Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - Students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville are preparing for more than just tests this fall. October is the time students begin participating in on-campus recruitment activities such as interviews, employer information sessions and career fair events.

According to Diana Trendt, interim director of the Career Center, their office sees some students as many as three to four times a day depending on how many campus interviews the student has scheduled.

"It's not unusual for the Career Center to have as many as five or six employers scheduled in one day to conduct student interviews," Trendt said.

In addition, many companies will hold information sessions for interested students to attend and learn more about what they do, as well as the various types of positions they have to offer students and graduates.

Companies frequently come to UWP to find appropriate candidates to fill their new and existing positions. Craig Dreikosen, a manufacturing engineer and a 2005 graduate of UWP, was present at the fall career fair in September to represent Greenheck Fan Corporation, which is located in Schofield. Dreikosen related that it is the quality of the students that keeps his company returning each semester.

"We've always found really good candidates at UWP, and we've had great results from the Platteville graduates we've hired and the students we've taken on for co-ops," said Dreikosen.

Greenheck, and many other companies, returned to the UWP campus this month to interview students for full-time, internship and co-op positions.

The recruitment season begins with the annual fall career fair event. This semester's fair was held on Sept. 27 and attracted a record number of people, with 184 companies and 1,165 students attending.

Jeff Klar, a senior student assistant for the Career Center, has organized the sponsorship program for the past five career fairs. Klar will be graduating in December and also attended the career fair. He said that he had never seen the aisles so full with students.

"The career fairs have always had good turnouts in the past, but I've never seen it as crowded as it was this year," Klar said of the event.

If the number of interested students has risen, the number of positions and companies looking for potential candidates has skyrocketed. According to Trendt, the job market for the science, engineering and technology fields is very strong, and the oil and gas industry has grown so much that companies are finding it difficult to find enough suitable candidates for their positions.

While the fair focuses primarily on students and companies seeking to fill permanent positions, many companies have intern and co-op positions available. Trendt stressed the importance of internships and co-ops as a way for students to get a feel not just for a company but for their entire career field. She also stated that many employers use these programs to find potential candidates for their permanent positions. According to the 2005 to 2006 Annual Employment Report for UWP, 92.6 percent of employers in the Midwest identified recruiting as the purpose of their co-op program. In addition, employers reported that 62.5 percent of their college hires had internship experience and 26 percent had co-op experience. On average, 53 percent of interns became full-time employees at the companies they interned with.

While many of the companies that attend UWP's career fairs are there primarily to recruit engineering majors, Klar revealed that a number of them are often looking for candidates for positions other than engineering.

"Even if they don't advertise it, engineering companies are usually looking for other types of students, often business majors for their finance or management positions," Klar said.

Klar also noted that some companies are looking for individuals with any upper level degree. Wells Fargo, for example, will accept any student that passes a required test and will then train the individual for the position.

The results from the 2005 to 2006 Annual Employment Report give UWP a 97.6 percent employment rate, an increase of 3.6 percent from the previous year's report. The report also states that employers across the U.S. expect to increase their college hiring by 13.8 percent.

This spring, the Career Center will expand its Career Fair to two days. The fair for the College of BILSA and LAE will be held on Feb. 12, 2008, and the fair for the College of EMS will be held on Feb. 14, 2008.

Anyone looking for more information about past or upcoming career fairs or the Career Center should contact Trendt at (608) 342-1183 or trendtd@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Diana Trendt, interim director, UWP Career Center, (608) 342-1183,trendtd@uwplatt.edu Written by: Megan Mowry, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture announced that it recently received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education Business and International Education Program to strengthen international commerce with emerging markets in Africa.

The Global Partnership Project will allow the UWP International Business Resource Center to continue work it began in 2005 in the area of emerging markets. The funding will help enhance student global education competency and awareness, expand the business curriculum through faculty development in international business, and strengthen services to local businesses through training, seminars, trade missions and courses.

"This is a crucial step in developing international programs that address the needs of our students and Wisconsin's business community," said Louis Nzegwu, director of the IBRC. "It also reflects the spirit of the university's commitment to its plan for moving academic programs and business outreach activities to the next level of distinction," he said. Nzegwu was awarded the Wisconsin Governor's Export Award in 2006 for his work in this area.

The objectives of the program will be accomplished in a variety of ways, including work with IBRC's partnerships with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Wisconsin World Trade Center, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, local chambers of commerce and area industries.

A new component will include study abroad initiatives in North Africa during the first year and West Africa during the second year. The program will bring together approximately five to six students and area company officials with African business executives for a classroom experience in Africa. The second year will follow a similar format.

Additionally, IBRC will offer export assistance to small to medium-sized companies in Southwest Wisconsin, particularly those owned by ethnic minorities and women. The Center will offer resources and training to export-capable area businesses, which have expressed an interest in breaking into new markets.

Anyone interested in these or other IBRC initiatives may contact Nzegwu at (608) 342-1465 or nzegwu@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Louis Nzegwu, director, International Business Resource Center, (608) 342-1465, nzegwu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Evelyn Martens, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, martense@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announced that it has signed an agreement with the The Office of Chinese Language Council International to establish a Confucius Institute on the UWP campus. Governor James Doyle, who was leading a trade mission to Japan and China, was on hand for the signing ceremony held at the China Ministry of Education in Beijing, China, in September.

UWP is the only university in Wisconsin authorized to establish a Confucius Institute, which will provide services to school districts, business and industry, the university community, and the community at large.

In speaking of the Institute, Chancellor Markee noted: "One of the requirements to establish an Institute is the identification and recruitment of a partner institution in China. We're very proud of the relationship that we have established with South-Central University for Nationalities in Wuhan. We are teaming up with SCUN on this initiative.. We see this as a natural expansion of our partnership and of our efforts to develop educational and cultural relations in China. It is a wonderful opportunity for our universities and a testament to the fine work our faculty have been doing."

The Confucius Institute at UWP will concentrate its efforts on providing information, educational programming and consultative services concerning Chinese language, education, culture, economy, history and society. David Van Buren, associate vice chancellor, has been appointed to serve as dean. It is expected that the Confucius Institute at UWP will develop and deliver Mandarin Chinese language courses for various populations; promote research about contemporary China; coordinate student and scholar travel to China; establish local facilities to hold the HSK examination, a Chinese language proficiency test; train teachers to deliver Chinese language instruction and provide them with Chinese language teaching resources; and implement procedures for the certification of Chinese language teachers.

UW-Platteville began the process to establish a Confucius Institute with an exploratory visit to the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China Office of Education in Chicago in March. During that visit, the delegation was invited to submit a proposal to establish an institute through the Chicago office. In May, UWP submitted its proposal, including letters of support from Doyle, U.S. Senator Herb Kohl, UW System president Kevin Reilly, Chancellor of UW Colleges and UW-Extension David Wilson, the Wisconsin Department of Commerce, and the vice president of Asia Operations of Modine Manufacturing, Jim Rulseh. Approval was granted in September and was followed by the signing ceremony in Beijing.

The Confucius Institutes are sponsored by the Office of Chinese Language Council International. They are non-profit education organizations, with a mission "to help the world understand Chinese language and culture, promote friendly relationships between China and the world, and enhance the development of multiculturalism in order to contribute to the building of a harmonious world."

The first Confucius Institute was established in late 2004 in Uzbekistan. The institute at UWP will be the twenty third in the United States. Other institutes in the Midwest are located at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Michigan State University, Purdue University, the University of Iowa and the University of Kansas.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Confucius Institute at UWP may contact Barb Daus, special assistant to the chancellor, at (608) 342-1282 or daus@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Industrial studies students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will have hands-on experience with new robotic technology because of the purchase of a FANUC LR Mate 200iB/5P robot. The robot will complement the Adept, PUMA and other robots currently being used in the program.

"This system is a great addition to our robotics lab. It will give our students valuable experience working with robotic hardware and software that is being installed today in industries around the world," said Charlie Knox, professor of industrial controls.

The robot, worth $45,000, was purchased at a discount from Quest Industrial of Monroe, owned by UWP alumnus, Don Wickstrum, who graduated in 2001 with a degree in industrial technology management with a minor in industrial power and control systems. The purchase was coordinated by Colleen Kaiser, professor of industrial technology management, Knox, and Kyle Metzloff, professor of metals technology. Wickstrum added to the discount purchase by donating an electrical interfacing panel, a six-foot by six-foot rolling cart for the system, a conveyor belt and a pneumatic gripper. Wickstrum also collaborated with Werner Electric from the Neenah/Janesville office for the donation of Allen-Bradley safety equipment and Cognex Corporation of Wawatosa for the donation of a Cognex checker camera, which is used in industry for process and quality improvement. The purchase also included $100,000 worth of simulation software for the system. The software allows students to gain experience programming a robot. Students can also design a work cell in SolidWorks and apply it to the robot.

FANUC is the number one seller of robots in North and South America and maker of the world's fastest five-axis robot. The LR Mate 200iB/5P robot is one of FANUC's newest robots and is programmable to do a wide variety of tasks, including moving and positioning parts, packaging, and quality control. It has a work envelop five and a half feet in diameter, is 28 inches tall, has interchangeable grippers and can be mounted right side up, on a wall or on a ceiling upside down. In addition, the robot is equipped with an array of safety equipment that will shut down the robot if the safety system is triggered.

"Students in our Principles of Industrial Safety class will now be able to touch, feel and experiment with light curtains, interlocks and E-stops," said Knox.

Wickstrum donated equipment and sold the robot at a discount because of his great experience at UWP. During college, Wickstrum worked full time as an intern and engineer. He said it was a neat experience because he could directly apply what he learned in class to work.

"UWP was really good to me. They understood my need to work and helped me with my schedule. I said that if I could do anything to help the university in return, I would and this was my opportunity to do that," said Wickstrum.

Wickstrum has been working with robotic technology for approximately 10 years. Approximately four years ago, he started his business, which is an integrator and marketer of FUNAC products, to help people. He sells robots to businesses that otherwise could not afford the technology.

According to Wickstrum, it is important that students have experience with robotic technology. He said that the robotics industry is growing, with 25 percent growth in the past year and more projected growth to come. He also emphasized the importance of robotics to job security. At one of the businesses he sold robots to, the technology prevented the business from moving overseas and saved 120 jobs.

"If you know robotics, you'll never have a problem finding a job," Wickstrum said.

He went on to say that the experience and knowledge industrial studies students gain at UWP makes them the number one choice of most employers he's talked to.

"Employers want people who have industrial knowledge in addition to being able to design. Because of their diverse backgrounds within the field, UWP students are always in high demand," Wickstrum stated.

Half of Wickstrum's own employees are UWP alumni and he is looking to hire UWP students for summer internships.

The industrial studies department is part of the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture and offers programs in manufacturing technology management, building construction management, occupational safety management and technology education.

Anyone wanting more information about the new robotic system may contact Knox at (608) 342-1618 or knoxc@uwplatt.edu. Anyone wanting more information about the industrial studies department may contact Dick Klawiter, industrial studies department chair, at (608) 342-1246 or klawiter@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Dick Klawiter, department chair, industrial studies department, (608) 342-1246, klawiter@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville had the opportunity to learn about the evolution of liquid rocket engine design from Robert Kraemer, a retired rocket scientist.

Kraemer has played a part in designing the rocket engines that were used on all U.S. manned rockets until the space shuttle program. Before becoming NASA's director of planetary exploration, Kraemer worked with Rocketdyne, eventually becoming the head of advanced design. Author of two books, "Beyond the Moon" and "Rocketdyne: Powering Humans into Space," Kraemer also received NASA's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Medal. He received his B.S. degree from the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Ind., and his master's degree in rocket theory from California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, Calif.

In his presentation, Kraemer discussed the events leading up to the space shuttle program and the different kinds of rocket nozzles, fuel chambers and engine designs. He said the space shuttle program was developed as a part of a long-term effort to send humans to Mars and the first step was to design a reusable space shuttle. In the late 1950s, while working for Rocketdyne, Kraemer helped design a 1,500,000 pound thrust engine, which became the F-1 engine that powered the Saturn V, which took astronauts to the moon. This was one of the advancements leading to the development of the space shuttle. Shortly after, he led the team that designed the Aerospike, a 250,000 pound thrust engine, whose nozzle could adapt to altitude. Following these designs and after many tests, the space shuttle main engine was developed. The current space shuttles use three space shuttle main engines. According to Kraemer, NASA is currently designing a system that will replace the space shuttle.

Kraemer said that the biggest thing that will come out of the space program will be sending humans to Mars, but that it will have to be an international effort.

"We will send humans to Mars. I'm not sure when, but it's coming and it is going to be exciting when it happens," said Kraemer.

He added that there is room for new ideas and advised students to find something they really want to do and enjoy for a career.

"If it's something you enjoy and are interested in, you'll do well at it," stated Kraemer.

Adam Annis, president of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers at UWP, helped coordinate the event. This is the third time that Kraemer has spoken at UWP.

"It's always interesting to hear him speak. It's not every day you see someone like this come to campus. It's interesting for students to see how things they are learning in class like heat transfer, fluid dynamics and thermodynamics is applied to the space shuttle," said Annis.

Anyone wanting more information about Kraemer's presentation may contact David Kraemer, associate professor of mechanical engineering, at (608) 342-1987.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently received accreditation by the ABET Accreditation Commission for the civil engineering (BS), electrical engineering (BS), engineering physics (BS), environmental engineering (BS), industrial engineering (BS), software engineering (BS) and mechanical engineering (BS) programs, all of which are part of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science. This was the first accreditation for the newest program, software engineering, and re-accreditation for the other programs.

ABET accreditation of programs is based on a voluntary, peer-review process that determines if institutions are maintaining minimum educational criteria. The accreditation is assurance that programs meet the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.

Through a collaboration of efforts by professional and technical societies, ABET develops standards by which professionals evaluate the programs. The accreditation process not only helps students and their parents select quality programs of higher education, but accreditation also allows universities to assess, evaluate and improve the quality of their programs.

Richard Shultz, dean of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science, commented, "ABET accreditation is a continuous quality improvement assessment that helps set the standards for engineering education. Many employers will only hire individuals who studied at accredited universities. By completing the accreditation process, UWP is able to open doors of opportunity to graduates of the program."

The ABET accreditation process includes multiple steps of evaluation. Initially, the programs conduct internal evaluations and self-study questionnaires. An appropriate commission, comprised of individual volunteers from academe, government, industry and private practice, is assembled to conduct on-campus visit. During the visit, course materials, student projects and sample assignments are evaluated. Interviews are also conducted of students, faculty and administrative representatives of the programs to be evaluated. Following the commission visit, the programs receive follow up reports that recommend immediate changes or corrections. Annually, the ABET commission provides a final report, to each institution's program, highlighting the strengths, concerns, weaknesses, deficiencies and recommended improvements. Accreditation is granted based on the information compiled during the evaluations.

"It is a great honor to have completed the accreditation process. UWP will continue to collect data in all areas, in an effort to maintain constant improvement. It is vital, to this institution, that each program is offering the highest educational value possible," remarked Shultz.

For more information about the ABET accreditation process at UWP, contact the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science at (608) 342-1561.

Contact: College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science, (608) 342-1561 Written by: Lauren Lehr, UWP Office of Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, lehrl@uwplatt.edu

This concert will feature the Kassia: Women in Song performing a lecture recital entitled "The Legacy of Nadia Boulanger." Boulanger was the leading 20th century teacher of musical composition. Her students included Aaron Copland, John Duke, Leonard Bernstein, Marc Blitzstein and Ned Rorem. The program will highlight the music of these American composers, ranging from art song to musical theater selections. Sopranos Rebekah Demaree and Susan Savage Day, along with pianist Sharon Jensen, will perform all of the selections in English.

This recital is funded by the Margaret Keizer Fund. Admission to the performance is free and open to the public. Anyone wanting more information may contact Day at (608) 342-1085 ordaysu@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Susan Day, lecturer, UWP Department of Performing and Visual Arts, (608) 342-1085, daysu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Dawn Picton, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, pictond@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - Rountree Ensemble, University of Wisconsin-Platteville's chamber music ensemble-in-residence, will perform the second concert of its 2007-2008 season on Wednesday, Nov. 7. This performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall, located in the Center for the Arts building on campus.

Cellist Kevin Price, clarinetist John Marco and pianist Eugene Alcalay will perform three works by Beethoven and one by Brahms. The Trio in B flat, Opus 11 by Beethoven will begin the program, followed by his Sonata in A for cello and piano. After intermission, Alcalay will play Beethoven's Sonata in E, Opus 14, No. 1. One of Brahms' late major works, Trio in A minor, Opus 115 will conclude the program.

Marco, artistic director of the ensemble, notes: "Rountree Ensemble would not be possible without the generosity of Ingrid Olson and the Lyle and Ruth Olson Fund and by the encouragement and support of Dennis Cooley and the UW-Platteville Foundation. We have them to thank for what we have accomplished and for the exciting things we have planned." Tickets for this concert are on sale at the University Box Office in the Center for the Arts lobby. General admission is $10, while senior citizens and students are $4. The box office may be reached at (608) 342-1298.

In addition to the Nov. 7 performance, Rountree Ensemble's upcoming concerts at UWP include one on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, and Wednesday, April 23, 2008. The ensemble has also been invited by Wisconsin Public Radio for another broadcast live from the Chazen Museum in Madison on Feb. 24, 2008, at noon.

Prepared by: John Marco, UWP music professor, (608) 342-1012, marcoj@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The ninth annual University of Wisconsin-Platteville Traditional Pow Wow will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Williams Fieldhouse. Grand Entries will begin at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Pow Wow is the way of the Native American people meeting together by dancing, singing, visiting, renewing old friendships and making new ones. The Pow Wow is designed to include everyone.

The festivities also include a symposium on Act 31 on Friday, Oct. 26. Act 31 is a mandate that all school children grades kindergarten to 12 must be educated about American Indians. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon and again from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Pioneer Student Center.

This year is unique for the Pow Wow, as the Seowtewa family of the Zuni tribe of New Mexico will be honored for their contribution of art and cultural tradition to their tribe and American Indian peoples.

The Pow Wow begins with the Grand Entry. Grand Entries are designed to honor veterans, as the eagle staff, American flag, and other emblems are brought forward. All spectators are asked to rise as the flags and eagle staffs of the host and visiting tribes are brought in. The eagle staffs and flags represent nations, families, and communities. As the drums begin a Grand Entry song, the chief or tribal chair of the host tribe and visiting dignitaries enter the arena. They are followed by other honored members and the color guard of veterans.

This year, the Pow Wow was awarded with a $1,000 bonus grant from the Platteville Wal-Mart to help offset the cost. The grant was the maximum amount awarded and is given out once a year. Brad Smith, the Wal-Mart store manager, worked with Carl Allsup, department chair of ethnic studies, on the grant following the Racial Competencies Conference.

"Wal-Mart has a diversity initiative for managers to educate them about how to get involved in the community and to seek diverse employment opportunities. The grant is an opportunity to reach out to the community and help develop diversity awareness as a community," commented Smith.

Admission is free and open to the public. For more information about the Pow Wow contact Allsup at 342-1705.

Contact: Carl Allsup, department chair, ethnic studies, (608) 342-1705mailto:allsup@uwplatt.edu Written by: Lisa D. McLean, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, mcleanl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's J. J. Keller and Associates Inc. Human Resource Management Study Laboratory has shifted from a physical lab setup to an online approach entitled the Prospera(r) University Program.

The purpose of the laboratory at UWP was to supplement classroom education and provide students with real, on-the-job situations that they will face in their future careers. The evolution to the online program recognizes changes in the way professors teach and students learn; therefore, putting the focus on J. J. Keller's Prospera(r), an online people management tool. This new program will help professors enhance their curriculum and serve as a resource for students while they are attaining their degree.

"We're extremely excited about the launch of this program and the involvement of UWP. It will enable professors to not only provide their students with another resource, but also expose them to a technology that they may be exposed to once they graduate," said Rustin Keller, corporate Internet products manager, for J.J. Keller and Associates. Prospera(r) provides users with tools that enable them to connect with, develop, and empower employees to grow, succeed and prosper. Over 3,500 human resource professionals nationwide currently use it.

Professors and students may still continue to checkout DVDs and other lab materials through Karsten. Materials for training include resources dealing with diversity, harassment, workplace violence and a computerized system to facilitate compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act.

J. J. Keller and Associates Inc., of Neenah, employs 1,100 associates and is a leading specialized publisher and services provider. Founded in 1953, the company offers a wide spectrum of ready-made and custom safety and regulatory compliance products to customers throughout North America. Keller helps customers in industries such as construction, utilities, manufacturing, transportation and food processing comply with DOT, OSHA, EPA, DOL, FDA and USDA requirements. The company's diverse product line includes technical publications, computer software, training programs, online management tools, specialized forms, and supplies.

For more information about the J. J. Keller Human Resource Management Study Laboratory changes, contact Karsten at 342-1749.

Contact: Marge Karsten, department of business and accounting, College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture, (608) 342-1749, karsten@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Lisa D. McLean, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, mcleanl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently hosted several members of the criminal justice and education fields to discuss ways to reduce racial disparity in incarceration rates and levels of educational attainment in k-12 schools. The group had its initial meeting in April and will continue to meet several times this year.

The initiative is headed up by Joe Lomax, a professor in the UWP Department of Criminal Justice. Lomax said he was moved to bring the group together after working on research for grant applications addressing these issues over the past year, saying the enormity of the problem overwhelmed him.

"Of course, none of this is new to me - I've been dealing with this information over a lifetime of teaching and research, but I decided it was time to take a more proactive approach. These disparities are staggering and we need to do something now to change these trends before they suffocate any more of our children's futures," Lomax said.

The goals of the group are to help reverse the trends in both educational attainment and incarceration rates, and attempt to understand how the two intersect, Lomax explained. He pointed to the number of African American males in juvenile corrections (53 percent), is much larger than their in the Wisconsin population at large. Incarceration rates only go down slightly as don't change much as the boys become adults - African Americans make up 46% of the adult incarcerated population. At the same time, African Americans are graduating from k-12 schools in decreasing numbers, a trend that is closely tied to the higher incarceration rate.

In one detention facility, for example, Lomax pointed out that 33 percent of incarcerated youth had exceptional educational needs, an eighth grade average reading level, and a fifth grade average math level.

"We have to ask ourselves, realistically, what kinds of opportunities will be available to them without greater educational attainment and skills? Why kinds of careers will they be able to have? To correct this cycle of poverty and incarceration, we must address what's happening in our schools, first and foremost," said Lomax.

Some of the proposals discussed during the day-long conference included improving in-school and after school educational programming for minority children, such as Schools of Hope, modeled after the United Way program in Madison, and CAN DO schools for minority improvement.

"Part of a CAN DO education would be obtained by having successful minority members speak to groups of students, explain who they are, how they made it and what these students need to do to attain similar successes. This will expose students to minority professionals in medicine, law, real estate, management, sales, teaching, psychology, counseling, research, physical therapy, science, mathematics, social services and many more fields, and illustrate the connection between educational achievement and career attainment," Lomax explained.

The group also considered a number of additional areas for action, such as special programming in colleges dealing with student and teacher education; examining and offering added support to social institutions, including families, churches, and service organizations; seeking support from business and industry, criminal justice agencies, and employment and career preparation services; researching the impact of Wisconsin's incarceration facilities and policies; and discouraging behavior which put youth at risk for violence, drugs and pregnancy.

Attendees at the forum said they were ready to take up these issues and become avid spokespeople for reducing disparities in education and incarceration. Hugo Henry, who has known Lomax for many years, is a retired educator from Beloit.

"We have too many people being incarcerated. The future of our state depends on young people, and if we don't do something now, the long term interests of our state will be jeopardized. We appreciate that your dean has shown this commitment from the top to support our efforts to put this group in place and follow through with some meaningful actions," Henry said.

Henry was referring to Mittie Nimocks, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Education, who spoke to the crowd briefly in the morning and before they broke for the day. During her remarks, Nimocks expressed her ongoing support for the group and noted the presence of an entering UWP freshman in the crowd, Byron Strong.

"I see this a critical opportunity for young people like Byron to get involved and facilitate meaningful change. It's also very important for us as a campus as we try to diversify our students, faculty and staff. If we want to recruit more students and faculty of color, we have to help the state reduce and reverse these trends," she said after the conference.

Strong was attending with his father, Wayne Strong, a lieutenant in the Madison Police Department and member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Officials. The younger strong, who is majoring in criminal justice, said the conference was eye-opening and motivating.

"Some of the information was shocking, like the instances of school shooting and gang violence. But it was also hopeful in the sense that I was able to be in this room with so many people who care about our minority youth," said Byron.

Anyone interested in learning more about the group's efforts may contact Lomax at (608) 342-1621 or lomaxj@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Joe Lomax, professor, UWP Department of Criminal Justice, (608) 342-1621, lomaxj@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Evelyn Martens, UWP Public Relations, (608)- 342-1194,martense@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - On Tuesday, Nov. 6, the U.S. Department of Labor and Small Business Development Center of Southwest Wisconsin will be hosting a daylong Labor and Employment Law Workshop for small to medium sized businesses. The seminar will last from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the Blackhawk Technical College, located on 210 4th Avenue in Monroe.

The workshop is open to owners, operations managers and human resource professionals of small to medium sized businesses. A variety of topics will be covered, such as federal and state employment regulations, wage requirements, resources, employment taxes, records, audits and inspections, penalties and lawsuits, equal employee rights, unemployment insurance and safety in the workplace.

Presenters for the workshop include representatives from the U.S. Department of Labor, Wisconsin Labor Standards Bureau, Internal Revenue Service, Wisconsin Department of Revenue, U.S. Equal Employee Opportunity Commission, Wisconsin Equal Rights Division, Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance Division, and U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The speakers will also be available throughout the day to take individual questions.

The cost for the workshop is $35 per person, which includes lunch, refreshments and presentation materials. To register, contact the Blackhawk Technical College at (608) 328-1660. Any questions should be directed to the Small Business Development Center at (608) 342-1038 or Blackhawk Technical College at (608) 329-8203.

Contact: Sheri Ford, Southwest Wisconsin Small Business Development Center assistant, (608) 342-1038, swsbdc@uwplatt.edu Written by: Kym Bliven, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, blivenk@uwplatt.edu

Heidi Dyas-McBeth and Jeff Reynolds

PLATTEVILLE - The Alliant Energy Foundation recently granted $2,500 to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's ArtsBuild program, an initiative created in 2004 by UWP's Office of Continuing Education in order to assist local artists and entrepreneurs. The money was used to fund three continuing education workshops, a Networking Potluck, and the "Work of Art" workshop series presented by nationally recognized "Springboard for the Arts." The professional development programs focused on topics identified as priorities by area artists through a needs assessment conducted by ArtsBuild in early 2007.

Marian Maciej-Hiner, director of the UWP Office of Continuing Education, wished to express her gratitude to Alliant Energy for the grant, which came at a crucial time.

"We greatly appreciate the support from Alliant Energy, that allowed us to offer workshops for artists and creative entrepreneurs. Since ArtsBuild is in a transition phase this year, moving from the start-up grant that launched it in 2004 to becoming a self-sufficient program, funding such as this is critical in serving area artists with education and training opportunities."

According to Jeff Reynolds, key account manager for Alliant Energy, the Alliant Energy Foundation funds a variety of different projects in the communities in which the company is found. Customers will often make requests, and if the project is beneficial to the community, the foundation will support it.

"The Alliant Energy Foundation was formed in order to help improve the quality of life - now and in the future - in the communities where Alliant Energy has a presence. The Foundation's programs reflect a commitment to play an active role in those areas and give back to future generations."

Heidi Dyas-McBeth, ArtsBuild coordinator, emphasized the connection between the Alliant Energy Community Grants program goals and the ArtsBuild grant-supported activities.

"The Center for Rural Entrepreneurship figures show that 80 percent of new jobs in rural U.S.A. are from existing small business expansion and entrepreneurial start-ups. By increasing the professional and business capacity of artists in Southwest Wisconsin, ArtsBuild is strengthening the creative foundation for growth - and creating an environment that supports entrepreneurs and encourages creative and innovative people and their families to live here," said Dyas-McBeth.

Through its Community Grants program, the Foundation supports health and human services programs, education endeavors, civic activities, cultural and arts initiatives, and environmental efforts.

Anyone wanting more information about the Alliant Energy Foundation may contact Jo Ann Healy at (608) 458-5545 or JoAnnHealy@alliantenergy.org, or visit www.alliantenergyfoundation.org For more information about ArtsBuild, contact Maciej-Hiner at (608) 342-1302 or maciejhm@uwplatt.edu.

PLATTEVILLE - The Small Business Development Center at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville has received another year's worth of funding from the Wisconsin office of the U.S. Small Business Association.

"The Small Business Development Center is here to provide advice counsel to individual clients and educational training opportunities to the public," explains Gary Smith, program director for the center. Through this, the SBDC assists the region in economical development and growth, helping individuals to establish and expand small businesses. Wisconsin has 11 district SBDC offices statewide.

To obtain funding, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's SBDC office was required to undergo a programmatic review based on a list of criteria which includes how prominent the SBDC is marketed; the extensiveness and quality of their training and education programs; use of resources; client assistance; file management; and accessibility of their office. Reviewers from the SBA were pleased and impressed with the UWP center, Smith notes.

Approximately 50 percent of funding for the SBDC comes from the SBA, while the remaining 50 percent comes from various sources throughout the community, including economic development partners. These funds are used to help support SBDC's educational programs and allow the SBDC to provide free and confidential business counsel for individuals.

Upcoming educational events for the SBDC include an all-day Labor and Employment Workshop from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on Nov. 6. This workshop, which will focus on legal concerns business owners must consider, will feature speakers from a variety of agencies including the U.S. Department of Labor, Wisconsin Labor Standards Bureau, Internal Revenue Service, Wisconsin Equal Rights Division and U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This event will be held at the Blackhawk Technical College in Monroe. Admission is $35 per person, which includes lunch, refreshments and presentation materials. For more information or to register, contact the SBDC at (608) 342-1038 or Blackhawk Technical College at (608) 329-8203.

Contact: Gary Smith, SBDC program director, (608) 342-1038,swsbdc@uwplatt.edu Written by: Kym Bliven, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, blivenk@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- As the new research manager at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Pioneer Farm, Dennis Busch is busy collaborating with other researchers, producers and universities, working with students and helping develop new research projects that promote conservation while maintaining agricultural production.

"I was interested in the position because I like Southwest Wisconsin and I had a good undergraduate experience when I attended UWP. I'm familiar with Pioneer Farm and am optimistic about the future of the research program. I want to be part of that," said Busch.

As research manager, Busch manages research related budgets, develops proposals for grant funding, and is the primary spokesperson and advocate of Pioneer Farm's Wisconsin Agricultural Stewardship Initiative research activities. WASI is a statewide collaboration between producers, the government and the UW System that seeks to enhance the environment while producing a profit for the producer by evaluating the best management practices in Wisconsin and forming policies based on those practices. Busch also provides leadership of all education dissemination, communication and public relations efforts conducted at Pioneer Farm related to WASI. Working as research manager allows Busch to collaborate with researchers around the Midwest in developing and coordinating research projects, which he says is an enjoyable part of the job.

In addition, Busch works closely with student researchers, supervising their work and working with them to develop job duties.

"We at Pioneer Farm strive to provide students with a meaningful work experience, involving them in multiple phases of research projects. We also encourage students to develop and conduct their own research projects," said Busch.

The most established and longest running research project at Pioneer Farm is monitoring service water runoff. Pioneer Farm is partnered with the United States Geological Survey on the project, which determines the water quality and quantity that leaves Pioneer Farm cropland, pastures and livestock facilities. Pioneer Farm also partners with other departments and faculty at UWP such as engineering and biology and other universities such as UW-Madison and UW-Stevens Point.

His goals for the future of the research program at Pioneer Farm include increased involvement of the agricultural community, especially producers; cultivating relationships with on and off campus researchers; and improved collaboration with the Discovery Farms program. Discovery Farms works with different privately owned farming enterprises across the state to demonstrate the adaptability and practicality of the best management practices in diverse geo-physical and management systems.

Busch is an alumnus of UWP, where he recieved his undergraduate and masters degrees in agriculture. He also holds a Ph.D. in water resources science from the University of Minnesota.

"Dr. Dennis Busch brings many qualities to the position of research manager at Pioneer Farm. His broad vision focuses on providing meaningful agricultural and environmental systems research to the citizens of our state and throughout the nation. We look forward to the expertise Dennis will provide as we move forward with our mission," said Phil Wyse, director of Pioneer Farm.

Anyone wanting more information about the research at Pioneer Farm may contact Busch at (608) 342-1657 or buschd@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Pioneer Farm was the host to high school students for the Block and Bridle Club Fall Judging Contest on Oct. 12.

The UWP Block and Bridle Club, advised by Bob Nusbaum, professor of animal science; Alicia Prill-Adams, academic facilitator; and John Tembei, assistant professor of animal science, hosted the contest. It was designed to give beginning and experienced judges a learning opportunity. Ninety-four students from seven high schools in Southwest Wisconsin participated.

"The contest helps increase interest in animal agriculture and showcases Pioneer Farm. The high school students also get to interact with UWP students. It's a community service event for Block and Bridle Club. The students really pull together," said Nusbaum.

The contest, run similar to a national livestock contest, consists of five classes: ewes, heifers, gilts, calves and hogs. For each class, contestants were given a data sheet of records like average daily gain, adjusted weaning weights and expected progeny differences. The two officials, both professionals in the livestock industry, explained what each factor was and why it is important. The contestants then judged the class in the ring and placed them according to physical characteristics and the items on the data sheet. Contestants were scored on how closely their placings matched the officials' placings. For two of the classes, contestants also had to answer five questions about either the data or physical features of the animals.

After the contestants turned in their placings, they learned the way each class should have been placed and why, from the officials. Next, the top five teams, top 10 individuals overall, and top team and individual from each class were recognized.

Anyone wanting more information about the contest may contact Nusbaum at (608) 342-1324 or .nusbaum@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Bob Nusbaum, professor of animal science, (608) 342-1324, nusbaum@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194,kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - Stan Stojkovic would be the first to tell you that he didn't exactly have a stellar high school career when it came to academics. He was bored and unmotivated, he recalls. But he was also the first generation son of a Yugoslavian immigrant, and his parents were determined that he would get an education - in spite of himself.

After high school, he enrolled at Milwaukee Area Technical College and began taking courses - at $1 per course - and eventually completed a police science degree. He wasn't sure what to do after that, but the next move would eventually revolutionize his life and his perspective on education. In the fall of 1975, he enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and there he met, among other memorable professors, Ellsworth Hood, professor of philosophy.

"I took El's course and I was hooked. I developed socially, intellectually, emotionally - in so many ways. I can remember leaving one Friday afternoon and just wanting to talk to anybody and everybody about the incredible class I'd just attended. I can't explain what a profound effect going to UWP had on me," Stojkovic said. He ended up taking a total of five courses with Hood. He remembers Barbara Parsons and Stan Moore, both retired UWP professors of philosophy, as also having a great impact on him.

Hood said that studying philosophy is often an important catalyst for helping students to develop critical thinking skills. "We encourage students to think for themselves by asking open ended questions. Students need to be able to question information and ideas without worrying about censure or seeing a scowl on the instructor's face. It's very reassuring for students to have the freedom to do that. It's challenging to learn to think for oneself, and Stan was one of the students who stepped up to that challenge," said Hood.

If Stojkovic's name sounds familiar, it may be because after graduate school at Michigan State University, he went on to become the dean of the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the author or co-author of eight books in the field of criminal justice and corrections. He has also published numerous articles and reviews and made countless professional presentations. Apparently, he has overcome his motivation problem.

To invest back into the institution which he said had such a profound effect on him, Stojkovic recently made arrangements to include UW-Platteville in his will. Including the sale of his home, savings, investments, retirement and annuity initiatives, he estimates the gift may total several hundred thousand to one million dollars. Stojkovic is making a similar gift to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. According to the American Journal of Philanthropy, it may be the largest gift by a non-law school, non-medical school sitting dean.

"I felt it was important to reinvest in UWP since it played such a significant role in my life. As state support for higher education decreases, it's going to be up to alumni to step up and secure the future of the university," Stojkovic said.

Dennis Coley is the assistant chancellor for University Advancement and director of the UWP Foundation. "This is a wonderful way to invest in the university and create a legacy for future generations. Many students will reap the benefits of Stan's gift for years to come. We are very thankful to him and others who have remembered UWP in their wills," Cooley said.

Stojkovic's teaching interests include corrections, public administration, philosophy, criminology and delinquency. In the intervening years, he has remained in touch with UWP faculty, particularly Joe Lomax, professor of criminal justice, with whom he has served on a number of state criminal justice-related committees.

"This is a tremendous act of generosity on his part and we really appreciate it. He's been very generous with his time as well, and has come to speak at UWP on numerous occasions. We've recognized him as an outstanding alumnus for a long time, and we're so glad he's remembering our program with this gift," said Lomax.

Anyone interested in learning more about Stojkovic's gift or the process of planned giving may contact Cooley at (608) 342-1182.

Contact: Dennis Cooley, UWP assistant vice chancellor for University Advancement, (608) 342-1182, cooleyde@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Evelyn Martens, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, martense@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - For over 40 years, University of Wisconsin-Platteville agriculture professor Victor Nylin devoted his life and career to his goal of preparing university and high school students to work in areas related to agriculture.

Nylin was a UWP professor of agricultural education beginning in 1938 and later the dean of agriculture.

UWP agriculture alumni Bill Dowling came to know Nylin as a mentor, professor and later colleague during his time at UWP. Last year, Dowling initiated a campaign to increase the funds in a scholarship under Nylin's name.

"The amount of the fund seemed small in relation to the importance of Dr. Nylin's contribution to the education of so many students during his leadership of the Agricultural Education area of what became UWP."

With the support of UWP alumni and friends, the scholarship fund has increased and is presented to deserving agriculture students each year to provide assistance to them as they work to achieve a career and leadership role in an agricultural area. The scholarship has generated a current total of $19,454.

"I felt Dr. Nylin should be remembered in a more significant manner through the scholarship fund than was possible with the amount it held when I became aware of it. He was not a self-promoter and I wanted his memory to be enhanced by increasing the amount of the annual scholarship," said Dowling.

Anyone interested in knowing more about the Nylin scholarship fund may contact Denee Hirsh, UWP Foundation Director of Development, Major Gifts, at (608) 342-1969 or hirshd@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Denee Hirsh, UWP Foundation Director of Development, Major Gifts hirshd@uwplatt.edu(608) 342-1969 Written by: Anne Killian, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, killiana@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- As a part of the University Diversity Commission at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, high school students of diverse backgrounds from the tri-state area visited UWP on Tuesday, Oct. 16 and Thursday, Oct. 18.

The Multicultural Educational Resource Center sponsored the program through their inception and coordination of the program and their financial contribution of bussing the students into Platteville and providing their lunch. The program is in its sixth year at UWP.

"The program is important because it provides students who would not necessarily have the means to visit a college campus to visit one, and it exposes them to UW-Platteville's campus in particular. Also, it provides the students with an idea about the programs and services UWP has to offer," commented Carlos Wiley, director of the Multicultural Educational Resource Center.

UWP administrators, faculty, staff and students welcomed the students at an informal reception breakfast. Among attendees were the director of the School of Education, Michael Anderson; provost, Carol Sue Butts; interim advisor for MERC and admission advisor in Prospective Student Services, Rahsaan Dunn; director of public relations, Lee Jadaan; criminal justice professor, Joe Lomax; assistant chancellor of student affairs, Michael Viney; and program coordinator for Pre-College Programs, Carl Wesley.

Butts gave the welcome on Tuesday while Viney did so on Thursday.

Viney commented about the opportunity this program provides to the visiting students, "This is an excellent program that reaches out to an underrepresented student population. This is an opportunity to show what UWP has to offer these students as a place to continue their education. My hope is that the students see when they arrive that we are a campus committed to seeing them complete their educational goals and begin their careers successfully."

The welcome was followed by informational sessions with Admission and Enrollment Services, the Financial Aid Office, Prospective Student Services, Student Housing, the Student Success Center and the Writing Center.

" Engage, explore and excel. That is what you can do here at UWP. Engage, explore and excel it is UWP's theme for the year and we hope to provide opportunities for you to do these things as students here," said Angela Udelhofen, director of Admission and Enrollment Services, during her session.

The students were divided based on academic interest and taken on a campus tour where the college dean or chair had an opportunity to address the students.

Visiting students, senior, Maurice Thomas, and junior, Jeremy Nelson, both of Milwaukee's Hamilton High School, enjoyed seeing the campus and classrooms on their tour.

"UWP is a nice school, I like the business classrooms and labs. I could see myself coming here," said Thomas.

"Everything seems nice here, UWP is a good school. I am interested in business but I really liked the information technology labs. It seems like the manufacturing labs are unique to Platteville," said Nelson.

The students had lunch with current students of color and students that participated in the Paths to Platteville program who are now enrolled at UWP. Attendees also had an opportunity to meet with the athletics coaches.

The day concluded with a panel of current students who participated in a candid conversation with the visiting students. On Tuesday, current UWP students, Quincy Bufkin, Zakiya Catlin, James Jones and Shakari Tayborn were the panel of students.

"I'm a freshman and I think it's time for you to look at where you are in life and step into college and grow into being an adult. When I got to UWP it was hard and real. We stick together at UWP which helps you get through the hard times and makes it fun," commented Jones.

Shanequa Bowen, a junior at Freeport High School in Illinois, thought UWP was a nice college, "I really enjoyed the hospitality and the food. There are so many organizations, I really enjoyed the campus," she said.

Kyeta Yates, a junior from the Girls with Goals program out of Freeport, Ill., is a veteran of UWP campus visits, "I've been to Platteville over 20 times, I definitely think it's a good college to go to," she commented.

Anyone interested in more information about the program should contact Wiley at wileyc@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville physics professor Marlann Patterson and UWP student Megan Murphy were recently selected to research nanomagnets at the Materials Science Center of the University of Nebraska.

Every year, two or more faculty members, paired with one or two of their students, are invited to take part in a research project at the University of Nebraska. The researchers are chosen from four-year institutions across the United States. This year, Patterson and Murphy were one of only five pairs accepted into the summer research program. Patterson's father, a retired physicist, first directed Patterson to the program, which she attended for the first time in the summer of 2006 with UWP student Jacob Smith.

Students and faculty alike are compensated for their time and work and may stay for up to 10 weeks on the project they choose. For the visiting students, this is a unique opportunity to gain research experience and work with the highly advanced engineering equipment the program has to offer. In addition, the program benefits the center, as the students and faculty are expected to return to their home institutions and continue to pursue related research projects.

Nanotechnology, the applied science of controlling matter on the molecular scale, is a rapidly growing field with relevance to areas such as medicine, cosmetics, food products, clothing and household appliances. Patterson is actually one of several professors at UWP actively exploring nanotechnology. This science is also a relatively new minor at UWP, designed to complement the chemistry, engineering and biology majors.

Patterson and Murphy were paired with University of Nebraska professor Jeff Shield, of the mechanical engineering department, to enhance the magnetic properties of nanomagnets, nanoscopic magnets with many practical applications, such as improving information storage for computer hard drives. They may also be used in medicine, where they can be attached to certain drugs and directed to treat specific body cells or destroy tumors, and refrigeration, where they assist in increasing efficiency and decreasing noise of the refrigerator unit.

To improve the effectiveness of these nanoscopic magnets, Murphy and Patterson employed a method known as gas-phase aggregation, which was achieved through plasma processing, an area in which Patterson specializes. This plasma-based processing technology assists in the modification of chemical and physical properties of a surface, such as the nanomagnets.

"I liked the collaborative nature of this research," Patterson comments. "It was great to work with and meet other students and faculty, and I enjoyed the opportunity to educate using research." Eventually, Patterson would like to publish the results of this past summer's work.

Murphy agrees. "My favorite part was working with other researchers. They are outstanding people and I learned a lot from them, while having fun at the same time."

Patterson encourages both high school and college students to pursue research, whatever discipline they may be studying, and is constantly on the lookout for anyone interested in participating, whether through research scholarships or independent study courses.

Patterson, a Platteville resident, completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida. She earned her master of science and subsequent PhD at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the area of materials science. Murphy is the daughter of Tim and Kathy Murphy of Platteville. She is an engineering physics major with a biomedical emphasis and a nanotechnology minor, and she anticipates graduating in May 2009.

Contact: Marlann Patterson, UWP physics professor, (608) 342-1949, patterma@uwplatt.edu Written by: Kym Bliven, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, blivenk@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will be hosting a Jazz I Concert on Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall in the Center for the Arts on the UWP campus.

The concert will feature a wide variety of styles of music from contemporary to traditional big band jazz, ballads to up tempo swing, to jazz funk. Jazz faculty members Rob Block on piano and Allen Cordingley on sax will join the band as guest artists, along with student soloists. The works of Herbie Hancock, Thelonoius Monk, Billie Holiday, the Stan Kenton Big Band, the Buddie Rich Big Band, Jaco Pastorious and Rich Matteson will be featured.

Admission to the concert is free and open to the public. Anyone with questions may contact Joe Caploe at (608) 342-1018 or caploe@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Joe Caploe, director of percussion and jazz studies, UWP Department of Performing and Visual Arts, (608) 342-1018, caploe@uwplatt.edu Written by: Dawn Picton, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, pictond@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The United Way of Platteville is kicking off their annual campaign, with the goal of $70,000 in mind. The United Way provides a method of sharing the responsibility for those in need. Local citizens volunteer hours of their time to help raise funds, identify needs and allocate funds to service providers.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has the goal to contribute at least $8,000 to the United Way of Platteville. Donators may specify which particular organizations they would like their contributions to go to and make them through either a pledge card or payroll deductions.

The money that is donated will be distributed to organizations such as the American Red Cross of the tri-states, D.A.R.E., the Epilepsy Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, Family Advocates Inc., The Family Center, Girl Scouts of Green Hills Council Inc., Hodan Center Inc., Partners Advocacy Inc., Platteville Food Pantry, Pregnancy Helpline Inc., Runaway and Youth Services of Lutheran Social Services, Salvation Army, Southern Grant County Road Crew Inc., SW CAP Reproductive Health Care Center, Southwest Opportunities Center Inc., and the Special Olympics.

Over 95 cents of every dollar donated will go to a local human service organization. In addition to helping out local charities, donators may win a reward for their generosity. Five participants of the UWP United Way Campaign will be randomly drawn to receive a gift certificate and 25 participants will be selected, randomly, to attend a pizza party hosted by the UWP chancellor.

For more information regarding the UWP United Way or the United Way of Platteville, contact Nina Elskamp at (608) 342-1182 or elskampn@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Nina Elskamp, administrative assistant, (608) 342-1182, elskampn@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1182, killiana@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - Darla Banfi, marketing coordinator for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Distance Learning Center, recently received the Excellence in Marketing Certificate through the Executive Education program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Banfi started taking marketing courses though the Executive Education program in 2004 after receiving funding from the Academic Staff Professional Development fund and the UWP Distance Learning Center. The Executive Education program brings together marketing and planning executives from industrial, consumer and service firms from around the country.

"I was impressed with the caliber of the instructors, ranging from CEOs and company founders, to marketing experts and authors, to award winning creative directors," said Banfi. "It was an invaluable opportunity for me to network with key corporate constituents and to increase awareness of the online degrees offered through the University of Wisconsin-Platteville."

Banfi has applied the techniques learned from the courses to her marketing position at the UWP Distance Learning Center, as well as the UWP Image Committee on which she sits. Banfi also serves on Distance Education's web committee and co-chairs the Distance Education Marketing and Recruitment committee. She is a member of the U.S. Distance Learning Association.

After completing four marketing courses through the Executive Education program, Banfi received the marketing certificate. The marketing certificate is specifically tailored for marketing executives who have responsibility for decision-making. "In my eight years in UWP distance education, we have witnessed growth and garnered awards and distinctions. We are planning for continued increases in our distance education enrollments, and I will use the skills learned in these courses to fuel that growth," Banfi said.

Dawn Drake, UWP executive director of alternative delivery systems, works closely with Banfi. "It was great for Darla to take the initiative to learn more about the marketing arena through this excellent program. As the competition continues to increase in the student recruitment area, it is imperative that she be able to use this knowledge base to assist in increasing the students in our distance programs," said Drake.

Banfi, who received both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, has worked for the state of Wisconsin for 31 years, both as a high school teacher and UWP employee in study abroad and distance education. "I am a life-long learner myself, and I have focused my career on helping students expand their knowledge of cultures and in reaching the goal of earning undergraduate and graduate degrees."

Banfi, who resides in Platteville, enjoys reading, sewing and traveling with her husband, Ray, also an UWP alum, and children, Jason and Katelyn. She is the daughter of Merlin and Darlene Mellor of Platteville.

For more information regarding the Excellence in Marketing Certificate, or UWP's online degrees, contact Banfi at (608) 342-1390 or banfi@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Darla Banfi, marketing coordinator, UWP Distance Learning Center, (608) 342-1390, banfi@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian., (608) 342-1194,killiana@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - Nancy Turner, associate professor of history at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, will be presenting "Confronting the Specter of Unbelief: Changes in Christian Theologians' Attitudes towards Jews, 1250-1500," as part of the Liberal Arts and Education Faculty Forum.

Taking place on Nov. 1, Turner's presentation will examine the writings of Christian theologians concerning Jews and Judaism, beginning in the High Middle Ages and continuing through the first century of the Early Modern period.

"The presentation will focus especially on the changing attitudes concerning the validity of the forcible baptism of Jewish children and/or adults," Turner stated. "The lecture will look at the works of theologians from England, France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain and Holland, including such thinkers as Thomas Aquinas, John Duns Scotus, Martin Luther and Erasmus."

"Confronting the Specter of Unbelief" will be presented in the Lundeen Lecture Hall located in Doudna Hall on the UWP campus from 5 to 6:30 p.m. with Reverend John Christianson responding. The event is free and open to the public. Anyone wanting more information may contact Turner at (608) 342-1789 or turnern@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Nancy Turner, associate professor, social sciences, (608) 342-1789, turnern@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194.

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville student and Stop the Hate trainer, Hanah Diebold, will be leading a Stop the Hate training session on Oct. 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Pioneer Student Center on the UWP campus.

The Stop the Hate program is designed specifically for college students, faculty and staff. It teaches them how to confront hate, biased language and actions. The presentation also aims to provide information about defining a hate crime and the unique impact of a hate crime to the victims, campus and community. It will teach participants how to respond to this impact. A foundation of change will be laid to assist those interested in becoming allies and making a commitment to addressing hate in all settings.

"Stop the Hate is incredibly beneficial for this day and age. This program is designed to open people's eyes and perspectives to new possibilities and is designed to help others become aware of their actions. Stop the Hate is an interactive program and more casual than one may think. Trainers introduce a topic and provide background information, which leads to an open discussion. This program doesn't preach or point fingers, but allows the participants to go through some self-reflection and learn new things about themselves and their daily interactions," said Diebold.

"Last year Paul Rusesabagina, the UWP distinguished lecturer, talked about the Rwandan Genocide which started because of jokes on the radio. In the Stop the Hate program, we provide a pyramid of hate, at the bottom are jokes and the top is genocide. Jokes can lead to genocide, it's important to become allies. An ally can be on a continuum from understanding inappropriate jokes to voicing concerns when hate escalates," commented Valerie Wetzel, another Stop the Hate trainer.

Upcoming Stop the Hate dates include one session at the Making Connections Leadership conference on Friday, Nov. 9 from 5 to 10 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be several Stop the Hate sessions second semester. For more information and to sign up for the event, contact the Pioneer Involvement Center at (608) 342-1075.

Contact: Hanah Diebold, Stop the Hate, 342-1075, dieboldh@uwplatt.edu Written by: Lisa D. McLean, UWP Public Relations, 342-1194, mcleanl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville International Business Resource Center is offering a China Short Study Tour from March 14 through 29, 2008, in an effort to expand study abroad opportunities to UWP students. The international short-term study abroad course, BSAD: 3750, China Business Practices and Cultures, is designed to assist students in understanding the economics and culture of China.

The goal of the short-term study abroad course is to help students identify opportunities, resolve problems and implement solutions and programs in global business. UW-Platteville IBRC executive director and professor of business, Louis Nzegwu, stated, "A short study tour to China is especially valuable to participants because China is one of the fastest growing economies in the world."

Nzegwu will be leading students through the international business environment in China. Business strategies, history and cultures will be covered throughout the Short Study course.

Participants will visit businesses, universities and cultural sites. They will visit A.O. Smith and Shenzhen, two Wisconsin-based companies in China. China has recently grown from being Wisconsin's 18th largest business partner to its third.

Among the universities to be visited will be South Central University of Nationalities in Wuhan, China, a sister school to UWP. Students will receive lectures at Lingnan University in Hong Kong and Guangzhou University.

The American Embassy in Beijing is also on the China short study tour itinerary, where participants will see a presentation by U.S. State Department officials on the current Chinese economy.

Participants of the China Short Study Tour will also travel to Beijing, China's capital, site of the 2008 Olympics and location of the Great Wall of China. Shanghai, Guangzhou (the manufacturing center of China), and Hong Kong will also be visited.

Amy Schackman, IBRC senior program manager, took part in the China Short Study Tour last spring. She recommends this kind of abroad experience to all UWP students. "The itinerary was packed, we were able to see so many different aspects of Chinese business and culture in such a short amount of time. The most interesting thing I learned was how hard it actually is for a foreign company to get started in China. The laws and regulations can change a lot because the government is still trying to figure out the best way to handle all of the foreign direct investment," commented Schackman.

"The primary goal of the IBRC in organizing the China Short Study Tour is to help strengthen the connection between Wisconsin and China. Giving students the opportunity to participate in this program will help them understand the challenges of doing business of China and how to meet those challenges," stated Nzegwu.

The China Short Study Tour is open to all full-time UWP students in good standing, as well as faculty. Students have until Oct. 18 to sign up for the program and must submit a 250-word statement with their application regarding their interest in the program. For more information regarding the China Short Study Tour schedule, contact Nzegwu at (608) 342-1597 or nzegwu@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Louis Nzegwu, executive director, International Business Resource Center, (608) 342-1597, nzegwu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP office of public relations, (608) 342-1194

PLATTEVILLE -The University of Wisconsin-Platteville hosted the Peacemaker Mediation Tournament featuring the UWP national championship team and teams from Loras College in Dubuque, Hamline University of St. Paul, Minn., St. Francis University of Joliet, Ill., and Lewis University of Romeoville, Ill. UWP took first place in the advocacy category and Lewis University took first in the mediation category.

The intercollegiate mediation competition started in 2000 at Drake University Law School as a way to educate students in techniques to solve their conflicts through mediation. While competing, students from various schools play the roles of mediators as well as advocates and their clients in situations drawn from real disputes. UWP started the Peacemaker invitational tournament in 2003 as a way to prepare students at UWP and other nearby schools for the national championship tournament.

UW-Platteville took third place among 24 teams in the first national intercollegiate mediation tournament. Last year, UWP won the national advocacy championship. In addition to the championship trophy won last year, UWP has four other national top 10 trophies in mediation.

This year's national championship will be held at John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Oct. 25 through 27. Anyone wanting more information on mediation competitions may contact John Rink at (608) 342-1795 or rink@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Three dairy judging teams from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently competed in the Accelerated Genetics Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Viroqua and the World Dairy Expo Dairy Judging Contest in Madison.

The World Dairy Expo judging team, which placed 8th, consisted of Amanda Knorn, John Lawfer, Carl Weier and Scott Jeanquart. Weier and Jeanquart received the All-American Judge award, which is given to the top 25 individuals. Weier placed 16th and Jeanquart placed 12th of 100 individuals.

"This is where the best of the best compete. Students from all over the country come to the World Dairy Expo Dairy Judging Contest," said Michael Mee, professor of animal science at UWP.

Part of the contest was judging six different breeds of dairy cattle. The UWP team placed fifth in the Ayrshire class, fourth in the Guernsey class and second in the Milking Shorthorn class.

At the Accelerated Genetics Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest, UWP placed sixth and 12th. Team members of the sixth place team were Ryan Sonnenburg, Heather Scanlan, Trent Hendrickson, and Renee Sheaffer. This team also placed first in the Jersey and Milking Shorthorn judging classes and second in the Ayrshire class. Scanlan placed sixth individually. Twelfth place team members were Ross Brunsman, Emily Parker, Mike Christen and Robert Nosbisch.

For both contests, teams judged 10 or 12 classes of cows and heifers for each dairy breed, amounting to approximately 48 animals. Each class consists of four animals and contestants placed them from the most desirable to the least desirable. Contestants were then scored based on the official judge's placing. The second part of the contest was oral reasons. According to Mee, this was the most mentally challenging part of the contest. Contestants have two minutes to give a short persuasive speech to the judges about why they placed certain classes the way they did.

"Participating in the contest sharpens the students' critical thinking skills. Employers really look at students with judging experience. These are the skills they'll use for the rest of their life," said Mee. Anyone wanting more information about the contests may contact Mee at (608) 342-1754 or mee@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- The microsystem and nanotechnology program committee will be meeting with industry representatives to further develop the Microsystems and nanotechnology program at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

The program committee has been working with different people in industry to determine what companies want in their microsystems and nanotechnology employees. On Oct. 12, the committee met with the industrial advisory board, which included regional companies, a representative from a national laboratory and an academic faculty member from UW-Madison. Presentations on the current programs at UWP, the development of the microsystems and nanotechnology program and where it is now, and the future of the program were made to the representatives. The committee and representatives then had a discussion so the program committee could get a better perspective of how well the program fits with the needs of the industry.

Nanotechnology deals with designing technical solutions from manipulating material at the atomic or molecular scale. UWP offers a minor in microsystems and nanotechnology, which complements the chemistry, engineering and biology majors. Currently, their are three nanotechnology and microsystems classes for the minor. Hal Evensen, associate professor of physics and chair of the microsystems and nanotechnology program committee, says developing the minor was the first step toward creating a microsystems and nanotechnology major.

"Nanotechnology is in a lot of products. Much of nanotechnology and microsystems is based on using different ways to image and visualize at the molecular and atomic level. It's a sprawling field," said Evensen.

To support the program, the new engineering building will feature a classroom facility for nanotechnology fabrication and simulation. In addition, the ability to contribute to the microsystems and nanotechnology program is one of the criteria in several new faculty searches within the College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science.

Anyone wanting more information on the microsystems and nanotechnology program may contact Evensen at (608) 342-1531 or evensenh@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Hal Evensen, assistant professor of physics, (608) 342-1531, evensenh@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

Chancellor David Markee and Wil Bekkering, adjunct director of Dronten Professional Agriculture University

PLATTEVILLE- Agriculture students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville have been experiencing another culture and different forms of agriculture as they study abroad as part of the International Exchange Program at Dronten Professional Agriculture University in the Netherlands. On Sept. 27, Chancellor David Markee signed a continuation agreement with Dronten.

Wil Bekkering, adjunct director of Dronten Professional Agriculture University, traveled from Dronten to be here for the signing. In commenting on her visit to UWP and her meetings on campus, Bekkering noted, "I am convinced that our cooperation will have a good future because we share both vision and interest."

The International Exchange Program differs from the Study Abroad Programs in that the partner schools have a similar program in a specified area or college. Each college at UWP partners with different universities. The program strives to send as many UWP students to the partner school as it brings in students from the partner school. While on exchange, UWP students pay UWP tuition and may also receive scholarships.

The exchange program with Dronten began in 2001 and since then 20 Dutch students and 20 UWP students have participated in the exchange. According to Sue Price, professor of animal science;Chris Baxter, assistant professor of soil and crop science; and Roger Higgs, professor emeriti; were instrumental in building the program by establishing short-term exchanges.

"The Dronten students who came here on those short trips went back and shared how much they loved the people here. It made more Dronten students want to come here and helped push for the continuation of the program," Higgs said.

Dronten was originally selected for the international exchange program because of its similar agriculture program and its similarity in size to UWP. The university has approximately 1,500 international students from 22 different nationalities, with many opportunities for students to be involved on campus. Polder, an organization of international students, hosts different events throughout the year and gives students the chance to connect with other students of varying cultures and backgrounds. In addition to involvement, Dronten offers classes that deal with UWP majors of study. Each program at Dronten has a specific set of classes their students are placed in and all classes are taught in English. Group work, cooperative learning and field trips are major aspects of the classes taught at Dronten. Noah Threlkeld is currently studying at Dronten Professional Agriculture University and says that it has been the experience of a lifetime.

"It has let me expand my ideas of not only agriculture, but also about life. I am developing a better understanding of how the rest of the world views topics and I have gained a lot of experience working with people from other cultures and backgrounds," said Threlkeld.

Because of the experience and opportunities Dronten offers, the number of students who go to Dronten has been increasing. The new continuation agreement now allows for 10 UWP students to attend Dronten instead of five and also outlines new faculty exchanges and development of short-term exchanges.

Kevin Bernhardt, professor of agribusiness; Mike Compton, professor of ornamental horticulture and plant biotechnology; and Price have all taught at Dronten. This spring, Jacob van Veldhuizen, a faculty member of Dronten Professional Agriculture University, will come to UWP to teach an animal nutrition class.

"We are excited for the program to continue as a wonderful opportunity for UWP students to go to Dronten and Dronten students to come to UWP," said Price.

Anyone wanting more information about the exchange with Dronten Professional Agriculture University may contact Price at (608) 342-1613 or price@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- A new safety program, The Grant County School Safety Initiative, designed to prevent and efficiently manage school violence has been developed for Grant County schools. The program was the result of a collaboration between Marc Wruble, Ph. D, University of Wisconsin-Platteville associate professor of psychology and a licensed psychologist; Grant County Social Services; the Grant County Sheriff's Department; local police departments; Grant County Family Advocates; and principals and guidance counselors from Grant County schools.

The program uses a series of assessments adopted from the Madison Metropolitan School District integrated with information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to determine the proper action to be taken to ensure school safety.

The principals and guidance counselors were trained in the program by watching a video of a mock risk assessment where one person acted as a student and another as a school official. The video was filmed in the UWP Counseling Laboratory The assessment is divided into a violence risk assessment and a mental health assessment. The violence risk assessment is a series of questions to assess risk based on the student's history, emotional stability, focus and specificity of the violence, and likeliness of future violent acts. The mental health assessment determines if the student has any mental health issues, which may have contributed to the violent act. Wruble led the group on how to obtain the information for the assessment and how to fill it out and determine student's risk level for future violent acts.

First, the principal uses the violence risk assessment to determine if the student who committed an aggressive act is at low, medium or high risk of being violent. Then, the school guidance counselor obtains the student's mental health information. If necessary, local law enforcement reviews the violence risk assessment and mental health information to assess for criminal intent and may also assess the student and their family history. The entire collaborative team may also review the law enforcement agency's findings to determine the action to be taken, which may include intervention, school or law enforcement action, and a referral to Wruble for further assessment. If a formal community based assessment is necessary, all assessment results and information are sent to Wruble and he makes a recommendation based on that information.

In addition to the assessments, The Grant County School Safety Initiative features preventative measures such as peer mediations and anti-bullying campaigns.

The program will also feature a secure website where the information can be centralized and accessed by all Grant County schools. The assessments would be available on the site along with contact information for all those involved in the program. While the website is still in progress, the program will be up and running in the next few weeks, according to Wruble.

Wruble wants students who feel they are part of their school and believes this will result in a friendlier, more inclusive school system where students have a positive attitude about how the faculty and other students are treated. He hopes that The Grant County School Safety Initiative will help achieve this goal.

"When students feel they are part of their school, there is less school violence," said Wruble.

Anyone wanting more information about The Grant County School Safety Initiative may contact Wruble at (608) 342-1768 or wruble@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Marc Wruble, associate professor, psychology, (608) 342-1768, wruble@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville student Amy Schackman will present a joint paper with Louis Nzegwu, marketing professor at UWP, at the ninth annual Best Practices in International Education Conference on Oct. 15 at 11:30 a.m. The conference, which will be held at the Heidel House Resort in Green Lake, is designed for education institutions to collaborate and share ideas about international education.

The paper the two will present is titled "The Use of Partnerships to Enhance Short Study Tour Experiences." Schackman and Nzegwu used their own practical experience with the partnership created from the China Short Study Tours to explain how partnerships help improve students' experiences in short study abroad programs. According to Nzegwu, the China Short Study Tour is successful because of its partnerships with various institutions in China. One example is A. O. Smith, a Wisconsin-based company, which has partnered with UWP the past three years to help offer students both practical and theoretical knowledge of doing business in China. The IBRC is also in the process of establishing a partnership with the Department of Marketing and International Business at Lingnan University in Hong Kong for a collaborative service-learning project. The idea according to Nzegwu and Professor Patrick Poon, service learning director at Lingnan University, is that UWP students will be in a position to start part of their project in the US and share their ideas with Lingnan students and finish their project when they arrive in Hong Kong. Such initiatives, according to Nzegwu and Poon, will not disrupt the two campuses' academic life. For the past four years, Lingnan professors have assisted UWP students in understanding how to do business in China at no cost due to mutual partnerships existing among the two institutions.

Schackman is the senior program manager at the International Business Resource Center, which Nzegwu helped establish in 2001. She began at the IBRC as an assistant and, as Nzegwu saw her potential, moved up to program coordinator and finally senior program manager, where she assists with IBRC study abroad programs.

Nzegwu considers it UWP's responsibility to get its students involved in the research the university is doing on international affairs by giving them hands-on experience.

"One of the biggest challenges America faces today is international ignorance. Because of her experience with the China Short Study Tour and her own experience traveling abroad, Amy is now a better student domestically and internationally," Nzegwu said.

Schackman is the president of Phi Eta Sigma and a senior advisor to Alpha Lambda Delta, both of which are honor societies at UWP. Schackman says that she enjoys the relaxed environment of the two honor societies, which are often called ALD/PES or PES/ALD because of their collaboration. There is no pressure to be involved, but Schackman began volunteering at Heartland Healthcare Center, where she is a bingo caller, through ALD/PES.

In addition to her on-campus job, Schackman also works at Target of Dubuque, Iowa. She has donated her hair three times to Locks of Love.

Contact: Louis Nzegwu, executive director, International Business Resource Center, (608) 342-1529, nzegwu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Megan Mowry, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, mowryme@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - At 11 a.m. on Oct. 24, "Another Opening, Another Show," directed by Ann Farrelly, will make its debut performance at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Subsequent shows on Oct. 25 through 27 will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night. This production will be presented in the Center for the Arts Little Theatre, located on the UWP campus.

"An interesting aspect of this musical revue is that 'Another Opening, Another Show' was created within a workshop concept," explains Susan Day, professor of music at UWP, who will be providing musical direction for this theater production. "Under the supervision of Dr. Farrelly and myself, the music for this new production was chosen by the cast themselves. This student/teacher collaboration is an original concept for our university."

"Another Opening, Another Show" is a fall musical that highlights pieces from musicals spanning all the way from the 1900s to present day shows. Represented musicals include "Camelot," "Annie Get Your Gun," "My Fair Lady," "Guys and Dolls," "Chicago," "West Side Story," "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Godspell," "Hair," "Pippin," "Sweeney Todd," "Company," "Into the Woods," "Beauty and the Beast," "Les Miserables," "Phantom of the Opera," "Miss Saigon," "Spam-a-lot," "Jekyll and Hyde," "Wicked," "Aida" and "The Producers." Composers such as Gershwin, Cohen, Bernstein, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, Sondheim, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Elton John and Jason Robert Brown will be featured in the production. Added Day, "There is music for everyone in this show, old standards to present-day hits."

Tickets may be purchased at the University Box Office, located in the lobby of the Center for the Arts building on campus. Admission is $7 for general admission; $6 for UWP faculty and staff; and $5 for senior citizens, individuals under the age of 18 and UWP students with a valid student ID. Anyone with questions may contact the Department of Performing and Visual Arts at (608) 342-1143.

Contact: Susan Day, UWP music professor, (608) 342-1085,daysu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Kym Bliven, Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, blivenk@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Students put theory to practice at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Agriculture, which features a state-of-the-art research farm with a new dairy center, and classes that incorporate hands-on experience.

The 430-acre Pioneer Farm offers job experience for students in animal care, crop production, and research. The west farmhouse gives eight students the opportunity to live and work at the farm. UWP is one of the first universities in the nation to have robotic milkers coupled with a double five-herringbone parlor. Artificial insemination and embryo transfer are used in the herd.

Many of the classes in the UWP School of Agriculture feature lab experience at Pioneer Farm. Classes offered include Dairy Cattle Management, Daily Cattle Evaluation, Dairy Product Analysis and Processing, and Biology of Lactation.

Students can expand their knowledge and experience and gain leadership skills by getting involved in one of the 17 UWP School of Agriculture clubs and organizations, which include four fraternities and sororities. These clubs and organizations host a variety of events throughout the year. One of the major events that School of Agriculture students participate in is the annual Pioneer Dairy Club Classic Holstein dairy sale. This year the club will hold its 25th annual sale. It will be held on Oct. 20 at the Grant County Fairgrounds in Lancaster and is open to the public.

High school students have the opportunity to visit the UWP campus and Pioneer Farm and expand their agriculture knowledge and experience by participating in events hosted by the School of Agriculture. These include FFA Career Development Events on March 27, 2008, summer Pre-Vet Camp, and various judging clinics.

Those wanting more information about these events, the School of Agriculture or scheduling a farm tour, may contact the School of Agriculture at (608) 342-1393 or soa@uwplatt.edu or visit http://www.uwplatt.edu/soa. Campus tours can be scheduled by contacting Prospective Student Services at (608) 342-1068 or visiting www.uwplatt.edu/admission/visits.html.

PLATTEVILLE- A new student exchange in Norway will offer students in the University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture the opportunity to expand their academic horizons while experiencing new cultures.

David Kopsell, assistant professor of ornamental horticulture and crop science; Sue Price, professor of animal science; Kris Wright, assistant professor of biology; and Susan Hansen, professor of business, traveled to the Norwegian University of Life Sciences in As, Norway, in mid June. There they met with faculty and students to learn about the university and set up the new one-on-one exchange program.

The University of Norwegian Life Sciences began in 1859 as the only Norwegian agricultural post-graduate college and still retains much of its original architecture. Set in a rural area with a population of approximately 2,600 students, the campus is similar to UWP in atmosphere and size, according to Kopsell. Because it is strong in research, students will have the benefit of being exposed to in-depth lab activities and seeing technological advancements in the life sciences. Business students have the opportunity to examine business issues in another culture, Hansen noted. Students will also enjoy the benefit of one third of the classes at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences being taught in English.

"The Norwegian University of Life Sciences offers a huge academic opportunity in basic science and cutting edge research," Kopsell said.

The courses and programs complement UWP's academics. A key advantage of the new exchange is that students from both universities will be able to take classes that their university may not offer. For example, ornamental horticulture students from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences who are strong in landscape planning and design can come to UWP and expand their knowledge of landscape management while UWP students who have strong management skills can gain design skills. Students from UWP can also explore subject matter that may complement their major such as aquaculture, agroecology, or ethology, the study of animal behavior.

In addition to the rich academic opportunities, students will experience a new cultures as they interact with Norwegian students and other international students. Approximately 10 percent of the student population at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences are from foreign countries. Students will live on campus in a six-bedroom suite with a living room, kitchen and bathroom that they will share with Norwegian and other international students. The Norwegian University of Life Sciences also holds an orientation for international students where they get to know other students, the campus and how to get around the area. For recreation, students can participate in many student organizations, enjoy local festivals, and visit museums and landmarks such as the Nobel Peace Prize Museum and the Viking Museum in Oslo, about 45 minutes away by train. The program is scheduled to start in the spring 2008 semester.

In addition to exchanges during the school year, students may also enjoy summer abroad opportunities in Norway. Brittany Schultz, a senior at UWP majoring in zoology, was the first UWP student to study abroad in Norway over the summer as part of the Norwegian University of Life Sciences' summer university. She spent three weeks there studying biology. Schultz and her class spent one of those weeks in a cabin studying brown trout and lake vegetation. The rest of the time was spent in lecture. According to Schultz, the professors are involved and up to date because they are required to do research. Schultz said she also enjoyed the small size and beauty of the campus.

"The similarities between UNB and UWP make it a comfortable fit, while the diverse international program at UNB gives students the opportunity to interact with other cultures," Wright commented.

Kopsell stated, "If students love UWP, they'll love Norway."

Anyone wanting more information about the Norway exchange program may contact Kopsell at (608) 342-1363 or kopselld@uwplatt.edu, Wright at (608) 342-1689, or wrightk@uwplatt.edu, or Hansen at (608) 342-1436 or hansens@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: David Kopsell, assistant professor of ornamental horticulture and crop science, (608) 342-1363, kopselld@uwplatt.edu Kris Wright, assistant professor of biology, (608) 342-1689,wrightk@uwplatt.edu Susan Hansen, professor of business, (608) 342-1436 or hansens@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

Andy Skwor and Dave Murphy

PLATTEVILLE - MSA Professional Services, an engineering and consulting firm with offices throughout the Midwest, recently announced that it will make a substantial gift to support the new engineering building at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Both the corporate entity and the employees will contribute to a fund to support a large student study area in the new building, which is currently under construction and will include 18 new classrooms and 30 specialized laboratories.

"It's our effort to recognize the institution which gave us a fine education and experience which allows us to work and grow in our chosen field," said Dave Murphy, UWP alumnus, class of 1970, and president of MSA. Murphy will coordinate the employee giving for MSA.

Another engineering alumnus, Andy Skwor, class of 2001, is a project engineer at MSA and is also supporting the giving campaign. "When I got out of school, it was important to me to find a good fit, a good place to work with quality people, and I have found it here at MSA. Their values and ethics, which they demonstrate with projects like this, are an important factor in my decision to work here," he said.

MSA, which employs more than 300 people throughout its offices, currently has 56 UW-Platteville graduates as part of its team. Gil Gerdman, CEO of MSA, said that although he is not a UWP alumnus himself, he was motivated to support the idea because encouraging community and civic involvement has long been part of MSA's corporate culture. "We encourage our employees to get involved in their communities and civic functions. We believe what happens outside work impacts what happens inside our organization. So, one way to show our support is to get involved in projects they care about, and we find that that kind of commitment carries over into our corporate culture," said Gerdman.

Assistant chancellor for University Advancement and executive director of the UWP Foundation, Dennis Cooley, noted that it is often such grassroots campaigns among alumni that prove to be so effective in providing resources for institutions of higher education.

"As state support decreases, it's critical that we find alternate resources to support the quality of programs and facilities people have come to expect from UW-Platteville. When our alumni like David and Andy serve their employers and communities so well, they inspire others to follow their lead. We are very grateful to them and to the leadership at MSA, particularly Gil Gerdman, for supporting UWP," he said.

Construction on the new building began in May and is estimated to take 18 months, with anticipated occupancy taking place in spring 2009. The building's cost of around $25 million will be funded from a variety of sources, including general purpose revenue and program revenue from the Tri-State Initiative. Additionally, the UWP Foundation will raise $6.5 million through private support.

Anyone interested in learning more about the MSA gift or support for the new engineering building may contact Angie Gasior, UWP Development Officer, at (608) 342-1231.

Contact: Angie Gasior, UWP Foundation Development Officer, (608) 342-1231, gasiora@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Evelyn Martens, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, martense@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Society of Women Engineers is hosting their annual Career Day on Monday, Oct. 29 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Registrants will check-in at the registration table in the Pioneer Student Center.

The program is intended for young women in grades eight through 12, who express an interest in learning more about pursuing an engineering degree. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with an enrollment limit of 150 students. Confirmation letters or e-mails will be sent to participants along with driving directions and/or maps.

The fee for each student is $15 and includes a continental breakfast, lunch, gift and all program materials. Chaperones may attend and participate in all program events at no cost, but must pre-register. Fees for the program must be received two weeks before the program date.

Persons with disabilities that desire accommodations should call the Office of Students With Disabilities at (608) 342-1818. Requests can be responded to more effectively if requested as far in advance as possible.

Registration forms may be accessed by choosing Student Application or Chaperone Application at the Women in Engineering Career Day homepage, www.uwplatt.edu/wep/career_day/index.html. Participants may opt to register online or to print out the form and send it via postal mail with the registration fee. The application deadline is on Oct. 15.

Persons preferring that a registration form be mailed directly to them may contact Tammy Salmon-Stephens at (608) 342-1563 or salmont@uwplatt.edu

(From left to right, front row) Majid Tabrizi, director of the UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology; Provost Carol Sue Butts; Chancellor David Markee; Tom Kuehn, president and CEO of Plastics Ingenuity; Jan Acker, president and CEO of Placon Corporation; (back row, left to right) Walt Walker, president of SPE and Prent Corporation; and Marc Zelnick, president of Zed Industries, cut the ribbon for the new Zed SC-Series roll-fed thermoformer.

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Departmant of Industrial Studies is now one of the first universities in the nation to have a Zed SC-Series roll-fed thermoformer. The machine is housed in the Center for Plastics Processing Technology.

Approximately 40 companies from the United States and Canada contributed to the donation. A dedication ceremony, held Oct. 1, recognized contributors, and attendees had the opportunity to see the roll-fed thermoformer in action.

"I'm extremely proud to be here and part of this activity," said UWP Chancellor David Markee, during the ceremony.

The manufacturer of the Zed SC-Series roll-fed thermoformer is Zed Industries Inc. of Vandalia, Ohio, a major contributor. Mark Zelnick, president of Zed Thermoforming and Plastic Packaging Machinery Systems, met Majid Tabrizi, director of the UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology, at a plastics industry trade show. Zelnick collaborated with many of the contributing companies to make the donation possible. Other major contributors included Plastic Ingenuity of Cross Plains, Prent Thermoforming of Janesville, Placon Thermoforming Products of Madison (all nationally recognized, top ranking companies in Wisconsin), and the Milwaukee chapter and thermoforming division of the Society of Plastics Engineers. According to Tabrizi, many of the companies and vendors made an in-kind donation and offered their best tool.

"We're so happy to be part of this donation. It's something we've been working for for a long time. It's a beautiful machine and UWP is the only institution in the country that has a piece of equipment of this caliber," said Jack Hill of Tool-Less of Milwaukee.

One of the things that makes the roll-fed thermoformer state of the art is that is was custom designed for the UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology. The machine has multiple emergency stops and safety equipment built into it and it was designed for an educational setting. Some components of the machine are brand new technology in which UWP is among the first to receive.

"Every great goal or accomplishment starts as a dream. Today, we are seeing the realization of Dr. Tabrizi's dream," Zelnick stated at the dedication.

According to Zelnick, much of the high volume plastics processing is being done by thermoforming and the majority of thermoforming is roll-fed. Thermoforming is mainly used to produce packaging and industrial components. It is done by heating a plastic sheet and conforming the plastic to the final product. The thermoforming industry is divided into two techniques, roll-fed and cut-sheet

Tabrizi thought is was necessary to have a roll-fed thermoformer to compliment the MAAC and Lyle cut-sheet thermoformers the plastics lab currently has. According to Tabrizi, having experience and knowledge of both machines gives students an edge when they enter into the workforce.

"The roll-fed thermoformer will give us a much broader knowledge of how to run different pieces of equipment. It will also give more recognition to the program and make it easier for students to find a job," said Mike Swets, a student in plastics processing technology and vice president of the UWP Society of Plastics Engineers.

Many of the representatives from the companies who donated agree that the new machine will greatly benefit students. They believe that by contributing to the donation of the roll-fed thermoformer, they are making an investment in which the return is a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

"Platteville students are in every part of our organization and they are a great help. We wouldn't be where we are today if not for their talent," said Tom Kuehn, president and CEO of Plastics Ingenuity of Cross Plains.

The UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology is not only a place for students to gain knowledge and experience, but also a place where other universities can gain knowledge about how to expand their plastics programs. Hank White, director of the Plastics Manufacturing Center at Pennsylvania College of Technology, an affiliate of Penn State University, was present at the dedication to see the roll-fed thermoformer and the UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology. White is currently working on expanding the plastics program at Pennsylvania College of Technology, and wanted to see how the UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology operates. White said he was very impressed with UWP's center.

Mark Strachan, president of Global Thermoforming Training Inc., a consulting company, assists Penn State University in its plastics program. He came all the way from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to see UWP's new machine and the center.

"The partnership with the plastics industries has proven to be a successful model. We are proud of seeing our program as a model for other educational institutions. We are egger to assist other institutions in replicating this successful industrial-educational model in their educational curriculum," said Tabrizi.

Anyone wanting more information about the donation or UWP's Center for Plastics Processing Technology may contact Tabrizi at (608) 342-1115 or tabrizi@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Majid Tabrizi, director, UWP Center for Plastics Processing Technology, (608) 342-1115, tabrizi@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Liberal Arts and Education will be inducting two individuals into the Arts and Letters Hall of Fame at the 2007 Arts and Letters Hall of Frame and Recognition Banquet to be held on Oct. 5. The event will celebrate the achievements of the individuals within the College of LAE and recognize any outstanding UWP alumni.

The Arts and Letters Hall of Fame honors faculty, staff, retirees, alumni and friends for their advancement of interests and standards for the arts and letters at UWP. These individuals promote a mutually beneficial relationship between UWP and the greater university community. This year's inductees are C. Ellsworth Hood, philosophy and David Ott, music.

Hood served as one of the founding members of the philosophy major at UWP. He worked at UWP for over 30 years as a professor of philosophy. His honors include the Phi Kappa Phi Teaching Excellence Award in 1994 and the UWP Teaching Excellence Award in 1998. In addition, Hood has published numerous articles and papers both nationally and internationally. Hood resides in Platteville.

When asked about his career in philosophy, Hood commented, "As a teacher of philosophy, the love of wisdom, my goal was to elicit the powers of thought inherent in each student and to inspire each to the love of wisdom, which would enable them to create a world of justice, truth, goodness and beauty."

Ott graduated from UWP in 1969 and since has become ranked among the most prominent of the post-World War II American composers. He has taught at Houghton College, Pfeiffer College and DePauw University. Currently, Ott is the music director of the Philharmonic of Northwest Florida. "Symphony" magazine named him as an American composer who has had an impact on American symphonic music. Ott resides in Destine, Fla.

During the ceremony, several outstanding alumni will be recognized. Nancy Hendrickson and David Kies will receive recognition as Distinguished Educators and Jacquelyne Bodden as a Friend of the College. The Distinguished Educator Award is awarded to an alum who is a classroom teacher, university or college professor, education administrator or education specialist who has made significant contributions to the College of Liberal Arts and Education. The Friend of the College Award is given to an individual who promotes the college, provides opportunities for the students, assists the faculty and aids in the implementation of technology.

Hendrickson served as the superintendent for the Pecatonica Area School District for 17 years and worked at both Parkview School District and Pecatonica as a reading specialist and learning coordinator. Hendrickson has been an advocate for small, rural schools. In 1999, she served on a UWP planning team to develop an Educational Administrative Certification Program and worked with the Department of Public Instruction to receive a $500,000 National Governors Association award. This award was used to increase the access to advanced placement courses for students in rural areas. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from UWP and later received a master's degree in curriculum and instruction and an educational specialist degree in educational administration from UW-Madison. Hendrickson resides in Blanchardville.

Kies graduated from UWP with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 1975. He later completed a bachelor's degree in elementary education from UW-Whitewater. Kies is currently teaching first and second grade at Westview School and was formerly a teacher at Platteville Elementary School, Potosi Elementary School and Benton Elementary School. Kies resides in Potosi.

Bodden is currently the program director of the Southwest Wisconsin Community Action Program Reproductive Health Care Center, located in Platteville. In 1997, Bodden returned to school to earn a master's degree in nursing after realizing that many women lacked the proper knowledge regarding issues concerning their health. To this day, Bodden's primary objective is to make a difference in a patient's life. She is very involved in the health community holding positions in numerous organizations, including vice president of the board of directors for Family Advocates, president of the Wisconsin Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association and faculty member of the women's studies department at UWP. Bodden resides in Platteville.

Additional awards will be granted to David Rowley, social sciences and history; Shane Drefcinski, humanities and philosophy; Aric Dutelle, criminal justice; Paula Nelson, social sciences and history; Joan Riedle, psychology; Sue Vavricka, psychology, humanities and foreign language; and David Krugler, social sciences and geography.

The following individuals will be recognized for their recent appointments, Laura Anderson as the assistant to the dean, Stephanie Branson as the chair of humanities, Alison Brooke Bunte as the assistant dean, and Teresa Burns as the director of women's studies. Tenure or promotions will also be granted to Bunte, professor in the School of Education; Joseph Caploe, tenure in the department of performing and visual arts; Daniel Dahlquist, associate professor in the department of performing and visual arts; Corinne Enright, associate professor in the department of psychology; Rea Kirk, professor in the School of Education; Elmo Rawling, tenure in the department of social sciences and geography; Laura Wendorff, professor in the department of humanities and English, and Marc Wruble, professor in the department of psychology.

For more information about the awards banquet, contact the College of Liberal Arts and Education at (608) 342-1151

Contact: College of Liberal Arts and Education, (608) 342-1151 Written by: Lauren Lehr, UWP Office of Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, lehrl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - On Oct. 5, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture will be hosting the 2007 BILSA Alumni Banquet for outstanding UWP alumni. The annual event will celebrate the dedication and service to the College of BILSA by organizations and UWP alumni. The banquet will be held on the UWP campus. During the event, five individuals will be recognized as outstanding alumni in the College of BILSA. The award recipients include Robert Bailey, John Bustle, Amanda Trewin, Michael Roth and Dennis King.

Bailey was nominated by the School of Agriculture for his achievements in the dairy industry and his leadership in feed ration balancing. Bailey is currently the founder and CEO of Agri-Nutrition Consulting Inc. and manages 21 employees and more than 60 consultants and dairy customers in 17 states. His company continually strives to provide the best dairy nutrition program available today. In addition, Bailey is a 10-year veteran of professional bowling and owns a bowling pro shop. He is the husband of Susie Bailey and resides in Sun Prairie.

The next outstanding alumni earned his Bachelor of Science degree from UWP in accounting in 1976. Bustle has worked for Deere and Company ever since and is currently the manager of foundation strategic planning. The foundation has adopted a strategic philanthropy focus called "Solutions for World Hunger," with the goal of supporting organizations that create sustainable opportunities for populations facing chronic hunger in under-developed nations. Bustle has continued to be active at UWP by serving as a board member of the UWP Alumni Association and member of the UWP Foundation Board. He is the husband of Marilyn Bustle and resides in Geneseo, Ill.

Since fall 2001, Trewin has been an associate professor for the UWP Department of Biology. Trewin is actively involved in the community by acting as a Cub-Scout leader, vacation Bible school teacher, volunteer for Expanding Your Horizons and a College for Kids teacher. In addition, she has published several papers on her research related to fertility, reproduction and development. Trewin currently resides in Platteville.

Nominated by the UWP Department of Industrial Studies, Roth has served for 30 years as a technology education teacher at Monona Grove High School. He has received the Wisconsin Technology Education Association award of excellence, Teacher of the Year in 1997 for Monona Grove High School, and was nominated for the Kohl Fellowship Award in 2007. His dedication to education has resulted in the Technology Education Resource Center at Monona Grove and his students have won awards at the UW-Madison Engineering School's Rube Goldberg Engineering Competition. In addition, Roth has established a Technology Education Scholarship for Monona Grove students interested in pursing a teaching career in technology education. Roth is the husband of Becky Roth and resides in Fitchburg.

King earned his Bachelor of Science degree in broadcast technology management from UWP and a master's degree in communicating arts from UW-Whitewater. While at UWP, King served as one of the producers for the annual Christmas Telethon. In 1992, he earned the Bronze Telly Award for his help in the "UW-Platteville: 125 Years" video. Since 1996, King has been working for Fort Hays State University where he serves at the director of the Virtual College of Learning Technologies. King is the husband of Kimberly King and resides in Hays, Kan.

For more information about the College of BILSA, contact UWP at (608) 342-1191.

Contact: College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture, (608) 342-1191 Written by: Lauren Lehr, UWP Office of Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, lehrl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Students in third to fifth grade have the opportunity to learn about agriculture at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Pioneer Farm. Two events, the Down on the Farm Workshop and Pioneer Farm Explorers will be hosted by appointment throughout October.

"We want kids to understand that agriculture is a big part of everything they do. They can have fun with hands-on activities while learning and have things to take back home," said Gretchen Kamps, camp coordinator for the UWP School of Agriculture.

Down on the Farm is a three-hour workshop where students tour the farm experiencing hands-on activities, interacting with farm animals and going through an agriculture trivia hay maze. Students will learn where milk comes from, listen to a calf's heart rate, learn about the swine center and take a hayride to see the beef cattle. Cost of the workshop is $4 per student, which includes an agriculture activity booklet, bookmark and eraser for each student. Workshops can be scheduled for weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The capacity for each workshop is 75 students per session.

Pioneer Farm Explorers is a 90-minute farm tour where students will learn about the different areas of agriculture. After the tour, students can travel through the agriculture trivia hay maze. Sessions can be scheduled weekdays at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. with up to 50 students per session. Cost of Pioneer Farm Explorers is $2 per student, which includes a dairy eraser and bookmark. For both events, students should bring a sack lunch.

Anyone wanting more information about the Down on the Farm Workshop or Pioneer Farm Explorers or wanting to register for either of these events may contact Kamps at (608) 342-1371 or kampsg@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- A full schedule of performances, sports, tours and games is in store for University of Wisconsin-Platteville students and their families at Family Weekend, Oct. 12 to14 on the UWP campus.

"It's a great opportunity for families to reconnect with their students and for students to show their families around UWP and the Platteville community.

The weekend begins on Oct. 12 with women's volleyball verses Coe at 7 p.m. in the Williams Fieldhouse and Ellis at 8 p.m. in the Pioneer Crossing of the Pioneer Student Center. Ellis is folk musician who was a top 10 finalist in the Telluride Troubadour Songwriting Contest.

A welcome reception kicks off Saturday's activities from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the Alumni Lounge in the Pioneer Student Center. Then, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., students and their families can tour the "M", Pioneer Farm or the Mining Museum. Cost for the Mining Museum is $7. After their excursion, families may get their portrait drawn by caricature artist, Kevin Wilder, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Following the tours, there will be a tailgate lunch on the south patio of the Pioneer Student Center at 11:30 a.m. Students may use their meal plan, otherwise the cost is $7.50. Musician Corey Jenny will entertain families during the tailgate from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Pioneer Crossing in the Pioneer Student Center. Students and guests can then cheer on the Pioneers as the football team takes on UW-La Crosse at 1 p.m. and the women's soccer plays at 7 p.m. in the Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium.

Later that night, students and their families can be mystified by the magic of Nate Staniforth at 8 p.m. in the Pioneer Crossing in the Pioneer Student Center. Families and students can then compete for a semi-valuable trophy at Family Night, which will take place at 10 p.m. in the Pioneer Crossing. Festivities include karaoke and a Texas Hold 'em, darts, and euchre tournament.

The weekend concludes on Oct. 14 with brunch at Glenview from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost without a meal plan is $5.50 plus tax.

Registration will take place 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 12 and 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Oct. 13. Families can also pick up there five for 12 game coupons at registration, which allows five people into a sport event for $12. Anyone wanting more information about Family Weekend, or to sign up for the events, may contact Nevins at (608) 342-1075 or nevinsd@uwplatt.edu

Contact: David Nevins, leadership development coordinator, (608) 342-1075, nevinsd@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will join the Platteville community in raising money to combat hunger during the CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk on Oct. 7. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the Pioneer Student Center and the walk begins at 1 p.m. from the Pioneer Crossing in the student center.

"I encourage people to participate because CROP Walk helps fight hunger locally and internationally. One hundred fifty dollars can buy 100 chicks and two chicken coops to sustain a family and provide them with income in some countries," said Linda Thomas, treasurer of CROP Walk.

This year's goal is to raise at least $6,000 with over 200 walkers. Last year, the walk raised approximately $5,500. Twenty-five percent of the funds generated will stay in the local community to benefit the Platteville Food Pantry, Southwest Wisconsin Community Action Program, and Self-Help and Resource Exchange. The UWP football team and local church groups are among those participating in the walk.

"It's very important for student athletes to give back to the community and we believe it's a great cause," said Mike Emendorfer, head UWP football coach.

"When we have so many young people getting involved, the spirit continues and effective change occurs," said Dennis Cooley, assistant chancellor for university advancement and executive director of the UWP Foundation.

Anyone wanting more information about CROP Walk, or to get involved, may contact Thomas at (608) 348-7530 or thomasl@uwplatt.edu. Walkers can register up to the day of the walk and donations are also accepted the day of the walk.

Contact: Linda Thomas, treasurer, CROP Walk, (608) 348-7530, thomasl@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will be hosting Pioneer Preview events on Oct. 12, 25 and 26. Guided tours will be made available to prospective students and their families.

The tours will provide opportunities to explore academic programs, student services, campus organizations and the facilities available on campus. In addition, prospective students and their families will experience faculty presentations. Heidi Tuescher-Gille, UWP Office of Student Recruitment, states, "Attending Pioneer Preview Days is a wonderful way for prospective students and their families to receive an overview of the many aspects the UWP campus has to offer."

Prospective students may obtain more information and register online at www.uwplatt.edu, or contact Tuescher-Gille at, (608) 342-1068 or tuescheh@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Heidi Tuescher-Gille, Office of Student Recruitment, (608) 342-1068, tuescheh@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, killiana@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- In an effort to expand study abroad opportunities to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville students, the UW-Platteville International Business Resource Center is offering a Short Study Tour to Brazil Jan. 4 through 20, 2008. The international short-term study abroad course, BSAD: 3750, Brazilian Business Practices and Cultures, is designed to assist students in understanding one of the fastest growing global economies, Brazil.

With UW-Platteville IBRC executive director and professor of business Louis Nzegwu as their instructor, students will receive an overview of the international business environment in South America. Business strategies, history and cultures are among the topics that will be covered throughout the course. Participants will visit businesses, universities and cultural sites in Brazil and meet with the Wisconsin Trade Representitive, Claudia Maria Tomaselli.

Participants in the Brazil short study tour will travel to Sao Paulo, the most important and dynamic economic center in Latin America; Salvador; Brasilia, capital of Brazil; Manaus and Rio de Janeiro.

Amy Schackman, IBRC senior program manager, took part in a similar tour last spring in China. She recommends this kind of abroad experience to all UWP students. "International education is a large component in what employers look for. Students should look at this kind of experience as an investment in themselves and their future," commented Schackman.

The two-week study abroad tour, aimed to expand global knowledge to students, was stemmed from a previous grant to the IBRC in 2004. Over the past five years, Nzegwu has been a major component of starting a short international study tour program with a related preparatory seminar on Brazil.

"It is my belief that a structured, well organized, short-term international experience combined with a preparatory seminar can provide an opportunity for students to gain a wealth of cross-cultural knowledge," stated Nzegwu.

The Brazil Short Study Tour is open to all full-time UWP students in good standing as well as faculty. Students have until Oct. 4 to sign up for the program and must submit a 250-word statement with their application regarding their interest in the program. For more information regarding the Brazil Short Study Tour or the China Short Study Tour scheduled for spring break in March 2008, contact Nzegwu at (608) 342-1597 or nzegwu@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Louis Nzegwu, executive director, International Business Resource Center, (608) 342-1597, nzegwu@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP office of public relations, (608) 342-1194

PLATTEVILLE - Approximately 200 area high school singers will have the opportunity to practice and perform with the University of Wisconsin-Platteville men's and women's choirs on Oct. 9 at the 2007 High School Choral Festival.

Groups of students representing area high schools have been invited to work with the UWP men's and women's choirs all day on Oct. 9 in preparation for a joint performance that evening. The UWP and area high school men's choir will be performing "Homeland," a theme by composer Gustav Host, along with three other pieces. The UWP and area high school women's choir will be performing "For Good," from the Tony award winning musical "Wicked," with three other pieces as well.

Bob Demaree, UWP associate professor of music and director of choral activities, stated, "This festival is unique to most other college high school choral festivals in that it is gender specific." Demaree adds, "The UWP men and women choir members will be very involved in practicing and working with the high school singers."

The High School Choral Festival performance will be held at 7 p.m. in the Center for the Arts on the UWP campus. Everyone is welcome and there is no cost to attend. For more information, contact Demaree at (608) 342-1446 or demaree@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Bob Demaree, UWP associate professor of music, director of choral activities, (608) 342-1446, demaree@uwplatt.edu Written by: Anne Killian, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, killiana@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - Join the College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville as they celebrate Homecoming 2007. On Oct. 5 and 6, the College of EMS will be hosting numerous activities for UWP alumni to enjoy. Among the events, alumni and emeriti will be honored for their contributions to UWP, the community and their industry at the College of EMS Annual Graduating Senior and Alumni Recognition dinner.

This year, the College of EMS will be honoring Kenneth Buttry, Richard Wetzel and Earl McCullough as emeriti honorees. John Boldt will be honored as an outstanding entrepreneur and business person and Derrick Passe will be recognized for his outstanding service to government and public services.

Buttry began teaching in the engineering department at UWP in 1969 and retired in 2000, with over 30 years of experience. During this time, the industry experienced many changes and advances in numerous areas, including design codes, technology, computational methods and design methodologies. Buttry embraced these changes, accepting them as a challenge. While teaching at UWP, Buttry served as the department chair and acting dean. Buttry resides in Horseshoe Bend, Ark.

In 1970, Wetzel started teaching at UWP in the engineering department. He retired in 2000. Wetzel was involved in civil engineering consulting work, professional societies and applied research. He served as the department chair and as a Registered Professional Engineer. Wetzel was a key member of a research team that studied modular block walls that led to UWP being recognized as a leader in the testing required for the materials used to construct wall systems. Wetzel currently resides in Stevens Point.

"Leading by example, building relationships and pursing excellence" are only some of the many words used by his nominators, to describe the strengths of McCullough. From 1966 to 2000, he served as a professor in civil engineering. During his tenure, McCullough served on the department's scholarship, curriculum and lab improvement committees as well as assisting with the UWP concrete canoe team. He proved to be a leader by example. McCullough's legacy lives on at UWP, as a scholarship in his name is granted annually to engineering students at the university. McCullough resides in Platteville.

In 1976, Boldt received a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from UWP. He currently is the executive vice president of Clark Dietz Inc. and has been responsible for the project management and design of numerous public works projects. For the consulting engineering industry, Boldt has been actively involved with numerous organizations, including the National Society of Professional Engineers, American Water Works Association and Water Environmental Association. Boldt has show continued involvement at UWP by serving on the UWP alumni board of directors and most recently as the director of the UWP Foundation board. Boldt resides in Bristol.

Passe earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from UWP in 1983. Recently, he led a group of individuals from Engineers without Borders to Guatemala for an eight-day trip, where they researched the installation of a water supply system for a community recreational and ecological facility. After returning to the United States, Passe helped design a water supply system for the facility, raise money for materials and install the system. Passe resides in Hudson.

College of EMS alumni activities will begin at noon on Oct. 5 at the Platteville Golf and Country Club with an EMS Cup Golf Outing. The event will be two-person teams playing in a modified Ryder Cup format. Registration begins at noon with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The cost to attend the golf outing is $60 which includes lunch, golf, cart and prizes. At 5 p.m., tours of Ullrich Hall will kick off the computer science and software engineering reunion. The annual Graduating Senior and Alumni Recognition dinner will follow the tour at 7 p.m. in the Pioneer Crossing on the UWP campus. The cost to attend dinner is $15 per person. Reservations are required for both of the aforementioned activities.

On Oct. 6, events will begin with the EMS Alumni Chapter annual board meeting at 8 a.m. The meeting will be held in the Mississippi Room of the Pioneer Student Center on the UWP campus. At 9 a.m., join all alumni at the alumni hospitality tent for company and treats. The tent will be located at 405 W. Main Street in Platteville. The 2007 Homecoming parade is set to begin at 10 a.m. Immediately following the parade, the Homecoming college luncheons will be held in covered seating areas located in the Pioneer Student Center west lawn. At 2 p.m., the UWP Pioneer football team will kick off against UW-Whitewater. The game will be played in the Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium. Tickets will be available by contacting the UWP Athletic Office at (608) 342-1567. All Marching Pioneer alumni are invited to play with the band at halftime on the field. The Homecoming festivities will come to an end at the "M" Lighting Ceremony to be held at the Platteville "M." The ceremony is set to begin at 10 p.m.

For more information about the 2007 Homecoming EMS alumni events, contact Mary Kurth, of the College of EMS, at (608) 342-1711.

Contact: Tammy Salmon-Stephens, College of Engineering, Mathematics, and Science, (608) 342-1563, salmont@uwplatt.edu Written by: Lauren Lehr, UWP Office of Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, lehrl@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - David Heimerdinger, a lecturer in the department of industrial studies at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, has received the Outstanding Academic Advisor Award for the college of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture. The Academic Advising Award is given out each year to one individual in each college who demonstrates outstanding skills as an academic advisor. Each recipient was recognized at the Chancellor's Convocation on Aug.27, and received a plaque and a monetary award.

Heimerdinger, a member of the UWP academic staff, takes his advising appointments seriously. "Advising isn't just about creating a schedule and getting a PIN number. I feel it is a time where the students can make a connection with a faculty or staff member as a friend or a future colleague in industry," he said.

The students that Heimerdinger advises say they greatly appreciate the time he spends with them. Will Helfrich, a current advisee of Heimerdinger, said, "He has gone above and beyond what I have experienced previously with academic advisors. He has never made me feel like I am just another name in the file. I am not alone in my belief that David is worthy of this nomination. I have spoken with classmates that have him as an advisor, and they share the same sentiment."

Colleagues of Heimerdinger have also recognized his skill and commitment. "David serves as an excellent role model for others in the department and is one of the best advisors at UW-Platteville. He has an excellent rapport with students, is always prepared to speak with students, is knowledgeable about the department of industrial studies programs, and has a thorough understanding of other departmental programs and university general education requirements," said Colleen Kaiser, professor of industrial studies.

Heimerdinger studied at UWP for both his undergrad, in agriculture education, and his graduate degree, in industrial technology management. He taught several classes in the UWP School of Agriculture, including a hydraulics and machinery engineering course.

Contact: Tammy J. Salmon-Stephens, chair, Academic Advisor Award Selection Committee, (608) 342-1563 salmont@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: Nicole Eggebeen, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194,eggebeen@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- University of Wisconsin-Platteville students Brandon Furseth and Bryan Parr are two of 17 total students in the nation to become Golden Opportunity Scholars.

"It's an honor for the UWP School of Agriculture to have two of the 17 national winners," said David Kopsell, assistant professor of ornamental horticulture and crop science.

The Golden Opportunity Scholars Institute is a program developed by the Crop Science Society of America as part of their 50th anniversary. The goal of the program is to strengthen the profession, nurture advances in crop science and realize a solution to global hunger by developing leadership in young crop scientists.

"I was surprised and really happy when I got the news. I put in a lot of time in applying and was glad to hear I won," said Parr.

As part of the award, Furseth and Parr will be taking an all expense paid trip to New Orleans, La., Nov. 2 to 6 for the annual meeting of the CSSA. At the meeting, the students will participate in the Scholars Symposium, where they will hear presentations from high-profile scientists, be introduced to disciplines supporting crop science and complete one-on-one activities with a mentor. Scholars will also go on tours, do some community service and have dinner on a river boat cruise. In addition, scholars will also attend the awards program with their mentors where they will be formally introduced to the CSSA. The entire experience gives scholars the opportunity to network with professionals and other students and the experience doesn't stop in New Orleans, as scholars are mentored throughout the year by CSSA members.

"I am excited because it's a chance to travel and meet new people. I think that it will really allow me to get myself out in the professional world," said Furseth.

To apply, students had to compose eight 3,000-word essays on topics including educational goals, career goals, research interests and the type of company they would like to work for and submit letters of recommendation. Students are chosen based on factors such as G.P.A. in agriculture classes and experiences and involvement outside the classroom.

Parr is a junior majoring in soil and crop science and is from La Farge. Furseth is a senior majoring in crop and soil science, and biology and is from Stoughton.

Contact: David Kopsell, assistant professor of ornamental horticulture and crop science, (608) 342-1363, kopselld@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- Students and faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville are serving their community by being leaders in the construction of a new Habitat for Humanity house in Lancaster. The construction of the house was made possible by a $25,000 grant from Lowe's Corporation. The grant was headed up by Matt Gannaway, of Lowe's.

Habitat for Humanity is an international non-profit organization that seeks to combat poverty and substandard housing by providing simple houses for families. Recipient families of Habitat homes work side by side with the volunteers to build the house and are given a no interest loan through Habitat for Humanity. The families make monthly mortgage payments to pay for the home. Habitat for Humanity works with the families before, during and after the construction of the house, providing financial counseling and information about being a homeowner. The Grant County Habitat for Humanity has completed four houses since becoming an affiliate of the International Habitat for Humanity in 2001.

Warner Smidt, professor of building construction management, is among the members of the UWP community that are involved. He serves as the building committee chair. Smidt's involvement in Habitat for Humanity began when he offered students in his Industrial Studies 4530 Residential Planning and Design class the opportunity to create a house design for Habitat for Humanity. Mike Glatzel, Carl Grunewald, Anthony Christian and Bryan Thompson took Smidt's opportunity and created a design for a house that can withstand stress from freezing and thawing. Since Habitat for Humanity began in the south, many of the official designs are slab on grade, which is not appropriate for frozen ground. The design that the students created is what is being used for the current Lancaster house. Soon after the design was created, Smidt was selected as chair of the building committee and is currently helping in the construction of the house and teaching others construction skills. When women come to the work site, Smidt spends an hour teaching them the skills they need to help build the house.

"It amazes me how all these different people of different talents, skills and personalities come together," said Smidt.

Chris Badtke and Kayla Voss, both building construction management students at UWP, are also helping teach volunteers.

"It's rewarding to work with the volunteers and then see the finished product," said Voss.

"You get to teach people of all different skill levels. I like working with the volunteers and teaching them something new," added Badtke.

Because the house is part of the Women's Build program, having people to teach construction skills to volunteers has been an important part of the construction.

Last spring, Lowe's put on workshops, taught by skilled Lowe's employees to teach women construction skills. Approximately 40 women from UWP, including faculty and staff, attended. Patti Mitch, help desk manager, who serves as the public relations chair, is among the UWP staff involved in Habitat for Humanity. Representatives from Lowe's have continued to be involved by helping build the Lancaster house. Lowe's is the national underwriter for Women's Build and has also been working to get lower prices on supplies. They were part of the wall raising ceremony on Sept. 22 and will be helping build on Oct.6.

The women's volleyball team and the UWP Habitat for Humanity chapter are among the student groups that are participating in the build. Deb Schulman, head coach of the women's volleyball team was approached by April Baker, director of Grant County Habitat for Humanity, a few years ago and has been helping with Habitat for Humanity ever since.

"We thought it would be a neat thing to do as a team builder and community service project and since then we've been hooked into Habitat. It's taught the girls to become part of their community and the trades of building," commented Schulman.

The UWP Habitat for Humanity chapter is a supporter of the Grant County affiliate. They fundraise for and help build Habitat houses. Last spring, the group went to Amarillo, Texas to help build two homes.

"It's interesting how so many kinds of people help out. I've learned how to work with many different people and to make sure everything in the project works together," said Rachael Stopple, secretary of the UWP Habitat for Humanity chapter.

Kari Edge is the future resident of the Lancaster house. She has been working side by side with volunteers helping with the construction. Edge will be living in the house with her two children.

"It's so exciting to see all these people helping out. It makes me feel important to be helping build my own house. Because of what I've learned, I'll be able to do my own repairs and help others do remodeling or building," she said.

In addition to the Women's Build, the community has an additional opportunity to help Habitat by participating in the Longaberger basket fundraiser on Oct. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. The fundraiser will take place at the home of Dr. Paul Mariskanish on 315 W. Main St. Twenty-five percent of each retail purchase will be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

Anyone wanting more information about Habitat for Humanity or wanting to volunteer or donate may contact Baker at (608) 348-9119 or habitatforhumanitygrantcounty@hotmail.com. Those interested in volunteering may also sign up to volunteer at specific building days by visiting www.grantcountyhabitat.org

Contact: April Baker, director, Grant County Habitat for Humanity, (608) 348-9119 or habitatforhumanitygrantcounty@hotmail.com Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will be hosting a recital for Eugene Alcalay on Thursday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall in the Center for the Arts on the UWP campus.

This event will feature works Alcalay performed this summer during his London debut, which was said to have displayed "music and pianism of exceptional and rare qualities." The concert will include Beethoven's Piano Sonata Op.54, selections from Bartok Mikrokosmos Vol.6 and Liszt's transcription of Richard Wagner's "Isoldens Liebestod" from the opera Tristan und Isolde. In addition, the recital will preview pieces Alcalay recorded for his debut compact disc recording, "Lyrical Liszt," which will be released in 2008.

Alcalay is currently an assistant professor of piano at UWP. He holds a master's degree in piano and composition and a doctorate degree in piano performance from the Julliard School and has performed at venues such as Alice Tully Hall and Carnegie Hall.

This concert if free and open to the public. Anyone interested in more information can contact Alcalay at (608) 342-1292 oralcalaye@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Eugene Alcalay, assistant professor of piano, UWP Department of Performing and Visual Arts, (608) 342-1292, alcalaye@uwplatt.edu Written by: Dawn Picton, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, pictond@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's College of Engineering, Mathemathics and Science will host an interactive workshop, "Strengthening the Pipeline of Engineering Recruits," for middle and high school math and science teachers, guidance counselors, and principals in the tri-state area. The event will be held on Friday, Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Mississippi Room of the Pioneer Student Center.

The purpose of the workshop is to promote engineering as a professional career opportunity. Workshop facilitator will be Don Woolston, assistant dean and director of engineering at UW-Madison. Attendees will build a foundation for continuous exchange between themselves and UWP, gain engineering and technology resources for their classrooms, and have an opportunity to network with their peers. In addition, Wisconsin participants will receive a $50 stipend (considering there is no school in Wisconsin that day); Iowa and Illinois participants will receive a $50 stipend for their school districts to help offset the cost of their substitute teachers.

The workshop is made possible through a UWP Foundation Opportunity Grant secured by Abulkhair Masoom and Fahmida Masoom, both of the UWP General Engineering Department.

Attendance is limited to 40 participants. Anyone wanting more information or wishing to enroll may contact Judy Belken at (608) 342-1276 or by belken@uwplatt.edu

Contact: Judy Belken, university services associate, UWP Education Office of Special Programs, (608) 342-1276, belken@uwplatt.edu

PLATTEVILLE- As a part of the University Diversity Initiatives commitment at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, a Learning Circles program will be available to interested parties in an attempt to build cultural awareness about racism, sexism, ableism and personal identity.

Learning Circles is a six-week dialogue on racism and how to move a community to action on embracing diversity within their community. The conversations in the circle will touch on issues of power, privilege, fear and hope.

"The purpose of this program is to create a vision for change in our community and to implement that change. Individuals who participate may affect that change through their relationships and organizations that will hopefully spread throughout campus and to the Platteville community. A major goal of this program is to create trust to work together," said Artanya Wesley, one of the facilitators of the Learning Circles program.

The programs are designed to be interactive, fun and self-guided. Participants are to keep an open mind, which will build a group trust.

"I enjoyed how fun and interactive the program was when I went through it last spring. One thing I found out was that there are a lot of different ways we are diverse, that's why it's important to talk about it. This is a great opportunity for students to participate and have their voices heard. There is a great dialogue that will develop from trust so participants will be able to abolish the 'huge elephant in the room.' By being in a safe environment, nothing is off limits. Everything is done in a constructive way," commented Jen Little, another Learning Circles facilitator.

The Learning Circles sessions are a commitment that will meet weekly in October and November. There will be three options for the six-week sessions people can partake in. The first is from Oct. 5 to Nov. 16 on Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. The second and third options are Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. from Oct. 11 to Nov. 15, and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 11 through Nov. 15.

Facilitators include Little, Roger Meyer, Wesley and Carlos Wiley among other faculty and staff who participated in a facilitator version of the Learning Circles program during spring 2007.

"This is an issue that needs to be explored, understanding people from other backgrounds. Learning, understanding and communication is a critical and integral part in our society with relating to other people. Learning Circles is a process of discovery about heritage and background of the individual and others. Through understanding and relating to others, people can counteract discriminatory actions and thoughts," added Meyer.

To sign up for a Learning Circle, please contact administrative assistant Peg Haese at (608) 342-1555 or haesem@uwplatt.edu.

Contact: Carlos Wiley, director, University Diversity Initiatives, (608) 342-1332, wileyc@uwplatt.edu Written by: Lisa D. McLean, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194,mcleanl@uwplatt.edu