Daily Pioneer News

Rebecca Kurz is a junior building and construction management major who received a $500 scholarship from Horizon Retail Construction of Racine.

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville junior Rebecca Kurz is the first UWP student to receive a $500 scholarship from Horizon Retail Construction of Racine. Horizon plans to award a scholarship to a junior UWP student majoring in building construction management (BCM) every spring and fall.

Junior BCM majors with grade point averages of 2.5 or higher were eligible. Preference was given to students from southeastern Wisconsin with financial need.

Commented Amanda Peterson, human resource manager for Horizon, "We're excited about establishing this scholarship at UWP and are looking into offering at least one UWP internship permanently within the company." Currently, two of the company's top project managers are UWP graduates.

Kurz is a junior from New Berlin majoring in BCM with a minor in business administration. She plans to graduate from UWP in the spring of 2005 after which she would like to pursue a career as a project manager. Honored to be receiving this scholarship, Kurz initially heard about it from her professors and at the job fair held earlier in February. She thanks the industrial studies department for their help noting, "They are willing to do whatever is needed to help their students succeed." Kurz is the daughter of Laura and Jerry Kurz.

The awards luncheon was held Wednesday, April 14, in the Pioneer Student Center with members of the BCM department and Horizon present.

Yuan-Ling Wang plans his retirement after 38 years of teaching engineering at UW-Platteville.

PLATTEVILLE-Joining UW-Platteville in 1966, Yuan-Ling Wang, also known as David Wang, has been a part of UWP for over 38 years. Planning his retirement this year, Wang reflected on some of the best and most valuable memories he captured over the years.

Born in Wuhan, China, and then moving to Taiwan, Wang recalls that he has always wanted to teach.

"Teaching was always my ambition. Teaching is a very noble profession in China. I decided to be a teacher first and what field I wanted to get into second," said Wang.

Over the years, working with an average of 200 students a year, Wang has touched over 7,600 students.

"These students work all over the state and country, that is rewarding and an enjoyable aspect of teaching," said Wang.

Wang earned his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the field of engineering mechanics and his master's degree from West Virginia University in Morgantown in civil engineering. He received a bachelor's degree from the National Taiwan University.

Wang has been involved in a variety of campus activities, committees, and was the advisor for the student chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers.

"Teaching to me is an enjoyment, not a job, I will miss the interaction with the students," said Wang.

At UWP, Wang has taught courses in engineering mechanics, civil engineering and environmental engineering.

Wang hopes to spend time gardening and take time to travel and visit family in his retirement. Wang comes from a large family with six other siblings. He has since married Judy, who he met while attending UW-Madison and has seven children of his own and seven grandchildren. His wife, Judy, is a psychology professor at UWP.

"Dave has been very active and a long term contributing faculty member. He has helped to build the civil engineering department into what it is today, and has provided a strong foundation to build upon. We appreciate all he has done and wish him the best in his retirement," said Richard Shultz, dean of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science.

The college has established the Wang Civil and Environmental Scholarship in honor of Wang's dedication to UWP. The scholarship criteria is based on demonstration of leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities.

PLATTEVILLE – The African country of Sierra Leone has been riddled by the effects of a civil war that began 13 years ago. Tens of thousands have died, and more than a third of the country’s nearly six million people have been displaced as refugees.

Elections in 2002 may have signaled the end of widespread turmoil in Sierra Leone, but leaders there have much to do to rebuild their war-torn country. Alie B. Sheriff, a regional African leader, will come to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Tuesday, May 4 to help raise awareness about ongoing problems in his country.

Many people flocked to the capital city of Freetown for safety during the war; unemployment now cripples it. Marauders have looted much of the country’s natural resources, and the literacy rate remains abysmal at 15 percent. The life expectancy for the average Sierra Leone man is 40 years, 45 years for women.

These are just some of the things Sheriff may mention during the public forum at 7 p.m. in the Velzy Room North of the Ullsvik Center. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m. Sheriff will also visit some classrooms and talk to UWP students during the day.

The 21st Century African Youth Movement is sponsoring the event. Founder Askia Koroma, a Sierra Leone-native, will accompany Sheriff on his UWP visit. Koroma fled the country in the early 90s to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he later enlisted help to start the humanitarian agency to help his country.

Sierra Leone is on the western bank of Africa, north of Liberia. The government of the country is divided into provinces, which include several districts, comprised of a number of chiefdoms. In 2002, Sheriff was elected to the title of Paramount Chief of the Jong chiefdom, headquartered in Mattru in the southern province of the country.

PLATTEVILLE - This is Fredric Tufte's favorite time of the year.

"I just enjoy the spring so much, everything comes to life," Tufte said. "I enjoy watching these things grow day by day and develop."

Day by day, friends and colleagues take note of Tufte's own improvement. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville math professor, who will retire this May after nearly four decades of teaching, is slowly recovering from his own battle with a brain tumor.

Two years ago, his world was turned upside-down when he was diagnosed. After an 11-hour surgery in February 2003 to remove the brain tumor, doctors put Tufte into a coma for two months to recover.

Which is when his bad situation got even worse.

Instead of waking from the coma without complications, Tufte suffered a stroke. He couldn't walk or talk, but has been making a slow recovery ever since.

"The speech came back relatively quickly. Now I can manage without a cane. The neurologist said I'd feel like I'd be living in a different body, and that's certainly true," Tufte said. "I've gotten 5,000 e-mail messages from friends all over the world. I think it's all their prayers that really got me through this."

Less than a year after the stroke, Tufte came back to teaching. With the help of fellow math professor Jason Thrun, this spring semester Tufte taught a calculus course. He said the intellectual stimulation from teaching has even aided his recovery.

"My students have been wonderful, overlooking my occasional lapses in short term memory," he wrote in the math department newsletter. Tufte will surely miss teaching.

"I enjoyed the interaction with the young people. They've helped keep me young," Tufte said.

And the teaching community will surely miss the longtime professor.

"He has touched many students' lives by his teaching, has mentored many faculty members, and has done a tremendous amount of work to improve the mathematics department and the university," department chair Sheryl Wills said. "Rick's will and determination throughout his recovery were truly inspiring to his colleagues."

"I will definitely miss the 38 years of wisdom that he has acquired and shared about the job," Wills said. "But mostly, I will miss just simply seeing and talking to him every day."

Tufte began teaching in the UWP math department in 1966, and served as department chair for six years. Tufte was a member of the Wisconsin Mathematics Council and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Among his many notable accomplishments, Tufte helped develop an annual state high school mathematics contest, now in its 31st year.

"We wanted to do something to promote and encourage the study of math among young people. We were looking for something different," Tufte said. The competition attracts 500 students from 30-40 high schools every year.

During his career, Tufte functioned as chair for the Wisconsin chapter of the Mathematical Association of America, and even served on its board of governors. One of his most cherished honors is an award for meritorious service from the MAA, which serves more than 30,000 math educators across the world.

Upon retirement, goal one for Tufte is to get his body back into shape. He also has plans to write, loves gardening and hopes to do more traveling.

"I want to get to Alaska," Tufte said. "It's the only state I haven't been in."

And he'd even love to come back and teach at the university on a volunteer basis.

A retirement celebration is planned from 1:30-3:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 5 in the UWP Ottensman Atrium to help honor professor Tufte and his decades in teaching. No RSVP required.

Also, a scholarship fund has been established in his name. For those interested in contributing to this fund, checks can be made payable to the UWP Foundation and can be sent to the Math Department Office, 151 Gardner Hall, Platteville. For further information, contact math department program assistant Cinda Furry at (608) 342-1741.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Children's Center has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

The Children's Center is licensed to serve 52 children ranging in age from two to five years during the academic year, and two to eight years during the summer program. The program provides services to children of UWP students and employees, as well as the Platteville community. University students are given priority during enrollment.

"We are proud to be accredited by NAEYC and recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards," said Kathy Iselin, director of the UWP Children's Center. "NAEYC accreditation lets the families in our community know that children in our program are getting the best care and early learning experiences."

Accreditation is a voluntary comprehensive self-study requiring programs to meet strict criteria related to high quality programming for children. These criteria range from having well qualified, knowledgeable staff to meeting stringent health and safety standards. There is emphasis placed on key elements that must be evident, such as positive and frequent interactions between children and adults with respect shown towards each other and regular two-way communication with parents.

More than 8,000 early childhood programs serving nearly three-quarters of a million children are accredited by NAEYC.

"In recent years, we've seen a growing number of childcare and preschool programs earning NAEYC accreditation," said Mark Ginsberg, Ph.D., executive director of NAEYC. "By earning accreditation, the Children's Center has become a leader in a national effort to raise the quality of early childhood education, and to help give all children a better start."

NAEYC created its accreditation program in 1985 to set professional standards for early childhood education, and to help families identify high-quality childcare and early education programs. Programs are accredited by NAEYC for a five-year period.

"Many parents have difficulty finding high quality care for their young children," said Iselin. "Few parents know what to look for when selecting a program for their child. Accreditation helps point out the varied components that should be present in a quality program."

PLATTEVILLE - Here's one thing most people don't know about University of Wisconsin System President Katharine Lyall. She considers herself a sailor.

She was speaking literally - she enjoys sailing Madison's lakes - but the label fits figuratively as well. Over the past few years, she's been trying to keep the UW System afloat despite severe budget cuts from the state.

Good thing she's also an economist.

Budget cuts have been one of the biggest challenges for Lyall in her 12 years as UW System president, a post from which she will retire following this academic year. She spoke at the UW-Platteville campus April 19 as part of a farewell tour of UW campuses.

Lyall said one of the biggest challenges for the incoming president, who hasn't been named yet, will be maintaining high academic standards in the face of lowered funding from the state. Increased tuition rates for students with little change in financial aid may make college less accessible for some.

"Certainly in Wisconsin we've had a tradition of wide access. That's beginning to shift," Lyall said.

And the phenomenon isn't restricted to Wisconsin.

"As states deal with deficits, they are taking a disproportionate share out of higher education. It's changing rapidly across the country," she said.

Lyall, who worked as a banker in Wall Street before going into education, is so intrigued by the trend that she plans to write a book about the economics of higher education. Following her departure from the UW System, she will serve for a year as a visiting senior scholar at the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in Palo Alto, Calif.

She plans on returning to Madison at some point and enjoy the things she loves to do, such as sailing on Madison's lakes, one of her favorite pastimes. Lyall had served as a professor of economics at Syracuse, Cornell and John Hopkins Universities before coming to the University of Wisconsin as vice president of academic affairs in 1982. She was named the first woman president of the UW System in 1992.

What attracted her to the UW System in the first place was not only its intellectual prestige, but also the individual histories and identities of its member institutions. UW-Platteville's roots are tied directly to a pair of academic institutions, the Platteville Normal School, established in 1866, and the Wisconsin Mining Trade School, founded in 1907.

"This is all part of the flavor of UWP. You'd be missing a lot of that if it was just a branch of UW-Madison," she said. "I think variety is valuable to students."

During her visit, Lyall was impressed with UWP's new Pioneer Student Center; it was under construction the last time she visited. She also praised the UWP workforce initiative. UWP educators hope to attract students from Iowa and Illinois to programs of study that serve Wisconsin workforce needs by offering reduced tuition rates. Two hundred new students are expected to enroll for fall 2005 classes in the program's first year.

"I think that's a great opportunity," Lyall said. "We hope that that grows and prospers, and when I come back the next time you'll have two new residence halls and another engineering building."

PLATTEVILLE - If you have ever watched a program on TV5 or have listened to WSUP, then there is a pretty good chance that you have either seen his face, or heard his voice.

Now, after four years of attending the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Kevin Garthwaite, originally from Manitowoc, is looking forward to graduating this May with a major in communication technologies management with a double emphasis in broadcasting and public relations.

Garthwaite decided to attend UWP because he had had family members also attend the university.

"I was familiar with the campus," Garthwaite said, "I pretty much had my mind made up from the start as to what college I was going to go to."

During his time at UWP, Garthwaite has been very involved in the communications department. While working at WSUP, he has served two years as the sports director, called Pioneer sports live, produced a specialty show entitled Hip-Hop 101 for a semester, and is currently an on-air DJ and a member of the sports staff.

Garthwaite has also done a lot of work on TV5 as well. He anchors sports during the weekly news program, hosted the auction section of the annual Christmas Telethon the past two years, and is currently producing and co-hosting a weekly half hour sports talk show entitled "On The Clock."

"I've met a lot of great people here," Garthwaite said. "I've also learned that being ambitious is half the battle."

Garthwaite credits his success to the support from his parents, Dave and Shirley Garthwaite, and the rest of his family. He said, "I don't think I would of made it with out them."

Garthwaite also had some advice for those still working toward their degree. "Get involved and don't be afraid to try new things," he said. "You learn the most from failure, so don't be afraid of it."

Although Garthwaite does not currently have a job lined up after he graduates, he does know what he wants to do after he graduates.

"Ideally, I want to go into sports broadcasting," Garthwaite said. "It's a tough market, but I would like to start in radio and work my way into television. Media sales is also something that I have just recently gained an interest in as well."

PLATTEVILLE - With the scent of spring in the air and only a few weeks remaining in the Spring 2004 semester at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, seniors are preparing for that big moment when they walk across the stage and receive their diplomas.

The Spring 2004 commencement ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 8, in Williams Fieldhouse. The College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture (BILSA) and graduate school ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. with Dr. Howard J. Brooks, industrial studies chair, serving as commencement marshal. The principle commencement speaker is Dr. Barbara Prindiville. The senior valedictorian speaker is Michael Fanning with Gretchen M. Brewer as the alternate. The distinguished alumni to be honored are Prindiville, Dr. Mark Andrew, and Kay Helker. The distinguished service awardees are Jerry and Fran Cooper. The banner carrier for BILSA is Matthew Van Buren.

The College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (EMS) and Liberal Arts and Education (LAE) commencement ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. with Dr. Fredric Tufte, a retiring mathematics professor, serving as commencement marshal. The principle commencement speaker is Brian Cleven. Heidi L. Joubert is the senior valedictorian speaker with Terry E. Staskal serving as the alternate. The distinguished alumni who are being honored are John (Jack) Kindschi, David Mergen, and Dr. Nancy von Meyer. The distinguished service recipient is Mac Klingler. Banner carriers for the college of EMS are Lynn McDonnell and Robert Anderson. The banner carriers for the college of LAE are Layne David, Jacqueline Johnson, Neil Thommesen, and Molly Zuelke.

MADISON-Alumni, students and members of University of Wisconsin System communities will celebrate their campus allegiances this spring during a statewide "UW Spirit Day."

"UW Spirit Day," will be held across the state on Friday, May 7, to showcase and celebrate the contributions of the nearly 500,000 UW alumni who live and work in Wisconsin.

Alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and friends are invited to participate in "UW Spirit Day" by wearing their home campus colors, logo wear, and/or a 'spirit badge' to show their UW connection in schools, hospitals, banks, businesses and hometowns throughout Wisconsin.

"More than half a million Wisconsin citizens are proud members of our UW community," said UW System President Katharine C. Lyall. "They are literally in every community and every public and private enterprise in Wisconsin. We know that the UW System has a $10 billion annual impact on Wisconsin's economy, but that seems like an abstraction to most people. However, when you actually see who our alumni are, the university's impact becomes much more apparent."

"I am very appreciative that our alumni associations came up with this idea to show the reach of our UW alumni, faculty, staff, students and parents and to celebrate our campuses and their achievements," Lyall added.

The UW's alumni associations recently formed a UW Alumni Council and will be working with Wisconsin businesses and civic organizations on "UW Spirit Day" activities, including special luncheons for employees with UW ties, and local events to showcase community connections to the university. Discounts on UW campus logo wear may also be available through participating campus bookstores.

More details and downloadable spirit badges are available through campus alumni organizations or on the web at http://www.wisconsin.edu/spirit.

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville educators have received a $35,000 grant to offer assessment training for teachers K-8 in the area of helping students learn to write constructed responses in math.

While traditionally students have just been asked to provide answers to math problems, new philosophies in teaching call for students to also back up those answers with a statement explaining why they did what they did to solve the problem.

"Research shows that when students have to defend their responses in math, they learn much better," said Jodean Grunow, UWP math professor. "That's what constructive response asks for."

Area teachers requested the training to better prepare students for state standardized tests that call for constructed response. The idea is for teachers trained through the UWP program to return to their school districts and act as mentors for other teachers.

This professional development opportunity is available to teachers K-8 in the CESA three region.

All expenses of the program will be paid for by the grant, and participation is limited to 30 in the first year. Grunow and UWP School of Education Professor Alison Bunte will teach two groups of participants in a two-credit course on the UWP campus, with the first class scheduled for July 19-22.

Over a course of three years, Grunow and Bunte plan to train 90 teachers in the area of constructed response. They anticipate indirectly impacting 450 teachers over the course of the program.

Application forms can be obtained by contacting Grunow via e-mail (grunowj@uwplatt.edu) or Bunte (bunte@uwplatt.edu).

"It's really a great professional development opportunity," Grunow said. "You can learn a lot and you don't have to pay for it."

PLATTEVILLE - Members of the Wisconsin Engineering Licensing Board will visit the University of Wisconsin-Platteville campus Thursday, April 22, and students, staff and other interested parties may come and learn a little more about the organization and licensing procedures.

The board administers the fundamentals of engineering exam, a test that can put engineers on the path to a state license. UWP engineering professor Lisa Riedle said passing the exam can benefit an engineer's career, and she tells UWP engineering students to take it while they're in school.

"It's so much easier to take the exam when you're in that mode," Riedle said. "It's kind of a step up on the career ladder."

Professionals practicing engineering in the field who have never taken the test could benefit as well.

"I encourage them to come and learn what it might do for them," Riedle said.

Licensing is important to ensure that the engineers working on public roads and bridges, for example, are qualified to build safe structures, Riedle said.

The nine members from the Wisconsin Licensing Board will begin their day at UWP with an administrative report at 9 a.m., and then an overview of UWP from Provost Carol Sue Butts at 9:30 a.m. Both events in the University North Room of the Pioneer Student Center are open to the campus community and general public.

The board members will meet with staff members from campus recruiting and continuing education at 10 and 11 a.m., respectively, in order to answer questions they may face from prospective students. A general question and answer session, open to all, is planned for 11:30 a.m.

After lunching with students, staff and administrators, board members will talk about the importance of licensing at 1 p.m. in the University North Room.

UWP students have consistently exhibited exceptional performance on the fundamentals of engineering exam, as attested by pass rates more than 10 percentage points above the state average and as much as 25 percentage points better than the national average in recent years.

Anyone with questions may contact the College of Engineering, Math and Science Dean's Office at (608) 342-1561 or Riedle at (608) 342-1686, or via email at riedle@uwplatt.edu.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Theta chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon has recently been accredited as a Residential Learning Community by their national organization. Faculty involvement with the fraternity and helping members get the most out of their college experience are the main ideas behind a Residential Learning Community.

A brief plaque unveiling ceremony will be held at the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity house, located at 80 S. Elm Street in Platteville, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 24.

Out of the 240 accredited chapters, there are currently 31 accredited Sigma Phi Epsilon Residential Learning Communities in the nation. Sigma Phi Epsilon is the first national fraternity to focus on a residential learning atmosphere in their fraternity houses.

The members have recruited Deb Putnam, assistant director of dining services, as their faculty fellow. In this position, Putnam holds office hours in the fraternity house on a weekly basis, attends chapter meetings, and makes herself available to members who wish to discuss academic and personal concerns.

The members of Sigma Phi Epsilon have worked diligently to attain the accreditation. This involved creating a computer lab complete with three laptops, a printer, and a scanner available for any member to use. Also, the dining room has been outfitted with new tables and chairs and members who wish to study there are given priority over other uses. The members pride themselves on a collaborative relationship of the fraternity house between academic and residential uses.

"This type of recognition shows the national headquarters and the university that we are doing positive things," said Sigma Phi Epsilon president Ken McHone. "We strive to promote the university's mission as well as our own."

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Agriculture will be holding its annual spring banquet Wednesday, April 28, in the Velzy Commons of the Ullsvik Center. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with the awards program beginning at 7 p.m.

More than 80 scholarships for continuing students, ranging from $250 to a full semester's tuition, will be awarded. Awards will also be given to the outstanding faculty member for the School of Agriculture, outstanding staff member for the School of Agriculture, club and organization awards and ag judging team awards.

Bob Clare will be receiving the individual award for Friend of the School of Agriculture. Clare donated the 30 acres of land for the recently completed Pioneer Swine Center. The swine center is located across from the current dairy center and machine shed.

The consortium of Platteville banks, including AnchorBank, Clare Bank, First National Bank of Platteville, and Mound City Bank, will be receiving the business/organization award for Friend of the School of Agriculture. The $1.4 million loan that helped fund the project was underwritten by the UWP Foundation by the Platteville banks until funds could be raised to pay for the project.

Agriculture Student Council organizes the banquet, with more than 200 people attending each year. Tickets cost $12 without a meal plan and $8.15 with a meal plan. They are being sold in 211 Russell Hall. Please contact Katie Reichling, treasurer of Agriculture Student Council, at reichlik@uwplatt.edu for more ticket information and purchase.

PLATTEVILLE - CenturyTel of Platteville recently completed its final installment toward a $25,000 gift to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation Office for the purpose of improving the technology in the Pioneer Student Center (PSC).

The final installment was presented by Bob Brown, general manager of CenturyTel, based in La Crosse, to the UWP Foundation during a board meeting in February. This final payment completed the company's pledge for the University's capital campaign originated in 1999, which consisted of five installments of $5,000 every year for five years, for a total gift of $25,000. In sum, the University raised more than $8.5 million during the campaign.

"The University has always had a strong partnership with CenturyTel," remarked Dennis Cooley, interim director of university relations and the UWP Foundation. "We have similar leadership capabilities within the community and are, in a very important way, strategic partners. This gift symbolizes that relationship."

"CenturyTel is very grateful for the contributions UW-Platteville has made to the growth and development of this region's economy, and for its commitment to educational excellence through state-of-the-art communication technology," stated Vicki Jernstrom, area operations manager of CenturyTel.

CenturyTel's focus for the donation was to continue to improve technology for students, faculty and staff in the Pioneer Student Center. This was accomplished by improving technology resources within the Hempel Collaboratory, located in the Bear's Den of the student union. The Hempel Collaboratory provides a variety of Macintosh and IBM computers, along with software and utilities needed for collaboration between students and faculty.

"It would be very difficult, if not for friends like CenturyTel, for the University to stay on the cutting edge related to the needs of our students, faculty and staff," commented Cooley.

"The positive future of UWP depends on collaborative agreements with companies like CenturyTel and others who want to see this area blossom."

"CenturyTel is committed to the continuing growth and development of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville," Jernstrom added.

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will bring its knowledge and skill in the area of volleyball to high school students through its summer camps. There are three individual camps and three team camps offered.

All camps will be held in Williams Fieldhouse. The camp staff includes: Deb Schulman, the camp director, in the 2003 season completed her 16th year with the Pioneers and has posted winning records in 12 of her 16 seasons at UWP; assistant coach Loren Finn, who has completed his first year with the UWP program; and coach Jason Julius, who has served as an assistant for three seasons of UWP volleyball.

The Nike High Potential Camp for high school varsity and club players is offered Sunday, July 11 through Wednesday, July 14. Also going on at this time is the Nike General Skills Camp for girls in grades seven to 12. The participants will be housed on campus. Some Nike highlights are: a camper to coach ratio of eight to one; outstanding coaching staff and players in superior facilities; team competition three times daily; and league, all-star and individual competitions.

The Day Camp being held July 19 through July 22 is for girls in grades seven to 12. It offers four sessions from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The campers will participate in team competition and daily contests.

Occurring July 23 through July 24 the Setter/Hitter Camp is for girls in grades nine through 12. The camp offers three, three-hour sessions, and individual video analysis under the supervision of the coaching staff.

There will also be three team camps. The JV Team Camp is on July 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It guarantees six rounds of competition and two hours of instruction.

Team Camp #1 runs Aug. 6 and 7, and Team Camp # 2 runs Aug. 7 and 8. At both camps each team is guaranteed to play eight matches. Registration for these camps is due by May 31 and will be limited to 25 teams per camp.

Applications for the camps will be accepted until capacity is attained, but registering early is recommended. For more information contact Deb Schulman at (608) 342-1255 or schulman@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Ceres and FarmHouse Fraternities will be celebrating their 15th year on campus this year. The two will be holding a banquet on April 24 in Platteville. They will also be hosting a large number of alumni, faculty, family and friends.

FarmHouse was developed in 1905 at the University of Missouri. Then just a club, FarmHouse grew to the national level by 1921 being recognized as a professional fraternity in 1916. In 1924 they were recognized by all university campuses and became an international fraternity in 1974 when the University of Alberta Edmonton chartered. FarmHouse does not have the traditional Greek letters.

CB Hutchison, a founder of the fraternity, said, "The basic point in our minds was to find a lace for our mutual interest in stimulating companionship and fellowship. To make sure no one would think of our club as a fraternity, we gave it what we thought was a non fraternal name. It was to exemplify agriculture and rural living despite the fact that out of necessity, it had to have an urban locale."

In the late 60s to early 70s, many FarmHouse chapters organized "sister groups." In 1978, numerous people from FarmHouse International started tossing around ideas of a women's chapter of the fraternity. A women's club was started in Colorado and in 1980, 18 women signed a document officially founding the FarmHouse women's club that became Ceres Chapters of FarmHouse Fraternity.

Presently, the two chapters are very active on and off campus. Both participate in community service activities like Adopt-A-Highway and Relay for Life. Ceres and FarmHouse have a stretch of highway designated to them that they clean every year. Both also fundraise for and participate in the local Relay for Life. This year they had a combined bowling team for the fundraiser that the Belmont Jaycees held to raise money for families affected by AIDS. Ceres members also go to the Heartland Health Care Center once a week to play bingo with the residents.

"Both fraternities push for excellence in scholarship, sisterhood/brotherhood, and appreciation of agriculture. These two fraternities strive to be unique," said Ashley Pratt, Ceres member. "This uniqueness has kept the two fraternities on campus for 15 years and it is what will keep them around for a very long time."

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will graduate its second cohort from the educational administrative certification program in May. Sixteen will receive certification.

Since the inception of the administrative education certificate in 2001, UW-Platteville's administration certificate program has graduated 18 individuals.

"We are extremely fortunate to have quality instructors for this program-consisting of current and retired administrators," said Wally Iselin, director of the educational administration certification program and director of clinical experiences.

Requirements for admission to the educational administration certificate program include having a minimum of three years PreK-12 teaching, counseling or student services experience, an essay of self-reflection on competency in the knowledge skills and dispositions of the 10 Wisconsin Standards for Teacher Development, and two letters of recommendation from administrators.

To complete the educational administration certification licensure, candidates must complete the 24-credit program, pass the Department of Public Instruction content test for administrators, develop a graduation portfolio and have a completed master's degree.

"The program has had a tremendous impact on the master's degree program," said Iselin.

The courses offered for the educational administration certification program are held Saturdays during the summer over a two-year period.

"Our program is based on the concept of knowledge, skills and dispositions," said Iselin. "The program is easily adaptable to those who are currently employed because it meets on Saturdays."

Courses included in the certificate program include educational administration introduction seminar, educational administration relationships, educational administration student learning, educational administration systems I, educational administration legal aspects, and educational administration systems II.

Iselin said that one of the greatest keys to the success of the program was that the planning committee did not choose textbooks, but decided to rely on the involvement of practitioners, hands on activities and projects derived from true life situations.

"We've been pleased with the students involved, they are committed, willing and open to learn. We are extremely proud of those who have secured position as principles," said Iselin.

Students graduating in May from the Educational Administrative Certification program at UWP include: Cindy Atkinson, Lancaster; Jodene Bast, Platteville; Todd Bastian, Benton; Gerald Benish, Mineral Point; Becky Cohen, Darlington; Joseph Diedrich, Shullsburg; Mike Howard, Brodhead; Jason Julius, Platteville; Brian Kammerer, Brodhead; Mitchell Kunhnert, Platteville; Sara Latimer, Monroe; Mark Lierman, Shullsburg; James Matthys, Brodhead; Christy Murphy, Darlington; Jean Pierick, Highland; and Shane Wahls, St. Olaf, Iowa.

PLATTEVILLE- Every spring the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Alumni Association recognizes several distinguished alumni at the spring commencement ceremony. This year Kay Helker, a 1971 graduate of UW-Platteville, is one of the five outstanding alumni that will be honored.

Helker graduated with a bachelor of science degree in communications. While at UWP, she was a member of Kappa Alpha Sigma, Student Activity Council, and was a majorette in the marching band. She was also active in the plays on campus and the winter pageant. Helker names Robert Sporre, a former professor in the theatre department as her favorite professor. Her words of wisdom to students are, "A well-rounded education involves participating in clubs and organizations and volunteering."

Being involved and volunteering is something that Helker still believes in today. She has been a member of the Southwest Health Center Board since 1996 and served as chair from 2001 to 2003. She is currently the vice chair for the 1.5 million dollar capital campaign to build a new hospital. Helker was chair of the board during the strategic planning which led to the decision to build the hospital and medical facility. She serves on the Platteville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Platteville Main Street Program and was named the Platteville Chamber Business Person of the Year in 1989. She has done all of this while running Helker Jewelry, Inc., the business her father started in 1947.

Helker took over the family business in 1979. She enjoys being a second generation jeweler, saying, "I enjoy the jewelry business because I grew up in it and am able to carry on a family tradition. It is a business that requires trust and integrity to run successfully. I enjoy being self-employed. It is a romantic business, customers come to purchase jewelry for a loved one; or to reward themselves for their success." She has also been involved with the Wisconsin Jewelers Association Board of Directors, serving on the board for 12 years, one of those years as president.

Helker received the ATHENA award in 1995, a program that honors outstanding women as leaders. In order to receive the award, the women must be nominated and meet three criteria, including: actively assisting women in achieving their full potential as a leader; demonstrating excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession; and contributing time and energy into improving the quality of life in their community. The program has several underwriters, including General Motors Pontiac, GMC, Buick and Oldsmobile dealers and National City Bank branches. Locally the program is sponsored by Mound View Motors.

Helker lives in Platteville and enjoys golfing and spending time with her grandchildren.

PLATTEVILLE - Six women have been chosen as finalists to be Wisconsin's 57th Alice in Dairyland, and three of the women have connections to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Finalist Gretchen Brewer, Clinton, will graduate in May with a degree in agriculture education from UWP, where she participated in the collegiate crops team, collegiate FFA and agri-ambassadors. She is student teaching at Shullsburg High School, according to a press release from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Angela Kramer, Platteville, earned an elementary education degree from UWP in 2002 after graduating with a degree in agricultural journalism from UW-Madison in 2000. She grew up on her family's beef farm near Eastman and works as a full-time fourth-grade teaching assistant in the Belmont School District.

Earning an agribusiness degree from UWP in 2002, Nicole Wagner, Sussex, is continuing her education at UW-Milwaukee and works at Charleston/Orwig, a marketing communications firm in Hartland.

Alice in Dairyland is a full-time public relations professional employed by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Each year 'Alice' travels more than 40,000 miles throughout the world to promote Wisconsin agriculture products.

"As the state's agriculture ambassador, the new Alice will be an important part of our agricultural development team," said Rod Nilsestuen, secretary of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Iowa County will host the Alice in Dairyland finals June 2-4.

PLATTEVILLE - Stephanie Branson doesn't know the Polish language. Not a lick. But that won't stop her from teaching there for the second time in four years.

"It's entirely new to me. It's hard to learn, very difficult to speak," Branson said. "But I love to study language. I really love to speak different languages."

University of Wisconsin-Platteville English professor Stephanie Branson, who first taught in Poland in 2001-2002, will return to the city she loves as part of the Fulbright Scholar program.

Branson received a Fulbright grant to lecture on U.S. literature at the University of Wroclaw, Poland, over the 2004-2005 academic year. It was in Wroclaw three years ago that she served as an instructor at the technical school.

"I taught English as a second language. I absolutely loved the city and wanted to return," Branson said. "Even though they're dirt poor by American standards, the people are very generous and friendly."

Economics plays a large role in the differences between Poland and the United States. The first time around, Branson made around $300 a month at her teaching post, one reason why she opted for two jobs. She remembers being surprised to find that Polish instructors locked their classrooms after their classes; otherwise, the furniture would get stolen.

Branson will adapt the courses to her students, and will probably include less reading and more oral work than she would for U.S. students. She said the challenges of teaching in Poland, in addition to the language difficulties, are the differences in the culture and often-negative attitudes toward the United States. Branson remembers one Polish student who said the U.S. doesn't have any culture.

"I think I can convince him otherwise given the right opportunity," she said, noting she'd like to learn more about the Polish culture as well. "Right now, with the world in such a huge political mess, it's an important time for scholars to exchange ideas."

One thing noted in the Polish culture is their respect for education.

"There's more value of knowledge," Branson said. "If someone has a Ph.D. or knows a subject very well, they value that. It's a less materialistic society in general."

One thing Branson loves to do is sing, and last time she was in the country she was able to sing with a choral group affiliated with the university. She looks forward to the opportunity again, and hopes to travel with the group to performances throughout Europe.

And though her courses will be taught in English to students with advanced English skills, Branson-who has experience with other European languages such as French and Danish-is trying to learn the Polish language with the aid of computer software. Some communication barriers, however, are par for the course.

"I really love to speak different languages," Branson said. "The day-to-day stuff is made more complicated, but I don't mind. It makes it more interesting."

Branson is among 800 U.S. faculty and professionals who will travel abroad to some 140 countries during the 2004-2005 academic year through the Fulbright Scholar program. Established in 1946 by Senator J. William Fulbright, the program's purpose is to build mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville senior Heidi Joubert will be graduating this May with a major in industrial engineering with an emphasis in management, and minors in business administration and psychology.

With such diverse academic studies, Joubert feels it's important to take classes in areas that one enjoys. "Many students only stay in one major and are afraid to do anything else. But if you find something interesting and don't want a career in it, still take those classes, especially if you're in the college of EMS. They help break up the intense science based classes you take every semester," encouraged Joubert.

Joubert has been inspired by many of her professors outside engineering because of their enthusiasm. She especially enjoys her class with Dr. Elizabeth Gates because of the "energy and motivation she puts into her teaching." Joubert constantly receives support from the entire industrial engineering department including chair, Dr. Jaime Hernandez.

"The department has been very supportive in conference participation and is helping raise funds to send more students to higher level conferences," said Joubert. In the beginning of March, Joubert traveled to a regional industrial engineering conference where she presented a technical paper from her senior design class on a facility improvement project. She received first place and will travel with other Wisconsin finalists to the national competition in Houston, Texas, after graduation.

Aside from an intense academic focus, Joubert has also been actively involved in the Platteville community and a myriad of student organizations. As an avid volunteer for the Center on Aging and the Family Center, Joubert has arranged for groups of other volunteers to donate time at the center too. She has been involved with UWP Student Ambassadors; Tau Beta Pi, a general engineering honor society; the Institute for Industrial Engineers; and Alpha Pi Mu, an industrial engineering honor society. In Alpha Pi Mu, Joubert was an integral part in helping organize and start an advisor appreciation breakfast for the organizational advisors from the College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science, which she hopes will become a tradition and continue every year at UWP.

As her college career comes to a close, Joubert says she's still satisfied with her decision to attend UWP. "There are many opportunities for smaller class sizes and one on one student faculty interactions. It's nice to know that the professors care about you and act as a support network for students," said Joubert.

Already hired to work for Motorola in Libertyville, Ill., a suburb of Chicago, Joubert will work on the quality of cell phone accessories. She previously completed a summer internship with Motorola, as well as Northeast Asphalt and as a management intern for Wal-Mart. Originally from Oshkosh, Joubert is the daughter of Randall and Penny Joubert.

PLATTEVILLE - The Pioneer Tower at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will soon be evacuated in preparation of a long-awaited remodeling and renovation plan involving the current heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

Currently, the Tower is heated using hot water methods, or steam. The purpose of the renovation is to replace this system for a more modern approach. This approach involves a forced air heating and air conditioning system, similar to systems used in most homes today.

Along with replacing the HVAC system, the Tower renovation will also replace all the ceilings, lighting and windows. Minor remodeling will take place on the first floor, with additional changes such as moving doorways on other floors.

"This renovation is definitely needed," commented Richard Klawiter, assistant dean of the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture. "The windows are drafty and leak cold air. The current HVAC system was built in 1969 and needs an upgrade. It is definitely time for a replacement."

Beginning Monday, May 10, the contractors will take over the patio area surrounding the Tower along with the large parking lot located outside the Tower along Irene Street. At this time, the contractors will fence in this area and begin to move their equipment into the parking lot area.

The following week, Monday, May 17, the contractors will take full control of the Pioneer Tower and the surrounding fenced in areas. At this time all occupants of the Tower must evacuate the area. The only exception at this time will be for television services. They will have access to the television studio in the basement of the Tower through a backdoor located in the studio.

The renovation is scheduled for completion Friday, Aug. 13. At this time all occupants of the Tower will be able to move back into their areas prior to the start of the fall semester.

During this period of construction, the contractors will temporarily assume possession of the building. Due to liability with the ongoing construction, they ask that no one be allowed in the Tower.

Floors one through four of the Tower will be moving everything out of their offices into different classrooms and labs located in Russell Hall. These areas will be used only as storage and will be inaccessible during the construction process. Floors five through eight must be completely evacuated by the occupants, but the contents of the area will be moved from the north end of the Tower to the south end while construction is taking place.

Each department located in the Tower will have a designated area to contact for information and certain faculty will be relocated during the construction.

All individuals seeking additional information regarding a department or person currently located in the Tower are welcome to contact them to learn any needed information regarding the evacuation.

"This is a very time sensitive project, and any and all cooperation is greatly appreciated," added Keri Pustina, project manager of facilities management.

PLATTEVILLE - Over his 34-year career at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, professor Roger Hauser saw the rise in the importance of safety in the workplace. That change was reflected in industrial education, and Hauser himself created many of the safety courses in the UWP industrial studies program.

For his "outstanding service and commitment to safety in Wisconsin," the Wisconsin Council of Safety will honor Hauser with a special achievement award at a ceremony April 19.

"Safety is such an important part of society," he said.

Hauser, who retired from teaching in 2000, taught more than 15 different safety courses at UWP. He developed courses in industrial hygiene, product liability, environmental management, safety legislation, safeguarding machines and ergonomics in the workplace.

In the early to mid-1970s, Hauser saw a new emphasis emerge on safety in the workplace.

"People can't imagine the way it's grown. I saw that sort of develop," he said.

"Safety definitely grew in that amount of time-in those 25 years or so."

During his career, Hauser was active with the National Safety Council, the Wisconsin Council of Safety, the Wisconsin School Safety Coordinators Association and the American Society of Safety Engineers. He was also instrumental in helping establish a student chapter of ASSE at UW-Platteville in 1983.

He has helped an untold number of students understand the importance of safety in the workplace.

"The students have been such an important part of my life," Hauser said.

Since his retirement, Hauser has kept busy with several hobbies, and he still loves to watch basketball games. He attended all Pioneer basketball home games this year, and even made it to 12 Bo Ryan-coached Badger basketball games.

Hauser will be honored at a dinner preceding the 62nd Annual Wisconsin Safety and Health Congress and Exposition in Madison. Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle will be on hand as the Wisconsin Council of Safety recognizes safety and health award winners at the April 19 dinner at the Marriott West.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Women's Greek Council (WGC) is sponsoring a Locks of Love hair drive on Tuesday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Hair Studio in downtown Platteville.

Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to people under the age of 18 who suffer from long-term medical hair loss. The wigs help restore their self-esteem and confidence. Production of each wig costs between $3,500 and $6,000. The custom-fitted hair prosthetics are provided free of charge to patients who meet Locks of Love guidelines.

Sign up sheets to receive a haircut are available at the Pioneer Involvement Center desk. Rides to the Hair Studio are available upon request by WGC members who are donating their services for the event. "I would definitely recommend that people sign up as soon as possible, because slots are filling up fast," commented Melissa Nelson, owner of The Hair Studio. Nelson is donating her salon and stylists for the day to support the WGC and their charity drive.

Upon arrival at the event, hair must be washed, dried, and free of styling products. All donated hair is used in the wig making process. Usually 10 inches or more is requested to make one wig, but donated hair less than 10 inches will be sold and those monies put towards wig production. If a person donates less than four inches of hair they may pay an additional $1 per inch up to 10 to help Locks of Love.

Ali Daase, a UWP junior, and previous vice-president of WGC, brought the Locks of Love proposal to WGC when a close family member was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Daase will be the first person to get her hair cut, "for the children and my family. It gives you warm fuzzies to know you're making a child smile."

Valerie Wetzel, WGC advisor, will also be getting a haircut to commemorate her father's passing from cancer in October of 2003. "It's one thing to donate money, but this is giving part of yourself to help another. I'm challenging friends and family to donate 10 cents for every inch of hair that I donate to collect a monetary donation to send with my hair," said Wetzel.

"This is an excellent opportunity for students at UWP to get involved in a charity without donating money or lots of time," said Jody Weber, public relations coordinator for WGC.

Added Wetzel, "This is an effort by WGC to show the Greek life's positive community interaction and involvement by giving part of themselves to help others."

Monetary donations may be turned into the PIC desk or brought to The Hair Studio. For more information or questions regarding this event contact Wetzel at (608) 342-1075.

PLATTEVILLE - A sight never before seen at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will occur on Tuesday, April 20, when the deans from each college at UWP will ascend to the west end roof of Gardner Hall to raise money to support the "M" Fund Appeal. The "M" Fund Appeal is part of the Pioneer Appeal, which focuses on giving employees the opportunity to invest in the future of the university.

Duane Ford is the dean for the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture (BILSA); Mittie Nimocks is the dean for the College of Liberal Arts and Education (LAE); and Rich Shultz is the dean for the College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (EMS).

The three deans will be on Gardner's roof from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. rain or shine. Each college needs to raise a minimum of $200 for the "M" Fund Appeal to get their dean on the roof. Once the $200 goal is met, the deans need to match up to $200 in order to come back down. If the colleges make their goal of raising a total of at least $600, Chancellor David Markee will join them on the roof.

"If this event is successful, we want to send the entire cabinet up next year," said Carol Beals, a UWP employee.

Added Jane Kuhl, another UWP employee, "It will be nice to see all levels of employees together having a good time."

In addition to the deans on the roof, a brat fry will be held at the same time between Ottensman and Gardner Halls to raise additional funds for the appeal.

Donations can be submitted to the following individuals: College of BILSA - Becky Troy, Carolyn Van DeWiel, Jamir Uddin, and Elizabeth Duewer; College of EMS - Beals, Clyde Holverson, Dawn Riechers, and Mike Momot; and College of LAE - Kuhl, Ken Wiegman, and Dan Fairchild.

PLATTEVILLE - Assisting in the design of a multipurpose trail located between Platteville and Belmont is the project that one senior design team from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is working on as they complete their last semester prior to graduation.

Four students, each majoring in civil engineering, have been working on the design of the trail. The design team consists of Chad Schroeder, originally from Merrill, with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; Katrina Nordwig, originally from Plymouth, with an emphasis in geotechnical and environmental engineering; Cliff Janssen, originally from Merrill, with an emphasis in transportation and geotechnical engineering; and Corey Stelljes, originally from Altoona, with an emphasis in environmental engineering.

The trail, known as the Pecatonica Trail, is made out of an existing railroad bed and railroad bridges. The assistance provided by the design group includes the redesign of five problem areas currently found along the trail. These problem areas mainly include poor connections between the existing railroad bed and the planned course of the trail. Over time, landowners and different construction projects have altered the original location and construction of the railroad bed.

In order to provide a complete design of the trail, the completion of the four-lane highway between Platteville and Belmont must also take place.

Through working on the project, the team said they have learned numerous aspects of completing a full-scale, real life project. While designing the trail, they have had the opportunity to improve their computer software skills, using different programs. Researching proper regulations and design options has been another valuable skill that the team has encountered.

The client for the project, Greg Pittz, park manager at Yellowstone Lake State Park, has provided the design team with the proper supplies and plans for the project. Pittz has also taken the design team on a tour of the trail and showed them the areas in need of redesign.

Throughout their project, the design team has been aided and advised by Dr. Lisa Riedle, assistant dean for the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science.

"The faculty in the civil engineering department has provided extensive help and assistance to our team throughout our project," commented Schroeder. "Even if they aren't the professors assigned to the project, they have all been ready and willing to help us however they can."

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville students are working in conjunction with Kim Marinelli and Bill Miller of Durrant Engineering of Dubuque, Iowa, to design a steel frame facility for Dick's Supermarket. The building, 28 feet in height, will house a new bakery and deli area for Dick's.

Senior design students Gretchen Barlow, Debbie Budworth, and Jonathan Vogt have been assigned to the project. Aside from a wind force resistant structure, the building must be economically feasible, coincide with the existing foundation, and utilize the existing floor plan and building dimensions. The client has requested a complete steel structure from columns, beams, and trusses, to the roof.

The senior design students are working through the actual process of designing beams and columns. They have also tried to pick the best roof decking based on shape, costs, and weight, as well as worked with different foundation models and the wind resistance system.

The major challenge for this team of developing engineers is trying to "design while meeting all the codes, regulations, and conditions for manufacturing a bakery and deli and figuring out which codes apply where," said Vogt. They must compare the International Building Codes (IBC), against Wisconsin building codes, against the American Society of Civil Engineering codes (ASCE), which can quickly become confusing and complex.

Another challenge the team faced was calculating the loads for each of the 42 columns in their design. "Usually we are given the load numbers, but using the codes, we had to decide between the different options which was correct, and use those numbers to do the math," said Budworth.

Added Barlow, "We also have to work with two different foundation designs, a deep and a shallow design. In class, we don't have to worry about these different components because we only use one at a time. We've never had to design a complete system. The senior design class and this project have really helped us see the entire basic design process from start to finish."

After the process is finished, the group will present a design and cost estimate with schematics of the foundation and an overall recommendation to their client.

Particularly helpful to the students have been their foundation classes and steel design and structures classes, as well as civil engineering professors, Dr. Matt Roberts and Dr. Christina Curras. Roberts' specialty is steel and structures, whereas Curras' specialty is geotechnical.

"Both professors, as well as many others have helped answer as many questions as we can ask. Dr. Roberts helped with the initial load calculations, and Dr. Curras has been an excellent guide on the foundation and structural components for this project," said Budworth.

Vogt is a civil engineering major with emphases on structure, transportation, and construction from Howards Grove. Following his May graduation he will be employed at Kapur & Associates as a staff engineer.

Budworth is a civil engineering major with emphases on structure and geotechnical from Dickeyville. After graduation this spring she will be working at Eagle Point Software as a civil engineering technical consultant.

Barlow is a civil engineering major with emphases on transportation and structures from Soldiers Grove.

PLATTEVILLE-Distance Learning Center faculty and staff were recognized for their pioneering contributions to alternative education sytems at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville at a special dinner held on March 31. The event was part of a continuing celebration of the 25th anniversary of distance education within the UW System.

Chancellor David Markee delivered the welcoming remarks at the recognition dinner, acknowledging the importance of the distance education program to UWP. Speakers Provost Carol Sue Butts and Chere Gibson, chair of the graduate program in continuing and vocational education at UW-Madison,noted the profound impact that alternative delivery systems have had on the field of education and looked forward to future innovations. Special guest Kahtan Al Yasiri, previous dean of the College of Business, Industry and Communication at UWP, recalled the challenges faced back in 1978 when the print-based business administration degree at a distance was established and congratulated his colleagues on their continuing success.

Marge Karsten, chair of the business department and coordinator of the print-based business administration program, personally recognized the faculty from the business program in attendance and thanked them for their important contributions over the years. Instructors from the online programs and past staff members were also noted for their dedication to the distance learning program.

Two national award recipients were also honored at the dinner. Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller, coordinator of the online criminal justice program, was recognized for her 2003 National Academic Advising Association's Outstanding Advising Award. Patricia Bromley, chair of UWP's psychology department, was honored for her nomination for the 2004 University Continuing Education Association's Distinguished College Course Award.

Dawn Drake, executive director of alternative delivery systems at UWP, offered a historical overview of distance education accomplishments. Looking back at the last few years, Drake recalled the contributions made by those who championed the program in its early days, stating: "The only way to make those initial ideas a reality was for a variety of people to be willing to take risks, try new things, and truly go where there was no path and leave a trail, or a legacy."

Looking forward to the next quarter century of distance education at UWP, Drake is enthusiastic. She shared plans for future initiatives with the audience, including launching an online orientation site, creating a virtual open house and hosting a Webinar series. Other projects in the works are the development of a new course designed for the Department of Justice, the introduction of a project management preparation course, and the creation of an alternative licensure program for Wisconsin educators.

UWP currently offers four degrees at a distance: a bachelor of science in business administration, a master of science in criminal justice, a master of engineering, and a master of science in project management. For more information, visit online at http://www.uwplatt.edu/disted, call 800-362-5460 or e-mail disted@uwplatt.edu.

PLATTEVILLE - Only 25 universities nationwide have metal casting programs that are accredited by the Foundry Educational Foundation. After the news of re-accreditation last month, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville can proudly say they are one of those few.

"The program is growing. UW-Platteville is ranked very high in the metal industry," industrial studies professor Kyle Metzloff said.

The FEF is an organization within the cast metals industry that provides financial support to educational foundry programs nationwide, and assists students in finding work placement. A team from the FEF visited the university in March to complete a scheduled program review.

At a time when such schools as UW-Madison and MIT have lost accreditation, FEF

members were impressed with UWP's acquisition of new equipment in the metal casting labs.

"They were impressed with the build up of equipment. Most of it was donated," Metzloff said.

Resources for such equipment as computer-aided manufacturing machines to high-tech furnaces have been donated by companies like Simpson Technologies, Pillar Industries and Neenah Foundry. Metzloff estimates 50-60 percent of these resources have been donated.

"The only reason we can run this is because of the generosity of all of these companies," Metzloff said.

Metzloff said one of the best things about the metals processing program, a minor within the industrial technology management major at UWP, is the emphasis on hands-on learning. UWP students learn "not just in the books," but also "by actually doing it," he said.

"I try to give students a lot of lab time," Metzloff said. "We're teaching the basic manufacturing-the get your hands in there and do it."

That's the reason other schools have lost accreditation, Metzloff said, by emphasizing theoretical learning at the expense of hands-on experience. UWP students, through class or through the affiliated UWP chapter of the American Foundry Society, have made a variety of metal objects-from manhole covers to a bell that decorated a schooner built in honor of the state of Wisconsin's sesquicentennial celebration. Metzloff is quick to point out a vice grip in the metals laboratory that was built from start to finish, every part manufactured in their labs "except the screws."

Metzloff encourages students to visualize the metals manufacturing process from start to finish.

"I'll bring in a part and say, 'How is this made?'" he said. "I force them to think, 'How is this formed? How did they machine that?'-the things people take for granted."

Many people may not realize how common parts manufactured by metal casting really are. A typical automobile will have literally hundreds of parts created through metal casting techniques, Metzloff said.

Accreditation from the FEF is vital for the UWP metals program in several ways. The organization gives funds to accredited programs every year, funds that help pay for improvements to the metals labs, and directly to students through scholarships.

The organization also hosts a conference where the top students from accredited programs can meet with top executives from businesses looking to hire metallurgists and metals manufacturers, corporations like Caterpillar and Ford Motor Company.

"These companies are looking for the best and the brightest," Metzloff said.

"Almost every year at least half [of the UWP students who attend] picks up contacts that will give them jobs."

In another five years, UWP will be up again for re-accreditation from the FEF. The organization's mission statement is to "strengthen the metal casting industry by supporting unique partnerships among students, educators and industry, helping today's students become tomorrow's leaders."

"The whole goal is to get intelligent people to go into the industry," Metzloff said.

PLATTEVILLE- A strange phenomena will be taking place at the Pioneer Prairie Farm on Tuesday, April 27. The cows will still be milked, but it will be by hand. The students who milk them will still be in overalls, but some of them will also be wearing dresses. And not just your run of the mill, old-fashioned chore dress either. The dresses will be filled with sparkles and sequins and glitter and the barnyard will be reminiscent of a high school prom. The students wearing the dresses (and the ones wearing the overalls) will have a time limit to milk the cows and the team with the most milk when the timer runs out will be declared the winners. That s not even the strangest part of the contest. The most shocking part, the dresses will be worn by the men. But to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville agriculture students, it's all part of Springfest and a little thing they like to call the Milk Maid contest.

Starting at 4 p.m. the UW-Platteville Agriculture Student Council will be sponsoring Springfest on the Pioneer Farm. Springfest is an annual event where the School of Agriculture clubs compete against each other, not only in the Milk Maid contest, but in other events such as: hay bale throwing, tug-o-war, the egg toss, milk chug and ag Olympics. After the contests, the winning club will be presented with a prize and there will be a cookout for all the participants.

PLATTEVILLE- Even though University of Wisconsin-Platteville junior Rob Sjoerdsma doesn't live on a farm, he is still an active member of the Pioneer Dairy Club. He serves as the club's vice president and is a leader in the club's activities, such as the Pioneer Dairy Sale, held every year in Lancaster, and the club's annual trip to the Midwest Regional American Dairy Science Association student affiliation division meetings. This year at ADSA/SAD, however, Sjoerdsma, who is majoring in animal science with a dairy emphasis, took an even more active role, running for ADSA/SAD office.

Sjoerdsma says, The American Dairy Science Association is a nationwide professional organization made up of people who work in the dairy industry. The UW-Platteville Dairy Club is a member of the Student Affiliate Division of this organization. Every February the schools in the midwest that are members of this organization come together for a three day convention. The fundamental idea behind this convention is for students to be able to network and become well connected with other members of the dairy industry.

As vice president, Sjoerdsma assists ADSA/SAD president Molly Florent of UW-Madison in taking care of any issues that may appear in the next year. The ADSA/SAD officers also are responsible for helping plan the next year's convention, a large undertaking, considering the midwest region is the largest, with 550 participants this year. This year's officer team, which includes: Brenda Cavanaugh, UW-River Falls; Ashley Vonk, South Dakota State University; and Erin Wacker, University of Minnesota; would also like to hold a reception for members of the organization at the World Dairy Expo, held every October in Madison.

Sjoerdsma is the son on Dave and Sharon Sjoerdsma of Randolph.

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has participated in the concrete canoe competition since 1977. The competition is a well-known event drawing much interest from alumni and community members. This year's competition is April 24 at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

The purpose of the competition is for students to design and construct a canoe made primarily of concrete that will achieve the right balance for optimum speed, maneuverability, and strength, for racing on the water.

The competition is comprised of both academic and race events. Teams must submit a design paper, and prepare and deliver a business presentation describing their project.

Seventy percent of the scoring for the competition is based on aesthetics and durability of the final product, and engineering design and construction principles. Also included in that 70 percent is the written report and oratory skills. The other 30 percent of scoring is based on five race events--women's endurance, men's endurance, women's sprint, men's sprint, and co-ed sprint.

Team members began the building process by using computer software to design the canoe. Construction began with making cross sections to make the mold. While the mold was being constructed the team tested several different concrete mix designs to achieve the highest strength concrete with the lowest density. This year's mix weighs less than the water, and is twice as strong as the mix used last year. The mix was then chosen and the concrete is placed, dried, taken out of the mold and sanded. The end result of there efforts is a canoe 19 feet long, and three feet wide that weights 200 lbs. and floats.

Not only did the team build the canoe, but also members of the paddling team, coached by a member of the Olympic Dragon Boat Team in Dubuque, practiced their technique. The dedicated members practiced in fall until ice appeared, and began practicing as soon as there was open water this spring.

Team captain John Kevern commented about the 20 students on the concrete canoe team and this year's canoe saying, "I am very proud of this year's team. This year is the year Platteville will dominate the competition, leaving everyone else to fight for second."

Kevern also said, "This year's canoe is a modified version of last year's which was successful. The concrete is much lighter and stronger so the canoe should be faster. Our paper is one of the best ever to come out of Platteville and the presentation will also follow. All parts of the competition have turned out better then expected."

For more information on this year's competition or to join the team visit http://www.uwplatt.edu/asce.

PLATTEVILLE- On April 15, at 4 p.m., University of Wisconsin-Platteville graduate Sally Ralph will be speaking to the UWP Alchemist Club about her experiences as a chemist at Forest Products Laboratory, part of the United States Department of Agriculture in Madison.

Ralph is involved with the chemistry and pulping research unit, which studies new bleaching technologies, new pulping concepts, recycling, high-value chemicals from wood, and the characterization on wood components. She will also be speaking on "Elucidating the lignin polymer structure in ginkyo wood with 13C isotope labeling techniques and 13C NMR."

Dr. Tim Zauche, the Alchemist Club advisor, says, The Alchemist Club would like to invite alumni back every year to inform the students about what's out there after college and the opportunities available.

PLATTEVILLE – On Thursday, March 25, students from southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois came to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville for the annual FFA Skills Contest. UWP has been holding this event for the last 27 years.

This year, more than 57 schools participated in the event, bringing more than 380 teams made up of 1,800 high school students. The students began the day with an opening session in the Ullsvik Center. After the large group session, members of each team attended their respective contests, everything from evaluating dairy cattle, to identifying wildlife species, to trying to sell an agriculture product. The contests were held in the Pioneer Student Center, the Ullsvik Center, Russell Hall and at the Pioneer Farm.

There were 13 contests held, including: agricultural mechanics, agronomy, dairy cattle, junior dairy cattle, dairy products, farm business management, floriculture, horses, livestock, meats, poultry, sales, and wildlife.

I am grateful for the help of the UWP faculty and students for the time that they spent preparing and hosting these events. This event couldn't happen without their cooperation. I'm so happy UWP has the facilities like the Pioneer Farm and the student center to host these events, said Dr. Mark Zidon, professor in the School of Agriculture.

Some of the students who scored well in the competition have earned a chance to compete at the state FFA skills contest held in Madison on Friday, April 30.

Six events qualify students to compete at the state level. They include agricultural mechanics, dairy cattle, livestock, horses, floriculture and wildlife.

We're hoping to provide a meaningful learning experience for the students Zidon concluded.

For more information about the contest or to view the results go to http://www.uwplatt.edu/ffa/cde.

PLATTEVILLE- While walking around WSUP, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville radio station, or through the dark photography laboratories in Russell Hall one is sure to run into Eileen Dushek-Manthe. This usual friendly face will no longer be evident in a month as Dushek-Manthe is looking forward to graduating from UWP this May.

Dushek-Manthe is a non-traditional student who came back for a degree in communications with a public relations emphasis and broadcasting and business minors.

"Eileen relates very well to traditional students and also serves as a peer leader," said BJ Reed, communication technologies associate professor. "Her enthusiasm for learning appears to be contagious."

She and her husband Bill currently live in Lancaster with their daughter Elise, a freshman at Lancaster High School. The couple's son Brian is a sophomore at UW-Green Bay.

"Family is very important to me," said Dushek-Manthe. "I was fortunate that my husband and my children were so supportive in my going back to school. My daughter Elise enjoys telling her friends that now she can tell her mom to do her homework."

Another unique aspect of Dushek-Manthe's time at UWP was that her son and her both attended the university together for a semester and even had a class together.

"Coming to UWP has really helped me connect better with my children and appreciate what it takes to earn a degree," Dushek-Manthe commented.Besides her family keeping her busy, Dushek-Manthe has been involved with many organizations at UWP and within her community. In Lancaster, Dushek-Manthe is on many committees and boards including, 4-H, Lancaster Recreational Swimming, the Lancaster Community Scholarship Foundation, St. Clement's Choir, and the Lancaster Community Players.

At UWP she is a member of the Public Relations Organization (PRO!), on the Public Affairs staff at WSUP, and has also been involved with the Wisconsin Badger Camp Telethon which is held on the UWP campus.

Wisconsin Badger Camp became a significant part of Dushek-Manthe's experience at UWP, because she was able to complete her internship there by co-coordinating the annual alumni weekend and open house, as well as taking pictures of the campers and staff for publications.

When Dushek-Manthe thinks back about some of her favorite things about UWP, she is reminded of all of the fun she had interacting with the traditional students and developing friendships with them. She also enjoyed learning and creating photos and projects she was proud of from the photography classes she has taken.

"I was taken back by how much teachers want students to succeed and the open-door policy they have," Dushek-Manthe stated.

Dushek-Manthe doesn't currently have a job lined up for after graduation yet. "I am really focusing on my classes and completing my degree right now," she said. "I'm open to a lot of different things and I just hope to find a good fit.

PLATTEVILLE - While most college students spend their undergraduate years hitting the books, working, and hanging with friends, University of Wisconsin-Platteville student, Rikki Green, has accomplished these activities while going above and beyond the norm. As an electrical engineering major with an emphasis on power and controls and a Spanish minor, Green has traveled abroad and participated in a coop during her time at UWP.

Green studied at the American Spanish Institute in Seville, Spain during the spring of 2002. At the institute there were approximately 150 American students with class sizes ranging from 15 to 20 students. Studying abroad she took classes in Flamenco dancing, painting, art in Seville, Latin American history, and an intensive Spanish language course. She also took cultural trips to bullfights, pottery shops, and nearby Greek and Roman ruins.

"I gained the most self-confidence by proving to myself that I could get around Spain without help," commented Green.

Part of the experience was spent with a host family giving Green an even greater opportunity to use her language skills. "I really wanted to have more contact with international students and build an international community of friendships. This trip exposed me to another language and immersed me completely in another culture," said Green.

Upon returning to the United States, Green participated in a coop at Kimberly Clark. In the future she would like to work internationally in other countries setting up power systems in underdeveloped areas. "I definitely see a use for Spanish in my future because it's a connective language lots of people speak," commented Green. She added, "I would also suggest that anyone interested in studying abroad should pursue their dreams because what you learn from these experiences will really benefit you in the long run."

The daughter of Richard and Linda, Green plans to graduate from UWP in December of 2005.

PLATTEVILLE-Look forward to energy and surprises with the performance of "Shakespeare's Women" by University of Wisconsin-Platteville students, Monday, April 19 and Tuesday, April 20.

"Shakespeare's Women" is a script compiled by Libby Appel, the artistic director of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the largest theatre of its kind in the USA and a Tony Award winner. Appel compiled the script from over 15 Shakespeare scripts and two sonnets in order to highlight Shakespeare's female characters.

The traveling theatre troupe was conceived as a device that serves to recruit for the university, offer additional training to students, and bring classical theatre to area high schools that might not produce classics.

"Those who have seen past UWP traveling theatre troupe productions will be surprised to see how much we have grown. The first troupe toured with a few chairs, a few small tables, five performers and a pitcher of water. Now we have a dozen performers in a full production with a large flexible set," said John McCaslin-Doyle, director of UWP theatre studies.

The first season the group toured with a script by Chekhov, the second year with a script written by Moliere, and this year are doing a performance on the subject of Shakespeare.

"It has been a while since the university has produced a Shakespeare script and I wanted the theatre majors to have an opportunity with the language," said McCaslin-Doyle. "The text for 'Shakespeare's Women' is commonly used in script analysis classes and AP high school honors courses for study. Since the traveling theatre troupe visits area high schools it seems to be a great match."

"I also like the theme of the production. So many plays produced on college campuses have limited parts for women and often times put them down. Similar to past UWP productions that I have directed, like 'Antigone,' 'Two Precious Maidens Ridiculed' and the 'Death of Bessie Smith,' this show demonstrates endless possibilities for women," added McCaslin-Doyle.

"The audience probably has some past experience with Shakespeare, so some of the scenes they will recognize. Our high school audiences go crazy for 'A Midsummer Nights Dream' and 'The Taming of the Shrew' - shows they have seen or studied. But there are some other wonderful characters and scenes in this play that they do not know that might encourage future investigation. The current audiences are moved by the two scenes from King Lear and roar in laughter at the scene from the 'Merchant of Venice,' " concluded McCaslin-Doyle.

The UW-Platteville Theatre Department is scheduled to perform "Shakespeare's Women" at 7:30 p.m. at the Center for the Arts at UW-Platteville. All tickets are available for $2.

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is known for its excellence in the field of engineering, contributing to this is the success of the American Society of Civil Engineers Steel Bridge Team.

The steel bridge competition is an ASCE competition where each team designs a bridge to specifications drawn up by the ASCE National and American Institute of Steel Construction Inc. (AISC). Teams compete first in their region then the top two teams from the region go on to nationals.

The competition this year was part of the regional spring conference, held Feb. 26-28. The conference, which was hosted by the University of Minnesota-St Paul/Minneapolis, included speakers, sessions, the Daniel Mead Paper competition, and the steel bridge competition.

Planning for the competition started as soon as the new rules and specifications were posted in August. The team members spent the fall semester designing, ordering materials and raising funds. The bridge itself was built in one weekend at PanelTek, a local shop. The team spent winter break and up until the competition date refining the bridge and practicing.

The team from UWP sent 24 students and two advisors to the conference. The team came up against some fierce competition from large engineering schools such as the University of Iowa, Iowa State, and North Dakota State University. UWP placed eighth out of nine.

Adam Faris, ASCE co-chairman for Steel Bridge, and team captain, reflected upon the benefits of working on the Steel Bridge Team saying, "The steel bridge competition helps engineering students in many ways. First and foremost you meet new people, build friendships and networking. It also gives students a chance to apply what has been learned in the classroom to something practical. Students build their group work skill and learn new skills."

Anyone interested in joining the team next year may contact one of the advisors for the team: Dr. Meyers, Dr. Parker, Dr. Curras or Dr. Roberts in the civil engineering department, or e-mail the team at uwpsteelbridge@yahoo.com .

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Plattevile along with the Public Relations Organization (PRO!) will be hosting an Integrated Communication Conference entitled "Putting the Pieces Together." The event will take place Wednesday, April 21 from 1 to 6:30 p.m. in the Ullsvik Center's Velzy Commons at UWP.

Professionals and students are invited to the conference to hear three speakers talk about experiences they have had with developing and implementing an integrated communications plan. There will also be an opportunity for students and professionals to converse during the roundtable discussions and the dinner.

"The conference will provide students with a valuable networking experience with local professionals as well as important communication tools that will better equip them to enter the world of business," said Julie Beyer, event coordinator.

Presenter Susan York Morris recently founded Meme, an integrated marketing communications firm in Madison. Prior to beginning her own business, Morris was vice president and public relations director at Stephen & Brady and was also a partner at The Hiebing group both of Madison.

Tim Heinrich is currently executive director of the Alliant Energy Foundation, the independent, not-for-profit philanthropic organization created by Alliant Energy Corp. in Madison. He was manager of Branding and Public Relations, responsible for the company's brand-management and community relations programs, including corporate promotions, community sponsorships and corporate image-advertising initiatives. Heinrich is a member of the Public Relations Society of America and the International Association of Business Communicators.

Wendy Mannering will present during the dinner component of the conference. Her presentations are energizing, upbeat, informative and interactive. She brings 29 years of experience as an educator and speaker to her programs. Mannering's keynotes are laced with humor and filed with usable information illustrated with anecdotes and real-life examples.

Mannering was an educator for eight years in northern Wisconsin; joined her husband Dennis in their speaking and training business in 1980; and has spoken regionally, nationally and internationally including Singapore, Malaysia and China. She has co-authored the book, "Attitudes Are Contagious. Are Yours Worth Catching?" with her husband, Dennis.

"The students in PRO! have been working toward a conference like this for several months and are very excited about this opportunity," said Dr. BJ Reed, PRO! advisor and chair of the communication technologies department. "Working cooperatively with regional professionals is a significant goal for the students."

For more information registration and deadlines, contact the Office of Continuing Education at 608-342-1314 or at 1-888-281-9472 or visit the PRO! website at http://www.uwplatt.edu/pro.

From left to right - Paul Schlosser, Loni Clay and Jeremy Koskie look over their design project for the Belmont United Methodist Church.

PLATTEVILLE - Redesigning the layout of the Belmont United Methodist Church to incorporate handicap access, provide additional space and maintain historical preservation is the goal for a three-member student senior design team at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

The Belmont United Methodist Church was originally built over 100 years ago. Since that time numerous improvements and renovations have taken place to maintain the condition of the building.

The purpose of the project is to make the church handicap accessible by removing five rows of blocks from the foundation to lower the present height of the church and build a ramp to accommodate for the remaining distance between the front of the church and the ground level. The project also consists of adding an additional 1,440 square feet of space to be used for offices and classrooms by the congregation. During the completion of the project, the church would also like to pour a new basement floor.

The design team consists of three civil engineering students. They are Paul Schlosser, originally from Durand, with an emphasis in structural and geotechnical engineering; Loni Clay, originally from Altoona, with an emphasis in structural and transportation engineering; and Jeremy Koskie, originally from Spring Valley, with an emphasis in structural and geotechnical engineering.

Thus far, the team has researched preliminary plans and drawings to prepare a rough cost estimate and design plan to present to the client, Charlie Miehe, Belmont Church Building Committee.

The team commented that working on this project has provided them the opportunity to work with different clients and has helped them gain a better perspective of the overall stages of a project, from planning and design to completion.

"I think the most important thing I have learned while working on this project is the importance of good communication," added Clay. "Working with multiple clients, such as a church congregation, and working with my senior design team has really improved my time management and organizational skills."

"I have found this particular project very unique due to the historical preservation involved," remarked Koskie. "It is interesting to look at the design of the church and compare the resources provided over 100 years ago with what we have to work with today."

Throughout their project, the design team has been aided and advised by Dr. Dave Wang, professor in structural engineering.

"Professor Wang has been a great advisor and resource while working on this project," replied Schlosser. "He has always made time to sit down and discuss all the different options available to us in completing this project."

Platteville- People from all over the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and the Platteville area are looking forward to "Playing to Win" and helping to raise money for the American Cancer Society at the annual Relay for Life.

This year's event will be held April 16 and 17 at the Williams Fieldhouse beginning at 6 p.m. and continuing until noon on Saturday.

Gordon Klatt, M.D. thought of Relay for Life in 1985 when he ran and walked for 24 hours on a track in Tacoma, Wash., traveling close to 83 miles and raising $27,000 for the American Cancer Society. Relay for Life is now held nationwide in 3,800 communities and eight foreign countries.

Teams from the Platteville area are formed from businesses, clubs, families, friends, hospitals, churches, schools and service organizations.

One of the highlighted events of the weekend includes the Survivor Lap. Cancer survivors from around the community will be invited to take a victory lap and be cheered on by fellow participants, in a celebration of their courageous battle.

A luminaria ceremony will also be held to pay tribute to those who have been affected by cancer. Luminaries can be purchased in honor of those who have survived their battle with cancer, those still fighting, and in memory of those who have battled this disease, but lost. The luminaries will be remain burning throughout the night representing the healing power of community and the importance of the funding to find a cure.

Local choirs, bands and groups will perform for the participants. There will also be a euchre tournament, as well as arts and crafts and face painting for the kids. This year a silent auction will also be held throughout the duration of the event.

The money raised helps to support the American Cancer Society research, education, advocacy and patient service efforts, locally, statewide and nationally.

For more information about the Platteville Relay for Life or to make a donation, contact Patti Mitch at 608-342-1698 or mitchp@uwplatt.edu.

Sara Matson prepares for graduation from UWP this May.

PLATTEVILLE - Taking advantage of the strong women in engineering program at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is exactly what Sara Matson did when she chose to attend UWP.

"Being from a small town, I truly appreciated the close-knit atmosphere at UWP," commented Matson. "I also knew first-hand about the strong women in engineering program at UWP after visiting the campus during a women in engineering career day when I was in high school."

Matson, originally from Rhinelander, will graduate in May with a degree in mechanical engineering. Following her graduation, she has accepted a position on the engine design team with Caterpillar in Peoria, Ill.

While attending UWP, Matson has been involved in numerous different organizations and extracurricular activities. One of these organizations includes the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) at UWP, where she has been a member for five years and served as vice president for one year.

As a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for the past five years, Matson served terms as secretary and co-captain of the Aero Design and Baja team, working to design and build an off-road, all-terrain vehicle.

Matson has also served as president for the last two years of her three-year membership to Pi Tau Sigma, a mechanical engineering honor society.

During her time at UWP, Matson has been an active member of the Society of Women in Engineering (SWE) and the Women in Engineering Mentor Program.

"Being a member of SWE and the mentor program has allowed me the opportunity to meet other women in engineering that I would not have otherwise met in my classes," remarked Matson. "These organizations have provided me excellent resources as a woman in engineering."

While attending UWP, Matson has also participated in the intramural program at UWP, winning a first-place championship one year in co-ed volleyball. In addition to each of her organizations and activities, Matson also spent three years filling the role as a university tutor in the subjects of math and science.

When asked about her favorite memory, Matson commented how much she enjoyed living in the dorms as a freshman and meeting so many new students in the same situation as herself and having so many activities to participate in.

"Attending UWP has been a great experience," added Matson. "The professors here know me by name and take the time to talk to me even after I have completed their classes."

PLATTEVILLE- On Wednesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. in the Platteville Rooms of the Pioneer Student Center, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, welcomes Professor Emeritus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Dick Ringler, to present "Dreams from the Pit: The War Art of Otto Dix."

Otto Dix was an early 20th century German artist, who served in the German military during World War I. During that time he came to face to face with the horrors of trench warfare and came to terms with this experience by creating a series of etchings entitled "The War." Ringler's multi-media lecture will explore the significance of these etchings.

The German Club, the Humanities Department, and Students for Peace and Justice are sponsoring the lecture. It is a free event open to the general public. Dr. Patrick Hagen, assistant professor of German noted, however, "Dix's very graphic etchings will be projected before the audience, so people should be warned that these are some disturbing images of World War I."

Hagen also commented on the event saying, " Our hope is to reach a broad audience and that they are moved to contemplate the horrors of war." He continued saying, "Ringler is a very passionate, moving public speaker; this is a lecture people won't want to miss."

For more information, persons may call (608) 342-1116 or email hagenp@uwplatt.edu.

Left to right: Michael Scheller, Jesten Sterry, and Tyler Smith prepare to implement playground improvements at the UWP Childcare center and St. Mary's school for their senior design class.

PLATTEVILLE - With fresh flowers blooming, birds twittering, and the scent of spring in the air, children everywhere are preparing for the warm summer months and hours of endless outdoor play time ahead. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Childcare Center along with St. Mary's School outdoors venues are being improved by UWP students to prepare for this wonderful time of year.

Senior design students from the college of Engineering, Math, and Science, in coordination with some education majors have been hired to design and construct needed outdoor play equipment for the childcare center and St. Mary's School while staying under a $1,000 budget that has been obtained to cover costs for each client. Tyler Smith, Michael Scheller, and Jesten Sterry are the senior design students working on these projects.

There are three projects being completed for the childcare center including bridge, swing, and sandbox designs and improvements. The projected completion date and installation is scheduled for the week of May 3.

The bridge team, led by Smith, is designing a suspension bridge six feet long and five feet wide using ACQ treated lumber that is child friendly. "Right now there is a bridge that has a two foot drop to the ground. Our design gives a better bridge they can run and frolic across but with only a one foot drop," said Smith.

Designing two bench swings for multiple children to ride that are approximately five feet wide is up to Scheller. Using the same lumber, one swing will be completely designed and constructed from the frame up whereas the other will utilize a preexisting tire swing frame to which a new swing will be attached. "We've had to do a lot of work with safety codes, heights, and fall protection on the ground," commented Scheller.

Sterry has the delight of designing a 7x7 foot solid oak log sandbox to replace the current 3x3 foot sandbox. "Not only are we making more room for the kids to play, but we're also relocating the sandbox to the other side of the building," said Sterry. His group has done a large amount of work to get materials donated including the oak logs from Jim and Karen Sterry, as well as the new sand from Kowalski-Kieler of Platteville.

The other portion of the senior design team's project includes working with St. Mary's School on three new improvements. One of the projects includes designing and installing sturdier partitions between the bathroom stalls of the boy's locker room while another involves modifying a room by installing shelves and hooks for students to place their books and coats on while at gym. Both of these improvements have already been completed. The third project is to update the slide in the outdoor play area and put in grass since the current playground is predominantly asphalt.

Professors Lisa Riedle and Bob Schmitt, as well as Kathy Iselin, director of operations for the children's center, have been particularly helpful to this senior design project. "They understand exactly what needs to be accomplished, who to contact, and professional ways to handle some of the situations we've been involved in," concluded the group.

"These students are hard workers, involved in class discussion, and really add to the overall learning environment of my classes," said Schmitt.

Added Smith, "He uses witty phrases like whole ball of wax, cookie cutter classes, and this is where the rubber hits the road, to explain concepts like cost estimates. This way it really stays in your head."

This team of dedicated engineers feels they are learning a lot by working with the education majors, teaching them the start to finish process for construction. The education majors have given insight as to what the children really want.

"You never really think about all the little details like materials, and safety codes to follow to make a swing or slide. This is where the project becomes interesting and fun," said Scheller.

The three senior design students are all civil engineering majors. Smith's emphasis is geotechnical, Scheller's are construction and geotechnical, and Sterry's are construction and structure.

PLATTEVILLE - Approximately 150 individuals are expected to attend the seventy-second annual meeting of the Wisconsin Section of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) being held at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, April 16-17.

The event, sponsored by the MAA and hosted by the mathematics department at UWP, is open to all mathematics instructors and professors in Wisconsin. This includes all UW-System and private colleges.

The focus of the event is to discuss teaching techniques that work in the classroom. By sharing these individual teaching experiences, more instructors can share success stories concerning their students.

"It gives us a line of communication to a lot of different people in a lot of different situations involving the field of mathematics," remarked Ben Collins, associate professor of mathematics at UWP.

The meeting will kick off Friday with registration beginning at noon in the Platteville East Room of the Pioneer Student Center (PSC). Multiple presentations and panel discussions will be presented throughout the two-day event with a banquet being held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.

Anyone interested in mathematics is welcome to partake in the events. For questions or concerns, feel free to contact Collins by phone at (608) 342-1746 or by e-mail at collinbe@uwplatt.edu.

"For UWP, hosting this event tells the mathematical community that we are active in improving education, which is very important," added Collins.

PLATTEVILLE- The members of 3rd North in Hugunin Hall organized a program to reach out to help one of their fellow students in his time of need. On Sunday, March 28 from 9:30 a.m. until noon in the weight room of the PAC, Lift-A-Thon participants raised money for Jake Brown.

Brown was a resident of 3rd North last academic school year. Over the summer he was involved in an terible accident and is now paralyzed and lost function in all his limbs. Currently out of the hospital after many months of intensive care, he is taking classes online to work towards his graduation. Brown's family has endured many hardships including hospital bills and time off work due to the accident. Joe Hendricks, who helped organize the Lift-A-Thon, said, "As friends of Jake, we would like to help the Brown family and Jake get back on their feet."

The Lift-A-Thon was open to the entire Platteville community. On Sunday there were 20 weightlifters that competed with about 40 total people attending the event.

A total of 17 trophies were given out to competitors. In the heavyweight division Michael Everart of Hugunin Hall won by lifting a total of 740 pounds. Benji Johnson of Hugunin Hall won in the lightweight division with a 630 pound lift. The winner for women was Rachael M. of Brockert Hall who lifted 310 pounds.

Katie Forrester raised the most money for women with $230. For men, Jason Guerts of McGregor Hall raised $925.

On Sunday, participants raised $2,275. In total, with the donations made by several hall councils, coordinators of the event hope to present a final check of $2,700 to the Jake Brown family.

Hendricks also commented on the event saying, "The event was a huge success due to the hard work put in by the men of 3rd North in Hugunin Hall. People who lifted felt pretty good about themselves when they were finished for the day. It is a bunch of people doing a great thing for a great guy."

PLATTEVILLE - The man told the crowd to partner up. He asked one to ball their hand into a fist and the other to open it. With little hesitation, hundreds in the audience turned toward their partners and latched onto their clenched fists, twisting and pulling and making their faces red trying to wrestle the clamped hand open.

With an unassuming voice, the man again addressed the crowd, "Now how many of you asked the other person to open the fist?"

As our world is consumed by violence on an international scale, so too violence dominates our everyday lives. This was the message Arun Gandhi, grandson of the famous twentieth century Indian independence leader Mohandas Gandhi, brought to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville as Pioneer Distinguished Lecturer March 24.

Arun Gandhi, director of the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, is attempting to further an interpretation of his grandfather's ideas, updated for the modern age. At the core of the philosophy is a rejection of the culture of violence, which seemingly dominates our world, through personal change.

"By allowing ourselves to be dominated by violence, we allow all the negatives to emerge. We need to channel that anger into positive energy," Gandhi said. "We are told if somebody slaps you, you are supposed to slap them back. But an eye for an eye only makes the whole world blind."

Gandhi compared anger to electricity, saying when used intelligently it can be quite useful, but when used recklessly, it destroys. He lamented the escalation of violence between Israelis and Palestinians, questioned U.S. reactions toward the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and called President Bush's implementation of war on terror an "act of revenge."

"Waging a war I don't think is the right answer," Gandhi said. "Revenge is not justice. We are killing thousands and thousands of innocent people. They get angry when people die, just as we get angry when people die.

"We have demonstrated to the world we are a superpower in terms of military strength. We need to demonstrate we are a superpower in term of moral strength," he said. "When you counter violence with violence, you only increase the violence and you don't really solve the issue."

During a question and answer period that followed the speech, one audience member challenged Gandhi's objection to the Hussein disposition, and Gandhi conceded that a cultural shift toward nonviolence wouldn't happen overnight.

"But unless we remove ourselves of that fear and remove this culture of violence and replace it with a culture of nonviolence, we will never be truly liberated," Gandhi replied.

Arun Gandhi founded the M.K. Institute for Nonviolence in 1991 at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn. His philosophy does allow some room for some kinds of violence that may be necessary or "appropriate," such as acts committed spontaneously in self-defense.

But for Gandhi, true peace isn't simply the absence of war or hostilities. As he learned from his grandfather, violence takes multiple forms. Arun Gandhi noted the symbiotic nature of humanity, and said that small actions that most people don't consider have consequences for others.

He remembers throwing away a pencil as a youth, and his grandfather making him search in the dark for hours to find that pencil which could still be used. Mohandas Gandhi taught his grandson about the world's limited natural resources, and explained that wasting those resources was an assault on those in need, an act among those he termed "passive violence."

"Passive violence fuels the fire of physical violence," Arun Gandhi said.

Amid a teenage life where Gandhi shunned the legacy of his famous family, his father sent him to live in India with grandfather, popularly known as the Mahatma, or "great soul." Although Arun Gandhi only lived with the famous Indian leader for slightly more than a year, for Arun it was a life-changing experience.

He has championed non-violence ever since, attempting to further the work that was begun by his grandfather and utilized by others such as Martin Luther King Jr. With all of the turmoil in the world today, Gandhi's theories of nonviolence may be more important that ever.

"I think all of us need to become the change we wish to see in the world," Gandhi said. "Unless we become the change, we can't expect the government to change."

Those interested in learning more about the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, can visit the website (http://www.gandhiinstitute.org).

PLATTEVILLE - Improving hands-on learning experiences is just one of the many purposes behind the purchase of a portable stream model for the civil and environmental engineering department at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

The portable stream model, whose purchase was made possible by the UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund, illustrates the principles of a naturally occurring stream in a portable model.

Made of clear plexiglass for easy viewing, the portable stream model contains three channels, each one stacked above the other. A submersible pump, located in the lowest channel, pumps water to the highest channel, where water flows through into the second channel, back to the first and is pumped again through the cycle. Rocks, crayfish, aquatic insects and fish can all be placed inside the channels to represent a realistic stream environment.

"Water quality of streams is very important," commented Dr. Max Anderson, professor and chairman of the civil and environmental engineering department. "The organisms that live in streams are indicators of the water quality that is present. The stream model will help illustrate the types of organisms that live in streams and how they interact with each other. The stream model will help students learn to identify these water quality indicators and make environmental engineering come alive."

The purpose of the stream model is to encourage students to pursue technical programs in college by allowing them to witness environmental science first-hand during outreach programs on campus or through presentations in school science classes and teacher workshops.

One of these programs includes the Engineering and Science Expo. Hosted by UWP, this event features over 700 public school students and teachers viewing demonstrations and exhibits along with participating in several contests. The model will also be useful during teacher workshops at the Wisconsin Elementary Science Teachers annual conference and the Wisconsin Secondary Science Teachers annual conference. Along with each of these events, the portable stream model will also be an additional resource during the Women-In-Engineering Career Exploration Day and summer camps.

The UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund awarded more than $43,000 for 17 grants this year. Since its inception in 1988, the opportunity fund has offered a total of $454,000 through 103 grants.

PLATTEVILLE - Spring is a busy time for potential graduates from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. For UWP senior design students Rachel Ballast, Mohammad Emran Bhuiyan, Tim Howard, and Brandon Lang it's no different. The four engineering majors have been diligently preparing their presentation for clients Jay Potter and Chris Olson from the Four Mounds Foundation of Dubuque, Iowa.

Olson and Potter are part of a non-profit organization that helps at risk teens by training them in vocational activities. Four Mounds is looking to expand their current offices and restore older buildings on their 48-acre plot of land. These additions would allow the organization to reach more teens and move the existing foundation offices to a more permanent setting, turning them into a bigger and better vocational training center. They have contacted the team of students working under the pseudonym TransCon to design a new layout which would keep two existing buildings, construct four new buildings, and utilize building green practices while keeping costs reasonable.

In order to apply for grants to support funding for the project the group needed to complete cost-estimates for construction. "Learning how to compile and prepare the budget reports has been really helpful," commented Bhuiyan.

The team has also received outside help from Kubala Washatko Architects, Inc. of Milwaukee. "Not only have they given us guidelines as to how to approach conceptual ideas for building green, but they have helped us understand the codes and standards associated with environmentally friendly construction practices and use of reusable energy sources," said Lang.

In general this team of dedicated seniors are grateful for the opportunity and experiences the senior design class has given them. "It's definitely a challenging project since there's an already existing site and we're dealing with a variety of unknown factors," said Howard.

Added Ballast, "We're looking at the big picture now versus focusing on one aspect of a project which is how classes usually present material."

Incorporating everything together and working to solve a problem from multiple aspects has helped the team improve communication skills and hone in on their knowledge from classes. "It's a very holistic approach to a project. It's a huge broadening of our horizons and preparing us for life in the real world," summarized Howard.

Ballast, Bhuiyan, and Lang are civil engineering majors with an emphasis in transportation. Howard is a civil engineering major with an emphasis in construction.

PLATTEVILLE - How do University of Wisconsin-Platteville graduating seniors prepare for their spring graduation ceremony and leap into the world beyond college? Known across campus as "one stop shopping" for graduation, Senior Salute offers prospective graduates the opportunity to buy a cap and gown, order graduation announcements, pay outstanding transactions, check their credits with the registrar's office, and verify their diploma.

"Basically, it's a time to eliminate any problems that may occur during hectic schedules at the end of a semester for the graduates," stated Sue Lindholm, from the Alumni Association.

They may also visit booths sponsored by the Platteville Chamber of Commerce, Placement Services, Order of the Engineer, Counseling Services, and the UWP Alumni Association. The UWP Alumni Association increased its membership by approximately 115 students by offering discounts at the Senior Salute. " We try to bring options to the students by handing out information at the Senior Salute," said Wendy Eames, practicum student with University Counseling Services.

With 700 invitations sent, approximately 500 students attended this semester's Senior Salute held March 10, in the Velzy Commons of the Ullsvik Center. "It's the final realization that we're moving on in life. It's a time of change and excitement for what lies ahead in our futures," noted Artanya Butler, a graduating psychology major.

Not only can seniors complete all the needs for graduation, but they also register to win prizes. The six recipients of the one-year membership to the UWP Alumni Association and a free t-shirt, their first official alumni clothing, were John Kern, Chad Draxler, Billy Mordecai, Ryan Menter, Matt Thompson, and Kasey Parent.

The winner of the cap and gown drawing donated by the University Bookstore was Aaron Schreiber. Recipient of the free Josten's class ring was Joseph Farley.

PLATTEVILLE - Increasing retention and aiding in recruitment efforts is the purpose behind producing pamphlets and compact discs highlighting successful civil and environmental engineering graduates from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Made possible by a UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund, the civil and environmental engineering (CEE) department will publish glossy, colored pamphlets featuring profiles from 25 successful CEE graduates. The profiles will include basic biographical information such as name, hometown and employer as well as current job description, reasons why graduate enjoy their job, reasons for attending UWP, advice for current students along with a photo of the individual.

The CEE department will choose a diverse population of 50 CEE alumni and request their information for a profile. Dr. Max Anderson, professor and chairman of the CEE department, and Dr. Phillip Parker, assistant professor of the CEE department, will then select 25 of the most compelling and diverse profiles to publish into pamphlets and onto compact discs.

The pamphlets and compact discs will be distributed among UWP freshman enrolled in the CEE department with the purpose of increasing retention. The profiles will also be used to aid recruitment efforts by being distributed to prospective CEE students during high school visits, participants in the Women in Engineering Summer workshops, and contestants in the Engineering Expo Model Bridge Contest.

"We are looking forward to using the pamphlet to give current and prospective students an idea of what engineers do," commented Anderson. "Often high school students don't have a good idea of what engineers actually do on a day-to-day basis and this pamphlet will include biographies and a description of what successful engineers are doing in their job."

The UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund awarded more than $43,000 for 17 grants this year. Since its inception in 1988, the opportunity fund has offered a total of $454,000 through 103 grants.

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville professor of industrial studies Howard Brooks has seen many changes in his time at the institution. And after 35 years of teaching, professor Brooks will retire this May.

"There've been a lot of changes," said Brooks, who joined the UWP faculty in the year man first walked on the moon. "It's made teaching a lot more fun, and even more challenging."

In a technology-based program like industrial studies, the curriculum evolves as new tools become more prominent in the field. During his time at UWP, Brooks has seen the rise of lasers and computers in industry, in addition to changes in teaching technology.

"So much of what we have today involves computers," Brooks said. "There's no more chalk on the chalkboards."

And as the tools of the trade evolved, Brooks taught a variety of industrial studies courses over his 35-year career.

"I taught probably 12 different courses. I couldn't even name all of them," he said.

Brooks was named department chair four years ago. This semester, in addition to teaching a time and motion studies course, Brooks has supervised industrial technology management majors taking internships. All ITM majors are required to complete an internship.

"It's a very good preparation for procuring a position when they graduate," Brooks said. "It's their responsibility. We don't just hand them a place to work."

Brooks said his interaction with students has been one of the highlights of teaching at UWP.

"It's really fun to work with students, to help them achieve their goals," he said. Since he announced his retirement, Brooks has receives letters from many of his former students who have flourished in the industry.

"That's the most rewarding part. We've had so many," he said. It's estimated 1,200 students have graduated from the industrial studies program during the time Brooks has taught in the program.

Gene Weber, Platteville, graduated with a master's degree in industrial technology in 1973. He remembers taking a quality control course with professor Brooks.

"He's just an excellent instructor who was very concerned that his students learned the subject matter and gained an appreciation for the role quality would play in business and in life," said Weber, who worked for John Deere for 28 years. "No matter what occupation you're in, the quality of the product you produce or the service you render really has your signature on it, and therefore it reflects on you as a person and on your company."

Brooks himself earned a bachelor's degree in industrial arts and a master's degree in teaching from UWP and a doctorate degree in practical arts and vocational technology education from the University of Missouri at Columbia. His first teaching experience came at Hempstead High School in Dubuque, and he joined the UWP faculty in 1969.

"We have a really neat department. We've done a lot of things together over the years," Brooks said. "This has really been a wonderful place to come to every day for the past 35 years."

Richard Klawiter has been tabbed to replace Brooks as department chair; meanwhile, Brooks would like to see the department continue to grow and improve. His goals for the department include more women and minority students in the program. Brooks also said there are many international companies interested in hiring UWP grads, and he would like to impart to students the importance of international experiences.

"We need to do more in term of getting students interested in international study or even working overseas," he said.

Brooks has no immediate plans upon his retirement, but said he'll spend more time doing the things he's always enjoyed doing, such as fishing and playing golf. He also hopes to do a little more traveling with his wife Catherine and visit their four grandkids.

An informal reception at the Pioneer Student Center Saturday, May 15 will honor Brooks and his distinguished career at the university. The event will begin with a cash bar at 5:15 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. With a cost of $15, reservations can be made by calling Linda Wanless in the Department of Industrial Studies, 608-342-1380; or via email, wanslessl@uwplatt.edu.