LONG BEFORE I had the privilege of serving as president, Minnesota was my second home.

I married a Minnesotan from St. Paul, and through our family I’ve spent time across the state, including summer trips in the Boundary Waters. My father-in-law, Bill Cunningham, was a faculty member at the University for nearly 40 years. Through him and through time spent traveling the state with my family, I came to understand something that has stayed with me: The University of Minnesota is deeply woven into the fabric of this state.

As another class of students graduate from all five campuses this spring, I am reminded of what this University makes possible, not just during students’ time here, but in the lives they go on to lead.

Today, that impact is tangible: University of Minnesota graduates are employed or continuing their education at high rates, earn more over time across every field of study, and most choose to build their careers right here in Minnesota.

During visits to our campuses and cities, communities and rural areas across Minnesota, I see the University’s impact more clearly than ever. As we celebrate the University’s 175th anniversary, I am reminded every day that building on this legacy is both a responsibility and a privilege.

What I have seen so far as the 18th president is a University moving forward with purpose. A University steadily building momentum, grounded in academic excellence. Across disciplines, our programs continue to rank among the best in the nation. For example, our Medical School stands out as a Tier 1 institution for primary care and ranks second in the country for training Native American physicians.

I also have seen how we are evolving to meet the big challenges of our time. In April, we launched a University-wide AI Hub, bringing together partners across academia, industry, and government to advance innovation, education and workforce development—all while doing so in responsible ways. This work ensures our students are not only prepared to use emerging technologies, but to help shape them.

Across all five campuses, each with its own strengths, we’re working more intentionally as one University. For example, we are taking a more unified approach to how we engage prospective students, while continuing to highlight the distinct opportunities and experiences each campus offers. We’re also working to better align our academic calendars across campuses to unlock possible opportunities to expand the learning experiences we provide. This aligned approach across campuses allows us to expand the University’s reach and deliver more for Minnesota. It also strengthens the value of a University of Minnesota degree—one that remains among the most affordable four-year options in the state, while supporting strong graduation rates and real-world preparation that makes our students ready for life after college.

These are all meaningful steps forward in the University’s strategic roadmap, Elevate Extraordinary 2030. They reflect a University that is forward-looking, grounded in its public mission, and focused on preparing students to lead in a changing world.

As we look ahead to the summer, I am especially focused on continuing to spend time across Minnesota. I have already had the opportunity to visit many of the state’s 87 counties, and my goal is to visit them all. In the months ahead, I look forward to being in communities around the state, including at county fairs and the State Fair, to listen, learn, and connect with Minnesotans and alumni.

For the University’s alumni and friends, your role in helping this University move forward with purpose remains essential. You bring the University to life beyond our campuses—by mentoring students, sharing your expertise, and demonstrating every day the value of a University of Minnesota education. As I travel across Minnesota this summer, I hope to see many of you as we work together to shape the future of this University, this state, and the world.

Rebecca Cunningham
President

If you liked this story, Minnesota Alumni magazine publishes four times a year highlighting U of M alumni and University activities. Early access to stories and a print subscription are benefits of being an Alumni Association member. Join here to receive a printed copy at home.