Foundation News

PLATTEVILLE - Fred Jaeckle will be serving as the principal speaker for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's afternoon commencement ceremony on May 9. Jaeckle earned his degree at UW-Platteville in comprehensive business and economics in 1967. A graduate of Monona Grove High School, Jaeckle came to UWP because of its location and size. Undecided about his academic major, Jaeckle found his niche when he took a course in economics. He was active on campus, participating in the Phi Alpha Psi (currently known as Sigma Tau Gamma) fraternity.

Shortly after graduation, in 1973, Jaeckle went to work for Jaeckle Wholesale Inc., a company started in 1958 by his parents, Harvey and Hardy Jaeckle, as a plastic laminate distributor in southern Wisconsin. Celebrating 50 years of business in 2008, Jaeckle Wholesale currently serves clients in 10 states from five locations in the Midwest as a distributor of flooring and decorative surfaces. The long-term company goal is to be in business forever by continually redefining business practices and applying innovative means to meet the increasing demands and expectations of customers.

Jaeckle is the retired CEO of Jaeckle Wholesale. His sons, Jeff and Torrey, are third generational leaders in this family business. Jaeckle continues to support his sons in the business, providing advice and counsel on business development and relationship management. He serves as president of the Wisconsin Floor Covering Association, a trade organization, and has served on the WFCA board for 15 years. He is a past member of the board of the North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors.

Jaeckle is an active Pioneer alumnus, serving as a volunteer on the UW-Platteville Foundation Board. He currently serves as board chair. In speaking of his service, Jaeckle notes that he has enjoyed working with others who have a similar interest and passion for UWP. Further, he indicated that it is truly gratifying to see first-hand how private gifts and grants benefit UWP's programs, facilities and students. He lives in Madison.

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