Shirley Lofquist

Shirley was born in Inver Grove Heights, MN and graduated with a bachelor of nursing degree from the University of Minnesota in June 1972. Shortly after graduating college she moved to Bay Lake to raise her family.

Shirley worked as a registered nurse for 35 years at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center. She enjoyed nursing so much and being able to help other people that she decided to become a teacher as well. While maintaining a full time RN position, she began teaching just a couple classes. This transitioned to her going back to school to get her masters and continuing to teach full time for 26 years at Central Lakes College.

She enjoyed helping people and had such care and patience. Shirley retired as a registered nurse in 2014 and retired from teaching in the spring of 2016. Even up to her last week as a teacher, she was hesitant to retire as “her students needed her.” She worked hard to give all her students the very best education. Shirley’s vast knowledge, compassion and care were witnessed by students, co-workers, and patients.

This scholarship honors Shirley’s drive, passion, dedication and commitment to caring for and teaching others. She would be so happy to see students just like her complete their degrees and start their careers sharing their passion for nursing.