Madison Reporter

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway has announced that Madelyn Leopold is the recipient of the 2024 Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award. This award, established by the Common Council, honors Madison residents who exemplify Jeff Erlanger’s values of fairness, openness, and civility in public discourse. Erlanger, who passed away in 2007, was dedicated to public service and believed in civil debate as a means for diverse opinions to come together for community solutions.

Madelyn Leopold served on the Board of Madison Parks Commission from 2013 to 2021, including two years as President. She also represented the Parks Commission on various committees such as the Madison Park Foundation and its Golf Subcommittee. Beyond her role as a Park Commissioner, she supports youth education about nature and has participated in events like "Madison Reads Leopold" at the Arboretum.

During her tenure with the Parks Commission, Leopold led discussions on board issues and questioned any park uses that might limit public access. She advocated for 'unprogrammed' parks where people can enjoy natural settings. Her leadership helped balance competing priorities within the Parks system.

Mayor Rhodes-Conway praised Leopold's approach: “I congratulate Madelyn Leopold on winning this award. Her collaborative approach to sometimes contentious issues makes her a role model to the hundreds of other Madisonians serving on City boards, committees and commissions.”

Pam and Howard Erlanger expressed their admiration for this year's nominees: “Since this award was established, we have been so impressed with the caliber of Madison area residents nominated in Jeff’s memory... Madelyn Leopold shares Jeff’s incredible spirit of collaboration and truly, civility.”

Leopold was nominated by former Parks Commission member Emily Gnam who stated: “I’m really happy that Madelyn is being recognized for her excellent service on the Board of Park Commissioners."

The award includes a $250 contribution to a non-profit chosen by both the awardee and nominator. Both Leopold and Gnam have directed their donations to support initiatives by the Madison Parks Foundation.

The Erlanger Award will be presented at the January 28 Common Council meeting.