Congratulations to 2018 Ambassador Award recipients Honorary Board Director Susan B. Plimpton and former U.S. Foreign Service Officer and Great Decisions speaker Tom Hanson. The award recognizes their dedication, leadership, and expertise, ensuring Global Minnesota’s ability to serve Minnesotans for generations to come.
Hear Susan and Tom speak about why Global Minnesota matters to them.
About Susan
Susan Plimpton has played an integral role in securing the future of Global Minnesota. She joined the board of directors in 2003 and served nine years, which included the roles of treasurer, board chair, and past chair. Susan’s board tenure was instrumental in creating the influential 2012-17 strategic plan, with key efforts to extend the organization’s reach. Under her direction, the major gifts campaign was inaugurated, the search for a new site was initiated, technology investments were made, and the brand assessment put into place to ensure the organization engaged future generations. Susan continues to share her expertise as an Honorary Director, and she and David are frequent participants at Global Minnesota events. A retired marketing executive with deep interest in international education and women’s economic empowerment, Susan has held leadership positions with prominent companies including General Mills, Pillsbury, and American Express Financial. She has served on numerous boards including Round Earth Media and Friends of Ngong Road in Kenya, and is Chair Emerita with World Learning.
About Tom
Tom Hanson has been engaging Global Minnesota audiences on foreign affairs topics for more than 20 years. From his annual sold-out “U.S. Foreign Policy Update” to setting the stage at Great Decisions Conferences, Tom has shared his deep expertise, playing a key role in Global Minnesota’s ability to engage and inform. Based on his years as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer in posts from Norway to the Republic of Georgia, his multiple degrees, ability to speak or read numerous languages, and continuous curiosity about the world, Tom brings extensive historical and geographical knowledge together with current events, an eye for the right graphic and story-telling—all to the benefit of Minnesota audiences across the state. Tom serves as Diplomat in Residence at the University of Minnesota – Duluth; is Chair of the Minnesota Committee on Foreign Relations and Co-Chair of the Minnesota China Business Council; and serves on numerous globally-focused boards.