The UW South Madison Partnership (UWSMP) marked its tenth anniversary on July 26, celebrating a decade of collaboration between the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the South Madison community. The event took place at UWSMP’s location in the Village on Park and brought together past and present university and community leaders.
UWSMP is managed by the university’s Office of Community Relations. It provides free, accessible space for residents, organizations, and UW–Madison to meet and work together.
Speakers reflected on the history and development of UWSMP. Tanika Apaloo, assistant director of UWSMP, said, “Leaders, neighbors, and partners… insisted that the university should show up differently in South Madison, with humility, reciprocity and long-term commitment. Because of that foundation, UWSMP has become a trusted, safe gathering place where youth, families, elders, and grassroots leaders all feel they belong.”
Dr. Dawn B. Crim—former director of community relations at UW–Madison and now vice chancellor for advancement at UW-Green Bay—discussed how engagement between UW–Madison and South Madison began well before the current office was established.
The celebration coincided with the Urban League of Greater Madison’s 11th annual Unity Picnic. Several units from UW–Madison participated alongside local organizations and businesses.
The event featured performances from local artists as well as demonstrations from groups such as BadgerBots Team 1306. Volunteers served food during the picnic hosted by the Urban League of Greater Madison with support from sponsors including UWSMP.
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