October 10, 2025
Completion and Retention Coach Keeps Students on Track
A version of this piece originally appeared in the 2025 Anoka Tech Newsletter. View other featured stories
Life doesn’t pause for college. Anoka Technical College students face real-world challenges. Car troubles, job loss and personal setbacks can make it difficult to stay focused and meet academic deadlines.
That’s where Molly Anderson steps in.
As the college’s completion and retention coach, Anderson helps students who are struggling academically, or at risk of doing so, access the support they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
“My role is unique because it looks at students as whole people, not just learners,” Anderson said. “One of the best parts of my job is getting creative with the resources we have to support students holistically.”
Anderson guides students through academic policies, including Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements and connects them with essential support services like the Feed Your Need Food Pantry. She also helps students access financial assistance, such as Anoka Tech Foundation Crisis Grants.
But her work goes beyond connecting students to resources. She partners with them to create personalized plans for success.
“I help students make tough decisions about their education and future,” she said. “Together, we figure out what support is available, what they need, and how to move forward.”
Anderson joined the Enrollment Services team in fall 2024, bringing years of experience in student affairs and a master’s degree in postsecondary education.
While her focus is on students, her work impacts everyone on campus.
“Faculty can support students more effectively knowing I’m here,” Anderson said. “They can say, ‘Go talk to Molly and see what she says,’ and trust that nothing will be overlooked.”