University News

Group of individuals standing in front of an orange and blue wall, beneath the words "Swalve Golf Suite."

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Announces Naming of Swalve Golf Suite

Written By: Staff Writer | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has announced the naming of the new Swalve Golf Suite in recognition of a gift from Jeff and Tara Swalve. The facility will provide student-athletes on the Pioneer women’s golf team with an indoor training and practice space that supports year-round development and competitive excellence.

Woman with gray hair gesturing with hand while facing a student.

Dr. Christina Curras Named Recipient of EMS Excellence in Advising Award

Written By: Gaile Schwickrath | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Engineering, Press Release, STEM The University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science proudly announces that Dr. Christina Curras, professor, civil and environmental engineering, has been selected as the 2025–2026 recipient of the EMS Excellence in Advising Award.
Group of students and a teacher collaborating on a science experiment in a laboratory setting.

Dr. Mohammad Rabbani Named Inaugural Recipient of EMS Excellence in Service Award

Written By: Gaile Schwickrath | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release, STEM

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science proudly announces that Dr. Mohammad Rabbani, professor of chemistry, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the 2025–2026 EMS Excellence in Service Award.

Researcher operating a scientific instrument in a lab setting while wearing gloves and a lab coat.

Forensic Investigation Program Earns Nationally Elite Accreditation

Written By: Will LeSuer | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release, Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation, STEM

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announced that its Department of Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation has earned accreditation from the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC), a body of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).

Woman standing at a podium, presenting to a room of seated guests

UW-Platteville Foundation & Alumni Association Raises More Than $102,000 at Inaugural Pioneer Legacy Gala: Off to the Races

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Press Release

The first-ever Pioneer Legacy Gala: Off to the Races, hosted by the UW-Platteville Foundation & Alumni Association, brought together alumni, donors and friends of the university for an unforgettable evening celebrating Pioneer pride and student success.

Smiling female student with dark hair wearing black graduation cap and gown, holding a diploma

UW-Platteville Celebrates 216th Commencement

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville celebrated 1,037 degree candidates during its 216th commencement, held across three ceremonies on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Bo Ryan Court in Williams Fieldhouse. Chancellor Tammy K. Evetovich congratulated graduates, highlighting their achievement that reflects hard work, perseverance and commitment. “Take time to reflect on how far you have come,” she urged.

Headshot of smiling woman in blue shirt

Sonja Passant Named UW-Platteville Associate Director of Platteville Analytics and Institutional Reporting Services (PAIRS)

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announced Sonja Passant as the Associate Director of Platteville Analytics and Institutional Reporting Services (PAIRS). Passant will assume her new role on Monday, May 18.

Graduate celebrating with family after the ceremony, one holding a bouquet and a diploma while embracing the other.

Pioneers to be Celebrated at UW-Platteville’s Spring Commencement

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will honor approximately 1,037 graduates during its 216th commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The ceremonies will be held throughout the day at Bo Ryan Court in Williams Fieldhouse. 

Two men standing against a while background, one is holding an award.

Dr. Leigh Monhardt Receives LAE Excellence in Teaching Award

Written By: Michelle Erickson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Education

School of Education Professor Dr. Leigh Monhardt recently received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the College of Liberal Arts and Education. “Since joining UW–Platteville in 2007, Dr. Monhardt has made a tremendous and lasting impact on the lives of students, colleagues, and local school districts through his commitment to exceptional teaching and the preparation of preservice teachers,” said Dr.

Woman in dark blue scrubs, leaning against a brick wall outside of a hospital

A Foundation for Success: UW-Platteville Celebrates First Graduate of the Accelerated Nursing Program

Written By: Cameren Hill | Published On: | Featured in: Biology, Campus & Community, Health Care, Press Release, STEM

This spring marks a milestone achievement for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh as Sienna Isaacson will be the first graduate of the nursing pathway 3+1 dual bachelor’s degree program. This accelerated nursing program allows students to complete their Bachelor of Science in biology at UW-Platteville and their Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) from UW-Oshkosh in four years.

Two student teachers standing in a classroom in front of children seated on the floor

Northern Exposure – The Bayfield Practicum

Written By: Michelle Erickson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release, Education

Elementary education students from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Education recently traveled to Bayfield, Wisconsin, to see firsthand what community-based learning and culturally responsive teaching looks like.

Group of students and faculty standing in front of glass display cases at the UW Chazen Museum

Genghis Khan in Wisconsin: UW-Platteville Students Explore the Riches of Central Asia on a Field Trip

Written By: Andrey Ivanov | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, History, Humanities, Press Release, Arts & Culture

Genghis Khan (born Temujin, 1162-1227) was a world-famous conqueror. His armies captured vast expanses of territory, reaching as far as Korea in the east and Germany in the west. He and his sons unified different civilizations in Eurasia, creating a common sphere for trade, intellectual exchange, and postal communication. And one of his coins ended up in Wisconsin.

Smiling woman in red shirt standing in front of cherry blossom tree

Health and Human Performance Student and Instructor Recognized with Prestigious Awards

Written By: Staff writer | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Health and Human Performance, Press Release, Education

Two members of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Department of Health and Human Performance have in the past month won prestigious national and regional awards.

Music conductor directing a group of students playing instruments in a band room.

Wisconsin Student Musicians Head to UW-Platteville

Written By: Wisconsin Center for Music Education | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release, Arts & Culture

Thousands of dedicated middle and high school student musicians from Wisconsin and contiguous states are preparing for Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Solo & Ensemble Festivals. UW-Platteville will host this event on Saturday, April 25, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. It will be open to the public and free of charge.

Group of presenters in front of a large screen

School of Education at UW-Platteville Hosts 4th Annual Rural Education Conference and Job Fair

Written By: Michelle Erickson | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release, Education

As rural areas struggle to draw young people to their communities or keep young people from leaving rural hometowns, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is making it a priority to connect students with rural job opportunities. To further these efforts, the School of Education hosted its 4th Annual Rural Education Conference and Job Fair on April 15th in Velzy Commons at Ullsvik Hall.  

Headshot of smiling man in blue suit in front of a light background

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich Announces Sam Koenig as New Athletic Director

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich today announced Sam Koenig as the new Director of Intercollegiate Athletics (Athletic Director - AD), effective May 18. A native of Dubuque and a former standout in high school and college men’s soccer, Koenig is returning to lead and advance Pioneer athletics.

Three women smiling in front of a presentation screen.

UW-Platteville Students, Faculty, and Alumni at the 50-year anniversary of the WGSC Conference

Written By: Teresa Burns, Melissa Gormley, and Dong Isbister | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Humanities, Press Release

Several students, faculty, and alumni from the College of Liberal Arts and Education at UW-Platteville received student research awards, attended, or presented at the 2026 WGSC Spring Conference, “Rooted in Justice: Fifty Years of Feminist Scholarship and Community Engagement,” held in Madison on April 9-10.

Man in black suit sitting at a Steinway grand piano, with wording that reads May the 4th Concert, Debut of the Ethan Squires Memorial Steinway Piano

Squires Steinway Grand Piano makes a Starry Debut on May the 4th

Written By: Carrie Van Hallgren | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release, Arts & Culture

May the 4th, considered Star Wars Day by legions of fans (“May the Fourth be with you”), is a fitting date to debut the Ethan Squires Steinway concert grand piano. Squires was a devoted Star Wars fan, and the repertoire for the evening’s concert was chosen to honor and celebrate Squires, his love of Star Wars, and the new instrument purchased in his memory.

Group of individuals standing in front of a table with a mascot, smiling and holding signs for Pioneers Day of Giving

UW-Platteville to Celebrate Pioneers Day of Giving April 23–24

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will celebrate its 11th annual Pioneers Day of Giving on April 23–24, a two-day fundraising event dedicated to supporting student success.

Group of UW-Platteville students in forest, standing in front of trees

UW-Platteville Students Contribute to Fire Restoration Efforts Across Wisconsin and the Great Lakes Region

Written By: Grace Unmacht and Evan Larson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Environmental Sciences

Students enrolled in Dr. Evan Larson’s Fire Ecology course in the Department of Environmental Sciences and Society participated in a four-day field trip, contributing to projects aimed at reintroducing low-intensity fire to the landscapes of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes Region.

Headshot of UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich wearing an orange blazer on a blue background

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Releases New Economic Impact Numbers

Written By: Melanie Platt-Gibson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has announced groundbreaking results from its comprehensive 2025 Economic Impact Study, revealing that for every dollar invested by the state in UW-Platteville, Wisconsin gains an impressive annual $2.19 in tax revenue, representing a remarkable 119% return on investment.

A large group of people standing next to a grand piano in a Zazz museum

Jazz & Politics: Exploring NOLA Through Music

Written By: Shan Sappleton | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Political Science, Press Release, Arts & Culture

Eleven UW-Platteville students visited New Orleans during Spring Break (March 14-18) as part of a one-credit Political Science field trip course focusing on the central theme of Jazz & Politics: Exploring NOLA through Music. The students visited historic sites such as New Orleans’ famous Jazz Museum, the French Quarter, Treme, and Frenchman Street.

Large group of UW-Platteville students and faculty in front of green background while accepting an award

UW-Platteville Places Third in National ABC Construction Management Competition

Written By: Staff writer | Published On: | Featured in: Applied Engineering Technology Management, Campus & Community, Construction Management, Press Release

University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Student Chapter, affiliated with Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin, today announced it placed third overall and second in estimating in the 2026 Construction Management Competition at ABC Convention 2026 in Salt Lake City on March 20.

Three students looking at artwork in a gallery

Would You Look at That: Platteville Art Galleries to Celebrate International Slow Art Day

Written By: Cameren Hill | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release, Arts & Culture

Twenty-seven seconds. According to researchers Lisa and Jeffrey Smith, that is the average time gallery visitors spent looking at a single piece of art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art before moving along to the next piece. Which raises the question: Are gallery visitors spending enough time with the art?

Headshots of smiling admission counselors Jackie Sutton (left) and Kyle Munholland (right)

Admission Counselors Making an Impact

Written By: Megan Jensen | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community

Two members of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Admissions and Recruitment team have been honored by the Wisconsin Association for College Admission Counseling (WACAC), marking the first time UW-Platteville professionals have received individual recognition from the statewide organization.

Street view of tan academic building with many windows, lined by trees with purple leaves

School of Education Faculty Publishes International Special Issue with Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, Budapest

Written By: Dr. Doug Adams and Dr. Edina Haslauer, School of Education | Published On: | Featured in: Press Release, Education

Faculty in the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently collaborated with the Faculty of Primary and Pre-school Education at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Budapest, Hungary, to produce a special issue of Gyermeknevelés Tudományos Folyóirat (Journal of Early Years Education).

Animal and Dairy Science Students Compete in Regional Academic Quadrathlon Competition

Animal and Dairy Science Students Compete in Regional Academic Quadrathlon Competition

Written By: Krista Wellnitz | Published On: | Featured in: Agriculture, STEM

Four UW-Platteville Animal and Dairy Science students competed in the regional American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) Academic Quadrathlon competition at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, March 8th and 9th. The competition was part of the American Society of Animal Science Midwest Meetings held in Omaha, NE at the CHI Convention Center.

Full group at Research in the Rotunda

UW–Platteville Students Showcase Research at State Capitol During Research in the Rotunda

Written By: Bridget Wallace | Published On: | Featured in: Baraboo Sauk County, Biology, Campus & Community, Engineering, Humanities, Political Science, Press Release, Psychology, Social Sciences, Agriculture, STEM, Research

Students from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and University of Wisconsin–Platteville Baraboo Sauk County presented their research projects at the Research in the Rotunda on Wednesday at the Wisconsin State Capitol, joining undergraduate researchers from across the Universities of Wisconsin.

Royal blue event poster with woman next to book with butterfly on cover

Bestselling Indigenous Author Angeline Boulley Brings Firekeeper’s Daughter to UW–Platteville

Written By: Ava E Garrard | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Humanities, Press Release, Education

On Tuesday, March 24th, 2026, UW-Platteville will be hosting Indigenous, New York Times bestselling author Angeline Boulley for a reading and discussion. The event will take place in Nohr Gallery from 7:00-8:00 pm and will focus on Boulley’s famous 2021 novel, Firekeeper’s Daughter. Students, staff, and community members are encouraged to attend.   

Photo of Bridget Wallace

Bridget Wallace named Foundation and Alumni Association Executive Director

Written By: Staff Writer | Published On: | Featured in: Alumni, Campus & Community, Corporate Relations, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin–Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association has named Bridget Wallace as its next executive director, effective April 6, 2026.

Woman with red hair in brown suit, standing with arms crossed in front of dark background

Melanie Platt-Gibson Named External Relations and Communications Director

Written By: Bridget Wallace | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is pleased to announce that Melanie Platt-Gibson has been named the External Relations and Communications Director, effective March 16, 2026.

Livia Doyle presents keynote address at UW-Platteville Rural Education Conference in 2025

UW-Platteville to Host Fourth Annual Rural Education Conference and Job Fair

Written By: Michelle Erickson | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Education

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Education will host its fourth annual Rural Education Conference and Rural Schools Job Fair on Wednesday, April 15, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Velzy Commons at Ullsvik Hall.

Andrey Ivanov stands outside of the Vatican Archives Room in Rome, Italy

Ivanov Explores the Vatican Archives During Winterim

Written By: Andrey Ivanov | Published On: | Featured in: History, Social Sciences

Among the renowned landscapes of world history, few cities hold as many treasures as Rome. For Andrey Ivanov, a UW-Platteville professor specializing in East European and Eurasian history, the Eternal City might at first seem like an unlikely destination.

Dean Philip Parker joined Dean Brett Peters (UW–Milwaukee) and Dean Devesh Ranjan (UW–Madison) in Washington, D.C., for the annual American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Public Policy Colloquium, an event that brings engineering leaders together with policymakers to discuss national priorities impacting higher education.

Dean Philip Parker visits Wisconsin legislators in Washington, D.C.

Written By: Bridget Wallace | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Engineering, Press Release, STEM

A delegation including UW–Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Dean Philip Parker met with Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation in February to advocate for federal support of engineering education, research, and workforce development that directly benefit UW–Platteville students and programs.

Two actors on stage next to a bed in the performance “The Dumb Waiter” by Harold Pinter.

Pioneer Players presents Harold Pinter’s "The Dumb Waiter"

Written By: Ann Farrelly | Published On: | Featured in: Press Release, Arts & Culture

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Department of Performing and Visual Arts-Theatre and Pioneer Players will present “The Dumb Waiter” by Harold Pinter.  Performances are February 18-21 at 7:30pm and February 22 at 2:00pm. All performances will be in the Center for the Arts-Theatre on the campus of the UW-Platteville.

Students erecting a greenhouse.

Students complete greenhouse construction for local high school

Written By: David Heimerdinger | Published On: | Featured in: Agriculture, Business

Students applied course concepts in a real-world setting to construct a fully functional greenhouse that now enhances agricultural education at Southwestern Wisconsin High School.

Photo of Elizabeth Osterholz

Elizabeth Osterholz named Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer

Written By: Bridget Wallace | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

We are pleased to announce that Elizabeth Osterholz has been named University of Wisconsin–Platteville’s Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer.

Students walking on campus.

Spring into Fall: Advising and Registration Resource Expo

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community

Tuesday, March 3 | 1:00–4:00 p.m. | Velzy Commons

Join the Office of Academic Affairs for Spring into Fall: Advising and Registration Resource Expo.

This interactive event provides students with the opportunity to connect directly with representatives from academic units and student support services across campus.

Photo of team in front of field fire on campus.

UW-Platteville to host prescribed fire training February 27

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Environmental Sciences, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host a one-day prescribed fire training on Friday, February 27, providing a foundational knowledge and practical preparation for supporting prescribed burns on campus and beyond.

Students sitting in classroom with tables and screens on the wall.

UW-Platteville School of Business earns prestigious ACBSP Global Accreditation

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Press Release, Business

The achievement reinforces UW-Platteville’s standing as a leader in practical, outcomes-driven business education.

Headshot of woman

UW-Platteville student awarded Tommy G. Thompson Public Leadership Scholarship

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Biology, Press Release, Criminal Justice and Forensic Investigation

Kaitlyn Greenwood has been recognized for her leadership, academic excellence and commitment to service.

Two students working at a table on a project

UW-Platteville to host 2026 Wisconsin SkillsUSA Regional Competition

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Applied Engineering Technology Management, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture (BILSA) will welcome more than 315 students from schools across Wisconsin for the second Wisconsin SkillsUSA regional competition on Friday, Jan. 30. SkillsUSA empowers the next generation of skilled professionals and leaders.

Picture of a field broken up into eight replicated catchments, or sections of fields.

Pioneer Farm research team zeros in on soil runoff, erosion and nutrient loss in dairy project

Written By: Jamie Mara | Published On: | Featured in: Press Release, Agriculture, Research

The project is studying soil health and manure management and their effects on greenhouse gas reduction, water quality improvement and agronomic factors such as forage yield and quality.

People around tables listening to presentation.

A RIVER, NOT A LAKE: ACCESSIBILITY PALOOZA SETS CAMPUS IN MOTION

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

Faculty, staff and administrators gathered for a day of learning to prepare for Title II accessibility requirements to advance inclusive digital practices across campus, reinforcing a culture of continuous improvement.

The Easy Zip design is intended for individuals who may struggle to free fabric caught in a zipper due to limited hand mobility.

Student wins first place for assistive zipper device

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Engineering, STEM, Research

A UW-Platteville student earned first place in the WiSys Innovation On-Ramp program for creating the Eazy Zip.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville celebrated more than 430 graduates during its 215th commencement.

Once a Pioneer, Always a Pioneer: UW-Platteville Celebrates Graduates at 215th Commencement

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

UW-Platteville students were honored during commencement as they marked a milestone moment and stepped confidently into their next chapter as lifelong Pioneers.

UW-Platteville students collecting stream monitoring data.

Spring course explores the connection between agriculture and water in Wisconsin

Written By: Joseph Sanford | Published On: | Featured in: Agriculture

The Spring 2026 Ag-Water Nexus Seminar and Field Experience will be hosted at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, giving students the opportunity to explore Wisconsin’s agricultural–water challenges through both online learning and an in-person field experience.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will celebrate more than 430 graduates across its three colleges on Dec. 13, celebrating student achievement as the fall semester concludes.

Pioneers to be celebrated at UW-Platteville’s Fall Commencement

Written By: Christine Bellport | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Press Release

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will celebrate graduates across its three colleges on Dec. 13, honoring student achievement as the fall semester concludes.

A variety of mediums are represented throughout the 2025 AWA WRAP-Teen High School Art Show at Nohr Gallery.

UW-Platteville to host teen art show reception and award ceremony December 17

Written By: Cameren Hill | Published On: | Featured in: Campus & Community, Arts & Culture

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host the reception and award ceremony for the Association of Wisconsin Artists (AWA) WRAP-Teen High School Art Show on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 5–6 p.m. in the Nohr Gallery, located in Ullsvik Hall.

The Nohr Gallery Holiday Sale is happening Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Nohr Gallery in Ullsvik Hall.

Be a true original and gift from the Nohr Gallery Holiday Sale

Written By: Cameren Hill | Published On: | Featured in: Arts & Culture

How about giving an original gift this year? Kick off the season with some handmade holiday magic! 

The Nohr Gallery Holiday Sale is happening Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Nohr Gallery in Ullsvik Hall.