Winona State University is proud to welcome Kirk Carlson as its inaugural Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success (VPEMSS), a role that reflects the university’s commitment to a unified, student-centered approach to recruitment, retention, and support.
Kirk Carlson, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success
Carlson brings more than two decades of experience in enrollment strategy and student success, having served in leadership roles at both Otterbein University and Gustavus Adolphus College. His career has been shaped by a deep understanding that enrollment and student success are inseparable, and that every touchpoint in a student’s journey matters.
“Everything we do as staff, faculty, and administrators is ultimately about helping students succeed.”
A Vision Rooted in Community and Impact
Carlson steps into his new role with a clear focus: building a seamless, student-centered experience that connects recruitment, retention, and support. His leadership is grounded in the belief that enrollment management and student success are not separate functions—they are part of one continuous journey.
He is especially energized by the opportunity to lead a newly formed division that brings together key areas shaping the student experience, from admissions and advising to financial aid and marketing and communications. This structure allows Winona State to take a more integrated approach to supporting students, ensuring that their path from inquiry to graduation is cohesive, responsive, and empowering.
“Affordability, academic quality, and outcomes should not just be talking points—they should be lived realities for our students.”
Why Winona?
Carlson’s decision to join Winona State University is both professionally strategic and personally meaningful. He and his wife grew up in the region, and returning to serve here feels like coming home. What drew him most was Winona State’s commitment to putting students first—through intentional support structures, collaborative campus culture, and a clear focus on helping learners thrive from enrollment through graduation.
“Winona State is consistently recognized as one of Minnesota’s best value colleges. The balance of low net cost, scholarship support, and strong retention helps students maximize return on their educational investment.”
Since arriving, Carlson has been inspired by the collaboration and pride he’s witnessed across campus. Serving on several committees, he’s seen firsthand the dedication faculty, staff, and students bring to their work—and to each other.
“The excitement and commitment across the university are unmistakable. It makes me even more energized to be part of this community.”
Now, as he steps into a leadership role that unites enrollment and student success, Carlson is eager to build on Winona State’s strengths—ensuring that every student feels supported from their first interaction through graduation and beyond.
First-Year Priorities
Carlson’s top priorities during his first year at Winona State include:
- Unifying recruitment and retention under one strategic vision
- Leveraging data and marketing to tell the Winona State story in fresh, authentic ways
- Enhancing advising, orientation, and first-year/second-year experiences
- Expanding access and affordability for students from all backgrounds
- Building strong campus partnerships to support student success collaboratively
Aligning with Winona State 2035
Carlson sees enrollment strategy as a key driver of the university’s long-term vision. He’s committed to inclusive outreach, data-informed decision-making, and reinforcing the values of Warrior Way, Warrior Edge, and Warrior Shield – ensuring every student feels they belong, are prepared, and are supported.
“We’re not just growing in numbers—we’re growing in the richness and breadth of the community we serve.”
Fun Facts
Outside of work, Carlson is a lifelong fan of Great Danes and has coached over 30 youth soccer teams, despite never playing soccer himself! A few of those teams even captured state titles.