Tommies in Our Communities
Brian Cruikshank '90
Location: Eden Prairie, MN
Tommies in Our Communities
Location: Eden Prairie, MN
Brian Cruikshank’s journey to St. Thomas was guided by both faith and opportunity. After starting college in his hometown at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, it was his parish priest who encouraged him to explore St. Thomas. “The campus, commitment to academic excellence and spiritual enrichment all stood out to me when I made my decision to become a Tommie,” Cruikshank said.
That decision set the foundation for a career built on strategy, curiosity and service. Cruikshank has spent his entire career in strategy and insights consulting, working with Fortune 1000 clients in industries ranging from technology to healthcare. His entrepreneurial drive later led him to co-found empatiX Consulting, where he continues to help organizations elevate their brands and deliver better customer experiences.
Looking back, Cruikshank credits St. Thomas with providing more than academics. It gave him values that continue to shape his life. “My time at the University of St. Thomas was incredibly formative because of its grounding in the values of the Catholic faith, focus on disciplined, intellectual problem-solving and commitment to community,” he said. It was also where he met his wife of 33 years, making his St. Thomas experience even more meaningful.
Cruikshank carries forward the mission of “all for the common good” by mentoring students, coaching and supporting community organizations. “I strive to use my skills, time and relationships to make a positive impact in the community,” he shared. His advice to current Tommies is to immerse themselves fully while taking advantage of the opportunities, building authentic relationships and remaining open to where their journey may lead. For Cruikshank, St. Thomas was not only the place where he grew academically and spiritually, but also
where he learned to approach life with empathy, resilience and a commitment to others.
“My time at St. Thomas was incredibly formative through its grounding in the values of the Catholic faith, focus on disciplined, intellectual problem solving and commitment to community. Its vibrant campus community fostered a growth mindset, empathy and collaboration while rigorous academics inspired curiosity and strengthened my critical thinking. This blend of faith, service and intellectual rigor continues to guide my work and life.”
“Actively engage fully in your experience as a Tommie. St. Thomas has so many resources and opportunities to take advantage of. Immerse yourself in the community, seek out mentors among faculty, staff and alumni, stay curious and push outside your comfort zone with a growth mindset. The relationships you build while at St. Thomas will last a lifetime.”
“Approach your career with curiosity and openness, knowing that the path ahead will most likely not be a straight line. Take time to explore different interests, say ‘yes’ to opportunities that stretch your skills and don’t be afraid to pivot when your passions or circumstances change. Actively build and maintain relationships with colleagues, peers, mentors and friends because your network will be leveraged for others and open doors to new opportunities in the future.”
“It is an amazing time to be a Tommie. In addition to a beautiful campus in an urban location, the move to D1 athletics and continued investments across academics and facilities has never been stronger. The Tommie alumni network is also a wonderful resource to tap into throughout your career.”