Foundation News

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation had much to celebrate on Sunday, June 28 at the annual Donor Recognition Brunch. It was a time to recognize the past, present and future of UWP as alumni and friends gathered to honor supporters who have played a major role in funding the various scholarships, capital projects, development funds and other initiatives at UWP. Those present at the dinner were just a few of the more than 10,000 current donors who support UWP.

Guests were welcomed by Dennis Cooley, executive director of the UWP Foundation, who described this year as "One of the best years ever for the UWP Foundation," thanks to the support of UWP alumni and friends and the hard work of UWP's development officers. As Cooley introduced Chancellor David Markee to speak, he acknowledged that it was the chancellor's final address at the annual donor event.

Markee thanked those present at the brunch. "It is a great honor to have you here," Markee said. "I am pleased with the support and participation in projects that have allowed the university to grow and am excited about the leadership we have on campus."

The growth of the university is made possible in part by the strong enrollment numbers-1,600 new freshmen are coming to UWP this year, making the total number of students at UWP over 8,000. Markee explained the importance of the Tri-State Initiative to this growth and noted the development of new programs at UWP: MEMS/nanotechnology, forensic investigation, renewable energy systems, social and environmental justice and the Pioneer Academic Center for Community Engagement. The Confucius Institute, Engineering Hall, reconstruction of Williams Fieldhouse and the expansion of the Pioneer Farm have also furthered the growth of UWP, according to Markee. "Ottensman and Boebel halls are next on the project list," Markee added.

After Markee spoke, a student group from the Engineers without Borders program at UWP gave a presentation on the group's work in African villages near Ghana. They have been traveling to Africa every year since 2007, addressing infrastructure needs and teaching the villagers how to fix problem areas themselves. The group has donated 500 pounds of textbooks, medical supplies and soccer balls to the villages.

Four individuals were honored as distinguished service award recipients. This award is given to those who have significantly served UWP and its mission. Recipients of this award have enhanced UWP's reputation by substantially contributing time and/or gifts for its benefit or have influenced others to develop a similar relationship with the university. During the brunch, Roman and Joan Borkovec, Lloyd Linden and Linda Pauls Fleming were recognized with this honor.

The brunch was concluded with a comment from Cooley, "Every year we get stronger, Chancellor Markee always found ways and opportunities for UWP to grow."

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