Power Luncheon | A Conversation with University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham

Join TeamWomen for an inspiring conversation between University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham and WCCO Radio’s Vineeta Sawkar as they explore her remarkable leadership journey, from the ER to the president’s office.

Together, they’ll discuss the pivotal moments that shaped her career, what she’s learned during her first two years leading the University of Minnesota, and the leadership principles she relies on to guide one of Minnesota’s most influential institutions through change. You’ll also hear how the University is advancing innovation, strengthening healthcare, driving economic vitality, and preparing the next generation of leaders across our state.

This conversation isn’t just about higher education. It’s about unexpected career journeys, leading through complexity, and why the best leaders are often the ones willing to embrace change. Whether you’re navigating your own next chapter, leading a team through uncertainty, or simply wondering what’s possible in your career, you’ll leave with fresh perspective and practical leadership insights.

You’ll leave inspired to:

• Build trust while making difficult decisions.
• Think bigger about your own leadership journey.
• Discover how purpose-driven leadership creates lasting impact.

You’ll also have the opportunity to ask your own questions during a live audience Q&A as President Cunningham shares her vision for the future of the University of Minnesota and how leaders across our state can help shape what’s next.

Online Registration Ends October 4, 2026

Rebecca Cunningham became the 18th President of the University of Minnesota on July 1, 2024.

Over the past two years, under her leadership, the University has strengthened its academic excellence, exceeded fundraising targets, and built on its land grant mission. Today, nearly two-thirds of Minnesotans and 8 in 10 Minnesota leaders have a favorable impression of the University. The University’s new strategic roadmap, Elevate Extraordinary 2030, outlines a bold vision. It positions the University as a magnet for top talent, a powerful driver of economic vitality, and one of the nation’s most impactful public research universities. Central to that vision is the University’s role as a modern land-grant institution that delivers real-world solutions, expands opportunity, and serves the public good in Minnesota and beyond.

Vineeta Sawkar is a 5-time Emmy award-winning journalist who has focused her career on reporting and anchoring in the television news business. She is actively involved in the community as an event emcee, non-profit board member, and adviser to charitable groups. After leaving the TV business, she spent several years at the Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper, The Minnesota Star Tribune. She is now the on-air host of The Morning News on News Talk 830 WCCO. Minneapolis Star Tribune readers voted her Best Radio Personality in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

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