Interim Ridgewater dean hired for the long term
May 18, 2020
WILLMAR and HUTCHINSON, MN – Ridgewater College is proud to announce that Dr. Melissa Majerus will transition from her interim dean position to Ridgewater’s permanent dean of liberal arts and sciences for transfer programs.
“I am beyond excited to accept the position of Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Ridgewater College,” Majerus said. Liberal arts and sciences courses include such topics as composition, speech, math, psychology, history, sociology, political science, biology, chemistry, and art.
“During the last year, I have had the opportunity to learn about and embrace the Ridgewater College community…,” Majerus said. “I look forward to continuing to grow and develop the Liberal Arts and Sciences program by strategically adding general education courses, collaborating with transfer institutions, and continuing to help faculty, staff, and students grow and develop.”
Majerus came to Ridgewater College a year ago from St. Cloud Technical & Community College (SCTCC) where she served as director of campus life for five years. In that role, she oversaw student government, student life, programming, athletics, and student conduct. She served as project manager for several institutional initiatives including the implementation of eOrientation and flipped advising.
In addition to her time at SCTCC, Majerus was an instructor for health, physical education, and recreation. She also coached at Mayville State University, Spring Lake Park High School, and Northland Community and Technical College in basketball, softball, and volleyball.
Majerus holds a Minnesota K-12 license in physical education and has a bachelor’s degree in Health Fitness from Gustavus Adolphus College. She earned a master’s degree in Teaching and Learning degrees with an emphasis in Higher Education from St. Mary’s University, and her doctorate degree from the University of North Dakota.
“Since coming to Ridgewater, Dr. Majerus has been a strong team member with a focus on enhancing student experiences in our Liberal Arts and Sciences areas,” said Ridgewater’s Vice President of Student Success Mike Kutzke. “Dr. Majerus is committed to empowering diverse learners to reach their full potential through personalized and relevant education in an accessible, supportive and inclusive environment.”
In her spare time, Majerus is a novice mountain biker and enjoys time at her cabin and with family and friends.