The Rockhurst University Leadership Series (RULS) brings some of the world’s foremost thinkers and luminaries to St. Louis to speak on aspects of their leadership.
Past featured guests of the St. Louis RU Leadership Series include NFL Hall of Fame Coach Dick Vermeil, U.S. Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Homeboy Industries Founder Greg Boyle S.J., former St. Louis Blues forward Kelly Chase, and former KMOX top-rated radio talk show host Charlie Brennan.
The event also includes both the annual Magis Award and Faber Young Alumni Award celebrations.
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Thursday, September 17, 2026
Presented by Powers Insurance & Risk Management
5:00 p.m.
The Sheldon
3648 Washington Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108
The RU Leadership Series returns with a new evening format, featuring an engaging presentation in St. Louis's The Sheldon Theater, followed by a networking reception in the Galleries. This updated format offers expanded opportunities for connection, conversation, and professional networking.
Individual Ticket Prices:
- $250 – Access to the VIP Cocktail Hour, Keynote Presentation, and Post-Presentation Reception
- $150 – Access to the Keynote Presentation and Post-Presentation Reception
- $75 – Young Alumni Access to the VIP Cocktail Hour, Keynote Presentation, and Post-Presentation Reception
- $50 – Young Alumni Access to the Keynote Presentation and Post-Presentation Reception
2026 Special Guest
Curtis Francois
Owner of World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR)
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Curtis Francois is a St. Louis native, real estate developer, and former professional racecar driver who has transformed World Wide Technology Raceway into a premier motorsports destination. Since acquiring and reopening the track in 2012, he has led significant revitalization efforts, positioning WWTR as the only U.S. facility to host elite events from NASCAR, INDYCAR, and NHRA, as well as more than 300 annual events.
Under his leadership, WWTR has become a leader in community engagement, partnering with organizations like the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation to advance STEM education and expand access to motorsports. Francois also works closely with World Wide Technology leadership to promote innovation, diversity, and technology-driven fan experiences.
His contributions have earned numerous honors, including NASCAR’s “Drive for Diversity” Award, the Comcast Community Champion Award, and induction into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame.
Presenting Sponsor
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VIP Reception Sponsor
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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
JESUIT SPONSOR • $5,000
- Preferred seating for 10 guests
- 10 invites to the exclusive VIP cocktail reception
- Logo recognition in event promotional materials, including on-screen acknowledgment,
program, and webpage - Complimentary gift for each guest
- Complimentary parking in the Sheldon parking lot for 10 guests
ST. LOUIS SPONSOR • $3,000
- Seating for 10 guests
- 10 invites to the exclusive VIP cocktail reception
- Logo recognition in event promotional materials, including on-screen acknowledgment,
program, and webpage - Complimentary gift for each guest
- Complimentary parking in the Sheldon parking lot for 10 guests
MISSION SPONSOR • $2,000
- Seating for 10 guests
- 10 invites to the exclusive VIP cocktail reception
- Logo recognition in event promotional materials, including on-screen acknowledgment,
program, and webpage - Complimentary gift for each guest
- Complimentary parking in the Sheldon parking lot for 10 guests
Become a Sponsor Today!
Click Here To Secure Your Sponsorship
For questions about sponsorship or tickets, contact Mary Kennedy at mary.kennedy@rockhurst.edu or 816-589-2586.
2026 Magis Award
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Jim Powers ’83 is the 2026 recipient of the Magis Award, which recognizes a St. Louis–area alumnus who lives out the Jesuit core value of “magis,” a commitment to doing more for others through leadership, service, and generosity.
A dedicated member of the Rockhurst community, Jim served on the St. Louis Leaders Council from 2018 to 2026, including as chairman, and remains an active and generous supporter of the University.
He retired in 2025 as President and CFO of Tacony Corporation following a distinguished career that included leadership roles with Dent Wizard and UniGroup. He continues to serve the St. Louis community as a board member and treasurer of the Boniface Foundation and as a member of the Mercy Hospital East Regional Board.
Jim and his wife, Mary, enjoy spending time with their four children and five grandchildren and share a love of travel. Through his leadership, commitment to service, and lifelong connection to Rockhurst, Jim exemplifies the spirit of Magis.
Faber Young Alumni Award
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The 2026 Faber Young Alumni Award recipient is Matt Beermann ’15, Human Resources Advisor for Graybar's St. Louis District. A dedicated leader throughout his time at Rockhurst, Matt served as President of the Student Ambassadors, was a member of Alpha Delta Gamma fraternity, and held numerous leadership roles including Student Council member, Christian Life Community (CLC) leader, freshman orientation leader, and retreat leader. Following graduation, he completed a year of service as an Alumni Service Corps Member, teaching and consulting at a Jesuit high school within the USA Central and Southern Province.
Matt continues his commitment to service and mentorship through his work at Graybar; he partners with De Smet Jesuit High School and Cor Jesu Academy in helping students develop leadership skills and explore future career paths. In addition, he serves on the De Smet Jesuit High School Alumni Association Board and remains an engaged Rockhurst alumnus in the St. Louis community. Matt and his wife, Grace, are active parishioners at St. Gabriel Parish and proud parents to their son, Graham. Through his professional accomplishments, dedication to mentorship, and commitment to serving others, Matt exemplifies the Jesuit values of leadership, generosity, and being a person for others.
