Erling Honored as Educator of the Year by MinnState
Brooklyn Park, MN, March 1, 2025 — Hennepin Technical College proudly announces that Sociology instructor Monica Erling has been named one of three recipients of the 2025 Educator of the Year award by the Minnesota State Board of Trustees. This prestigious accolade is part of the Board's Awards for Excellence, recognizing outstanding commitment to student learning and dedication to teaching excellence across Minnesota State colleges and universities.
Erling, who has been teaching at Hennepin Tech since 2011, has made a profound impact through her instruction, mentorship, and leadership within the college. She teaches a variety of courses, including Introduction to Sociology, Race in America, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice, and Food and Society.
Within and beyond the classroom, Monica has demonstrated unwavering dedication to equity and inclusion. She continually develops her understanding of equitable teaching through conferences, workshops and, most recently, a sabbatical on trauma-informed teaching and a research project through MN REFLECT on introducing mindfulness in the classroom to enhance student learning.
Monica serves the college community through faculty leadership at both the college and statewide levels. She is serving her third term as Minnesota State College Faculty (MSCF) Chapter President and her second term as Faculty Shared Governance Council President. She has previously served on the statewide MSCF Executive Committee, MSCF Racial Equity and Diversity Committee and MSCF Member Engagement Committee. She also co-chaired HTC's Equity and Inclusion Committee for many years.
The Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence honor faculty who exemplify superior teaching and a steadfast commitment to student learning. Ms. Erling will be formally recognized at an awards luncheon on April 16, 2025, alongside her fellow honorees.
Hennepin Tech President, Joy Bodin expressed pride in Monica’s achievement, stating, "Monica’s dedication to her students and her innovative approach to teaching embody the mission and values of Hennepin Technical College. We are thrilled to see her recognized at the state level for her outstanding contributions."
For more information about the Minnesota State Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence and to view the full list of 2025 recipients, please visit Minnesota State Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Tech is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, Hennepin Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.