Alumni & Donor Spotlight

When Century College alum Paul Robichaud was navigating high school, he sought a new challenge and opted to become a Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) student, a pivotal decision that set him on a path leading to a successful career in cyber security.

“Education is important because you learn more about other perspectives when attending school with people of different backgrounds and ages.”

Education has been a driving force in Century College alum Mikaela Sturz’s life, opening doors beyond career opportunities and providing opportunities to connect with individuals whom she would not have known otherwise. She started at the College while in high school as a Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) student.

Like many high school students standing at the crossroads of their future, Lydia Maule was unsure of her career direction. It wasn’t until she took an EMT course through Century College’s 916 program that her path became clear.

Cathy Wright’s journey from a successful Group CFO to an interior designer epitomizes the transformative power of following one’s dreams. A 2024 Century College Interior Design graduate, Cathy’s high energy and ambition are a testament to creating a new career path, driven by a lifelong passion for creativity, aesthetics, and hard work.

Dave O’Donnell’s career journey from the print industry to the world of cybersecurity is a remarkable tale of hard work and determination. Starting in graphic arts, Dave’s career trajectory was altered by a back injury sustained while working as a printing press operator. This setback, however, did not deter him from forging ahead and carving out a new professional path.

Dave gained valuable experience in various corporate environments, from Best Buy to Office Max, and went on to spend two decades building the business at Cal Spas in Plymouth, MN, through strategic planning, leadership, and a knack for building meaningful relationships. Despite his success, he yearned for a career that would fully satisfy his puzzle and problem-solving skills, leading him to the exciting world of cybersecurity.

Elizabeth Johnson’s journey from a stay-at-home mom to a successful medical coder at Gillette Children’s is inspiring and a testament to the power of determination, support, and education.

Elizabeth’s story is a shining example of how never giving up on your dreams can lead to a fulfilling career that balances professional satisfaction with family life.

“Education is a vehicle for growth—In order to get where I want to go, I have to continue to learn new things.”

Century College alum Frank Sandberg takes a strategic approach to his education and his career

“With the goal of starting my own interior design firm, I knew attending a quality program was critical. Century’s Interior Design Degree was the obvious choice to prepare me for a competitive market.

The skills I gained from a wide range of quality courses have allowed me the opportunity to develop insight of current industry practice. Not only have I been consistently impressed with the breadth of knowledge held by Century College instructors, but I also appreciate how students and instructors support one another in collectively striving to succeed.”

“I have loved Century College from day one. I have loved all my teachers, and their responses were immediate–through Zoom, email, telephone–even over the weekend. And all the staff—from Financial Aid to everyone were great.”

“Education is important to me as a parent. I really wanted both of my children to see that learning does not stop at high school, and in order to obtain careers we are passionate about, we have to put in the extra hard work of school.”

“In college, you find your niche, and you learn a lot. That’s what’s important. I’m excited about learning, and to see what’s next.”

“With a college education, you’re learning skills of all kinds–people skills, life skills– to become a well-rounded person. Education can give you that, and it’s something that no one can take away from you. I appreciate my education.”