About
I grew up in a blue collar family in the farming community of Benson, Minnesota. My father Kevin worked as a laborer for Burlington Northern railroad, until a work injury cut his career short. Following his recovery he utilized his entrepreneurial spirit launching a successful landscaping and lawn care business. Growing up, I worked along side my dad learning important life lessons regarding hard work, perseverance, innovation, and the pride that comes with a job well done.
On May 21st, 2007 my father lost his battle with COPD and was taken off life support and passed away with his family at his side. My mother Toni, worked at the local bank for twenty years before she took a job at the County Treasurer’s office where she has been for the last decade. My mother instilled in me the importance of being fiscally responsible and making smart economic choices. Additionally it was through my mother that I learned the sacrifices it takes to raise a family.
As a first generation college student at St. John’s University, I met my wonderful wife Christina a student at the College of Saint Benedict. We were married at the Abbey Church and began our life together in Burnsville. For the next four years I worked in property management while Christina began her teaching career. In 2005, our family grew with the birth of our daughter Ella. Our new arrival prompted a desire to establish permanent roots in Apple Valley, a vibrant community known for its schools and commitment to families. At the same time I returned to graduate school to obtain a Master’s in Communication Studies at Minnesota State University- Mankato. From there I followed my true passion and began my career as a professor at Minneapolis Community and Technical College. In 2008, we welcomed a new addition to our family, our son Charlie.
In 2009 CTAM, the Communication and Theatre Association of Minnesota, Executive Board announced Derrick Lindstrom had been selected as the Adjunct Teacher of the year, which recognizes outstanding teaching for any faculty member who is not in a probationary or tenured position. In 2010 CSCA, Central State Communication Association Adjunct/Temporary Caucus recognized Derrick with the Adjunct/Temporary Teacher of the Year Award. Derrick was also recognized by the Student Veterans of America MCTC chapter for his outstanding dedication to veterans success in the classroom.
