Oct 13, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Student Life & Services



Dr. Denise McDowell, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Life
225 Maxwell Hall (507.457.5478)

The Division of Student Life and Development advances student learning and supports and enhances the educational mission of Winona State University. With an emphasis on holistic student development, faculty and staff within Student Life and Development (SLD) strive to assist students in becoming self-directed in all activities and achieving their potential.

Student Life and Development promotes and contributes to a University community centered on student learning and success. SLD is responsible for planning and administering an array of programs, services, and activities designed to accomplish the following:

  • Encourage the optimal growth and personal development of students
  • Contribute to student success and well-being
  • Foster a sense of community
  • Support an environment which is personal in nature, intellectually and culturally diverse, and which encourages the integration of all classroom student experiences

SLD creates supportive environments and innovative opportunities for student learning. We promote individual student excellence; we invite collaboration and discovery; and we challenge students to take responsibility as members of a diverse global community.

Dean of Students

Dr. Karen Johnson, Dean of Students
230 Kryzsko Commons (507.457.5300)

The Dean of Students manages and oversees the University’s conduct processes, integrated wellness, and community relations. The Dean serves as a strong student advocate and provides leadership to the University in promoting and maintaining student rights and responsibilities and sustaining a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment.

Access Services for Students with Disabilities 

Warrior Success Center
Third Floor, Maxwell Hall (507.457.5878) Fax: 507.457.2957
Email: access@winona.edu

In accordance with Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Winona State University shall make academic adjustments in its policies, practices, services, and facilities to ensure equal opportunity for qualified persons with disabilities to participate in all educational programs and activities. A person with a disability is defined as:

  • A person with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes care for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.
  • A person who has a disability, has a record of the disability, or is regarded as having the disability.

A student requiring academic accommodation or auxiliary aids must apply for such assistance through Access Services for Students with Disabilities. Proof of disability from a competent authority will be required, as well as information regarding specific limitations for which accommodation is requested. Academic accommodations are the services that are necessary to provide equal access in an academic setting. Examples of possible accommodations may include testing accommodations, interpreter services, recorded lectures, assistive technology, writing/scribing assistance, lab assistance, adaptive equipment, priority registration, or alternative format textbooks.

An eligible student is one who has a disability and who meets the essential academic eligibility requirements for the WSU program or activity in which the student seeks to participate. In order to receive academic accommodations, the student must identify/self-disclose his/her educational needs

  • Approval of accommodations is based on adequate supporting documentation of a disability.
  • Qualified students with disabilities must meet the same academic requirements as all students on campus.
  • An accommodation cannot compromise the essential elements of a course or lowers academic standards.
  • A request may be denied if it fundamentally alters a course or program or is an undue hardship for WSU.
  • Some of the auxiliary aids may be provided by another agency such as Learning Ally, State Services for the Blind, and the National Library Service.
  • Certain accommodations, such as course modifications or substitutions, may take up to one semester to be provided.

The ADA Coordinator will respond to concerns about the inequality of access or opportunity.

More information is available in the Access Services Student Handbook or the Access Services Faculty  Handbook.

Campus Card - Purple Pass

233 Maxwell Hall, Warrior Hub (507.457.2480)
Email: campuscard@winona.edu

All WSU students, faculty and staff are issued a photo Warrior ID card. Warrior ID cards are used to access sporting events, on-campus buildings, residence halls, and the Integrated Wellness Complex. This smart card can be used as an internal debit card called Purple Pass, which is a personally-funded declining balance account. Purple Pass is easy to use and allows for convenient cashless transactions. All Purple Pass users should setup a GET account or download the free GET app. GET provides built-in security and 24/7 access to account tracking with a six month transaction history. Students, parents, friends, faculty, and staff can deposit funds to a Purple Pass account or make guest deposits using GET. The Warrior Hub cashiers also accept cash/check/debit/credit deposits. Purple Pass does not accumulate fees, will never go into the negative, and all funds are carried over each year a student attends WSU. GET tracks all card spending, including Purple Pass transactions, meal plan swipes, and Dining Dollar balances. Purple Pass funds are accepted at all WSU vendors such as Jack Kane Dining Center, Somsen Café, Zane’s (Panda Express, Pizza by the Slice, Mondo’s Subs, Grab n Go Food, Sono’s Mexican, and Sushi Do), Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bros Bagels, WSU Bookstore, Library Services, IT Media Printing Services, Campus Vending, and Warrior Entertainment Network ticket purchases. Discounts and promotions available throughout the year can be found on the WSU digital boards and the WSU Purple Pass Facebook page. Warrior ID cards should be reported as lost or stolen through GET. For more information, visit WSU’s campus card website.

Campus Dining

Campus dining at WSU is located in Kryzsko Commons at the Jack Kane Dining Hall or in the lower level of Kryzsko Commons, with several different menus available. View Chartwell’s Dining website.

Career Services 

Warrior Success Center
Third Floor, Maxwell Hall (507.457.5878)
Email: career@winona.edu

Career Services assists students seeking career direction, major selection, part-time employment on and off campus, work-study positions, summer opportunities, internships, and full-time employment. Individual career advising appointments may be scheduled. Students are encouraged to visit Career Services and set up their Handshake account to take full advantage of the broad range of services offered through Career Services. Alumni are also eligible to register for assistance in their search for full-time employment or career direction.

Career Services provides opportunities for students to interact with employers through job fairs, on-campus interviews and through partnership programs. Employers have access to students’ resumes when students upload and publish them directly through Handshake. Additionally, students can access job openings or update their resumes via the Internet 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the Handshake system. Employment information, career information, and graduate follow-up results are available the Career Services website. Career Services also administers several career assessments including the Strong Interest Inventory (SII), Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Focus 2 and StrengthsQuest.

Counseling and Wellness Services 

222 Integrated Wellness Complex (507.457.5330)
Email: counselingservices@winona.edu

Counseling and Wellness Services provides short-term counseling to currently enrolled students who are experiencing difficulty in their personal lives. Common concerns students often bring to Counseling and Wellness Services are anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, family problems, relationship concerns, academic concerns, self-esteem, grief, alcohol use/abuse, etc. Counselors also assist with off-campus referrals/resources if appropriate for the student’s care. In addition to personal counseling, Counseling and Wellness Services also offers career counseling, including the use of testing instruments such as the STRONG. Outreach educational presentations are offered to both the WSU community and the community at large.

Services are provided at no cost to the student. The information exchanged during the counseling process is confidential; students are advised of their client rights and the exceptions to confidentiality. Information will be released with the student’s written consent when appropriate.

To schedule an appointment with a licensed counselor, students can email counselingservices@winona.edu, call 507.457.5330, or stop into the Integrated Wellness Complex 222 between 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Health & Wellness Services 

222 Integrated Wellness Complex (507.457.5160)

Medical services at Health & Wellness Services are provided by a physician, nurse practitioners, registered nurses (RN), and licensed practical nurses (LPN). Laboratory tests can be performed within Health & Wellness Services by our medical technologist. All information is managed in a confidential and personal manner. Some of the most common services provided are listed below.

  • Ask a Nurse Message Line: 507.457.2292
  • Upper Respiratory Illnesses
  • Injuries
  • Allergy Injections
  • Pregnancy Testing
  • Contraception (Birth Control)
  • Emergency Contraception Pill (ECP or “Ella”)
  • General Illness
  • Mental Health (Anxiety, Depression)
  • Gynecology (GYN) Exams
  • Immunizations
  • COVID-19 Testing & Vaccination
  • Physical Exams
  • Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening (STIs)
  • Outreach Programming

There is no payment at the time of service. Comparatively low charges are generated for medications, vaccinations, supplies, procedures, and laboratory tests, just as in any other medical facility. Any costs incurred will be billed to the student’s health insurance. One statement will be mailed for any remaining balance and the charges will be put on the student’s WSU account.

Health Insurance

All Students (except International Students)
The Affordable Care Act requires everyone to have health insurance or be subject to penalties. There are several options available to students, which include being covered on their parent’s policy until age 26 or by purchasing coverage through the Minnesota Health Insurance Exchange (MNsure).

International Students
MN State will continue to offer student health insurance to international students according to Board Policy 3.4.1 part 3, subpart B.2. WSU requires international students to have health insurance; in most instances, this insurance must be purchased through the university.

Proof of Immunization

Minnesota Law (M.S. 135A.14) requires that all students enrolled in public or private post-secondary school in Minnesota be immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps and rubella-allowing only for certain specified exemptions. Records must be on file with the Health & Wellness Services. The law also requires that all students, in order to remain enrolled, must submit their Immunization Record within 45 days of the semester beginning. Visit Health and Wellness Services for more information. Pre-enrollment physical exams are not mandatory; however, the University recommends that a physical exam be done.

Notes:

  • For students who are planning to participate in athletics, a physical exam is mandatory and must be completed after July 1. A special form is available from the Athletics Department.
  • Health records for transfer students are not sent automatically with transcripts from other colleges; transfer students must specifically request the records.

Equity & Inclusive Excellence

230 Kryzsko Commons (507.457.5595)
Email: cdstudent@winona.edu

Winona State University and the Office of Equity & Inclusive Excellence are committed to cultural diversity and support by building an inclusive and pluralistic community through co-curricular education, community outreach, acceptance, and respect of issues related to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, ability levels, economic status, sexual identity, gender identity, and religion.

As part of our mission we are committed to inclusivity and cultural diversity and support the following initiatives:

  • Promote understanding of the cultural and ethnic heritages of African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans and other diverse groups at WSU through co-curricular programming of events and activities.
  • Encourage the retention and success of historically underrepresented and under-served students (i.e., diverse students, students of color and first-generation college students.
  • Enhance curriculum development through the inclusion of multicultural perspectives by providing resources for intercultural campus and community initiatives.
  • Promote the understanding and appreciation of issues related to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, beliefs, ability levels, economic status, sexual identity, gender identity, and religion.

In the spirit of broadening horizons, taking seriously the perspective of others and educating campus and community members to appreciate different cultures and ethnicities, the ultimate aim of Winona State University’s commitment to inclusivity is to empower our campus and local community for successful living in a global society.

KEAP Diversity Resource Center

162 Kryzsko Commons (507.457.2286)
Email: keapstudent@winona.edu

WSU’s KEAP Diversity Resource Center (KEAP stands for Knowledge, Empowerment, Advocacy, and Pluralism) is an inclusive and welcoming space on campus respecting all diverse persons and issues related to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, beliefs, ability levels, economic status, sexual identity, gender identity, and religion and is open to students, faculty, staff and community members. The KEAP Center operates under the Equity & Inclusive Excellence office as a decentralized location, whose missions align with commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity on campus and in the community.

In support of the university’s mission to build a community of learners, the KEAP Center critically engages students, faculty, staff, administrators, and other allies to create and sustain a campus culture in which diverse persons, organizations, and groups can learn and develop to their greatest potential and participate in society to their maximum ability.

The KEAP Center collaborates with others in providing a variety of programs, activities, and services to help diverse learners to systematically explore the ways we culturally construct identity (who we are), knowledge (what we mean), power (how we assert influence), community (how we relate and belong to each other), and culture (how we make meaning).

International Student & Scholar Services 

132 Gildemeister (507.457.5303), Fax: 507.457.2474
Email: is@winona.edu

International Student & Scholar Services welcomes international students and provides assistance to all international students attending Winona State University. Information and advice is available regarding admission to the University, scholarships, immigration concerns and employment regulations regarding F-1 visa holders, friendship family program, orientation, insurance requirements, and other information related to the well-being of international students.

The University requires international students to meet with a staff member at International Student & Scholar Services immediately upon arrival to the University. At that time, students will receive detailed information on the required International Student Orientation held the week prior to the beginning of the semester.

Parking Services 

233 Maxwell Hall (507.457.5062)
Email: parking@winona.edu

Parking permits are required in all University parking lots on the Winona campuses; WSU permits are also required for students who have state-issued handicapped permits. The application process for parking permits starts April 1 of each year to be effective the following academic year. Once permits are sold out, applicants’ names are put on a waiting list. For more details and information, please contact Parking Services.

Kryzsko Commons Student Union 

Kryzsko Commons (507.457.5310)
Email - General Inquiries: studentunion@winona.edu
Email - Director, George Micalone: George.micalone@winona.edu
Email - Asst. Director Event Services, Phil Steffes: phillip.steffes@winona.edu

Kryzsko Commons Student Union is the living room of campus and the hub of student life at WSU where students can eat, purchase books or WSU swag, hang out with friends, make new friends, and attend events. Kryzsko Commons Student Union also houses several departments including Student Union & Activities, Housing & Residence Life, Equity & Inclusive Excellence, the KEAP (Knowledge, Empowerment, Advocacy, Pluralism) Center, Dean of Students Office, Chartwells Dining Services, and the WSU Bookstore.

Located on the upper level, Jack Kane Dining Hall offers students an all-you-care-to-eat dining option. On the lower level is Zane’s Food Court offering Panda Express, Starbucks as well as sushi, grill options, fast mex, Indian, mac n cheese bowls, smoothies, sandwiches, and grab-n-go items. The facility has over 20 reservable meeting and event spaces with AV included. The larger and more widely used spaces are the Kryzsko Ballroom, Baldwin Lounge, the Solarium and the Student Activity Center. Students can also hang out in Baldwin Lounge to connect with friends or study. There are four private study rooms available for student use. A Meditation Room with Footbath is available on the lower level. A wellness/lactation room is also available. Kryzsko Commons Student Union is home to the WSU Student Senate, Warrior Entertainment Network, The Winonan student newspaper, Greek Life and Student Organizations.

Also in the Student Union is the Warrior Esports Lounge. This free, recreational Esports gaming lounge (located in the lower level of Kryzsko Commons) is outfitted with eight High Powered Gaming PCs, high refresh rate monitors, eight Nintendo Switches, five - 65” Sony TVs, peripheral equipment like controllers and keyboards, and more than 30 games including Super Smash Bros, FIFA, Fortnite, Minecraft, Rocket League, Madden, and League of Legends. This space is available to new and seasoned players to lounge and enjoy video games in the company of others.

The newest addition to Kryzsko Commons is the outdoor Fire Feature Patio. This space is beautifully landscaped with high end outdoor furniture and features a 10’ fire table. Available by request, this space is used for roasting marshmallows, hanging out with friends or hosting events.

Student Activities and Leadership 

117 Kryzsko Commons (507.457.5310)
Email: George Micalone: george.micalone@winona.edu or Alex Thompson: alexandra.thompson@winona.edu

Getting involved in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities outside the classroom is extremely important to students’ success at Winona State University. Involvement in a variety of activities helps students meet new people, get further involved in their field of study, develop new interests and life skills, and create a full college experience. WSU students can get involved in more than 150 clubs and organizations that encompass a wide variety of interests including:

  • Academic Clubs
  • Campus Organizations
  • Diversity Organizations
  • Faith-Based Clubs
  • Greek Life Organizations
  • Honorary Societies
  • Special Interest Clubs
  • Sports Clubs

There are club/organization fairs each fall to help students meet student leaders and get connected to the different groups on campus.

In addition to clubs and organizations, the Student Activities and Leadership staff work with other types of groups and activities on campus to help ensure a robust experience for all WSU students:

  • WSU Student Senate: the representative body of Winona and Rochester students
  • Warrior Entertainment Network: the student-run organization that plans entertainment events
  • The WINONAN: WSU’s student newspaper
  • Greek Life: social sororities and fraternities
  • Homecoming: an annual fall tradition
  • Family Weekend: a time to show off your life at WSU to your family and friends
  • Warrior Game Day Experience: a giant tailgate event for students, alumni, and the community before each home football game

The Warriors LEAD Series is a co-curricular leadership development series designed to:

  • Assist students in their leadership journey by providing a hands-on leadership experience
  • Allow students the time and space to discuss, learn and grow in their leadership skills
  • Provide students with tangible skills and tools to be great leaders

Teaching, Learning and Technology Services  (Information Technology Services)

130 Maxwell Hall (507.457.5240, Option 3)
Email: tlt@winona.edu

Teaching and Learning Technology Services (TLT) empowers the campus community to utilize technology effectively by providing a wide range of learning opportunities, designing and maintaining engaging learning spaces, managing academic and workplace technology projects, and exploring new technologies that enrich digital life and learning.

TLT’s Digital Learning Commons (DLC) offers students technology usage, media color printing, and 3D printing assistance, both online and in-person (Darrell W. Krueger Library 105). Staffed by WSU student technology and resource specialists (STARS), the DLC helps students complete class projects, learn to use digital tools and services, and build technology skills for success at WSU and beyond.

Tutoring Services 

220 Darrell W. Krueger Library (507.457.2486)
Email: tutoringservices@winona.edu

Tutoring Services offers free face-to-face and online tutoring for a variety of subjects including writing, math, and statistics that may be especially beneficial to graduate students. Full program details, including the searchable tutor schedule and the S2I schedule are available on the program website.

Warrior Hub 

Second Floor, Maxwell Hall (507.457.2800)
Email: warriorhub@winona.edu

The Warrior Hub, located on the west side of Maxwell Hall, is an integrated student enrollment service center. This area incorporates the functions of seven departments (Admissions, Advising Services, Career Services, Financial Aid, Parking, Registrar, and Student Accounts) all under one roof. The Warrior Hub provides students, families, and the WSU community with integrated and efficient services in a single stop.

The heart of the center is the second floor Hub where WSU team members assist students with enrollment service needs in a one-stop setting. When necessary, team members link students with specialists who work one-on-one with students to address specific needs. Most of these specialists have offices within the Hub.

Warrior Success Center  

Third Floor, Maxwell Hall (507.457.5878)
Email: warrior_success_center@winona.edu

Conveniently located one floor above the Warrior Hub, the Warrior Success Center is a one-stop resource for students seeking academic and career advice as well as other academic support services. Call or visit for an appointment. Hours: 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday during the academic year and 7:30 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday in the summer.

WSU Children’s Center 

Helble Hall, 108 E. Sandborn St. (507.457.2300)
Email: childrenscenter@winona.edu
Director: Karen Sullivan (interim)

The WSU Children’s Center, as part of the College of Education, provides:

  • A full-service, affordable, and inclusive early education and child care setting for children
  • An interactive classroom setting for University students seeking a variety of Minnesota teaching licensures, affording students participation in practicum/field placements, student teaching, and employment opportunities
  • A professional development center for regional early childhood professionals

All sites operate year round excluding University holidays and part of each semester break. Daily hours are 7 am - 5 pm. Infant-Preschool aged children may be enrolled as full-time participants. Children aged 6-11 receive after-school and full-day summer enrichment programs.

WSU students who have children are strongly urged to contact the Children’s Center as soon as they are admitted to WSU due to high demand for the center’s services and to learn more about resources available for students who are parents.

Programs are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and have received the highest (4-star) Minnesota Parent Aware Quality Rating.