Career Services joins forces with Alumni & Foundation in new partnership

As a way to amplify its offerings to students, alumni, employers and the community, Career Services at Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College has been incorporated into the BSU Alumni & Foundation. The new structure begins today, May 20.

Career Services is Bemidji State’s source for guidance and support as individuals transition from student to professional. The office also hosts multiple events annually to help students build career pathways, and it leads a grant-funded internship program in partnership with the George W. Neilson Foundation, which is currently funded through 2027. Further, it offers lifelong services to alumni and creates pipelines for businesses to find and recruit potential employees.

“We’re excited to make this alumni, industry and career alignment work here at Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College,” said Allyssa Joseph, the Alumni & Foundation’s executive director. “I envision a time when our students graduate not just job-ready, but career-ready. By connecting with industry professionals, exploring diverse career paths and utilizing cutting-edge technology – all within the classroom – we can create a vibrant network where everyone benefits.”

Career Services interim director Cindy Boe and management analyst Lisa Gubrud will report to Angela Schmidt, the director of alumni relations. They will also work closely with Abby Randall, who is set to join the Alumni & Foundation team in June as the director of corporate relations and giving.

In partnering with Career Services, Joseph highlighted similar successful models at institutions like Longwood University and William & Mary. 

“This is the vision behind bringing together Cindy Boe, Lisa Gubrud, Angela Schmidt and Abby Randall. Their combined expertise will make Bemidji State University a career readiness hub for the North,” Joseph said. “Career-ready students become loyal alumni who contribute their time, talent and treasure. Industry partners gain access to a pipeline of top talent and can access customized training for their current workforce, giving us access to teach and train a new demographic of learners.”

The change also comes at an opportune time because it aligns with the Alumni & Foundation’s mission to provide comprehensive support to its alumni body.

The integration opens up new channels to connect alumni with mentorship opportunities, networking avenues and career development support, which can ultimately enhance lifelong connections to Bemidji State.

“By joining forces, we can offer a more holistic approach to both students and alumni engagement, focusing not only on past experiences of our alumni but also on their ongoing career development and success,” Schmidt said. “By combining our resources and expertise, we can create innovative programs and initiatives that better serve our students and alumni throughout their academic and professional journeys.”

Career Services will continue to operate out of Decker Hall 202. Its business hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information on Career Services, visit www.career.bemidjistate.edu.