In today’s rapidly evolving education landscape, it takes more than credentials to lead a college effectively. It requires empathy, resilience, and a deep understanding of the lives students lead beyond the classroom. Dr. Sandy Kiddoo, President of Northland Community & Technical College, blends these attributes seamlessly. Her leadership is grounded in strategic focus, personal experience, and a heartfelt dedication to removing barriers in higher education.

A Career Built on Purpose and Progress

Dr. Kiddoo’s journey into higher education leadership is one marked by dedication and an unwavering belief in the power of access. A native of central Wisconsin, she brings both personal insight and professional expertise to her role. Her academic background includes degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Capella University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Before joining Northland, she served in various impactful positions including Chief Academic Officer at Hazard Community and Technical College and Vice President of Academics at Mid-State Technical College. She also contributed to strategic planning and statewide initiatives as a leader in the Wisconsin Technical College System.

Now as Northland’s fourth president, Dr. Kiddoo leads more than 4,000 students across two campuses and an aerospace training site. Her focus remains constant: ensuring education transforms lives and prepares students for a changing world.

Leadership That Centers on People

At the core of Dr. Kiddoo’s leadership is a people-first philosophy. Her role extends far beyond policy and administration. She serves as a connector between the college and the broader community, building relationships with regional employers, local leaders, and education advocates.

Whether advocating at the state capitol or engaging in strategic dialogue with campus stakeholders, her goal is always to support students. She takes pride in the personal moments seeing students cross the stage at graduation, hearing from alumni about their accomplishments, because these are the real measures of her impact.

A College Forged by Collaboration and Growth

Northland Community & Technical College is the product of a meaningful merger in 2003 that brought together three regional institutions to form one comprehensive college. Since then, it has grown into a vital educational hub for northwest Minnesota.

Northland offers a wide range of academic options, including programs in Health Services, Liberal Arts, Construction, Manufacturing, Transportation, Agriculture, IT, and Protective Services. With campuses in Thief River Falls and East Grand Forks, the college serves as a gateway to careers in high-demand fields, while maintaining a strong commitment to hands-on, community-connected learning.

Championing Access and Student Support

One of Northland’s defining principles is accessibility. With an open admissions policy, the college welcomes students from all backgrounds, no GPA requirements, no unnecessary barriers. This approach acknowledges the complexity of students’ lives, many of whom are balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and academic goals.

Under Dr. Kiddoo’s leadership, Northland has expanded its student support services to meet real-life challenges. Food pantries have been established on both campuses, and partnerships with community organizations help connect students with housing, childcare, and transportation resources. The goal is not just to enroll students, but to help them thrive.

Making Education Work for All

Affordability is another priority. Northland maintains low tuition while leveraging foundation support and scholarships to ease financial burdens. Dr. Kiddoo has also championed the needs of student-parents, using her own life as a single parent to guide campus initiatives. From dedicated parent study spaces to flexible course schedules, Northland is building an environment where every learner feels seen and supported.

This inclusive model acknowledges that student success looks different for everyone—and that’s exactly the point. Whether someone is pursuing a trade, transferring to a university, or entering a new career after decades away from school, Northland is prepared to help them succeed.

A Leader Grounded in Real Life

While Dr. Kiddoo’s role as president is demanding, she leads with authenticity drawn from her own lived experiences. Now an empty nester and proud grandmother, she balances her professional duties with passions like gardening, beekeeping, and wintertime puzzles. These moments of joy and calm allow her to remain energized and focused on the mission at hand.

Being a grandmother is one of her greatest joys, and she often reflects on how personal milestones keep her grounded and motivated. Her ability to lead with warmth and clarity is part of what makes her influence so deeply felt across campus.

Raising Independent Thinkers

Dr. Kiddoo’s approach to education extends beyond college walls. She’s a strong advocate for teaching life skills at an early age. Encouraging children to communicate effectively, manage money, and cook on a budget are lessons she believes foster independence and resilience traits she hopes students will carry with them into adulthood.

She believes that parents play a vital role in preparing the next generation to navigate complex challenges with confidence. By giving children the tools to advocate for themselves, they are better equipped to succeed not just in school, but in life.

Conclusion: Leading with Heart and Vision

Dr. Sandy Kiddoo’s leadership is a reflection of her core values: compassion, access, and a relentless belief in the potential of every student. She is building a culture at Northland that honors hard work, supports diverse needs, and recognizes the unique journeys each learner takes.

By blending strategic planning with empathy, and personal experience with professional excellence, she has positioned Northland Community & Technical College as a model of modern higher education, where achievement is measured not only by diplomas, but by lives changed.