Campus Conversation with MarCom VP Chris Gade
Tue, Apr 7, 2026, 3pm
Coffman Memorial Union
Minneapolis
Do you ever yearn to discuss, once again, the challenges University leaders are currently facing? You’re not alone, and here’s the good news: the UMRA Board has approved a proposal to launch a new initiative called “Campus Conversations.” This program will offer UMRA members opportunities to participate in meetings with campus leaders—including deans, center directors, and department heads—regarding their current situations and thoughts about the future.
For the first of these occasional, late-afternoon meetings, UMRA members will have the chance to meet with Chris Gade, University vice president for marketing communications. He’s the person responsible for internal communications, marketing and branding, and public relations. This includes policing the use of the University’s logos and colors, keeping us updated on current University activities, and monitoring opportunities to highlight University achievements.
The conversation will occur from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, in the Dale Shephard Room at the Campus Club on the Twin Cities campus in Minneapolis. It will allow UMRA members a chance to ask Gade questions about the University’s marketing and communication goals, and what comes next now that “Driven to Discover” (the brand launched in 2014) is in phased retirement.
For background, see "Brand Language Labs: Beginning the integration of Leave a Future" from U of M Marketing Communications.
Only 40 seats are available, so be sure to register quickly. Contact Peggy Mann Rinehart for questions about the event. For questions about reservations, contact the reservationist.
Members are welcome to purchase beverages and light snacks from the Campus Club bar to enjoy while they engage in conversation about parts of the University that have been important to our careers. And if you’re in the mood for socializing afterwards, the Campus Club Bar will be open to the public for Happy Hour until 6 p.m., and for dinner until 8 p.m.
—Peggy Mann Rinehart
Editor's note: See
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