Arrowhead Transit Named Minnesota Transit System of the Year; Colette Hanson Honored as Transit Professional of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2025
Arrowhead Transit Named Minnesota Transit System of the Year; Colette Hanson Honored as Transit Professional of the Year
Rochester, MN — Tonight at the Minnesota Public Transit Association (MPTA) Annual Conference, Arrowhead Transit was named 2025 Transit System of the Year. At the same ceremony, Colette Hanson, Assistant Director of Administration, received the 2025 Transit Professional of the Year Award.
“This recognition is about more than buses and routes — it’s about people,” said Brandon Nurmi, Director of Arrowhead Transit. “Every ride matters, whether it’s a worker heading to their shift, a student getting to class, or a senior reaching the doctor. This award belongs to the communities we serve and the team who makes it possible every day.”
Arrowhead Transit’s award comes in a milestone year, following its 50th anniversary in 2024, the launch of RideSmart 2025 in Chisago and Isanti counties, expanded service to Minnesota North College, and the successful assumption of operations in Hibbing.
Hanson, who began with AEOA in 2007 and joined Arrowhead Transit in 2013, was recognized for her steady leadership and advocacy for the Volunteer Driving Program. “This is truly humbling,” Hanson said. “I share this honor with my colleagues at Arrowhead Transit, who are committed to reducing barriers and keeping our region connected.”
The MPTA awards highlight individuals and systems that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and impact in public transit across Minnesota.
About Arrowhead Transit
Founded in 1974, Arrowhead Transit is Minnesota’s largest rural public transportation system, serving over 600,000 riders annually across a 10-county region. Its mission is to provide affordable, safe, and accessible public transportation while reducing barriers and connecting communities to healthcare, education, employment, and recreation.
Media Contact:
Dominick Olivanti
Communications Manager, Arrowhead Transit
218-735-6815 | dominick.olivanti@arrowheadtransit .com
arrowheadtransit.com
