Courses: Writing and Research Skills, China for Travelers, China: Literature and Arts, many other composition and literature courses.
Background: Fagerson has bachelor's and master's degrees in English from Harvard University.
Now in his 28th year at Inver Hills, Fagerson has a student-centered outlook on teaching. "I tell my students that good writers care about what they are saying and write to help their readers. That's the way I view my teaching, and I think that attitude is typical of all the faculty and staff at Inver Hills," he says. "We care about what we are doing, and we want to help students."
Campus culture: "One of the hallmarks of Inver Hills is the positive atmosphere that makes it a joy to work here. People like working here and react positively to change. That spirit has not changed. "Fagerson adds, "The student body demonstrates the same response to that Inver Hills atmosphere. The students feed on the fact that faculty are glad to be here and respond positively to that message."
Community contributions: Having taught at many types of higher education institutions, Fagerson understands the value and impact community colleges have. "Community colleges are a great resource for those who want to try out college or who require re-training, especially in tough economic times. Plus partnerships with the private sector, like our sister city arrangement with Chengde, China, and the college there are great examples of how the college can contribute to a community."