Recent Program Features
We are proud to celebrate the success of our faculty, students and programs. We welcome you to learn more about our college through reading our recent features!
The time commitment is 1 hour per month
The time commitment is 1-2 hours per week
Jade Christiansen, Undergraduate Commencement Speaker
Jade Christiansen has been selected to serve as the undergraduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7th ceremony. A native of Spooner, Wisconsin, Jade is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
Full Story + Show Less –Jade Christiansen has been selected to serve as the undergraduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7th ceremony.
A native of Spooner, Wisconsin, Jade is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. During her time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, she was involved with the Teachers of Tomorrow and the Learning Communities. Jade conducted her student teaching with the St. Peter School District.
When asked what drew her to elementary education, Jade explained, “I grew up with a lack of representation of teachers of color throughout my K-12 experience. I hope and strive to provide all students with a space in which their voices are heard.” While attending Minnesota State University, Jade valued the connections that she made. “I enjoyed meeting people at MSU who have helped me become the educator I hoped to be. There are many faculty and staff at the university who genuinely want the very best for the students and who provide support and mentorship.”
A fond memory that Jade has while attending Minnesota State University is delivering goodie bags to Franklin Elementary School. “Usually, the Education learning communities put on a carnival at Franklin, but due to COVID-19, we were unable to do so in 2020. One of my learning community students had an idea that then led to the Education learning communities collaborating, organizing, and putting together goodie bags for the students of Franklin. Being able to show the students we were thinking of them provided an awesome feeling!”
For individuals considering a career in elementary education, Jade advises, “Being an educator involves regular self-reflection, so it is important to begin practicing that as early as possible. Additionally, I would suggest finding opportunities in which you can get involved in settings and activities for elementary-aged students.”
Beyond the classroom, Jade enjoys spending time with her friends and family, walking her dog, going to coffee shops, and reading. After graduating, Jade hopes to teach in an elementary setting in Minnesota.
Kaitlyn Kaus, Graduate Commencement Speaker
Kaitlyn Kaus has been selected to serve as the graduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7th ceremony. A native of Hutchinson, Minnesota, Kaitlyn is graduating with a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision.
Full Story + Show Less –Kaitlyn Kaus has been selected to serve as the graduate student commencement speaker, representing the College of Education for the May 7th ceremony.
A native of Hutchinson, Minnesota, Kaitlyn is graduating with a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. During her time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, she worked as a Graduate Assistant in the Counseling and Student Personnel Department and was involved with the Tech Fee Committee. Kaitlyn co-taught approximately 13 classes at MSU in both the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling masters programs.
A fond memory Kaitlyn has from student teaching is seeing both herself and her students grow. “The best memories from teaching have not been only seeing myself grow as a future professor but also seeing the students grow as future professionals.” When asked why she was drawn to Counselor Education and Supervision, Kaitlyn explained, “There are so many professional and personal experiences that have drawn me into pursuing this degree. If I had to pick one, it would be seeing the increase in children and adolescents’ mental health and the need for professionally trained counselors to advocate for change.”
Kaitlyn enjoyed attending Minnesota State University because of the great community. “I most enjoyed all the friendships that were made, connections with other students and faculty, and the opportunities to grow as a researcher and scholar.” Additionally, Kaitlyn shared one of her fond memories at the university includes meeting her husband, Nick.
Kaitlyn’s advice for individuals considering a field in Counselor Education and Supervision is, “Never stop advocating for yourself and for those in need.”
Beyond the classroom, Kaitlyn loves to spend time outside. “I enjoy spending as much time as I can with my husband, family, and friends! I also enjoy lake life including jet skiing and boat riding, as well as physical fitness, and country music.”
After graduation, Kaitlyn plans to “work in a private practice and conduct therapy and neuropsychological evaluations for the pediatric population.” She would also love to teach in higher education at either the undergraduate or graduate level.
