Years of thought leadership and meaningful dialogue

First Friday
Since 1991, St. Thomas alumni and friends have been drawn to First Friday Speaker Series to engage with the community’s most interesting thought leaders, innovators and changemakers. The speakers’ often candid – and always relevant – messages offer a unique perspective on the common good and divulge what’s next for Minnesota and beyond.
2022-23 Season
The 2022-23 season is underway! Check back frequently for updates on upcoming speakers and topics.
Information about our May First Friday speaker is coming soon!
2022-23 Speakers

October 2022
In October, attendees enjoyed a virtual conversation between business leader, bestselling author and executive fellow Bill George and Dr. MayKao Hang, vice president and founding dean of the Morrison Family College of Health.

November 2022
This dialogue helped guests better understand a consistent underlying theme in American sports: race. Dave St. Peter, President and CEO of the Minnesota Twins, and Dr. Yohuru Williams, Distinguished University Chair and Professor of History, and Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas discussed this important topic on site at Target Field.

February 2023

March 2023
On March 3 guests came back to campus for a luncheon panel that featured thought leaders in veteran-focused organizations, moderated by Karen Lange, VP of Student Affairs.
Watch Video from Last Year
2021-22 Speakers

November 19
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and Dr. Yohuru Williams, founding director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas discussed racial equity, educational disparities and where we go from here.

February 4

March 4

April 1

Watch From Home
Couldn't make it to a First Friday? Watch previous speakers on our YouTube channel. Recordings of the 2020-21 season can also be found above.