Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin's 175th Anniversary state tour resumed this summer with a visit to the Fox Valley on Thursday. The event aimed to celebrate the university’s longstanding partnership and connection with local businesses, community groups, leaders, alumni, and future students.

As part of the educational outreach, UW–Madison student ambassadors met with over 200 students at Maplewood Middle School in Menasha through Bucky’s Classroom. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin and mascot Bucky Badger joined the day's activities.

In addition to these student interactions, nine graduates from UW–Madison's School of Education who have taken the Wisconsin Teacher Pledge have secured placements in Fox Valley schools.

In the afternoon, Chancellor Mnookin and College of Engineering Dean Ian Robertson visited Plexus Corporation in Neenah. Nearly 80 alumni are employed at Plexus, including CEO Todd Kelsey. The company has been a long-time partner of UW–Madison, supporting classroom spaces and programs as well as contributing to the new College of Engineering building.

The UniverCity Alliance hosted a joint celebration with Mosquito Hill Nature Center in New London, which is marking its 50th anniversary. Through the UniverCity Year program, UW–Madison students have worked to enhance visitor numbers and revenue for the nature center.

The day concluded with a community-wide celebration in Appleton organized by the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association. Over 220 guests attended, enjoying free Babcock ice cream, games, and camaraderie at Poplar Hall on the Fox River.

The state tour will continue throughout the summer with an upcoming stop in Rock County on June 25.