Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College Earn Inclusive Workforce Employer Designation

Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College Earn Inclusive Workforce Employer Designation Main Photo

14 Jan 2025


As the Regional Coordinator, I am pleased to announce that both Bemidji State University (BSU) and Northwest Technical College (NTC)—Bemidji have earned the prestigious Inclusive Workforce Employer (I-WE) designation. This designation recognizes employers who have demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces and practices that reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). 

Along with John Preuss from the Inter-County Community Council (ICCC), I had the privilege of traveling to Bemidji to present plaques to John L. Hoffman, President of both Bemidji State University (BSU) and Northwest Technical College (NTC), along with Angie Clark, the representative from BSU, and Sarah Behrens, the representative from NTC. We recognized the schools’ commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce. These institutions are truly leading the way in creating welcoming environments for individuals from diverse backgrounds in our region.

Left to Right:  Sarah Behrens, John Preuss, Dr. Ketmani Kouanchao, Chrys Kirschbaum, President John Hoffman, and Nicholle Bieberdorf.                                                                       
Left to Right:  Angie Clark, Chrys Kirschbaum, President John Hoffman, and John Preuss.                                           

BSU and NTC join other local employers, including CHI St. Joseph’s Children in Park Rapids, the North Minnesota Foundation in Bemidji, and Delta Dental of Minnesota, in earning the I-WE designation. These institutions will be sharing their stories and the impactful work they’ve been doing around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at our upcoming Regional Workforce Alliance meeting this Thursday.

The I-WE program, established in 2020 aims to reduce disparities in the 26-county region and raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion. To receive the I-WE designation, businesses must commit to inclusive and equitable practices through their mission, vision, or values, assess how DEI impacts their culture, offer DEI education to staff and leadership, and allocate resources to sustain these efforts.

Chrys Kirschbaum
Regional Coordinator, Regional Workforce Development Area 1