3M and the U of M: Allies with Common Goals
Saturday, September 1, 2018
When it comes to a strong bond between a company and the University of Minnesota, 3M is one of the giants. For more than 90 years, these two entities—two of the state’s largest—have worked together to better the economy, education, and the community at large.
In the summer of 2017, 3M committed to a 14-year, $11.2 million sponsorship of Gopher Athletics, which included naming rights to Mariucci Arena. The hockey facility will now be called the 3M Arena at Mariucci. Other areas in the Athletic Village that will be supported by 3M’s gift include an expanded and modernized academic center, a nutrition education and dining space, and a leadership center devoted to helping student athletes develop the skills needed to transition into successful careers.
Most recently, 3M has made a $26 million investment in the University’s Driven campaign launched last fall. The goal of this major investment is to benefit the next generation of scientists, engineers, and business leaders.
The contribution includes an $8 million commitment to support scholarships and outreach programs. This investment is helping to build a pipeline of high-performing and diverse global talent; integrate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) into K-12 education; and prepare students to succeed in science and business.
The Carlson School’s portion of the gift will fund scholarships for diverse future leaders, as well as programs that engage emerging business minds.
“This gift reflects our ongoing commitment to the University of Minnesota, and STEM and business education,” says Kim Price, president of the 3M Foundation. “Investing in our students today ensures a solid foundation for our scientists, business leaders, and community of the future.”
3M’s current investment to the University brings the company’s lifetime total to nearly $120 million in both cash and products. Through these investments, 3M has positively impacted the lives of thousands of students through mentorships, merit-based scholarships and investments in state-of the-art facilities. Support has been greatest for the Carlson School and the College of Science and Engineering.
“3M is an incredible recruiting partner and hires across programs from undergrad, MBA, MA-HRIR, and most recently in our Masters in Business Analytics program,” says Graduate Business Career Center Director Maggie Tomas. “In 2016, 3M was the MBA recruiter of the year.”
Aside from the sheer number of students 3M hires, Carlson School 3M alumni are strong school advocates and show support through mentorship, hosting regular site visits, and assistance in interview and resume preparation. “The support we receive from our alumni at 3M is a huge reason our students land sought-after roles at 3M and we are so grateful,” Tomas says.
This article appeared in the Fall 2018 alumni magazine
Collaboration is key to success in nearly any setting. In this issue, we explore partnerships the Carlson School has forged with other colleges and programs that make the University of Minnesota stronger.