Building Connections for the Future: CDH Debuts Professional Networking Event

The CDH Professional Network officially launched on May 20, bringing together more than 100 recent CDH graduates and experienced industry leaders across the Twin Cities for an evening centered on mentorship, career exploration, internships, and long-term professional growth at Cretin-Derham Hall.

“The CDH community knows how impactful our Raider network is during the high school years and, importantly, long after. Our goal is to establish a program where our young graduates, college students, and young professionals can benefit from the professional support of our other alumni, parents, and friends of the school who have deep knowledge and experience in the fields they are preparing to enter or have been hired.”
- Jeb Myers, CDH President

Participants engaged in breakout sessions representing the following industries:  

• commercial real estate and development, 
• construction and engineering, 
• education, 
• finance and insurance, 
• legal services, and 
• medicine and health sciences. 

Presenters shared personal experiences, career advice, internship insights, and encouragement with students and recent graduates preparing to enter their professions.  Photographer Michael Murray ‘97 also  took complimentary professional headshots, giving recent graduates and young professionals an opportunity to enhance their professional presence.  The evening concluded with a networking social.
 
For many attendees, the evening reinforced the strength and generosity of the Raider network.
Currently studying Nursing Education at St. Catherine University, Anna Dugan ‘24, noted that the experience provided new connections and valuable perspectives that will continue to support her growth as she moves forward in her career. “It was inspiring to hear about the many different paths within the field and connect over our shared passion for caring for others.” 

Michael Seifu ‘25, who is studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Case Western Reserve University, highlighted the value of hearing personal career journeys from engineering professionals and learning that adaptability, communication, and relationship-building are just as important as technical skills. He also appreciated opportunities to discuss engineering careers more personally through conversations about shadowing experiences and professional life after college. “Older generations were able to pass down their experiences and advice,” Seifu said. “It was also a great opportunity to bridge gaps between CDH alumni, strengthening the community even after graduation.”

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Bridget Kimlinger ‘25, who studies Finance at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management shared, “I am so grateful that CDH continues to afford me opportunities, even past my graduation. It truly is a unique experience being a part of this community and being able to meet so many amazing people.” 

Special thanks to the CDH Alumni Board for their assistance at the event. The CDH Alumni Board is an organization whose mission is to foster a lifelong relationship between alumni and the school and to promote and encourage programs for alumni.

Save the Date: Next Opportunity Scheduled for November

The CDH Professional Network promises to become a powerful resource for generations of CDH alumni, building opportunities for mentorship and professional connection.  The next CDH Professional Network event is scheduled for November 25, 2026.  More information to come.

Whether you are a recent graduate seeking guidance or an experienced professional eager to mentor and connect, the CDH Professional Network offers a meaningful way to stay engaged with the CDH community while helping shape the next generation of leaders.  The industries represented will grow and change with each event.

Contact Megan Fee Smith ‘00, Alumni Relations & Events Coordinator, for more information.