Commencement Ceremonies Celebrate Class of 2026

More than 1,500 Minnesota Carlson students officially became alumni on May 18 following two commencement ceremonies at 3M Arena at Mariucci on campus.

This year’s graduating class included:

• 1,034 undergraduates receiving Bachelor of Science in Business degrees.
• 505 graduate students receiving master’s degrees.
• 12 doctoral students receiving PhD degrees in business administration.

“As you step beyond our campus, remember the spirit of agility you’ve cultivated. The business world is dynamic, demanding adaptability and continuous learning. Embrace the unexpected, stay curious, and see change as an opportunity for growth and innovation,” said Minnesota Carlson Dean Jamie Prenkert, who spoke at both ceremonies.

University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham also addressed the undergraduate ceremony.

Allison Gettings, ’17 MBA, CEO of Red Wing Shoe Company, was the keynote speaker at both ceremonies. She encouraged students to believe in themselves, stay strong in the face of inevitable challenges, and invest in their relationships.

“At the end of it all, it’s not just about the work. It’s about finding work worth doing. It’s about building a life worth living,” Gettings said.

Each ceremony featured a student speaker: Katelynn Riviere, ’26 MMKTG, for the graduate students, and Sofiia Oprishko, ’26 BSB, for the undergraduates. Also at the undergraduate ceremony, Mia McGraw, ’26 BSB, received the 2026 Tomato Can Loving Cup Award, the most prestigious award the Carlson School of Management bestows on an undergraduate student.