Two Longtime Foundation Board Members Move On
June 7, 2023
The Ridgewater College Foundation recently recognized and bid farewell to two longtime board members and leaders, Diane Knorr of Hutchinson and Colleen Thompson Michels of Spicer.
Through the generous support of donors, the Ridgewater College Foundation raises, manages, and distributes resources to support, enhance and promote the educational opportunities offered by Ridgewater to the people of our region. Each year it supports college programs and initiatives with approximately $500,000 in cash and noncash support while providing students with more than $400,000 in scholarships and emergency grants.
Knorr of Hutchinson’s Thrivent Financial completed three three-year terms on the Foundation Board — including four years as president, while Thompson Michels, former Ridgewater College president, completed two three-year terms.
“We are grateful for Diane and Colleen’s service and dedication during their terms,” said Kelly Magnuson, Ridgewater College Foundation executive director.
Michel’s leadership and involvement in the Foundation’s Membership Committee helped recruit several new board members. “Colleen is a strong advocate and supporter of Ridgewater College, and we are grateful for her commitment and service to the Foundation these past six years,” Magnuson said. Michels was Ridgewater College’s president from 1998 to 2003, and prior to that, served in other leadership roles and as a speech/communications faculty member for many years.
In reflecting on the nine years Knorr spent on the Foundation Board, Magnuson said “I had no idea when Diane joined our board what an impact she would have on moving the Foundation forward and what a great leader she would turn out to be.” She added, “Diane really has been a ‘dream’ board member — she is engaged, committed, and always positive and supportive.”
The new Foundation president is Erika Kellen of Edina Realty in Hutchinson.
For more information about the Ridgewater College Foundation, go to www.ridgewater.edu/foundation.