Inver Hills Community College Student, Margo Hollen and MSCSA Alumnus Brent Glass

Are you involved currently in community or volunteer work? If so, what types of projects:

I currently serve as the Treasurer of Senate District 39 and I also actively volunteer in local campaigns.

Current job: Director of Student Life, Inver Hills Community College

Where did you attend college? Northland Community College, A.A.; Bemidji State University, B.S.; St. Cloud State University, M.S.

Major: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Minor in Political Science; Master of Science in Higher Education Administration.

What position(s) did you hold while in MSCSA?

I am old so I first started out in one of the pre merger organizations...I served as a regional legislative representative (1992-1993), Vice President of Administrative and External Affairs (1993), and President of the Minnesota Community College Student Association in 1994. As a staff member I served as the Executive Director of MSCSA from 1998-2005.

What drew you to become involved in MSCSA?

Making a positive impact in the lives of students. My work portfolio consists of thank you notes/letters from current and former students. Student/leadership development is my career and my legacy rests in the hands of the people I influence with my values and principles.

What did you learn from your experience in MSCSA that positioned you for future success?

Excellent conflict management skills. :) Actually, MSCSA provided me an opportunity to refine my presentation skills on policy and legislative issues. Additionally, I credit the networking opportunity for my current job placement.

Brent Glass (right) as a student with MSCSA

What advice would you like to share with current/future members?

Love what you do and do what you love. Life is too short to waste away in a job you hate. Networking is the most important activity you can partake in during your time in MSCSA. Trust me, you can't even begin to imagine where the person who is sitting next to you during a Governing Council or General Assembly meeting may be professionally in 20 years. Additionally, as a leader it is your obligation to "pay it forward". The opportunities given to you today need to be offered to the next group of students. Get involved and make a difference in the lives of the people around you. Finally, they can't be mad at you if you make them laugh.

Proudest MSCSA moment?

The Student rally of 2001. The students organized well that year and we were able to bring 3,300 members to the capitol to make some noise.

What leader inspires you?

Paul Wellstone. I didn't agree with all of his policies and political beliefs, but he was the most genuine, authentic, passionate political leader I have ever had the pleasure to meet.

My two favorite leadership quotes:

"Whether you think that you can, or you can't, you are usually right." - Henry Ford

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead