A Message for Uncertain Times:

Your Year-End Gift Matters

A Reminder That At Saint Paul College, Our Mission Is Our Anchor.

“In a changing and uncertain world, it feels like everything is shifting all at once.”

Dee Dee Peaslee speaking behind a table

President Deidra Peaslee, Ed.D., shared these words with our college community earlier this year—not as a warning, but as a call to clarity and purpose. She reminded us: “Our mission, vision, and values are our anchor. That’s what keeps us grounded to do the work of educating the most diverse student community in Minnesota.”

At Saint Paul College, we know who we are. We know what we stand for.

And we know that our students are counting on us to stay true to that mission—especially now.

Why This Moment Matters

Saint Paul College is doubling down on our mission to empower students to lead purposeful lives and discover rewarding careers. We are excellence-minded and equity-driven.

At a moment when many institutions are calculating risk, we’re calculating impact. As the most diverse institution in the Minnesota State system, we serve students whose aspirations, challenges, and successes drive our work every single day.

Our commitment to equity and inclusion isn’t just about education—it’s about building a more just and equitable future for everyone. It’s about empowering individuals, strengthening families, and enriching our entire community.

Through Vision 2028, we’ve set a bold goal: to graduate 1,500 more students of color from academic programs that lead to family-sustaining jobs. This goal reflects who we are and the legacy we want to leave.

Your support has never been more critical. This year-end, we’re asking you to stand with us. Every gift ensures our students—regardless of race, background, or circumstance—have the support they need to thrive and leave Saint Paul College with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to succeed.

Stand With Us

As President Peaslee said, “To fully become the institution our community needs, we must continue to transform learning, valuing the needs and aspirations of our students, and ensuring that every student leaves Saint Paul College with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive.”

We need partners who share this vision. Together, we prove that our values aren’t negotiable and our commitment to students is unshakeable.

Photograph of a student in Sheet Metal class.

Our Mission, Vision, & Values

Who We Are

Saint Paul College, the most diverse in Minnesota State, serves over 10,000 students of varied race, ethnicity, age, background, ability, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, and life experience, at every life stage seeking new careers and purpose. After George Floyd’s murder, our community united to define new mission, vision, and values emphasizing racial equity, vibrant community, and economic growth.

Our Mission

Grounded in equity and inclusion, Saint Paul College educates and empowers students to lead purposeful lives and discover rewarding careers.

Our Vision

Saint Paul College advances racial equity; enriches community vibrancy; and inspires students to reach their full potential.

Our Values

We believe students are the heart of our work. With compassion and dedication, we collaborate to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment. We are excellence-minded, equity-driven.

Our Call to Action

These aren’t just words on a page. They’re our guide for the future. They’re what we return to when the world feels uncertain.

Advisor in consultation with a student
A student in the common areas.
Group drinking coffee with a view of the city

Why your partnership matters

How You Can Help

At a moment when many institutions are calculating risk, we’re calculating impact. We’re investing in:

  • Basic needs support so students can focus on learning, not survival
  • Mental health resources that recognize the whole student
  • Academic programs aligned with market demands and family-sustaining careers
  • Equity-driven strategies that ensure every student has what they need to thrive

Your year-end gift ensures we can continue this work without compromise. It’s an investment in students who deserve every opportunity to succeed. It’s a partnership in building the more just and equitable future our community needs.

Can’t donate right now? Share this page with someone who can. Every voice strengthens our community.

student painting on paper