USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Landkamer joined, local state, and federal officials with members of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa today to celebrate the grand opening of a new $11.3 million Tribal College facility and $10.1 million Tribal Government Center.
“This project is a great example of what partnerships [Red Lake Tribal Nation and USDA Rural Development] can achieve,” said Colleen Landkamer, USDA Rural Development State Director. “Solid infrastructure and modern facilities play a key role in the economic sustainability of rural communities – attracting new businesses, retaining population and providing opportunities for future growth.”
Prior to completion, Tribal Government offices were scattered in various buildings throughout Red Lake – many of which are now condemned due to occupants getting ill. The new 27,400 sq. ft. building located on the south shore of Red Lake features a kitchen, brand new equipment and furniture, and will house all administrative and government offices under one roof. Additionally, the campus provides new pow wow grounds and a veteran’s memorial.
“This is to prepare our people for the 21st century, with education enhancements and providing services at the government center,” Tribal College Development Director Eugene McArthur said.
The new 42,094 sq. ft. Tribal College boasts a day care center to accommodate single parents looking to further their education without the stress of having to find child care off campus. The new kitchen will provide meals for both college students and day care children. The new facility houses enough classroom space for up to 550 students, and McArthur said he expects enrollment at the college to grow from 130 to approximately 200 in the next semester alone.
Many students will work in virtual classrooms that will allow them to share classes with other Ojibwe colleges in the state, including Bemidji State. Prior to completion, the College employed five people; however, they will now have the capacity to create 22 jobs including professors, administrators, cooks, day care attendants, teachers, maintenance staff, and more.
“Our goal, in the end, is to have enough virtual classrooms where a student can get a four-year degree right here at Red Lake,” McArthur said.
Both facilities capture the culture of the Red Lake Chippewa Tribe through the large spread-winged eagle embedded into the architectural structure of each facility – welcoming you upon entry. These facilities will benefit the entire Red Lake Band of Chippewa Tribe, totaling approximately 11,200 members, as well as the surrounding communities.
Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has invested over $401 million in essential community facilities and equipment for rural communities through Minnesota. Rural Development also invests in housing, water and wastewater treatment, businesses, renewable energy and broadband.
For more information on USDA Rural Development programs, please contact your local Area Office by visiting www.rd.usda.gov/mn.