MADISON, WI (August 15, 2024) — The University of Wisconsin-Madison marked its 175th anniversary with a series of events in the Chippewa Valley, highlighting the institution’s far-reaching impact across the state.
The day started with a live interview on WEAU-TV’s “Hello Wisconsin” morning news. Reporter Ellie Pomerlau discussed the UW’s Teacher Pledge program with the new School of Education dean, Marcelle Haddix. Launched in the fall of 2020, this donor-funded program pays the equivalent of in-state tuition and fees, testing, and licensing costs for students enrolled in one of 15 teacher preparation programs. In return, graduates “pledge” to teach for four years at a prekindergarten through 12th grade public or private school in Wisconsin. Those who teach in a high-need school or subject area fulfill the promise in just three years. “We want to ensure all Wisconsin students have high-quality teachers in the classroom, and this is one way UW-Madison can be part of that solution,” said Haddix.
At the Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital in Eau Claire, Jonathan Levine, the new dean of UW-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine, met with area veterinarians and discussed the need for more large-animal and general practitioner vets in western Wisconsin. He also updated everyone on the School of Veterinary Medicine building project and the need to accommodate more students to keep up with the growing demand for vets.
The next stop was Lake Altoona County Park to celebrate Eau Claire County and UniverCity Alliance’s partnership, highlighting efforts to protect the lake and the entire Eau Claire River watershed against erosion, sediment, and blue-green algae blooms. “Today’s event really showcases the work that students from UW-Madison have done to help on a variety of issues related to water quality,” said Gavin Luter, managing director of UniverCity Alliance.
The day culminated in a free, family-friendly celebration at the Leinie Lodge in Chippewa Falls. Leinenkugel’s helped the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association host the free event. Attendees enjoyed free Babcock ice cream. Bucky Badger was also there.
Following the celebration was a Badger Talks Live session titled “Supporting the Growth of Wisconsin’s Maple Syrup Industry,” featuring Jeremy Solin, the maple syrup project manager for UW-Madison’s Division of Extension.
All these events underscored UW-Madison’s commitment to the Wisconsin Idea, bringing the university’s resources and knowledge to communities across the state as it celebrates 175 years of education, research, and public service.
Two more 175th anniversary stops are planned for this summer in Waukesha and La Crosse. For more information and to register for the celebrations, please visit 175.wisc.edu.
