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Diversity Networking Reception

Students: register for the Diversity Networking Reception here.
Recruiters: register for the Diversity Networking Reception here.

The Office for Equity and Diversity, in partnership with Target, is pleased to host the first annual Diversity Networking Reception for undergraduate students enrolled at the University of Minnesota. 

This career networking event is designed to allow students to connect and build relationships with organizations that embrace and promote diversity. Held in conjunction with the annual Equity and Diversity Breakfast, the Diversity Networking Reception is a great opportunity to connect with employers personally.

WHAT: A two-hour networking session with representatives from corporations, non-profits, and other employers from around the Twin Cities who are committed to organizational diversity.  This is an opportunity for undergraduate students at all levels to practice their networking skills, talk to representatives from a wide range of industries, and learn about employers who value diversity.

WHERE: The University Ballroom, second floor, Radisson University Hotel.

HOW: The networking reception is free of charge for students.  Registration prior to the event is strongly recommended.   Students who register by November 12th will receive free business cards when they check in at the reception.  Students can register for the event here

WHO: For a list of participating employers, click here. This information will updated regularly; check back often for the most recent list.

More information and Frequently Asked Questions for students about the Diversity Networking Reception

MORE INFORMATION: For more information about the Diversity Networking Reception, please contact Patti Neiman, Student Development Specialist in the Office for Equity and Diversity at p-neim@umn.edu.


Employers that will be at the Diversity Networking Reception

  • 3M
  • Accenture
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Breakthrough Saint Paul
  • Cargill
  • CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc
  • Deluxe
  • Ernst & Young
  • Federal Reserve Bank
  • General Mills
  • Hennepin County
  • InRoads
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Medtronic
  • Minneapolis Public Schools
  • Minnesota Department of Human Services
  • Minnesota Twins
  • Northwestern Mutual
  • Securian
  • St. Jude Medical
  • SUPERVALU
  • Target
  • TCF Bank
  • The Travelers Companies, Inc.
  • Thomson Reuters
  • Timberwolves
  • Xcel Energy

This list is current as of Thursday, November 19, 2009; 11:25 am CST.


Why would it be important for me to attend the Diversity Networking Reception?
The Diversity Networking Reception is a networking event. Networking is a key component in the internship and job search process. Being able to network and build connections with potential employers allows you to gain knowledge and insight beyond what the organization’s website and brochures might provide. This event connects organizations who believe diversity within their organizations is important with students from diverse backgrounds.

Who can register for the Diversity Networking Reception?
The Networking Reception is designed to give employers the opportunity to meet diverse undergraduate students--including students of color, GLBT students, students with disabilities, and women--in a wide range of colleges and disciplines. All undergraduate students are welcome to attend the Reception, however, and no student will be turned away.

How do I register? How much does it cost?
Students are strongly encouraged to pre-register for the event, and there is no cost for students to register. Students who register by November 12, 2009, will receive free personalized business cards to give to recruiters at the event.

How should I prepare for the Diversity Networking Reception?
A number of workshops on networking will be held to help you prepare for the Reception. Students may also want to visit this compilation of online tools. In addition, a visit with the career services office is never a bad idea!

I registered for the Diversity Networking Reception--where do I pick up my business cards?
If you registered by the deadline, November 12, 2009, your business cards will be provided to you when you check-in at the Diversity Networking Reception.

What time is a good time to attend the Diversity Networking Reception?
The Diversity Networking Reception will be from 3:00– 5:00 PM. You can come to the event any time between 3:00 and 4:30 PM, as long as you give yourself enough time to talk with recruiters.

Should I bring copies of my resume to the Diversity Networking Reception?
The Diversity Networking Reception is not the best forum for handing out your resume. This is a networking event, where you can begin to build connections with and find out more about organizations which interest you. If you register in advance, you will have business cards with your contact information to distribute to companies that interest you.

If you do choose to bring resumes to recruites during the event, make sure that a career counselor has given you feedback on your resume prior to the event.

What is the attire for the Diversity Networking Reception?
Suggested attire is business casual. For men, this means dress pants/khakis; dress/polo shirt; suit coat or blazer; if desired, a tie. For women, dress pants/skirt; blouse/sweater; suit coat or blazer. Attire to avoid includes jeans,  zip-front hooded sweatshirts, team jackets, jean jackets, t-shirts with slogans, midriff-baring tops, tank tops, well-worn jeans, spandex pants, stirrup pants, overalls, biking shorts, sweat pants, mini skirts, halter tops, flip-flops, tennis shoes, sandals, baseball caps, t-strap blouses or low-cut tops. Students are encouraged to pay attention to all the details of thier appearance: body art (tattoos, piercings etc), clothes, hair, makeup, and personal grooming.

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