Alumni Happenings: Fall 2026

Every event brings new insights, experiences and connections for alumni and friends of Minnesota Carlson. Here are some highlights:

Around the World with Minnesota Carlson

Dean Jamie Prenkert and the Alumni Relations team enjoyed seeing many alumni and friends in cities around the world over the past year. From New York to Seattle, alumni networked and socialized with each other, and in several cities they were joined by students on industry-specific treks, exploring new careers and places. Alumni from international programs were in on the action, too. Earlier this fall, Prenkert and Alumni Relations visited alumni in China, and in the summer, they held events in Warsaw and Vienna. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (pictured right), in Austria on a trade mission, spoke to alumni and students at the Vienna event about the importance of maintaining strong connections between our regions.

Job Search Groups and Alumni Career Connect

Minnesota Carlson alumni are leaning into alumni career services to support their career growth. This spring, monthly programs supported more than 400 alumni in their career journeys. Programs included a New Year Job Search Reset session, bi-monthly job search groups, and the launch of a new program called Alumni Career Connect — alumni-led networking circles focused on industry, function and expanding networks.

Tailgate with Carlson this Homecoming!

This Homecoming Weekend, Minnesota Carlson is hosting a Reunion Tailgate before the Minnesota Gophers vs. Iowa Hawkeyes game on Saturday, October 24. Carlson will provide the snacks and beverages — you bring the Gopher cheer!

Summer in Seattle

Alumni in Seattle gathered in July for a fun day out at Reuben’s Brews. This dog-friendly event was a great way to meet fellow Minnesota Carlson alumni in preparation for the Gopher football team’s September matchup against the Washington Huskies. The two teams played each other in Seattle for the first time since 1977.

Help plan an event in your city. Reach out to [email protected] to learn more.

The Growing Alumni Community

In May, 1,551 new members joined the Minnesota Carlson alumni community. They represent more than 1,000 newly conferred bachelor’s degrees and more than 500 master’s degrees from 15 degree programs. In addition to the commencement ceremonies, graduates celebrated their achievements at several events. At Farewelcome, graduating students had the opportunity to learn about programs and benefits available to them as alumni while picking up the popular — and exclusive — Carlson alumni mug. Women from the Executive MBA programs gathered for a brunch, while undergraduates and their families celebrated in style at a Grad Celebration at Minneapolis Event Center.

Carlson Women Global Connect Partners with Girls on the Run

For the second year, Carlson Women Global Connect has partnered with Girls on the Run, an after-school empowerment program for girls in grades 3-8, to pack supplies to prepare for fall events. Carlson Women Global Connect offers year-round events and opportunities to connect with fellow Carlson graduates.