News and Notes: Fall 2020

Affinity Networks 
Connect with and support fellow Carlson School alumni with similar backgrounds and experiences. By joining one of the Carlson School’s Alumni Affinity Networks, you can be part of a supportive group of Carlson School alumni, and help to build a stronger, inclusive alumni community.

The Carlson School Alumni Affinity Networks include: Alumni of Color, Carlson Women Connect, LGBTQ+, and Military and Veterans.

We invite individuals who identify with these affinities and allies to participate. Opt-in to one or more mailing list to receive communications with news and events at z.umn.edu/carlsonaffinity.

Remembering Volunteer and Leader Curt Sampson ’55 BSB 
The University of Minnesota and Carlson School communities continue to mourn the loss this summer of alumnus and University champion Curt Sampson, ’55 BSB.

Sampson was a long-time leader at the University and Carlson School, serving as a University of Minnesota Foundation Trustee and on the Carlson School Board of Advisors. Curt and his wife, Marian, were incredibly generous philanthropists to the University, supporting student scholarships and critical University initiatives. Curt and his family also hosted the Carlson Day at the Races at their Canterbury Park racetrack, welcoming thousands of Carlson School alumni over many years at what was then the School’s largest annual alumni event.

In recognition of his contributions to the University, Curt was honored with the Outstanding Achievement Award in 1996. We remain grateful for all the gifts Curt shared with the School and our community throughout his distinguished life and express our continued condolences to his family.

New Investors Circle Levels 
Gifts to the Carlson School are investments in the future—they allow our inquisitive and driven students to discover and chase their passions, regardless of their financial means. Investors Circle benefactors make it possible for the Carlson School to deliver a transformative education, one that empowers our students to find their career paths, hone the skills they’ll need to flourish, and develop as leaders who will shape our world. In appreciation of the support of our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends, the Carlson School has reimagined how we recognize our Investors Circle donors with a variety of privileges at distinct giving levels:

• MAROON ($1,000–$2,499)
• SILVER ($2,500–$4,999)
• GOLD ($5,000–$9,999)
• PLATINUM ($10,000–$24,999)
• DIAMOND ($25,000 and above)

Learn more by visiting our website at z.umn.edu/investorscircle.

Catherine Mathis Selected to Hall of Femme 
Catherine Mathis, ’75 BSB, ’79 MBA, was inducted last month into PR Week’s Hall of Femme. Mathis, who sits on the Carlson School’s Board of Advisors, is currently the Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at McGraw-Hill Education. Prior to McGraw-Hill, Mathis held executive positions at Standard & Poor’s and The New York Times company. Mathis joined a class featuring 15 other public relations leaders. Inductees into the Hall of Femme are nominated by industry peers and must be among the most senior level communications professional at their agency, brand or non-profit organization. 2020 marks the fifth year of PR Week celebrating these industry leaders.