Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Outreach important?
Swenson College and UMD have three core missions: education, research and outreach. In Swenson College our educational mission is to develop comprehensive and innovative education and training programs that are aligned with the needs of our state and our region, in order to help students become today’s workforce and tomorrow’s leaders. In our outreach programs we seek to actively engage with all the stakeholders of our region and our community including industry, non-profit and government organizations, K-12 programs and the citizens of the region. Our community engagement programs provide K-12 and adult STEM education opportunities to our region as well as engagement with a wide variety of stakeholders.
Is there a cost for students to participate in outreach programs?
Almost all of Swenson College’s outreach opportunities are free.  For events that have a fee, scholarships are available.  Upon registration, simply mention that you have a student or students in need of a scholarship.
What if we have more than 30 students for our tour group?
We want our tours to be as educational as possible, so we prefer to keep the number at 30, especially for elementary aged students.  If your group has more than 30, please contact the Outreach Coordinator  and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
How do UMD students benefit from outreach?
“Close partnerships with the surrounding community help demonstrate that higher education is about important values such as informed citizenship and a sense of responsibility. The newer forms of public scholarship and community-based learning help produce civic-minded graduates who are as well prepared to take up the complex problems of our society as they are to succeed in their careers." (The Kellogg Commission, 1999, p. 13). Student benefits include:
The opportunity to link theory to practice and apply learning in community environments
An enhanced sense of civic engagement and responsibility
Personal, interpersonal and leadership development
An appreciation for diversity
Deeper understanding of subject fields and problem-solving ability
- Opportunities to prepare for the world and careers they will enter
How does the community benefit from outreach and engagement?
When communities partner with Swenson College of Science and Engineering, the energies and talents of faculty and students are engaged in developing an understanding and appreciation for STEM and the difference that science is making in the world right where they live. By being involved in outreach, UMD is also helping develop our region's future leaders and bringing to light the benefits of STEM in their communities and how they can make a difference.
How can I support Outreach activities?
Giving to Swenson College of Science and Engineering's Outreach program is as easy as the click of your mouse.  A designated fund for youth outreach has been developed within the Foundation to support ongoing outreach programming.  Simply complete the online giving form and submit your gift.  We sincerely appreciate any amount you are able to give.  You have the option to give a one-time gift, monthly gift and for UMD faculty and staff, you can even give a gift via a simple payroll deduction.  If you prefer, you can fill out a Printable Gift Form and mail in your pledge, check or credit card gift.  For additional ways to give to Outreach you can contact the staff in the Swenson Development office at (218) 726-6994.
Who do I contact for more information on outreach and activities?
If you have additional questions or would like more information about outreach in your community, please contact Swenson College's Outreach Coordinator at (218) 726-7409 or [email protected].