New Century Scholar Workforce Pathway nominees: Charlie Toegel and Dennis Vogen • New Century Scholar Transfer Pathway nominees: Padmini Prettipaul and Ketani Eticha
Four students from Dakota County Technical College have been named to the Phi Theta Kappa 2025–2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team. Padmini Prettipaul, Dental Assistant major, and Ketani Eticha, Graphic Design Technology major, made the team as New Century Scholar Transfer Pathway nominees. Charlie Toegel, Civil Engineering and Land Surveying Technology major, and Dennis Vogen, Graphic Design Technology major, made the team as New Century Scholar Workforce Pathway nominees.
Representing the best-of-the-best two-year college students from across the state, Charlie, Dennis, Padmini, and Ketani are four of a limited number of students per campus who have been selected for nomination for the All-USA/Coca-Cola Academic Team. They have been placed in competition for All-USA Academic Team, Coca-Cola Academic Team, and New Century Pathway scholarship awards.
Charlie, Dennis, Padmini, and Ketani will each receive a $250 scholarship from the DCTC Foundation to recognize their academic accomplishments. They will be honored at the All-Minnesota Academic Team Recognition Luncheon in spring 2026. Their commitment to academic excellence and community service is commendable. Phi Theta Kappa will notify all scholars in contention of their placement on national teams by April 2025.
Introduced two decades ago, the All-Minnesota Academic Team recognizes two-year college students for their leadership, scholastic achievements, and service to campus and area communities. The program provides scholarships to Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society members while promoting excellence at two-year colleges.
DCTC All-Minnesota Academic Team
Charlie Toegel
Charlie Toegel
New Century Scholar Workforce Pathway Nominee
Phi Theta Kappa 2025–2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team
Civil Engineering and Land Surveying Technology Major
U.S. Navy Veteran (served 2007–2011)
Age: 36
Hometown: Northfield, Minnesota
High school and year graduated: Montgomery-Lonsdale High School (now Tri-City United High School), Class of 2007
DCTC major and degree earning: Civil Engineering and Land Surveying Technology A.A.S.
DCTC scheduled graduation date: Spring 2026
DCTC extracurricular activities: PTK vice president and Veterans Club
Career plans: Find a job as a city or county civil engineering technician
“I’m very thankful to have been chosen as a Workforce Pathway nominee,” Charlie said, “and I hope to do my very best to show that I was a good choice.”
Three words that describe you as a college student:
MOTIVATED. CURIOUS. ENGAGED.
Charlie Toegel • Q & A
What motivated you to attend DCTC?
After 10 years as a construction laborer, I was ready for a change that would give me some more stability in where and when I’m working. My hope is that earning this degree will land me a job that provides a consistent schedule and income while still allowing for flexibility in both my career and personal life. Pausing work to go back to school full-time was a big risk, but it has paid off, and I know that my future career outlook has improved as a result.
What advice would you give someone thinking about enrolling at a two-year technical college?
I would say the value is there, regardless of whether or not you intend to transfer.
How has your participation in PTK helped advance your college career?
I was fortunate enough to be awarded a pair of scholarships from PTK that definitely helped to offset the costs associated with being a full-time student. PTK has also helped me connect with other students and meet new people.
If you could make one thing happen on Earth right now, what would it be?
Honestly, I just wish people would read and travel more. It keeps your mind sharp and your heart open.
One word that best describes your experience at DCTC:
AFFIRMING
Dennis Vogen
Dennis Vogen
New Century Scholar Workforce Pathway Nominee
Phi Theta Kappa 2025–2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team
Graphic Design Technology Major
Age: 40
Hometown: Burnsville, Minnesota
High school and year graduated: Faribault High School, Class of 2003
DCTC major and degree earning: Graphic Design Technology A.A.S.
DCTC scheduled graduation date: Spring 2026
DCTC extracurricular activities: PTK, Creative Arts & Writing Club president, Business Professionals of America (BPA) president
Career plans: Hopefully, something creative and fulfilling
“It’s an honor and sincerely humbling to be included on the DCTC All-Minnesota Academic Team,” Dennis said.
Words that describe you as a college student:
ENGAGING. ENTHUSIASTIC. SILLY.
Dennis Vogen • Q & A
What motivated you to attend DCTC?
A lot! But I really wanted to finish a degree I barely started 20 years ago; I just love to learn, so I took a leap and haven’t looked back.
What advice would you give someone thinking about enrolling at a two-year community college?
Fill out your FAFSA and look into all the resources available to you. Get involved in any way you can. Two years really does fly by; try to stay present and take as much in as you can, because the only person you cheat if you don’t is you.
How has your participation in PTK helped advance your college career?
It’s just been really nice to connect to other students who care and to discover even more of those resources available to us.
If you could make one thing happen on Earth right now, what would it be?
I’d love if, for a moment, everyone recognized that we are all part of one big thing, and all the lines and walls and barriers we create are fiction and meaningless in the end. Always love, my fellow nerds.
One word that best describes your experience at DCTC:
LIFE-AFFIRMING
DCTC Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony Spring 2025 DCTC Flickr album
Padmini Prettipaul
Padmini Prettipaul
New Century Scholar Transfer Pathway Nominee
Phi Theta Kappa 2025–2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team
Dental Assistant Major
Age: 28
Hometown: Newport, Minnesota
High school and year graduated: JC Chandisingh High School, Class of 2014
DCTC major and degree earning: Dental Assistant A.A.S.
DCTC scheduled graduation date: May 2025
DCTC extracurricular activities: Student Senate, Heritage Club
Transfer plans: Arizona State University (ASU) to pursue bachelor’s degree in Applied Biological Sciences: Pre-Dental
Career plans: Plans to work and gain experience as a dental assistant while still taking part-time classes online to achieve her goal of earning a bachelor’s degree
“This recognition is a meaningful milestone in my academic journey,” Padmini said. “It encourages me to never give up and reminds me of a quote I have always believed in: ‘At the end of any storm, there is always a rainbow.'”
Words that describe you as a college student:
DETERMINED. DILIGENT. MOTIVATED.
Padmini Prettipaul • Q & A
What motivated you to attend DCTC?
I was motivated to attend DCTC because I have always wanted to pursue higher education, but I did not have the opportunity to do so until now. After becoming a mother, it made me reflect deeply, and I realized I wanted to create a better future for my son, become a strong role model in his life, and show him that no matter the obstacles, perseverance and education can open doors to better opportunities.
What advice would you give someone thinking about enrolling at a two-year technical college?
I would encourage anyone considering a two-year technical college to take advantage of the opportunities it offers and to believe in themselves. You deserve a better career; a better life and education can be the key to that. Although challenges may arise, success is possible if you stay committed and put in the work. If I can do it while balancing different roles and responsibilities, then you can do it too.
How has your participation in PTK helped advance your college career?
My participation in PTK is an honor and has inspired me to take on other leadership roles, such as becoming involved in the Student Senate. Being part of PTK encourages me to step up, develop my leadership skills, and actively contribute to my college community.
If you could make one thing happen on Earth right now, what would it be?
If I could make one thing happen on Earth right now, it would be to ensure that every person, regardless of their background, has access to basic necessities like food, shelter, education, and proper healthcare. I would also advocate for greater support for women who are raising children while pursuing their education, so they have the resources and encouragement they need to be successful.
One word that best describes your experience at Inver Hills:
REWARDING
Ketani Eticha
Ketani Eticha
New Century Scholar Transfer Pathway Nominee
Phi Theta Kappa 2025–2026 All-Minnesota Academic Team
Graphic Design Technology Major
Age: 23
Hometown: Eagan, Minnesota
High school and year graduated: Safari Academy, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Class of 2021
DCTC major and degree earning: Graphic Design Technology A.A.S.
DCTC scheduled graduation date: Spring 2026
DCTC extracurricular activities: PTK
Transfer plans: Transferring to four-year university to earn bachelor’s degree
Career plans: Succeed in graphic design and visual communication field using her creative skills to create meaningful and community-focused work
“I am honored to be selected for the Phi Theta Kappa All-Minnesota Academic Team,” Ketani said. “This recognition reflects my hard work, perseverance, and commitment to my education, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence as I prepare for the next stage of my academic journey.”
Words that describe you as a college student:
FOCUSED. RESILIENT. DISCIPLINED.
Ketani Eticha • Q & A
What motivated you to attend DCTC?
When I moved from Ethiopia to the United States, it was challenging to find the right place to continue my education and adjust to a new academic system. I knew that graphic design was what I truly wanted to study, but I also needed a supportive environment where I could learn, grow, and understand how the U.S. education system works. Dakota County Technical College offered hands-on learning, strong academic support, and a welcoming community. It gave me a safe and encouraging place to begin my education and work toward my goals with confidence.
What advice would you give someone thinking about enrolling at a two-year technical college?
I would encourage them to take the opportunity seriously. A two-year technical college offers quality education, smaller class sizes, and instructors who are committed to student success. It is a strong place to build skills, gain confidence, and prepare for future studies or a career.
How has your participation in PTK helped advance your college career?
Being part of Phi Theta Kappa has helped me recognize the importance of academic excellence and discipline. It has given me motivation, confidence, and recognition for my hard work. PTK has also connected me with a community that values learning, leadership, and personal growth.
If you could make one thing happen on Earth right now, what would it be?
If I could make one thing happen on Earth right now, it would be to ensure that everyone, especially children, has access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, and a safe environment. When people’s basic needs are met, they have a better opportunity to learn, grow, and build a meaningful future. This belief motivates my long-term interest in community-focused work, including social service and advocacy, and guides how I hope to use my education to make a positive difference.
One word that best describes your experience at DCTC:
TRANSFORMATIVE
More about Phi Theta Kappa at DCTC…
Phi Theta Kappa is recognized as the official honor society for community colleges by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). PTK provides many leadership and civic engagement opportunities for students. PTK stands for the Greek words phronimon for “wisdom,” thumos for “purity,” and katharotes for “aspiration.”
Membership eligibility requires meeting the following criteria:
- Completed 6 or more credits at DCTC (toward an associate degree, diploma or certificate)
- Achieved a 3.25 cumulative GPA or higher.
- Achieved a 3.5 GPA in least one semester
- Currently be registered for classes
Invitations are emailed to student email accounts at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters (after the add/drop period).
Follow the links below to learn more about the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society:
LEARN MORE…
Visit Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
Learn more about Phi Theta Kappa at DCTC by contacting:
Kimberly Swinney
Director of Student Life
Phi Theta Kappa Staff Advisor
Dakota County Technical College and Inver Hills Community College
kimberly.swinney@dctc.edu
651-450-3544
Sharon Bergen
Early Childhood and Youth Development Faculty
Dakota County Technical College
Phi Theta Kappa Faculty Advisor
sharon.bergen@dctc.edu
651-423-8398
Jillian Yang
Dental Assistant Program Director/Faculty
Phi Theta Kappa Faculty Advisor
Dakota County Technical College
jillian.yang@dctc.edu
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society 2016 All-Minnesota Academic Team Inver Hills scholar
