Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin–Madison recently recognized three individuals for their outstanding contributions to innovation and entrepreneurial excellence. Mark Bakken, James Dahlberg, and Dorri McWhorter were honored as recipients of the 2024 Chancellor’s Entrepreneurial Achievement Award.

Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin praised the recipients, stating, “UW–Madison is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurial excellence, driven by our alumni, students, staff and faculty and their curiosity, passion for problem-solving, and desire to make a difference.”

Mark Bakken, a UW–Madison computer sciences graduate and Founder and Managing Partner of HealthX Ventures, was commended for his role in leading a digital healthcare-focused venture capital firm. Rachel Neill, CEO of Carex Consulting Group, credited Bakken for his mentorship and support in entrepreneurship, saying, “Mark has been so instrumental in paving the way for entrepreneurs and people interested in entrepreneurship.”

James Dahlberg, Professor Emeritus of Biomolecular Chemistry at UW–Madison, was recognized for his academic excellence and entrepreneurial mindset. Brad Schwartz, CEO of Morgridge Institute for Research, highlighted Dahlberg's ability to turn academic research into successful startups, stating, “Jim never lost his commitment to an academic research career.”

Dorri McWhorter, President and CEO of YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago and a Wisconsin School of Business graduate, was lauded for her social enterprise business leadership. Molly Silverman, Chief Growth & Engagement Officer at YMCA Metro Chicago, praised McWhorter for applying her entrepreneurial spirit to the social impact sector, saying, “She took that expertise and that entrepreneurial spirit and has now applied it to the social impact sector, where we are trying to solve some of the world’s biggest problems.”

The Chancellor’s Entrepreneurial Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have contributed to economic growth, served as entrepreneurial models for the UW community, and inspired a culture of entrepreneurship on campus. Established in 2011, the award aims to honor those who exemplify the Wisconsin Idea — UW–Madison’s commitment to benefiting the world beyond campus boundaries.