Class of 2019 Celebrates Accomplishments, Commencement
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
In its 100th year, the Carlson School welcomed more than 1,500 graduates to its esteemed alumni network at commencement ceremonies held Monday at 3M Arena at Mariucci.
This year’s graduating class included:
794 undergraduates receiving Bachelor of Science in Business degrees.
757 graduate students from 11 programs, including Full-Time, Part-Time, and Executive MBA; Global Executive MBA (both China and Vienna); Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations; Master of Business Taxation; Master of Accountancy; Master of Science in Business Analytics, Master of Science in Finance, and Master of Science in Supply Chain Management.
14 doctoral students receiving PhD degrees in business administration.
This year’s keynote speaker, Jim Weber, ’82 BSB, chairman and CEO of Brooks Running Company, encouraged the graduates to become an authentic leader by having three important attributes—focus, curiosity, and trust.
“Today, I want to challenge you to become an authentic leader as I believe the world needs them now more than ever,” Weber said in his keynote speech. “It is relevant for all whether you’re an entrepreneur, a team leader, heading a non-profit or community organization, a CEO, or a CEO of your household. How you behave and play your role impacts the team you lead every day, and ultimately, your success.”
As students, the Carlson School’s Class of 2019 made an impact in our state that extends far beyond the classroom. Undergraduate students participated in the Volunteer Tax Assistance Program to help international students and other individuals in the University community with their tax returns; launched the first student-owned and student-run venture capital firm, Atland Ventures; and they collaborated with firms in Costa Rica on data challenges to help them prepare for the climate change issues facing the region.
Graduate students volunteered their time with nonprofits to address veteran homelessness in Minnesota, used data analytics to help firms improve their marketing and operation models, and uprooted themselves to learn abroad in order to develop the global mindset that future business leaders must have.
“Whether you use the degrees you have earned from the Carlson School to pursue a career in business, start your own company, lead a nonprofit, or pursue further studies; it will undoubtedly help you realize that business is a force for good, and position you to create a better tomorrow,” Sri Zaheer, Dean and Elmer R. Andersen Chair in Global Corporate Social Responsibility, told the graduates.
Relive the full commencement ceremonies by watching the videos below: