educational initiatives.

Dr. Schaefer's academic credentials are impressive. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a focus on strategic partnerships between higher education, industry, and community. Her MBA from the same institution provides her with a solid foundation in business practice. Her professional journey includes notable achievements in educational leadership and community engagement.

She has also earned a Master of Arts in Multicultural College Teaching & Learning from the University of Minnesota and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Broadcast and Electronic Communications and Criminology and Law Studies (double major) from Marquette University.

“With her comprehensive experience, academic excellence, and proven track record of innovation, Dr. Molly Schaefer is poised to make a significant impact at the college, driving initiatives that support our mission to deliver exceptional transfer, career, and technical education that empowers learners and transforms lives,” said President Danielson.

“I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Minnesota State College Southeast to create impactful programs that will truly benefit our students and the broader community,” said Dr. Molly Schaefer.