U.S.-Based Liberian Cleric Named Co-Chair of Minnesota Workforce Development Committee

Minnesota, USA—Rev. Alexander B. Collins, a Liberian cleric based in the United States, has been appointed Co-Chair of the Work-Well Minnesota Public Policy Committee, a pivotal role within the statewide workforce development initiative.

By: By: Yawah Y. Jaivey, [email protected]

The WorkWell MN is a coalition of over 25 nonprofit community-based workforce development providers that collectively serve 30,000 Minnesotans each year, focusing on creating equitable career opportunities. The group aims to reshape long standing inequities in workforce access and address community challenges across the state.

Rev. Collins’ appointment follows his notable success as the Career and Development Manager at NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center, where he revitalized a struggling $600,000 department, increasing its funding to $4.5 million within just nine months while successfully hiring high-quality staff.

Looking ahead, Rev. Collins has committed himself to securing an additional $1 million in state and federal funding for 2025.

The Liberian Clergyman disclosed to FrontPage Africa that he has already made strides in empowering the Liberian community, hiring several individuals including Lorpu Hunter, who now serves as Career Development Coordinator, and Satta Lassanah, another recent hire managing a $250,000 allocation for New Americans seeking in-demand job skills in the Long-term Care healthcare sector.

Upon accepting his new role, Rev. Collins expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with his co-chair, Mike Wynne, CEO and President of Emerge, to foster a more equitable workforce across Minnesota.

He promised to work closely with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and state legislators to advocate for policies that enhance funding for workforce development organizations and improve access for job seekers.

“I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to serve and contribute to creating greater access for Minnesota job seekers and ensuring that all Minnesotans are work-ready,” Rev. Collins stated.

Meanwhile, Mike Wynne has welcomed Rev. Collins’ appointment, promising their shared commitment to the mission of WorkWell Minnesota.

“As the new co-chair of our committee, Alexander and I will facilitate discussions and continue to work with our team to define the committee’s objectives and activities,” Wynne remarked.

Rev. Collins’ leadership in this role is expected to pave the way for innovative workforce solutions that benefit all Minnesota residents.