#MyKatoMonday Landmark Edition: Minnesota State Univeristy, Mankato

Welcome to #MyKatoMonday Landmark Edition: Minnesota State Univeristy, Mankato

Each Monday, I love sharing a piece of Mankato’s rich history and vibrant community through my #MyKatoMonday Landmark Edition series. This week’s feature is extra special to me because it’s not just a landmark—it’s a place that shaped my own journey. Minnesota State University, Mankato is more than just a university; it’s a hub of education, innovation, and Maverick pride. As an alumna, I know firsthand the impact this incredible institution has on students, alumni, and the Mankato community as a whole!

🏛️ A Storied Past
Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU) was founded in 1868 as Mankato Normal School, dedicated to training teachers (Minnesota State University, Mankato - About the University). Over the years, it evolved into Mankato State College before becoming Minnesota State University, Mankato in 1998. Today, it stands as one of the largest universities in Minnesota, with over 14,000 students enrolled (Minnesota State System Enrollment Report, 2023).

🎓 A Hub for Education and Innovation
MSU offers over 130 undergraduate programs, 80 graduate programs, and a growing number of online courses, making it a leader in hands-on learning, research, and community partnerships (Minnesota State University, Mankato – Academics). The university is known for its business, engineering, healthcare, and mass communication programs, among many others.

🏒 Go Mavericks!
Maverick pride runs deep in Mankato, especially when it comes to MSU’s Division I men’s hockey team, which has earned multiple NCAA tournament appearances and built a national reputation (NCAA – Minnesota State Hockey Program). The university also competes in Division II athletics within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), fostering a strong sports culture across campus (NSIC Sports – Minnesota State).

🎭 Culture and Entertainment
Beyond academics and athletics, MSU is a cultural and entertainment hub for the region. The university is home to Andreas Theatre, the Centennial Student Union, and the Earley Center for Performing Arts, hosting concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, and guest speakers throughout the year (Minnesota State University, Mankato – Events Calendar).

🚶‍♂️ A Campus to Explore
The hilltop campus offers stunning views of Mankato, modern academic buildings, and scenic walking paths. The Centennial Student Union is a vibrant gathering space filled with dining options, student events, and places to connect with the Maverick community (Minnesota State University, Mankato – Campus Life).

💡 Fun Facts About MSU:
✅ The first campus building, Old Main, was built in 1869 and stood until the late 20th century (Blue Earth County Historical Society).
✅ The university officially adopted the Mavericks as its mascot in 1977 (Minnesota State University Athletics).
✅ MSU alumni include Glen Taylor, owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and David Backes, former NHL player (Minnesota State Alumni Association).
✅ The campus appeared in the 1995 movie D3: The Mighty Ducks (IMDB – D3: The Mighty Ducks Filming Locations).
✅ I earned my bachelor's degree in mass communication with an emphasis in public relations from MSU! 🎓💜💛

Sources:

• Minnesota State University, Mankato. (n.d.). About the University. Retrieved from www.mnsu.edu
• Minnesota State System Enrollment Report. (2023). Total Enrollment Data.
• NCAA. (n.d.). Minnesota State Hockey Program.
• NSIC Sports. (n.d.). Minnesota State Athletics.
• Minnesota State University, Mankato. (n.d.). Academics & Programs.
• Minnesota State University, Mankato. (n.d.). Campus Life.
• Blue Earth County Historical Society. (n.d.). History of Mankato and MSU.
• Minnesota State Alumni Association. (n.d.). Notable Alumni.
• IMDB. (n.d.). D3: The Mighty Ducks Filming Locations.