Class of 2026: The Future of Minnesota
CLA prepares students to become thoughtful citizens, innovative problem-solvers, and leaders in every sector of society. From healthcare and education to business, public service, media, science, and the arts, CLA graduates strengthen Minnesota’s workforce and communities.
These stories from the Class of 2026 reflect the many ways liberal arts students are preparing to make a difference — in their professions and in the lives of the people around them.
Belonging looks different for everyone. Sometimes it's found within a lively class discussion or from an influential mentor who routinely checks in, or even during a late-night walk along the Washington Avenue Bridge. For these members of the Class of 2026, CLA became a home away from home and a place to build meaningful connections with their chosen community.
The liberal arts encourage students to think critically, stay curious, and lead with intention. And along the way, many discover their own capacity to create change. Meet a few members of the Class of 2026 who found confidence in their voices and in the purpose of their future work through CLA.
CLA students learn about the world, and show up for it. Through active citizenship and community engagement, our students develop a strong sense of their role in the communities they’re a part of. Then, they put that understanding into action — contributing and making a difference where it matters the most.
A holistic curriculum. A toolkit for understanding the world. Across CLA, students are learning what and how to think about complex systems. Together, these experiences point to a common thread: knowledge for good and a language to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
