The College of St. Scholastica and Essentia Health came together Friday to celebrate their long‑standing partnership and its role in strengthening health care across the Northland.
The event, known as CSS at Essentia Health Day, highlighted the connection between education, workforce development and community health. Organizers said the gathering provided opportunities for alumni networking, professional development and information for Essentia employees interested in furthering their health care education.
More than 800 alumni of the College of St. Scholastica currently work throughout the Essentia Health system, serving patients across northeastern Minnesota and beyond. School leaders say the partnership is especially important as the region faces an ongoing shortage of health care providers.
Michael Winnaker, dean of the School of Health Professions at the College of St. Scholastica, said the collaboration supports both students entering the field and professionals considering returning to school.
“In today’s evolving world, there is a shortage of health care providers, particularly here in the Northland,” Winnaker said. He encouraged those considering careers in health care — including people making midlife career changes — to explore educational opportunities and seek guidance before committing to a program.
Winnaker also emphasized the need for providers in rural communities, noting that students who complete clinical education in rural areas are more likely to stay and practice there.
The partnership between St. Scholastica and Essentia Health dates back more than a century, with shared roots in the Benedictine Sisters who founded both institutions. Leaders say those shared values continue to guide their work today.
“This is a unique way to highlight the connection between education, workforce development and community health that the College and Essentia share,” said Rose Carpenter, director of alumni engagement at St. Scholastica. “It showcases the local impact of health care professionals serving our communities every day.”
The College of St. Scholastica offers programs in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy and physician assistant studies, among others. Officials say continued collaboration with health systems like Essentia is critical to addressing regional workforce needs and ensuring access to care throughout the Northland.
