More than 60 alumni, friends, and parents from across the Twin Cities region enjoyed an evening of insights, camaraderie, and Badger pride at the Wisconsin School of Business’ newest event: Business Forward.
The inaugural event took place on October 8 at Minneapolis’ Walker Art Center.
“Business Forward is about bringing together Business Badgers who are shaping industries, leading organizations, and defining what’s next in business,” said Vallabh “Samba” Sambamurthy, WSB’s Albert O. Nicholas Dean. “As I look around this room, I see many people who have made this community so strong. Our alumni are the strongest reflection of who we are, carrying the values of our school into companies, into industries, and into communities across the globe.”
The evening’s program included updates about school initiatives from WSB leadership, an engaging talk from Professor Fabio Gaertner, and the presentation of the 2026 Distinguished Business Alumni Award to Cynthia “Cindy” Ihlenfeld (BBA ’75).
Guests exchange greetings as they arrive at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis for the Business Forward event on October 8.
Vallabh “Samba” Sambamurthy, WSB’s Albert O. Nicholas Dean, discusses the school’s bold strategic vision, a major redesign of Grainger Hall, and new experiential learning opportunities.
Guests enjoy a lighting talk from Fabio Gaertner, the Cynthia and Jay Ihlenfeld Professor for Inspired Learning in Business, amid a stunning backdrop of the Minneapolis skyline.
Dean Samba poses with Cynthia “Cindy” Ihlenfeld (BBA ’75), a Minnesota-based alum and recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Business Alumni Award.
Ihlenfeld poses with friends and family, including husband Jay (center), after receiving the Distinguished Business Alumni Award.
From left to right, WSB alums Veda Pai-Panandiker (BBA ’94), Claire Ross (BBA ’20), and Sarah Hubbard (BBA ’20) gather for a photo during the evening’s networking reception.
Alisa Robertson (BA ’94, MBA ’03), president and CEO of the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association (center), enjoys some time with fellow Badgers as the event comes to an end.
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