Kaler Visits Duluth

University of Minnesota System President Visits Bulldogs

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University of Minnesota System President, Eric Kaler visited the Duluth campus over the weekend.

Kaler’s stop in Duluth was part of a tour of campuses across the entire system.

While visiting the Bulldogs, Kaler held student office hours speaking to students on topics ranging from concealed carry on campus to union employee wages.

Kaler also visited football fans in the tailgate lot before UMD’s 66-17 win over Univeristy of Minnesota-Crookston.

Kaler said he believes athletics are very important for any college’s brand, as they are a rallying point for current students, alumni, and potential future students.

He added that succesful athletic programs like UMD’s provide inspiration for donors.

That’s important because donations will be needed in the near future. 

Kaler said he will be approaching the 2016 Minnesota State Legislature for a capital project to construct a new Chemistry and Material Sciences building on the Duluth campus. 

If the project is approved the building will cost $42 million and the University system will be providing $14 million of the cost.

Kaler noted the project is extremely important for UMD and the university system because it will provide degrees and research in competitive, in-demand fields.