Economic Club of Minnesota

On May 20, 2025, St. Louis Federal Reserve President Alberto Musalem delivered a compelling speech titled “Economic Conditions and Monetary Policy” at the Economic Club of Minnesota in Minneapolis. Addressing a diverse audience of business leaders, policymakers, and community members, Musalem shared his insights on the U.S. economic outlook and the implications for monetary policy. His visit included a moderated Q&A session, fostering engaging discussions on pressing economic issues.  Musalem highlighted the resilience of the U.S. economy, noting a strong labor market and supportive financial conditions despite recent tightening in some sectors. He cautioned that higher tariffs could exert inflationary pressure in the near term while potentially dampening economic activity. Emphasizing the Federal Reserve's commitment to price stability, he suggested that the current modestly restrictive monetary policy remains appropriate, especially if trade tensions de-escalate, allowing inflation to align with the Fed's 2% target. However, he warned that persistent inflation could necessitate prioritizing price stability over other goals if public expectations shift. 

On April 10, 2025, the Economic Club of Minnesota hosted Professor Exequiel "Zeke" Hernandez from The Wharton School for a compelling discussion on the economic impact of immigration. Known for his extensive research on global networks and the movement of people, ideas, and businesses, Professor Hernandez provided valuable insights into how immigration influences economic prosperity.  For those interested in exploring Professor Hernandez's work further, his book, The Truth About Immigration, delves deeper into the topics discussed and offers a comprehensive look at how immigration shapes economic and social systems. 

Sheletta Brundidge, an award-winning media personality, author, and autism advocate, is making waves in the conversation about neurodiversity in the workplace. Her recent podcast episode on autism workers is an eye-opener for businesses, parents, and individuals on the spectrum, highlighting the need for inclusion and support. Championing Autism Awareness in the Workplace Brundidge, a mother of three autistic children, knows firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating a neurodiverse world. In her podcast, she explores the unique strengths that autistic employees bring to the workforce—sharp focus, attention to detail, and innovative problem-solving skills. However, she also sheds light on the barriers that often prevent them from thriving in traditional work environments. Breaking Stereotypes and Building Opportunities One of the most powerful aspects of Brundidge's podcast is its ability to challenge misconceptions. Too often, autistic individuals are overlooked for jobs due to outdated stereotypes. But as Brundidge points out, many companies, especially in tech, finance, and creative industries—are discovering the immense value of hiring neurodiverse employees. A Call to Action for Employers Brundidge doesn't just talk about problems—she offers solutions. She encourages businesses to rethink their hiring practices, offer training on neurodiversity, and how to foster an inclusive culture. The message is clear: when autistic workers are given the right support, they don't just succeed, they excel. Why You Should Listen Whether you're an employer looking to build a more inclusive team, an autistic individual seeking workplace advice, or an advocate for neurodiversity, this podcast is a must-listen. Brundidge's candid, insightful discussion makes it clear that hiring autistic workers isn't just the right thing to do—it's a smart business move.

The Economic Club of Minnesota celebrated the annual Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade Award event on March 12, 2025. Devry Boughner Vorwerk, chair of the award advisory committee, presented the award to the Honorable Kevin Brady, former congressman and former Chairman of the Joint Ways and Means Committee. Chairman Brady was chosen based on his dedication and consistent advocacy and leadership in advancing policies that promote free trade and economic growth. The audience was fortunate to hear perspectives on trade agreements, tax, and tariffs during a fireside chat between Chairman Brady and the Honorable Erik Paulsen, former congressman from Minnesota. Some key quotes were, “America first does not mean America alone, and America needs to get back on the trade field.” Chairman Brady's comments were very timely!

The Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the second half of the 2024-2025 season on Wednesday, February 26th. The audience was treated to a riveting conversation between Brian Sikes, Chairman, President and CEO of Cargill and Sri Zaheer, Dean Emerita, Carlson School of Management. Brian offered some wonderful advice to students and young professionals in attendance. “Do your job really, really, well, there are no shortcuts, there are no magic pills that you can take, treat people really, really well, and just say yes.” In addition to advice, Mr. Sikes discussed some topics that are top of mind, free trade and tariffs. Everyone in attendance was grateful to be present for this event! 

On December 18, 2024, Major Garrett, Chief Political Correspondent, CBS News, returned to the stage at the Economic Club of Minnesota. Major provided the audience with an interesting historical perspective by comparing two non-consecutive seated Presidents, Grover Cleveland and Donald Trump. While President Grover Cleveland's term was during the Gilded Age, President Trump's terms are both happening during the Digital Age. Both are animated by massive economic shocks and high expectations, both internally and externally. Major has vast experience and knowledge from covering 5 presidents in his career. He concluded his remarks, leaving the audience with this thought, “History tells us, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. One thing we know, the Gilded Age and the Digital Age have a lot to tell us about where we're headed.” The Honorable Tim Penny moderated Q & A with Major. Tim posed a few questions about Major's books, the recent presidential election, the transition, and the change in candidates from Biden to Harris. Major addressed some poignant questions from the audience. It's worth taking the time to listen to or watch the recording of this event!

On Thursday, November 21st, the Economic Club of Minnesota welcomed Maya MacGuineas, President of The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget in a discussion with Chris Farrell, Marketplace Senior Economics Contributor at American Public Media. The audience was treated to an insightful and entertaining discussion.   Maya talked about how the burning issues like Medicare and Social Security reforms are crucial to getting the fiscal house in order in the U.S.  Maya's assertion is that voters do not connect to the big issues on a visceral level, therefore, the can is getting kicked down the road. Chris Farrell and audience members alike asked wonderful questions. It's worth watching or listening to the podcast version of this great conversation. 

The healthcare ecosystem in Minnesota is a dynamic and complex network that influences the well-being of its residents and impacts the state's economic landscape. As one of the most health-conscious states in the nation, Minnesota has long been a leader in healthcare innovation, access, and quality. On October 9, 2024, the Economic Club of Minnesota hosted a discussion centered on the Economic Ecosystem of Minnesota Healthcare. The discussion featured Andrea Walsh, President and CEO of HealthPartners and Dr. Rahul Koranne, President and CEO of Minnesota Hospital Association and was moderated by retired EVP UnitedHealth Group; Director & Secretary, Economic Club of Minnesota, Jeannine Rivet.   The conversation was informative and robust. Andrea Walsh emphasized the current state of healthcare versus actual wellness. Dr. Koranne talked about how community infrastructure is critical to being able to release patients from hospitals to either home or a care facility. Boarding patients in hospitals is not a sustainable model. Another discussion point was staffing. The nursing shortage that was exacerbated during and following the COVID pandemic has been eased slightly. Dr. Koranne explained that the shortage of Primary Care Physicians and Pediatricians is a challenge facing the state of Minnesota.

The Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the 2025-2026 season on September 12, 2024, with a compelling discussion between Michael Sheldrick and Angelina Amérigo. Michael joined us as a stop on his worldwide book tour for his new book From Ideas to Impact.   Michael did a wonderful job explaining policy entrepreneurism and giving the audience some solid takeaways and a call to action.   No matter the industry or location of the respective companies in the room, Michael provided relevant information for each and every person to take back to their workplace or school. He held the attention of everyone in attendance, especially with his stories. We are all saying to ourselves, “We are not going away, we'll give it a go…we are not going away, we'll give it a go.” 

The Economic Club of Minnesota concluded the 2023-2024 season on May 10th with a lively conversation between Austan Goolsbee, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Steve Liesman, Senior Economics Reporter for CNBC.   One of the focal points of the interview was the examination of various economic indicators and what they signify for the overall health of the economy. Goolsbee and Liesman dissected metrics such as GDP growth, employment figures, inflation rates, and consumer spending, providing nuanced interpretations of their implications.  The interview with Austan Goolsbee and Steve Liesman on CNBC provided a compelling glimpse into the multifaceted world of economic analysis and policymaking. Through their insightful commentary and probing questions, they illuminated key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global economy. The conversation also ventured into the realm of economic policy, with Goolsbee and Liesman offering insights into the efficacy of current policies and the challenges facing policymakers. They analyzed the impact of fiscal stimulus measures, monetary policy decisions, and regulatory changes on economic outcomes. 

Everyone in the Economic Club of Minnesota audience felt so fortunate to hear Consul General, Alan Gogbashian's perspectives on UK/US trade, the Great Lakes Shipping Corridor, leadership, and business on April 23rd. Consul Gogbashian spent time reviewing his past 4 years in his post at the British Consulate-General Chicago. His next post has not yet been revealed publicly. Tom Hauser, Senior Political Reporter for 5 Eyewitness news moderated an engaging discussion on BREXIT, trade, protectionism, and future opportunities such as Memorandum of Understanding in many business verticals, most especially Medical Alley.  

Devry Boughner Vorwerk presented Senator Pat Toomey with the 2023 Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. The audience was treated to a lively conversation between former Senator Toomey and former Congressman Mark Kennedy. Toomey aptly explained how protectionism and nativism will ultimately undermine prosperity in the United States.   The award recognizes national and international leaders who have made significant contributions to the expansion of international trade. The award highlights the importance of free trade for global prosperity and security.  Pat Toomey was chosen due to his consistent advocacy and leadership in advancing policies that promote free trade and economic growth. 

On February 12th, the Economic Club of Minnesota was fortunate to hear Ginni Rometty in conversation with Neel Kashkari. Ginni shared wisdom on life, career, leadership, and business. Neel and Ginni covered multiple topics, including workforce development, work from home, addressing conflict, and the subject of generative AI. The audience was fascinated. Her book, Good Power, is worth reading. 

Hundreds of members, sponsors and guests of the Economic Club of Minnesota gathered Friday, December 15th to listen to a crucial discussion regarding U.S.- China Strategic Competition. Experts Zongyuan Zoe Liu and Sahra English were joined by former Congressman, Mark Kennedy to discuss the dynamic situation in China regarding the economy, supply chain changes, and trade. The audience was rapt with attention as the trio navigated this challenging yet important subject. We look forward to discussing a number of the topics in further detail in the future.

On Friday, November 3rd, the Economic Club of Minnesota welcomed Bill George and Neel Kashkari in conversation with CNN's Poppy Harlow. Harlow moderated a discussion on Leadership in Uncertain Times with Bill and Neel. The large audience were treated to lessons and stories about leaders who have gone astray as well as how to maintain one's “True North”, a nod to Bill's book by the same name. Poppy also dug into why leaders become leaders and their decisions to get involved in social matters. There were some great audience questions and Poppy concluded the event with a few questions for Neel on the recent jobs report and asked his thoughts on the comments made by Stan Druckenmiller about the U.S. Treasury leader, Janet Yellen.

The Economic Club of Minnesota hosted industry experts on October 18th to discuss the balance between returning to in-person and remote work. The panel was moderated by Jeanne Crain, President & CEO, Bremer Financial Corporation. Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council, Doug Fulton, Principal at Avison Young, and Kelly Baker, CHRO at Thrivent, had a lively discussion about the current state of commercial real estate, how companies are managing back to the office mandates, and the mental health considerations of employees. The conversation touched on several factors regarding full-time return to the office and the future of work.

On September 22nd, the Economic Club of Minnesota kicked off the 2023-2024 season with a fireside chat between Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Over 200 audience members got an inside glimpse of various topics; from how Best Buy handled the pandemic to the economy, to Corie's path to leadership. A large percentage of the audience were college students. Corie's message was inspiring for all levels of leaders and students alike.

Minnesota's Future Economy: a Post Legislative Session discussion On Wednesday, June 21st, the Economic Club of Minnesota convened a panel of legislative leaders in a discussion moderated by Blois Olson. Representative Lisa DeMuth, Representative Aisha Gomez, Senator Eric Pratt, and Senator Nick Frentz began the conversation by each giving a letter grade to the economy of Minnesota. The results were wide-ranging. Blois posed several questions of his own and weaved in audience questions. Topics included the budget surplus that was present and the beginning of the session, and how it was spent by lawmakers. Each weighed in on the potential effects of new taxes, the restrictions on charitable giving, and school funding. Blois questioned the panel on the effort to grow the population of Minnesota while retaining jobs.

In our final event of the season, a capacity audience was treated to a wonderful fireside chat between Jim Bullard, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The discussion centered around labor, recent bank failures, digital currency and the viability of the US dollar. President Bullard said, “Rumors of the great demise of the economy are overexaggerated.” The audience asked some poignant questions regarding the Chinese and the relationship to the world's reserve currency, the fitness of commercial real estate, and AI.

On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, International Women's Day, The Economic Club of Minnesota honored the 2022 Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award winner, Arancha González Laya.  Devry Boughner Vorwerk, chair of the selection committee presented the award before a capacity audience. Minister González Laya accepted the award and made remarks centering around how free and open trade is the basis for economic prosperity.  Ms. Boughner Vorwerk and Minister González Laya had a fireside chat discussing the current landscape of the World Trade Organization, how protectionist measures can cause a fracturing of international trade. Minister González Laya would like to see all players at the table; the EU, China, the US, and other members of WTO to set out a framework for fair trade and to support climate policies to reduce carbon emissions.

Ambassador Marc Nathanson, U.S. Ambassador to Norway, made a stop at the Economic Club of Minnesota during his recent visit to Minnesota. Ambassador Nathanson spoke to a full house during a luncheon on February 3rd. Senator Amy Klobuchar was in attendance and was honored to introduce the Ambassador. He discussed the strong ties between Norway and Minnesota, including his own family. Minnesota is home to the highest number of Norwegians, second only to Norway.  The purpose of Ambassador's visit to Minnesota was to celebrate the collaboration between the National Guard and the Norwegian military. The audience had some wonderful questions for the Ambassador, including an inquiry about the Seed Vault, the transition to the Green Economy, and Norway's economy.

The Economic Club of Minnesota was honored to host Hiroyuki Nemoto, Chief Executive Director, Japan External Trade Organization Chicago, and Ralph Inforzato, Special Advisor, Japan External Trade Organization Chicago, to discuss the Current Business Conditions and Impact of U.S. Based Japanese Investment. Hundreds of attendees were surprised by the data the duo shared on Japanese investment in the U.S. and specifically, in the Midwest. Ralph also talked about Expo 2025, enticing audience members to attend this exciting event in Osaka.

On December 8, 2022, Major Garrett addressed a large group of sponsors, members, and invited guests at the Economic Club of Minnesota. Major talked about the recent release of Brittany Griner, the mid-term election, and some topics he covers in his new book, The Big Truth. Garrett has an esteemed career and has a way of boiling down the facts so no matter your political leaning, you understand what he's saying. The audience had a chance to participate in Q&A, moderated by Tim Penny. Major is a well-respected journalist and author, and we look forward to hosting him again! 

A large audience had the pleasure of hearing from national experts on energy on November 18th. Emma Bishop of Venn Strategies, Jim Bowyer a former professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota, and Brittany Zwierzchowski Tisler of Conservative Energy Network had a lively discussion led by Blois Olson of Fluence Media. The panel helped the audience think about energy issues and the future of energy in some new and interesting ways. We stretched our perspective on how to replace current modes of energy and how to safely and economically move in the direction of clean energy.

October 27, 2022, we hosted a panel of global experts about food insecurity and the Global Food Crisis. Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us in person while dozens joined the livestream as moderator Devry Boughner Vorwerk led a discussion with Peter Ceretti of Eurasia Group, Ambassador Ertharin Cousin, and former Secretary of Agriculture, Dan Glickman. The audience learned where things stand today with global, national, and local food insecurity. The panelists talked about how humanitarian efforts are funded and how the investment in global hunger is growing. The discussion helped to inform how companies, not just food companies, can address hunger issues. Ambassador Cousin made a very important statement, “There has never been a famine in a country where there was a functioning democracy.” Devry also introduced HUNGHRI, a 501c3 formed to address hunger from the heartland.

Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us on May 10th as we welcomed Dr. Chris Waller, Governor, Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve and Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Governor Waller and President Kashkari had a fireside chat regarding the structure of the Federal Reserve, inflation, and monetary policy. The audience was engaged and asked some wonderful questions about employment numbers, real estate investing, and regulation.   Governor Waller and President Kashkari were a perfect highlight to end our 2021-2022 season! 

On Thursday, April 14th The Economic Club of Minnesota hosted James Cleverly, Minister of State (Minister for Europe and North America) in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The Minister covered crucial topics surrounding the valuable partnership between and coordinated sanctions by both the UK and US to cut off Putin's war machine. Support of Ukraine is not only a support for a war-torn entity, but also a support of democracy. We will all feel the economic pinch of sanctions, but they are so necessary. The address and subsequent Q&A, moderated by 5-Eyewitness News Chief Political Correspondent, Tom Hauser also touched on the incredibly valuable trading partnership between the UK and the US, specifically with the state of Minnesota.

On Tuesday, March 8th, the Economic Club of Minnesota had the distinct honor of awarding The Bill Frenzel Champion of Free Trade award to Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., former Ambassador to China and Russia. Devry Boughner Vorwerk, Chair of the COFTA selection committee presented the award. In her remarks, she focused not only on the incredible list of accomplishments but on Jon Huntsman's work for people of all nations. He truly is a champion. Following Huntsman's remarks, Erik Paulsen moderated a discussion that included trade and focused on recent events in Russia, specifically whether Putin has an ‘off ramp' and how will the Russian invasion of Ukraine affect global trade and global security. He was clear in his message that no other nation in the world can do what the United States of America can do. It's imperative we work together. A united America is one weapon dictators fear most.

A conversation with experts thriving in rural America.  Moderated by Kerri Miller, Journalist, Minnesota Public Radio Featuring: Kelly Asche, Research Associate, Center for Rural Policy and Development  Benya Kraus, Founder & Executive Director, Lead for Minnesota  Teresa Kittridge, Founder, 100 Rural Women

Our Executive Director, Kate Reschenberg sat down with Dr. Paul Campbell, co-founder and managing partner of Brown Venture Group. Paul was a panelist during the Walking the Talk of Diversity Investment event in September 2021.   In this podcast, Kate and Paul dig deeper into Paul's story and how communities of color can be players in the venture capital world. They talked about minimizing the use of labels and starting specifically with beginning with and broadening relationships. 

On November 16th, we welcomed Amanda Brinkman, Chief Brand Officer for Deluxe Corporation, Renay Dossman, President, Neighborhood Development Center, Tameka Jones, Founder & CEO, Lip Esteem, and Kenya McKnight Ahad, Founder, Black Women's Wealth Alliance, to the stage for a candid discussion about the hurdles and roadblocks that black and brown-skinned entrepreneurs face in their quest to build a business. The stories from Small Business Revolution Season 6 and the stories shared by the panel were both a wake-up call and inspiring for the audience. The common theme was to begin with relationships. If you want to make a difference for diverse businesses, patronize them. Utilize your gifts and experience to help elevate businesses. Teach, train, engage.

The Economic Club of Minnesota hosted Ville Skinnari on October 20, 2021. The Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of Finland addressed the club prior to signing a Letter of Understanding with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz paving the way for more trade between Finland and Minnesota. Skinnari covered crucial topics such as Finland's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2035, how Minnesota is a close trade partner for Finland, and how public private partnerships are crucial to getting things accomplished. 

Faith, family, and education. These three words are at the foundation of TakeCharge Minnesota, an organization founded by Kendall Qualls. We sat down with Kendall to talk about how he and his team, volunteers, and supporters are beginning to make change in our society. Kendall shares a glimpse into his journey to leading TakeCharge. He's a husband to Sheila and father to 5 children. Kendall has an extensive resume. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army, has earned 3 graduate degrees, and has worked in the executive ranks of several Fortune 500 healthcare companies.

Our season opener was a wonderful opportunity to hear from an amazing panel of experts and activators. Mark Irvin from Best Buy, Sri Zaheer, Dean of the Carlson School at the University of Minnesota, and Paul Campbell of Brown Venture Group discussed the challenges facing minority communities but also the opportunities that exist if we start with relationships. Moderated by: Roshini Rajkumar, Executive Crisis Coach, Roshini Multi-Media.

On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, we concluded our season by hosting Mary Daly, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco in a fireside chat with Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The two colleagues discussed everything from monetary policy, to inflation, to childcare, and education. The several hundred virtual attendees were delighted with the rapport and synergy that Daly and Kashkari brought to the conversation. A high point was the time they took to answer audience questions.

It was our honor to host Ambassador Jon Huntsman, former Governor of Utah and former U.S. Ambassador to China and former U.S. Ambassador to Russia. The ambassador addressed the Club from his location in Utah. Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us virtually. The event started with a tribute to Walter Mondale both from former Congressman Tim Penny and Ambassador Huntsman. The audience was rapt with attention while Ambassador Huntsman provided a historical and current day perspective of diplomacy and trade. 

Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us virtually on March 24th to welcome Amanda Brinkman Chief Brand Officer of Deluxe and is creator, producer, and host of their hit series “Small Business Revolution.” Amanda addressed business and government leaders, as well as students and representatives from partner schools.  Her remarks included a historical perspective of Deluxe corporation and great overview of the journey of a now 106-year-old company. Amanda shared how the 100-year anniversary presented Deluxe and Amanda, along with her staff, the opportunity to Do Well by Doing Good. Thus, was launched the movement of Small Business Revolution.

Back by popular demand, Colonel Robert Cabana, Director of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center joined us to talk about Perseverance and perseverance. We discussed how the Perseverance Mars Mission has progressed and the perseverance he exhibited during his career journey. He also filled us in on all of the current and future goals of NASA and their strategic commercial, government, and academic partners.

In partnership with the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal, we hosted a panel discussion featuring Craig Samitt, President & CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Angela Christman, Sr. Director, HR Strategy, Marvin, and Darin Lynch, Founder & CEO of Irish Titan.  Several hundred audience members viewed the online event. The panel covered a lot of ground, with the common theme being putting people first as plans are put in place for the post-pandemic workplace.

Neel Kashkari, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, spent time with our YPC members in a virtual fireside chat on Thursday, February 25th. Neel shared some brief remarks, followed by an engaging Q&A session with attendees. It was a great interactive event!

On December 17, 2020, the Economic Club of Minnesota partnered with Major Garrett, CBS News' Chief Washington Correspondent and host of "The Takeout," a weekly multi-platform interview show on politics, policy and pop culture available on CBSN, top radio stations across the country, and all podcast platforms. Garrett moderated a post-election discussion with Senator Amy Klobuchar and Congressman Tom Emmer. The conversation was lively and kept our several hundred attendees engaged!

A presentation of the U.S. Mexico Foundation Convocation and panel discussion with: Ambassador Gerónimo Gutiérrez Fernandez Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan Casamitjana Ambassador James R. Jones Moderated by Erik Paulsen

Learn tips and tricks on how to build a network on and off screen with Cathy Paper, from our recent Young Professional Club Event. Cathy is the founder of RockPaperStar, a boutique consulting firm that specializes in coaching, marketing and promotion for individuals, business owners or executives by offering creative ideas to improve process and performance.

It was our honor to host Antony Phillipson, Her Majesty’s Trade Minister for North America on October 5, 2020. Mr. Phillipson addressed the club from his location in New York City. Hundreds of sponsors, members, and guests joined us virtually. Mr. Phillipson talked about how we address the overarching crisis we are experiencing due to COVID-19, but also how each of our governments have responded to help recover from the economic crunch. We heard about how the UK is planning to build back better by shoring up supply chain. A highlight was the audience Q&A. Tim Penny, Economic Club Founder and Vice Chair moderated. Mr. Phillipson addressed questions surrounding Free Trade Agreement, climate, and BREXIT, as well as the close ties the UK has with businesses in the state of Minnesota.

Join our discussion on the evolution of work and business. What have we learned so far? What industries will thrive? How does work change?  Moderated by Chris Farrell, Senior Economics Contributor, Marketplace, American Public Media Featuring: Dr. Richard Migliori, EVP & Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealth Group Christy Sovereign, Senior Managing Director, Accenture Jack Uldrich, Global Futurist, The School of Unlearning

Colonel Robert Cabana, Director of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, joined us to provide an update on space exploration and talk about what’s on the horizon for NASA and their commercial partners. He shared how the current COVID-19 pandemic is affecting how they work and the common motivation for every organization involved in space to continue moving forward. It’s an exciting time to be part of NASA!

Anne deBruin Sample is an experienced business and HR leader, and the CEO and owner of Navigate Forward. Anne has an enviable track record of leading business-building transformation and developing top talent. Anne has engaged her passion for helping leaders find new destinations during times of transition. As both a Corporate client and an individual client of Navigate Forward, she is a strong believer in the power and impact of transition coaching and leadership development. In her early career Anne worked in a variety of HR and strategy roles for Whirlpool, PepsiCo, Walker Digital and Citibank. She has served as the Chief HR Officer for PepsiAmericas, SVP of Management and People Solutions at Thrivent Financial, and the Chief of People at Caribou Coffee and Bagels. Anne is a natural connector who is recognized for her ability to reframe problems, identify new solutions, manage through change and share her candid perspective. An engaging speaker, Anne is often asked to present at conferences, universities and professional events. She currently serves on Board of Directors of MyMeds, a MN-based startup that provides individuals with the digital health tools and real time data. Giving back is a top priority for Anne, as it was for the Founders. As a firm, Navigate Forward has and will continue to contribute at least 4% of corporate revenue to charitable causes in our community. When our clients land at their destination they designate the charity of their choice so that we can celebrate by making a donation in their name. Anne is personally active in several local charities including the Light of Hope Home and School for Girls in Kenya, Opportunity International, and she has been a mentor for ACES. Outside of work, you’re likely to find Anne on Lake Minnetonka or in the mountains of Colorado with her family, friends and dogs. She loves to be outside and is an avid skier, boater and hiker. She enjoys travel, entertaining and making connections. Connecting with people and helping them navigate towards a new destination inspires and motivates Anne. She shares her passion with clients, consultants and peers – always with the goal of helping people lead more fulfilling lives.

Erik is the founder of Think GREAT and draws from his experiences as a U.S. Marine, executive business leader, sales professional, and entrepreneur to help organizations achieve new levels of success. He uniquely combines leadership development, team building, sales training, and goal-setting into strategies and techniques that empower team members and leaders to exceed expectations. Erik has inspired audiences at companies such as US Bank, Sam’s Club, Shutterfly, RE/MAX, Hubbard Broadcasting, Thomson Reuters, U.S. Foods, armed services commands ranging from the Air National Guard to the U.S. Marine Corps, charities like The American Cancer Society, law enforcement and government agencies, and organizations in the health care and education industries. Think GREAT is a Certified Veteran-Owned Business and Erik is also author of The Think GREAT Collection. Erik shares the successful, proven concepts in his six books to give individuals and organizations the competitive edge needed for achieving new levels of success.

Moderated by Margaret Brennan, Moderator of CBS News; "Face the Nation" Neel Kashkari took office as president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis on January 1, 2016, following a national search conducted by the Bank’s independent board of directors. In this role, he serves on the Federal Open Market Committee, bringing the Ninth District’s perspective to monetary policy discussions in Washington, D.C. In addition to his responsibilities as a monetary policymaker, Kashkari oversees all operations of the bank, including supervision and regulation, treasury services and payments services. He has also been instrumental in establishing the Opportunity & Inclusive Growth Institute to promote greater economic equity. Committed to increasing transparency at the Fed, Kashkari has published in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post , Financial Times, and is active on Twitter and Instagram. He also serves on the board of the Economic Club of Minnesota and as a member of the Aspen Economic Strategy Group. Dr. Michael Osterholm is Regents Professor, McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health, the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, a professor in the Technological Leadership Institute, College of Science and Engineering, and an adjunct professor in the Medical School, all at the University of Minnesota. From June 2018 through May 2019, he served as a Science Envoy for Health Security on behalf of the US Department of State. He is also on the Board of Regents at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. He is the author of the 2017 book, Deadliest Enemy: Our War Against Killer Germs, in which he not only details the most pressing infectious disease threats of our day but lays out a nine-point strategy on how to address them, with preventing a global flu pandemic at the top of the list.

On April 10, 2020, Kate Kelly, Regional President of PNC Bank, talked with Mark Wright, Sr. Vice President and Director of Research for the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Their conversation centered around the history, structure and role of the Federal Reserve, and the important role the Fed has played in these times of crisis and need for liquidity. It’s a very timely discussion during the COVID-19 challenges. Mark L. J. Wright is senior vice president and director of research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. In this role, he oversees key research efforts at the Minneapolis Fed and advises the Bank’s president on monetary policy and related matters. Prior to coming to Minneapolis, Wright was a senior economist and research advisor in the Economic Research Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Wright has been an associate professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, and an assistant professor at Stanford University. He has been an economist and advisor to the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Federal Reserve Banks of San Francisco and Minneapolis, as well as an instructor at the IMF Institute. Wright received a B.A. in economics from the University of Sydney, Australia, and an M.A. and a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago. His research examines the macroeconomics of developing countries, with a specific focus on their tendency to be prone to international financial crises. Much of his recent work has been devoted to sovereign default and the process by which sovereign debts are restructured.

Bob Tipton is a high-energy, innovative, and insightful transformational change architect, leadership facilitator, keynote speaker, and author who is passionate about helping individuals, groups and entire organizations reach for and achieve exceptional results. In his career to this point, he has been CEO / Principal Change Architect for R S Tipton, PBC (Team Tipton), CEO of an IT-related professional services firm, CIO of a $1B+ distribution company, VP / managing director for the integrated marketing group for a major online agency, VP of corporate capabilities and communications for a significant professional services firm, SVP of a major technology, strategy and creative company, Global vice president of industry technology for a major technology consulting firm, and CTO of a significant IT consulting company. Additionally, he’s an active writer and author. He has written three books, What’s Right, not Who’s Right – A Simple Shift to End the World’s Madness, JUMP! – Get Unstuck, Extraordinary Life Breakthroughs Using Innovative Change, Untangling IT: 25 Years of Lessons in Effective IT Leadership, he has written more than 300 articles for various business and IT-related publications, he wrote a book related to database implementations, he wrote a chapter for IBM’s book The Business Case for e-Business, he has written more than 20 white papers related to organizational effectiveness issues (more than 500,000 copies distributed worldwide), and he has received numerous awards for his writing (including the Award of Achievement and Award of Merit) from the Society for Technical Communications.