Wednesday saw the return to the University of Vermont campus for Roger Crandall, ’87, as he spoke to a large crowd for the Hoffman Family Business Lecture Series, hosted by the Grossman School of Business in the Keller Room, Ifshin Hall. 

As Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Crandall shared his insights into life, the organization he leads and business philosophy. 

His presentation focused on how MassMutual is a purpose-driven organization, aligned with its customers best interests which allows them to remain focused on helping people in their greatest time of need. Crandall also spoke to having a moral obligation to address the great financial need in this country, and to do that, they must pursue moonshots: big ideas and innovations that stretch the limits of what they think they can achieve.

For MassMutual, they view their moonshot as providing financial well-being for all Americans, and he also encouraged all students to pursue their own moonshot – whether it’s a graduate degree, a new job, a startup, or any other endeavor in life.

Crandall also hosted a working breakfast with a select group of Grossman students, met with the Complex Systems team and Linda Schadler, Dean, College of Engineering & Mathematical Sciences, as well as UVM President Tom Sullivan.

The Hoffman Family Business Lecture Series provides opportunities for students to learn about innovative business practices from leading scholars and practitioners.