Finding Forward Speaker Series

A speaker series that starts us talking. And listening.

If polarization is what hinders effective conversation, our Finding Forward series is what feeds it. When it can feel like the world is at a standstill, we're tackling the topics that propel us forward with the help of thought leaders from diverse backgrounds.

But this series is only the beginning. It is our hope that Finding Forward serves as an avenue for wider audiences to join the discussion, because that is how we can truly begin to break down the walls that polarization builds.

Finding Forward is a partnership between the University of St. Thomas and the Minnesota Star Tribune.

President Rob Vischer and Justice Alan Page sitting on stage answering questions

Upcoming Conversations

Join us in-person, or online.

Finding Forward returns in 2025!

Stay tuned!

Future Finding Forward events in the 2024-25 series will be announced soon.

Get in the conversation.

Watch one of our past events.

To watch the recordings below, please submit your email address for access to the video.
Reverend Tony Lowden and Dr. Yohuru Williams on stage

Reverend Tony Lowden

A conversation with Reverend Tony Lowden on championing unity and common ground in this time of political and ideological division in the United States.

Recorded October 2024.

Author Colum McCann and President Rob Vischer having a conversation on stage

Author Colum McCann

A conversation on peacemaking, grieving and storytelling.

We are grateful for financial support from the Mike & Linda Fiterman Family Foundation that made this event possible.

Recorded September 2024.

A panel discussion with Josh Metellus, Cindra Kamphoff, and Coach Johnny Tauer on mental health

Josh Metellus, Cindra Kamphoff, Coach Johnny Tauer

Mentally Tough: How Grit and Resiliency Help to Create Sustained Well-being in a World of Uncertainty

Recorded May 2024.

Ryan Long speaking at the Finding Forward event

Ryan Long

Xcel Energy President Ryan Long joins Mahmoud Kabalan, PhD, St. Thomas engineering professor and founding director of the Center for Microgrid Research, to discuss challenges and opportunities in the transition to carbon-free energy

Recorded April 2024.

Justice Alan Page sitting on the stage

Justice Alan Page

Justice Alan Page joins St. Thomas President Rob Vischer for a conversation about leadership and collaboration in an age of polarization.

Recorded March 2024.

Christopher J. Waller speaking to an audience

Christopher J. Waller

Christopher J. Waller, member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, shares his views on the government’s role in creating economic stability.

Recorded Feb. 2024.