Laysha Ward received the College of Arts and Sciences Distinguished Alumni Award. Ward is executive vice president and chief external engagement officer for Target. She also served as a board chair for President Barack Obama and as a board member for the Corporation of National and Community Service under President George W. Bush. Ward currently volunteers as a graduation coach for Minnesota high school students through Achieve Minneapolis. In May 2019, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Minnesota for public service. (October 2024)