Current Events
Disclaimer: Please note, when you choose to attend an event be sure you are able to stay for the entire event if leaving early would be considered disruptive by event organizers. Additionally, the PEP Team is not responsible for canceled events. It is up to you to check with the original organizers of an event if an unexpected cancellation would inconvenience you. Attending an event where the presenter does not show up will not count towards PEP event attendance.
| Event Name | Date/Time | Location | Description | Capacity | Category | Subcategory | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridging Borders: Exploring Supply Chain in Japan, South Korea & China - Info Session | September 30, 2026 10:00am | LSBE 310/320 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Interested in international supply chain management? Check out this info session to learn about this Summer 2027 program in Japan, South Korea & China! PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Experience the dynamic business environments of Japan, South Korea, and China with exclusive seminars and corporate visits; Gain hands-on insights into international supply chain management and strategic business operations; Engage in immersive cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage and modern innovations of three leading Asian economies; Connect directly with top business leaders and academic experts; Enhance your global perspective and career readiness through a comprehensive curriculum. Contact wqzhang@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 25 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Orange Shirt Day -- "Every Child Matters" | September 30, 2026 1:30pm | Kriby Rafters | (1:30-3pm) The Vermilion Lake Indian Boarding School: From Assimilation to Termination. Linda Legarde Grover, Professor Emeritus in American Indian Studies, is the guest speaker. The event is in honor and remembrance of those involved with boarding schools, the survivors and their families, as it has affected Native/Ojibwe people during this time in American history. Contact ailrc@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 50 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| David Vose Economics Lecture Series: Dr. Claudia Sahm, "Why the economy is so tough to read ... and getting tougher" | October 1, 2026 10:30am | Kirby Ballroom | (10:30 am social; 11:00 am lecture) Dr. Claudia Sahm will discuss how three forces are making the U.S. economy harder to read and the right policy response harder to determine. First, an unusual string of supply shocks—the pandemic, tariffs, swings in immigration, energy disruptions, and now artificial intelligence—has broken rules of thumb built for a demand-driven economy. Second, heightened policy uncertainty has changed how businesses and families behave. Third, despite an explosion of private-sector data, government statistics are under growing strain, putting even basic facts about the economy in dispute. As a result, the policy conversation is often stuck on the standard question, "Is a recession coming?" instead of the more important one, "Is the economy being rewired?" This lecture is about how to tell the difference: what the old signals can and can't tell us, and how the Federal Reserve, businesses, and families can navigate an economy that keeps getting harder to read. Contact lkovach@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 300 | A-2017 | 5 | |
| Sustainability in Scandinavia Info Session | October 1, 2026 5:00pm | LSBE 310/320 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Explore some of the most sustainable countries in the world: Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Immerse yourself in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark as you experience the cultures, cities, and sustainable lifestyles in Scandinavia; Compare and contrast the sustainability of some of the most sustainable countries with the United States; Become a consumer of Scandinavia, exploring how consumers compare and contrast to Americans; Engage with local, sustainable businesses, universities, and city leaders, as you learn about how Scandinavians live and work in a sustainable city; Increase your appreciation of the sustainable impact of cultural, geographical, and societal diversity in Scandinavia. Contact mlunde@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 35 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Psychology Speaker Series: Dr. William Erickson | October 2, 2026 1:00pm | Griggs Center | Dr. William Erickson, Associate Professor at Texas A&M University–San Antonio, will discuss his research in a talk titled “Using Image Morphing to Create More Accurate Age-Progressed Images of Missing Children.” Dr. Erickson’s talk is the first installment of the UMD Department of Psychology’s 2026 Psychology Speaker Series. Contact korlando@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | A-2017 | 15 | |
| Sustainability in Scandinavia Info Session | October 5, 2026 4:30pm | LSBE 310/320 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Explore some of the most sustainable countries in the world: Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Immerse yourself in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark as you experience the cultures, cities, and sustainable lifestyles in Scandinavia; Compare and contrast the sustainability of some of the most sustainable countries with the United States; Become a consumer of Scandinavia, exploring how consumers compare and contrast to Americans; Engage with local, sustainable businesses, universities, and city leaders, as you learn about how Scandinavians live and work in a sustainable city; Increase your appreciation of the sustainable impact of cultural, geographical, and societal diversity in Scandinavia. Contact mlunde@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 35 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Songs of Our Heritage: To Finland, With Love | October 5, 2026 6:00pm | UMD Kathryn A. Martin Library Ranta Rotunda Reading Room | (6-7:30pm) A Poetry-Cello Collaboration for “Finnish Identities in Minnesota”, an International Education Week series. Luja Tahto Vie Lapi Harmaan Kiven (A strong will will carry you through the gray stone). Part of the Finnish Identities in Minnesota series. Poet Susan Perala-Dewey and her daughter, cellist Dr. Lindsay Schlemmer, will present a collaboration inspired by their Finnish heritage. As part of the program, Schlemmer will perform Jean Sibelius’ Theme and Variations for Solo Cello, 1887. Contact elws@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| “The Librarians” Documentary Screening | October 6, 2026 6:00pm | Bohannon Hall (BohH) 90 | (6pm-8:30pm) Librarians emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and our First Amendment Rights. As they well know, controlling the flow of ideas means control over communities. In Texas, the Krause List targets 850 books focused on race and LGBTQIA+ stories – triggering sweeping book bans across the U.S. at an unprecedented rate. Please join the Kathryn A. Martin Library for a screening of the documentary, The Librarians, as well as a banned books discussion panel. Contact crmiller@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 50 | B-2017 | 5 | |
| Domestic Violence 101 | October 7, 2026 3:00pm | Kirby Rafters | (3-4pm) For Domestic Violence Awareness Month, learn more about the experience and impacts of domestic violence at this educational presentation featuring the interactive In Her Shoes® activity, led by Grace Jesch, Education and Engagement Coordinator at Safe Haven Shelter and Resource Center. Sponsored by UMD Women's Resource and Action Center. Contact them with questions or for more info. | 35 | B-2017 | 4 | |
| Intersections of Public Health and Art in Italy - Info Session | October 8, 2026 3:30pm | Sports and Health Center (SpHC) 119 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Want to study the impact of health on art while abroad in Italy? Check out this study abroad info session to learn about this May 2027 program! Contact edabroad@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 35 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| (St. Scholastica) "Local Panel: Immigration in Duluth" | October 8, 2026 7:30pm | St. Scholastica Mitchell Auditorium (1200 Kenwood Ave); free and open to the public | (7:30-9pm) Summary: This year's Tom Morgan Honorary Local Panel examines immigration in the Duluth community. After the tense politics and activism of immigration enforcement in Minnesota in the winter of 2026, we take stock of the current situation in the Twin Ports. Program Details: A panel of engaged citizens will share perspectives on the legal, historical, and social circumstances of immigration politics locally. This event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Duluth. Contact tlorek@css.edu with questions or for more info. | 50 | B-2017 | 5 | |
| Kirby Student Center's 70th Anniversary | October 10, 2026 4:00pm | Kirby Lounge (1120 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN 55812) | (4pm-6:30pm) For 70 years, the Kirby Student Center has stood at the heart of campus life—a place where ideas are exchanged, friendships are formed, and memories are made. Since its opening, Kirby has evolved alongside generations of students, serving as a vibrant hub for learning, connection, and community engagement. Contact kirby@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. | 100 | A-2017 | 9 | |
| Fall Drag Show | October 10, 2026 5:00pm | Kirby Ballroom | (5-9pm) QASU invites the campus community to the annual Fall Drag Show, featuring student, alumnx, and community performers. Sponsored by UMD Queer and Allied Student Union. More details about the call for performers, how to buy tickets, and when doors open are available on QASU's Instagram: @umdQASU. Contact them with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 4 | |
| Excel Workshop Series 2 (virtual) | October 12, 2026 10:00am | VIRTUAL | 10/12-10/16/2026. The individual workshop sessions will be delivered entirely virtually and do not require a specific meeting time. There will be OPTIONAL virtual office hours available for students who have questions or need extra support: 10:00-11:00am, Mon-Fri, during the series week. Students must complete all steps in the virtual Series 2 workshop, including viewing exercises in their entirety, and cannot fast-forward or skip. | 150 | A-2017 | 22 | |
| UMD AI Summit - "Beyond the Hype: Practical AI, Human-Centered Work" | October 12, 2026 1:00pm | Kirby Ballroom | (1-5pm) Hosted in partnership with the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature a keynote address, four TED-style presentations, and a panel discussion. Speakers will address practical applications of AI, emerging developments in the technology, and the importance of human judgment, creativity, ethics, and leadership in an increasingly AI-enabled workplace. 12:30pm check-in; 1-4pm program; 4-5pm social & reception. Contact mgilderm@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info or go to the event's webpage. REGISTER via the link. | 300 | A-2017 | 5 | |
| MBA 4+1 Info Session | October 13, 2026 10:00am | LSBE 310/320 | The Labovitz MBA is a competitive, challenging, and rewarding program, offering you: AACSB International Accreditation - the only one in the Duluth & Rochester areas; Top 5 "Best Business School" in Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, 2024; Global recognition; Program designed for working adults; Evening and weekend classes; The ability to graduate in as little as two years. Contact LaboMBA@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | A-2017 | 13 | |
| Visual Culture Lecture Series: Sandra Maxa & Mark Sanders Graphic Design) | October 13, 2026 6:00pm | 80 Montague Hall | Sandra Maxa and Mark Sanders are co-founders, partners, and creative directors of Q Collective, a multi-disciplinary design studio that includes concept and design of identity systems, publications, websites and exhibitions for businesses, publishing clients, non-profit institutions, and arts organizations. Both have also taught at the Maryland Institute College of Art, Pratt Institute, Parsons The New School for Design, and Rutgers University. Contact jebersvi@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 50 | A-2017 | 15 | |
| From Farm to Global Brand: Food, Identity, and the Business of Peru - Info Session | October 15, 2026 11:00am | LSBE 310 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Master global business through Peru’s food! This instructor-led program is designed to be a hands-on and personal exploration of success. Have you ever wondered how a local tradition suddenly becomes a global sensation? In Peru, they don’t just read about it; they live it. This program will take you from the bustling markets of Lima to the high-tech agro-export farms of Ica to show you how this nation built a powerhouse global brand out of its own kitchen. Contact adonayre@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 35 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Spanish Language & Culture - Info Session | October 19, 2026 2:00pm | Humanities (H) 484 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Meet the program leaders of this unique study abroad opportunity to study abroad for a month and fully immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture! Program highlights: Learn about Spanish history and culture on-site; Study at the Universidad de Salamanca in Spain - Spanish Language & Culture; Stay with a host family; Experience hundreds of years of Spain’s rich history and visit iconic sites such as the world’s largest cathedral, castles, and the Alhambra; See a flamenco show; Roll up your sleeves and learn to cook typical dishes such as pisto manchego, paella, and tortilla de patata; Fulfill liberal education requirements. Contact mngomez@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 35 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Take Back the Night | October 21, 2026 6:00pm | Kirby Ballroom | (6-8pm) A culminating event for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, campus and community resources gather to center survivor stories, advocate for resources, and promote violence prevention and safety. Sponsored by UMD Women's Resource and Action Center, Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and campus and community partners. Contact ODI@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| Bridging Borders: Exploring Supply Chain in Japan, South Korea & China - Info Session | October 22, 2026 11:00am | LSBE 310/320 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Interested in international supply chain management? Check out this info session to learn about this Summer 2027 program in Japan, South Korea & China! PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Experience the dynamic business environments of Japan, South Korea, and China with exclusive seminars and corporate visits; Gain hands-on insights into international supply chain management and strategic business operations; Engage in immersive cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage and modern innovations of three leading Asian economies; Connect directly with top business leaders and academic experts; Enhance your global perspective and career readiness through a comprehensive curriculum. Contact wqzhang@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 25 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Asian Pacific Culture Show | October 24, 2026 5:00pm | Kirby Ballroom | (5-8pm) Join APAA for live performances, skits, food, and more at this year's Culture Show. Sponsored by UMD Asian Pacific American Association. Contact them with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| "Día de los Muertos" Exhibit | October 26, 2026 10:00am | Multicultural Center | (Oct 26 - Nov 7) Explore the exhibits, learn more about the history and meaning behind this tradition, and take a moment to celebrate the lives and memories of those who came before us. Sponsored by UMD Latinx/Chicanx Student Association and Office of Diversity & Inclusion. Contact ODI@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. As with most events, take a selfie of yourself at the exhibit for PEP proof of attendance. | 50 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| The Language of Displacement: Identity and the Power of Words | October 29, 2026 3:30pm | Online | (3:30-5pm) Who gets to belong? Join the Institute for Advanced Study for the first conversation of the 2026-2027 (In)Justice Series on Data & Power as they examine how the language of displacement—diaspora, exile, removal, immigrant, refugee, settler, expatriate—shapes public perception and functions as a form of power. The conversation invites audience members to consider how words influence identity and belonging, and what happens when communities reject, reclaim, or redefine the categories imposed upon them. Contact ias@umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. | 50 | B-2017 | 4 | |
| Saints Health & Human Services Career Fair | November 4, 2026 10:00am | College of St. Scholastica, Benedictine Commons | (10am-1pm) This event is geared towards students seeking internships and part-time or full-time positions in the healthcare and human services sectors. Hosted by the College of St. Scholastica and is open to students from UMD & UW-Superior. See full event information on Handshake to register (not required) and research employers. Contact hirebulldogs@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 50 | A-2017 | 7 | |
| Desi Night | November 7, 2026 4:30pm | Kirby Ballroom | (4:30-8pm) South Asian Student Organization's annual fall event celebrating South Asian culture with food, music, and performances. The theme this year is "Desi Disco" with vibrant pinks, oranges, and yellows! Early Bird pricing: $8 for students, $10 for faculty. Regular pricing: $12 for students, $15 for faculty. Contact saso@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| ISO Fall Round Dance | November 14, 2026 5:00pm | Kirby Ballroom | (5-8:30pm) Indigenous Student Organization is hosting a Round Dance, which is a traditional ceremony where the community comes together to heal, dance/sing, socialize, connect, and have fun. Details about the Round Dance will be available on ISO' Instagram: @umduluthISO. Sponsored by UMD Indigenous Student Organization. Contact them with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| MBA 4+1 Info Session | November 18, 2026 9:00am | LSBE 310/320 | The Labovitz MBA is a competitive, challenging, and rewarding program, offering you: AACSB International Accreditation - the only one in the Duluth & Rochester areas; Top 5 "Best Business School" in Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, 2024; Global recognition; Program designed for working adults; Evening and weekend classes; The ability to graduate in as little as two years. Contact LaboMBA@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | A-2017 | 13 | |
| Attend the Fall Undergraduate Research and Artistic Showcase | November 19, 2026 11:00am | Kirby Ballroom & Garden Room | (11am-2pm) The Fall Student Showcase highlights the remarkable work of undergraduate students engaged in research, creative projects, and experiential learning. This campus-wide event features poster and oral presentations representing diverse disciplines and topics. Contact academicsuccess@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 100 | A-2017 | 12 | |
| Bridging Borders: Exploring Supply Chain in Japan, South Korea & China - Info Session | November 19, 2026 12:00pm | LSBE 310/320 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Interested in international supply chain management? Check out this info session to learn about this Summer 2027 program in Japan, South Korea & China! PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Experience the dynamic business environments of Japan, South Korea, and China with exclusive seminars and corporate visits; Gain hands-on insights into international supply chain management and strategic business operations; Engage in immersive cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage and modern innovations of three leading Asian economies; Connect directly with top business leaders and academic experts; Enhance your global perspective and career readiness through a comprehensive curriculum. Contact wqzhang@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 25 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Spanish Language & Culture - Info Session | November 19, 2026 1:00pm | Humanities (H) 484 | (Please only attend this event if you are truly interested in this particular program.) Meet the program leaders of this unique study abroad opportunity to study abroad for a month and fully immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture! Program highlights: Learn about Spanish history and culture on-site; Study at the Universidad de Salamanca in Spain - Spanish Language & Culture; Stay with a host family; Experience hundreds of years of Spain’s rich history and visit iconic sites such as the world’s largest cathedral, castles, and the Alhambra; See a flamenco show; Roll up your sleeves and learn to cook typical dishes such as pisto manchego, paella, and tortilla de patata; Fulfill liberal education requirements. Contact mngomez@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. [NOTE: Attending a Study Abroad Info Session cannot be repeated for additional PEP points.] | 25 | A-2017 | 19 | |
| Celebration of Tran Life | November 19, 2026 5:00pm | TBD | (5-7pm) Gather in community to honor those lost or harmed by anti-trans violence in the last year. Commemorate and celebrate trans lives with interactive games, community resources, and a shared meal. Attendees will be invited to contribute to a remembrance altar. Contact ODI@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | B-2017 | 4 | |
| Africa Night | November 21, 2026 4:00pm | TBD | (4-8pm) Join the UMD Black Student Association for an evening of dinner, performances, and celebration of the African diaspora. Tickets required. Details will be available on BSA's Instagram: @umdBSA. Contact them with questions or for more info. | 100 | B-2017 | 1 | |
| The Permission to Move: Borders and the Politics of Migration | December 3, 2026 3:30pm | Online | (3:30-5pm) Who gets to move—and who gets tracked? Join the Institute for Advanced Study and the (In)Justice Series on Data & Power as they examine how data is being used to police migration and influence public perceptions of who is considered dangerous, deserving, or welcome. The conversation highlights how communities also use data to challenge misinformation, document abuses, and advocate for more just policies. Contact ias@umn.edu with questions or for more info. REGISTER via the link. | 50 | B-2017 | 5 | |
| MBA 4+1 Info Session | December 4, 2026 10:00am | LSBE 310/320 | The Labovitz MBA is a competitive, challenging, and rewarding program, offering you: AACSB International Accreditation - the only one in the Duluth & Rochester areas; Top 5 "Best Business School" in Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, 2024; Global recognition; Program designed for working adults; Evening and weekend classes; The ability to graduate in as little as two years. Contact LaboMBA@d.umn.edu with questions or for more info. | 35 | A-2017 | 13 |