Dunwoody College of Technology Commemorates 110 Years of Innovation in Technical Education

Celebrating a Century of Technical Education at Dunwoody College

On December 14, 2024, Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis will proudly observe its Founders Day, marking a remarkable milestone of 110 years in technical education and skilled trades. Established in the heart of Minnesota, the college has significantly influenced the workforce and economic landscape of the region since its inception.

In the words of President Scott Stallman, Ph.D., "The Dunwoody legacy has been built by those who came before us." This legacy encompasses hundreds of alumni who have excelled in their respective fields, driving innovation and progressing industries. As the college reflects on its history, it is also a moment to acknowledge the profound role it has played in transforming the lives of its students.

Dunwoody College has always championed a hands-on educational approach, which has been central to its mission. This method not only imparts essential technical skills but also nurtures creativity and problem-solving abilities critical for today’s evolving job market. With an impressive record, over 200,000 individuals have benefited from the college's programs, equipping them for rewarding technical careers.

The celebration of Founders Day offers a unique chance to honor Dunwoody's alumni contributions to various sectors. Claire Ferrara, a 2011 graduate and Board of Trustee member, attested, "Dunwoody has played an essential role in my life and in the lives of many other graduates. The Minneapolis skyline itself reflects the impact of this institution and its alumni on our community." Her words echo the excitement surrounding Dunwoody's future as it continues to lead in technical education.

The past decade has seen a remarkable surge in enrollment at Dunwoody, with numbers increasing by over 40 percent. The college's ability to adapt to industry demands through innovative programs in engineering, cybersecurity, and design sets it apart. Graduates are in high demand, with a striking 95 percent securing jobs in their chosen fields, underscoring the effectiveness of its educational model.

As Dunwoody stands at the threshold of its next century, it remains committed to responding to the dynamic demands of the industry. Dr. Stallman emphasized the importance of leveraging new technologies and maintaining a student-first approach to education. This commitment ensures that students not only receive a quality education but also a high return on their investment.

A Brief History of Dunwoody College

The story of Dunwoody College begins on December 14, 1914, when the William Hood Dunwoody Industrial Institute commenced operations in downtown Minneapolis. The founders, William and Kate Dunwoody, were influential figures in the community, determined to create an accessible space where individuals from all backgrounds could receive high-quality technical education.

William Dunwoody played a pivotal role in establishing Minnesota as a leading flour and grain exporter and later partnered in founding the Washburn Crosby Company, now known as General Mills. Their vision for the college was simple yet profound: to enable citizens to perform their duties more effectively and pursue their true potential in life.

Over the course of the last 110 years, Dunwoody has remained steadfast in its mission, continuously evolving to meet the industry’s needs and the societal transformations occurring around it. Today, it stands as the only private, not-for-profit technical college in the Upper Midwest, providing students a unique educational experience with dedicated labs and studios.

As it celebrates this significant milestone, Dunwoody College of Technology not only commemorates its past but looks forward to a future filled with possibilities in technical education. Whether through innovative curricula or strengthening community ties, the institution’s dedication to excellence promises to create an even more robust workforce for the years to come.