This committee organizes and implements professional development programs for college admission (2 and 4 year), high school counseling, and independent counseling professionals as well as professionals in community based organizations that help students on their path to further their educational goals. The three programs offered each year help attendees with personal career development, professional education and growth from shared expertise and best practices, as well as networking with peers. The committee works in concert and consultation with the MACAC President and Board.
CHAIR MEMBERSChristine Barnhouse University of St. Thomas Marie Schofer Cornell College Stacy Carpenter Carroll University Board Liaison Libby Fahrenkamp Minnesota Office of Higher Education General Members Emily Albright Minnesota State University, Mankato Emily Liebl Gustavus Adolphus College Janelle Sperry Chaska High School Jeremy Baldwin Holy Family Catholic High School Lauren Dahl University of North Dakota Marquesa Galvin Hamline University Monica Hegseth (Brown) University of Minnesota Twin Cities Norma Gutierrez Minnetonka High School Riley Nelson College Possible Sara Zimmerman Medford High School | EVENT(S)Admission Counselor Institute Date(s): July 27-28, 2026 Location: College of St. Benedict This two-day in-person conference is geared to new admissions professionals who have completed one admission cycle (or less). Registration will be available soon. Winter Forum Date(s): January 15, 2027 Location: Virtual New this year, MACAC is hosting a fully virtual winter forum. Join us for this half-day opportunity to learn and connect. Learn more about Winter Forum.Spring Conference Date(s): May 20-21, 2027 Location: St. Paul College MACAC’s spring conference welcomes college admission professionals from across secondary, post-secondary, and community-based organizations to learn, share, and grow in the profession. Learn more about Spring Conference.IMPORTANT LINKS |
This year’s Admission Counselor Institute event took place at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, MN. New admission counselors spent two days learning about financial aid, student-center admission, visiting high schools, and more. New counselors got the chance to stay in student dorms together and enjoyed a St. Cloud Rox baseball win at the group social.
