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Staff Directory

Human Resources

  • Phone: (507) 222-7471
  • Fax: (507) 222-7788
Kerstin M. Cardenas
Director of Human Resources
Office: Strong House 101
Phone: x4068

Directs and manages all human resources programs, including benefits, compensation, employment, employee activities, training and communications, policies and procedures, employee relations and strategic planning. Advises and consults with employees and managers on a variety of human resources issues, especially those related to employee relations and supervision/management.

Linda M. Laughlin
Associate Director of Human Resources
Office: Strong House 105
Phone: x5989
Assists hiring supervisors in the staff recruitment processes with a comprehensive hiring process for hiring supervisors. Manages the staff recruitment budget. Conducts individual and group staff benefit orientation programs. Provides overview of benefit plans available at the College and ensures enrollment to applicable plans for employees. Answers employee questions surrounding benefits and pay.  Processes tuition benefit reimbursements. Acts as Human Resources Privacy Officer for HIPPA compliance. Assists the Director of Human Resources in various other functions as assigned.
Karyn L. Jeffrey
Associate Director of Human Resources
Office: Strong House 115
Phone: x4174

Assesses, plans and coordinates the College's training and staff development programs. Analyzes and processes the College’s compensation program. Administers all aspects of Workers' Compensation and assists with return to work. Manages the College's absence programs, paid and unpaid. Supports and coordinates with other Human Resources staff such subjects as employee relations, policy development and other areas as assigned.

Samantha K. Malecha
Human Resources Database & Information Specialist
Office: Strong House 114
Phone: x7142
Processes and maintains individual staff employment information in the Colleague data base management program. Prepares statistical summaries for multiple surveys. Monitors benefit continuation, program participation and questions. Prepares annual salary recommendation worksheets. Administers COBRA benefits. Processes health and dental billing information. Manages the Human Resources web page.
Andrea Zunkel
Administrative Assistant and Receptionist
Office: Strong House 103
Phone: x7471

Provides administrative support for Director and Associate Directors as needed. Maintains database of employee information. Assists with current position openings and job descriptions. Assists in web page maintenance and development.

Colleen M. Strese
Human Resources Administrative Assistant
Office: Strong House 104
Phone: x4175

Maintains the work of the JCC. Assists the Associate Director with Worker’s Compensation process and questions. Assists with the Staff Training programs. Coordinates annual Take Back Your Space Day. Performs employment verifications, either verbally or by mail. Assists with employee appraisal packets for electronic distribution to all division and department heads.