April 20 - April 26, 2026
Join us for a week of events to reconnect with fellow alumni and with Minnesota Law. Whether it’s been 1, 25, or 50 years since you graduated, we look forward to welcoming you back to your alma mater. Please contact the Office of Advancement at [email protected] with questions.
Register here today!
Tuesday, April 21
Major Questions, Tariffs and Emergency Powers (Zoom Webinar CLE)
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
In Learning Resources v. Trump, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated President Trump’s reliance on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs. A three-Justice plurality invoked the major questions doctrine, concluding that Congress must speak with clear authorization before delegating such expansive economic authority to the President. The decision exposes deep divisions among the Justices over the scope, justification, and limits of the major questions doctrine. This panel examines the doctrine’s development, the Court’s reasoning in Learning Resources, and the emerging fault lines that may shape future disputes over executive power and the administrative state. Register here.
Wednesday, April 22
From Unwritten Law to Written Constitutions: The Evolution of Fundamental Rights in the Western Legal Tradition (CLE) at Walter F. Mondale Hall
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Where do “fundamental rights” actually come from? This session explores the foundations of modern rights and constitutionalism through a dual lens of history and drafting. Professor Ryan Greenwood examines the evolution of the English constitutional tradition—symbolized by Magna Carta and other pivotal documents—that provided the DNA for the American innovation of a federal constitution. Building on this context, Professor Sam Merchant (author of Revolution in Redline) investigates the lead-up to the U.S. Constitution and the specific context of its drafting and amendments. By analyzing the iterative process of the Framers, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how medieval and early modern concepts, articulated and contested at moments of strong political conflict, were “redlined” and refined into the individual rights we recognize today. Lunch provided.
Following the CLE, attendees are invited to a special tour of the Riesenfeld Rare Books Research Center featuring some of the materials discussed in the CLE.
Presumption Rebutted: Rethinking the Presumption of Regularity in Immigration Litigation (CLE) at Walter F. Mondale Hall
4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Built over years of trust and grounded in a long historical pedigree, the presumption of regularity reflects the judiciary’s faith that government actors have properly discharged their duties and will make accurate representations to the courts. In recent years, however, that presumption has come under increasing strain. Presented by graduating students of the Federal Immigration Litigation Clinic, this CLE will examine how these developments have been especially salient in immigration litigation, where courts have, in some instances, found government action to be unlawful, unsupported, or inadequately explained. The session will further consider whether the presumption of regularity framework remains sustainable in its traditional form and will discuss how clinic students have seen the presumption tested and challenged in their own clinical work.
Thursday, April 23
The Gender Wealth Gap: A Conversation on "Fair Shake" (Zoom Webinar CLE)
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Join Professor Claire Hill for an insightful interview with Professor June Carbone as they explore the core arguments of Carbone’s latest book, Fair Shake: Women and the Economy of Inequality. In an era of shifting corporate dynamics, this session examines how the modern legal and economic landscape—defined by "winner-take-all" competition—continues to disadvantage women and stall progress toward true equity. The discussion will delve into the systemic barriers embedded in our markets and the legal reforms necessary to ensure a "fair shake" for everyone. Register here.
Human Rights Center CLE and Reception (Walter F. Mondale Hall)
4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
All are welcome to join the Human Rights Center for a CLE showcasing research and advocacy work by students, faculty, and alumni this year. Meet and reconnect with the Law School's extended human rights community as we learn from these innovative projects and strategies in challenging times. A reception will immediately follow the presentations.
Friday, April 24
Building Tour: What's New at Minnesota Law at Walter F. Mondale Hall
4:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Take a tour of Mondale Hall and reminisce about your time in law school.
Spring Alumni Week Kickoff Reception (Walter F. Mondale Hall)
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Let's celebrate our Law School community with a festive social featuring drinks and a spread of iconic Minnesota favorites! Hosted by the Office of Advancement, this reception is the perfect chance to kick back and catch up with fellow alumni over some great local food and even better company.
Riesenfeld Rare Books Research Center Open House (Walter F. Mondale Hall)
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
The University of Minnesota Law School’s Stefan A. Riesenfeld Rare Books Research Center holds one of the most outstanding collections of rare legal books in the United States. Stop by for an open house featuring highlights from the collection and limited-time exhibits.
Discounted Tickets to "Little Women" (Guthrie Theater)
7:30 p.m. | $35
Enjoy this iconic play with fellow alumni. Please note that tickets are limited, and this discounted price is only available through the Spring Alumni Week website.
Saturday, April 25
Alumnae Brunch (Nicollet Island Inn)
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | $35
The Minnesota Law AluMNae Network warmly invites you to a special brunch and program celebrating the incredible women who shape our legal community. This gathering is a wonderful opportunity to foster meaningful connections, share perspectives, and find fresh inspiration among colleagues and friends alike.
Class of 1971 55th Reunion Luncheon (Nicollet Island Inn)
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Fighting Mondales Student-Alumni Hockey Game (Parade Ice Garden)
2:30 p.m.
Watch current students take on Fighting Mondales alumni in this friendly match! (no registration required for this event)
Sunday, April 26
Golden Society Brunch (Jax Cafe)
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | $30
We invite our Minnesota Law alumni from the Class of 1976 and prior to a celebratory brunch to honor your enduring connection to the school. Please join us for a festive meal and the company of fellow graduates as we celebrate your legacy and decades of leadership in the legal community.
All alumni are welcomed at Spring Alumni Week events of interest to them. We look forward to celebrating with you!
