Throughout the year, the Humphrey School hosts and co-sponsors a variety of events to honor students, faculty, and alumni, as well as individuals and organizations in our broader community whose work aligns with the School's mission: to advance the common good in a diverse and changing world.

Distinguished Carlson Lecture Series
For nearly four decades, the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, with support from Carlson and the Carlson Family Foundation, has presented the Distinguished Carlson Lecture Series, bringing to Minnesota world-renowned speakers to participate in a forum dedicated to the presentation and discussion of the most important policy issues of the day.
Our most recent Distinguished Carlson Lecture featured Gloria Steinem in conversation with MPR's Kerri Miller at Northrop on February 19, 2020.
End-of-Year Awards
At the end of each year, the Humphrey School hosts an awards brunch to recognize students from each master's program for their academic excellence. Instructors and teaching assistants are also recognized for their contributions to the Humphrey School learning community.


Government Innovation in Minnesota
Formerly known as the State and Local Government Innovation Awards, the Government Innovation in Minnesota program recognizes and uplifts the creative ways that state, Native Nation, county, township, city, and school district governments make Minnesota better.
Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards
The Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards, presented each year by the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, honor individuals, organizations, and corporations that have contributed to the common good through leadership and service.
Established by the Humphrey School in 2003, the awards have recognized 72 recipients during annual dinner presentations that have raised more than $1.5 million for student scholarships.
