Minnesota State finally held the Celebrating Excellence Ceremony to honor educators named in Spring of 2020. Although the honors were released, the ceremony was postponed because of the pandemic.

On April 21, 2021, the Minnesota State Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence were finally officially awarded.

Riverland had two "Outstanding Educators" in 2020. Catherine Haslag, Chemistry and Richard Watkins, Criminal Justice  were both honored.

Outstanding Educators are recognized as outstanding in every regard: as teachers, advisors, colleagues, scholars, and professionals.