Heather’s Journey and the Impact of Giving

July 31, 2025

Heather Tkach started at Anoka-Ramsey Community College as an adult learner with a wealth of passions and life experiences to share. Heather’s path to Anoka-Ramsey had twists and turns that led her to where she is today. Her college journey began early on with a short stint at Bemidji State University and later at the Institute of Production and Recording. She dabbled in audio engineering and running sound at iconic Minnesota venues like First Avenue and the Ordway.

Heather’s household was in a stable place which allowed her to quit her job and do a deep dive into what she envisioned for her career long term. She decided to go back to school at Anoka-Ramsey and, after exploring various fields, she decided to pursue her love of science through a degree in chemistry.

“I liked that Anoka-Ramsey was close to home, had the classes I needed, and felt welcoming – especially as an adult learner.” Heather said. “I took things more seriously this time around opposed to when I was 18. This is a college that really wants students to be successful.”

Midway through her studies at Anoka-Ramsey, her world was turned upside down when her husband lost his job. While supporting her mother at that time, she found herself in a challenging financial situation. She couldn’t focus on her schoolwork due to the stress of the situation and was at risk of dropping out of school mid-semester.

With the help of her counselor, Heather accessed a crisis grant through the Anoka-Ramsey Community College Foundation and other resources offered by Anoka-Ramsey, including the campus food pantry. This support gave her and her family the time they needed to stabilize. Heather completed the semester with a 4.0 GPA with hopes of finishing her education once her finances allow.  

Later that summer, she secured a position as assistant vice president at an insurance company. Heather is grateful to have a steady job and income but has dreams of graduating from school and giving back through meaningful work.

Crisis situations like Heather’s can happen when students least expect it. The Anoka-Ramsey Community College Foundation supports students like Heather through crisis grants and other financial resources to help make college affordable and accessible. One way to support this mission is attending the Rhythm of the Rapids concert fundraiser on Sept. 18 from 5 to 8:30 pm on the Coon Rapids Campus Riverview Plaza. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music by Martin Zellar and the Hardways, food trucks, and more, as we gather to raise funds to support student success.

Learn more and purchase tickets at www.rhythmoftherapids.com.