For five decades, the Humphrey School has brought people together to learn, lead, and tackle the challenges facing communities in Minnesota and around the world. Throughout our 50th anniversary year, we will celebrate that legacy through a series of events, conversations, exhibitions, and gatherings that honor our history and explore the future of public leadership.
From alumni reunions and community celebrations to thought-provoking discussions and special anniversary programs, these events will bring together the people who have shaped the Humphrey School's story and those who will carry it forward.
Upcoming Anniversary Events
September 17, 2026: Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards
The Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards honor individuals, organizations, and corporations that have contributed to the common good through leadership and service. Since 2003, the awards have recognized 88 recipients and raised more than $2 million for Humphrey School student scholarships.
As we mark the School's 50th anniversary, this year's awards celebrate public service and civic leadership across generations. Honorees include Hubert H. (Skip) Humphrey III, the Carter Family, Norman Ornstein, and recipients of the Civic Spirit of Minnesota.
Thursday, September 17, 2026 | Program begins at 6:30 pm
McNamara Alumni Center, University of Minnesota
October 8, 2026: Alumni Day at the Humphrey School
Join fellow alumni at the Humphrey School as we celebrate two milestones: the Humphrey School's 50th anniversary and the University of Minnesota's 175th anniversary. Reconnect with the School, catch up with fellow alumni, and celebrate the community that has shaped five decades of public leadership.
Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 4 to 7 pm
Mondale Commons, Humphrey School of Public Affairs
November 2, 2026: Distinguished Carlson Lecture: Leadership for a More Perfect Union: Lessons from America at 250, Featuring Doris Kearns Goodwin
The event is presented by the Humphrey School of Public Affairs with support from Carlson and the Carlson Family Foundation. Admission is free and open to the public, but tickets are required.
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and bestselling author Doris Kearns Goodwin comes to the University of Minnesota for the 2026 Distinguished Carlson Lecture, “Leadership for a More Perfect Union: Lessons from America at 250.”
As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, Goodwin will draw on her study of American presidents and pivotal moments in the nation’s history to explore leadership, civic courage and the shared sense of purpose that has helped guide the country through periods of division and transformation.
The evening will begin with remarks by Goodwin, followed by a conversation moderated by Gary Eichten, MPR News editor-at-large and retired program host, exploring presidential leadership, American democracy and what history can teach us about leadership in times of national challenge.
The 2026 Distinguished Carlson Lecture will continue that tradition as part of the Humphrey School's 50th anniversary year. Additional details will be announced soon.
Monday, November 2, 2026
Northrop, University of Minnesota
Tickets are free; register here
November 10, 2026: 2026 Symposium – Democracy at A Crossroads
FairVote Minnesota and the Humphrey School will bring together scholars, practitioners, students, and other leaders for a day of conversation about democracy and the challenges facing democratic institutions and civic life.
Join us for an opportunity to bring together students and educators across generations and perspectives to create an inclusive space for those who understand democracy differently.
Part of the School's 50th anniversary year, the event will reflect the Humphrey School's longstanding commitment to informed public dialogue, civic engagement, and bringing people together to address complex public challenges.
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
McNamara Alumni Center
Learn more and get tickets
Spring 2027: Humphrey School 50th Anniversary in Washington, DC
The Humphrey School will bring its 50th anniversary celebration to Washington, DC, gathering alumni, friends, and members of the School community to celebrate five decades of public leadership and look ahead to what comes next.
The event will offer an opportunity to reconnect with the Humphrey School community and reflect on the School's enduring commitment to preparing leaders who serve the common good in Minnesota, across the country, and around the world.
March 2027
Washington, DC
More details coming soon.