The University of Wisconsin-Platteville today announced the launch of a new suite of online Cannabis Career Certificate programs, developed in partnership with Green Flower, a leader in cannabis education.

Featuring more than 50 industry leaders and subject matter experts, these online programs offer updated curricula, accessible pricing, and robust career support through Green Flower’s Cannabis Career Resource Center, all designed to help people start or grow their careers in the cannabis industry.

“These new Cannabis Career Certificates are built to match exactly what employers are hiring for in each sector of the cannabis industry,” said Max Simon, CEO and founder of Green Flower.

To stay competitive in today's ever-changing landscape, organizations are seeking unique ways to gain an edge. As a result, several regional businesses and government bodies have found countless benefits in the tailored training programs offered by UW-Platteville's Continuing Education Institute. These customized courses provide employees with the skills and knowledge required for success, leading to increased engagement and productivity.

"Our tailored training program enables leaders to enhance their team's skills and abilities in areas specific to their field," stated Kerie Wedige, Corporate Training Center director. "This approach guarantees that teams will not receive training that is irrelevant to their needs, but rather a customized program applicable to their specific field."

Sean Shannon knows the power of the pen and how the written word can change lives. Before an 18-year career teaching English, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville associate lecturer was on a very different life path. But then she found the book “The Artist's Way” by Julia Cameron.

"For me personally, “The Artist's Way” helped me turn my life around in my mid-20s," Shannon said.

The book aims to help people find their creative voices through techniques and exercises meant to harness their creative talents and skills. But Shannon said she felt she had lost that artistic voice. After just a year in college, she was forced to leave to deal with family issues. As a result, she said she felt her goals and dreams slipping through her fingertips. But the inspiration she found in the pages of Cameron's book helped Shannon reconnect with herself and her goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute announces a new partnership with the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), a global leader in supply chain certification, in order to prepare learners to meet the ever-growing demand for well-trained and knowledgeable workers in the supply chain industry. As part of the partnership, UW-Platteville will offer two courses designed to aid and support those seeking their APICS certification.

"UW-Platteville is proud to offer the Certified Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM)," said UW-Platteville Continuing Education Institute Executive Director Kerie Wedige. "This in-demand certification will help regional businesses should they choose to send cohorts through the program by providing them with functional knowledge of production and inventory management."  

This year, Patricia Rodriguez achieved her lifelong dream of earning her college degree. At the age of 60, the owner of Rodriguez’s Safe Haven Childcare Center in Kenosha, Wisconsin, earned her bachelor’s degree in early child care and education. Now she hopes her story will inspire others to achieve their dreams.

“You need to believe in yourself, keep going even when things are difficult, and never give up on your goals,” said Rodriguez. “Life has many challenges, but you can never give up on your goals. Just keep going. I am stubborn like that, and I never gave up.” 

As workers continue to leave their jobs in pursuit of new opportunities, retaining employees has become more important than ever for organizations. Fortunately, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute’s Employee Retention Certificate program was designed to address this pressing issue.

Over three online courses, students will learn to assess the different types of employee engagement and address how the roles of leadership and organizational culture impact these dynamics. According to Dr. Maya Jaber, the course instructor, this is the first step of many for driving lasting change in the workforce.

Like many businesses these days, certified financial planners face a supply problem. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, more certified planners are over 70 than under the age of 30. Replacing those professionals will challenge an industry that is already projected to grow by seven percent through 2028.



The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute has been working with Dalton Education to offer a Certified Financial Planning Certificate to help train the next generation of financial planners. Students receive instruction from UW-Platteville's distinguished and dedicated professors while also taking advantage of Dalton's industry-leading CFP Board-registered and approved program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in logistics and supply chain are predicted to grow up to 30% through 2030. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute’s Supply Chain Management certificate program is designed to give students the valuable skills needed to thrive in the growing and in-demand field. 

Dr. Kyle Allison, UW-Platteville professor and the program’s instructor, said the certificate equips students with foundational skills on how the supply chain ecosystem works, from sourcing/procurement, to demand planning, warehousing, distribution and transportation.

Ever since he could remember, Brian Wahl had a passion for the natural world. After graduating with a master’s degree in natural resources from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wahl wasted no time turning this passion into a profession. 

“Regarding arboriculture, I was attracted by the prospect of caring for nature, of being able to work almost anywhere, and climbing trees for a living,” said Wahl. “Trees are like patients – you’re called in to care for them, but you can’t ask them what’s wrong. You need to ‘CSI’ them, and I really enjoy that investigative aspect.” 

On the river to success, it takes skilled leaders to navigate the constant change in currents. Modern organizations now recognize the need for a flexible workforce to meet the challenges of the changing work environment. 

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute now offers a Management Certificate program to equip the next generation of leaders with these valuable skills.

“Manager flexibility requires skills that demonstrate management competencies and a willingness to learn and adapt to these changing organizational needs,” said Dr. Jeanne Dorle, professor and instructor for the certificate program.

Early childhood educators, parents and caregivers from across the country will have the opportunity to attend this year's University of Wisconsin-Platteville Early Childhood Conference on Saturday, March 19. The annual conference provides participants a day of learning and collaborating within the early childhood education field. This year, the conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. online via Zoom. Registration for the virtual event is now open.



"We're thrilled to offer this great opportunity for our area's early childhood teachers to connect and collaborate with experts from across the country," said Chenoa Ruecking, education and training program manager. "This is our second year offering this conference virtually – and I know this year's conference will bring the same level of engagement, interaction and fun."

From a young age, artist Rick Ross was always drawing and sketching. One of his first business ventures was as a third grader drawing a cartoon character, Baxter the dog. Ross took orders from his classmates for custom pieces of Baxter in exchange for toys and treats. However, as Ross grew older art took more of a backseat. Aside from some classes in high school and college, he eventually disconnected from it and fell into a more traditional work role without a creative connection in his life. 

It wasn’t until he became a father and shifted gears from his sales job to staying home with his kids that Ross found his way back to the world of art.

Ashley Lundt was already working in the childcare field, but recently took the opportunity to develop her expertise and skillset with the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Infant-Toddler Credential program, offered through the Continuing Education Institute. Lundt completed her credential in December and, along with other teachers, was honored at a ceremony on Dec. 4, 2021. 

Lundt will now take what she has learned back to her childcare center. In addition to the knowledge and skills she gained in the program, it has helped her to become more confident in her role. “I made huge gains through this credential and feel very good about the teacher I am becoming,” she said. “I would recommend this program to anyone who works with infants or toddlers.”

Internationally-renowned bioregional herbalist Linda Conroy has signed on to teach three courses for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute this winter and spring. 

Conroy, a practicing herbalist, owns the herbal business Moonwise Herbs located in Albion, Wisconsin. She is also the community organizer and founder of the well-known Midwest Woman's Herbal Conference, as well as the Mycelium Mysteries Conference, designed to teach women about locating and foraging wild mushrooms. 

However, her path to plants was a passion that took years to cultivate and grow. In fact, Conroy worked for nearly 20 years as a social worker and holds two master's degrees, Master of Social Sciences and Master of Law and Social Policy. Yet, it was through her work as a medical social worker that she found her green thumb.

This fall, workers and students will have the opportunity to earn a Customer Service Certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute. The program was designed to address a growing need in the tourism and hospitality industry and local chambers of commerce.



"Businesses are craving this type of training," said Kerie Wedige, executive director of the UW-Platteville Continuing Education Institute. "We heard expectations are high for businesses in regards to customer service since the return from COVID-19 shutdowns."

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has always been a staunch advocate for promoting diversity and standing up against violence and hate. This summer, the university continues this trend with the launch of the Continuing Education Institute’s latest offering.

How to Start Your Own “We Are Many-United Against Hate” Chapter is a collaboration between the university and Masood Akhtar, founder of We Are Many-United Against Hate, as well as Dr. Jeffrey Jacobson, a lifelong educator. 

Ever since she was young, April Vaassen had a passion for helping people. After numerous volunteering and tutoring experiences within the education field growing up, Vaassen slowly developed this passion into a profession. Along the way, she received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and her master’s degree in school counseling from Loras College, equipping herself with the knowledge to develop future leaders and successful professionals.

She now helps others reach their fullest potential in the career coaching and self-improvement fields, enjoying the work she does every day.

“I love connecting with people and helping them live bigger and better lives,” said Vaassen. “I believe with the right tools and mindset we can live any life we want, and helping people achieve that is a big passion of mine.”

This summer, elementary through high school students will have the opportunity to learn by doing, as the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute announces its How-To Summer Series youth programming. 

The Making a Case for College series continues with two panels over the next two weeks. The idea for the program was born out of the desire to connect directly with students and show them the education, career, and life benefits of attending a University of Wisconsin-Platteville campus.

"Making a Case for College is part of a larger program, Campus Connections. I'm excited to be a part of the program because it's a new way for us to connect with students, parents, and schools and make them aware of all the ways our three campuses are working for student success," said Marnie Dresser, interim director of academic outreach. "Specifically, we're able to communicate how Platteville emphasizes advising and coaching, which creates greater academic success and a richer college experience."

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host three panels that will connect prospective students with academic experts, business and community leaders, and alumni. During the lively discussions, the experts will explain how the new and ongoing education pathways at UW-Platteville and its branch campuses in Richland and Baraboo Sauk County continue to set students up for personal, educational and professional success.



Each online panel features faculty explaining the academic pathway for their respective degree programs and the transfer paths toward further study. Regional business leaders will address the value of a degree in their industry. Those attending the panels will also get the chance to speak directly to a current or recent graduate, who will share their experiences with the program at UW-Platteville.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute announces the launch of its new Supply Chain Management certificate program.

The program offers a curriculum designed to introduce students to the ever-expanding world of global supply chain management and the many processes comprising it. The course content emphasizes lessons in Inventory, Management, Distribution and Production Planning.

Program instructor Mary Bartling is interested to see what students gravitate toward and hopes the chosen content serves as an informative welcome to the industry.

“Supply Chain Management is everything in today’s world,” said Bartling. “From an Amazon package to anything you pick up at a retail store, there are numerous processes involved in bringing a product to the consumer’s hand. I hope by taking this program students will see the big picture.”

During the COVID-19 crisis, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute has risen to the challenge by implementing new ways students can further their education. The latest result of this determination comes in the form of a new certificate program: Foundations of Project Management Practice.

The online program was developed in conjunction with the UW-Platteville School of Business, and offers a curriculum designed to help students sharpen their project management skills without the obligations of a full degree program. The School of Business isn’t the only party helping with the project, however. Jim Martin, a senior project manager with experience as an associate professor of aerospace studies at UW-Madison, recently signed on as co-instructor for the program.

When Michelle DeVoe opened her family childcare business in Black Earth, Wisconsin, she never imagined the challenges she would face.

She started her family childcare program because she wanted to provide a quality early learning environment for kids. Dedicated to quality, DeVoe decided to go back to school to make sure she had a handle on early childhood education best practices. 

"I knew that I was providing a loving, home-like daycare, but I found myself frequently questioned about my capabilities," DeVoe said. "I knew that I wanted to create a continually engaging daycare space and curriculum, and I wanted to stay current with the learning standards for young children. So, I decided that I would go back to college and earn my Child Care Administrator Credential from UW-Platteville."

Going back to college while working full time, parenting and running a childcare business is not easy. 

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute announces the launch of a new certificate program: Foundations of Project Management Practice.



The program introduces contemporary project management tools and techniques across three broad areas: organizing and initiating projects, planning projects and performing projects. The course content emphasizes project selection, chartering new projects, stakeholder management, scope management, scheduling and integration.



The program's contemporary curriculum was developed in coordination with the highly-regarded UW-Platteville School of Business, which is regularly ranked as one of the best values in higher education. The coursework is specifically designed to meet a growing need for employees with specialized project management skills.

The onus on safety during the COVID-19 pandemic has led many seniors to avoid crowded places and spend more time at home. However, while social distancing and isolation can keep people physically healthy, it can take a mental toll.

According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, loneliness has doubled for older adults in the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the numbers have not improved much in the months since.

It's no secret that enrolling in a degree program takes commitment, both on a student's time and finances, but sometimes this structure may not be ideal for everyone. That's why the Continuing Education Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is proud to offer additional opportunities for professional growth with their Professional Pathway Certificate programs.

These certificates are created by professionals, for professionals—and can be completed in a matter of months. This gives learners just the edge they need in today's competitive market, minus the full degree program requirements.

"Our Professional Pathway certificates are for anyone looking to enhance their career, from seasoned experts to recent graduates," said Kerie Wedige, executive director of the Continuing Education Institute. "Each certificate is tailored with accessibility and affordability in mind, and we're happy to offer these resources to any wishing to continue their education."

The Confucius Institute at UW-Platteville welcomes all to a free virtual Chinese New Year Celebration on Feb. 6, 2021, at 1 p.m. The program consists of various performances offered in collaboration with Confucius Institute of Chinese Opera at Binghamton, San Diego Confucius Institute, and South-Central University for Nationalities in Wuhan, China. Performances include dances, songs, martial arts performances, yo-yo playing, musical instruments and Peking Opera.

John Schaeffer’s love of learning has led him down a very unique academic path.  At the spry age of 79, he’s pursuing his fourth college degree, a bachelor’s degree in health and human performance from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. It’s a university Schaeffer knows well. He has already earned a pair of bachelor’s degrees from UW-Platteville in biology and medical technology. He also received a master’s degree in microbiology from the University of Arizona.

But Schaeffer’s love of learning extends outside the classroom as well. After taking advantage of some of the classes offered through the UW-Platteville Confucius Institute, Schaeffer recently participated – and placed – in two different international video competitions for Ba Duan Jin, a popular traditional Chinese mind-body exercise.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is pleased to announce a new partnership that will give students the ability to advance their careers by acquiring the knowledge and requirements needed to sit for the CFP® Certification Exam. Starting in January, Continuing Education Institute will begin offering Dalton Education’s CFP® Certification preparation curriculum.



The Certified Financial Planning Certificate program will allow Continuing Education Institute Professional Pathway students to receive instruction from UW-Platteville’s distinguished and dedicated professors while also taking advantage of Dalton’s industry-leading CFP Board-registered and approved program. This will allow professionals to meet the academic and hour requirements needed to sit for the CFP® Certification Exam.

Based on overwhelming interest, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is pleased to announce the expansion of its cannabis-related certificates to include an Agriculture and Horticulture Certificate program.



Students will learn how to care for cannabis plants, study cannabis botany and genetics, and explore plant growth techniques during the innovative six-month certificate program. The certificate is offered in partnership with Green Flower, a national leader in cannabis education. UW-Platteville is the only state university to offer this type of opportunity, thanks to an exclusivity agreement.

When it comes to education, not many can say they have experience performing the roles of both student and teacher at the same university—yet this is exactly the case for Danielle Niermann.

In 2007, Niermann graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. This experience instilled in Niermann a passion for lifelong learning, a drive that was further developed by a community of support.

“I had the best experience at UW-Platteville,” said Niermann. “I made lots of great friends through my involvement on campus and continue to maintain those friendships today. I loved it so much that I returned to earn my Program Development Credential, which I completed in 2019. I suppose you could say that continuing education is my hobby. I love to learn, and support those around me to do the same.”

After growing up in Canada, Demi Vetesnik, program coordinator for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute, made the jump to the United States for college when a soccer scholarship led her to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

“While attending UW-Milwaukee I met my now husband, who convinced me to stick around post-graduation,” said Vetesnik. “Once I had received approval for my Permanent Residence Card, I was eager to find a position where I could serve my community.”

This opportunity arrived in June 2019, when Vetesnik joined the CEI team at UW-Platteville Richland Center. As part of her responsibilities, Vetesnik provides quality programming for the community she now lives in.

This fall, lifelong learners will have even more opportunities to grow both personally and professionally, as the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is offering a number of enticing new courses – with an exciting new twist.

Hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and its branch campuses in Baraboo Sauk County and Richland Center, the upcoming programs are as diverse as they are enjoyable, with courses ranging from poetry to cooking to corporate education.

“We really try to put ourselves in the shoes of the communities we serve,” said Jessica Munz, CEI program manager, when asked about deciding what classes to create. “It's fun to get creative and offer new programs that we think others will enjoy, and it's also nice to be able to offer the regular programs that our communities are always looking for from us.”

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute has announced three certificate programs related to one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation: cannabis. The certificates are offered in partnership with Green Flower, a national leader in cannabis education.

Beginning in November, students will be able to begin earning the following certificates:

Early childhood educators, parents and caregivers from across the country will have the opportunity to attend this year's University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Early Childhood Seminar on Saturday, Oct. 10. For the first time, the event which is traditionally held on the UW-Platteville campus will allow participants to connect virtually this year.

The event is hosted by the Continuing Education Institute, which provides child care education through nine Registry Child Care Credentials (four in Spanish), seminars, early childhood training courses, and degree completion programs with partner institutions. The Continuing Education Institute's reach extends throughout the state of Wisconsin and all the way to both coasts.



This year's virtual connection will be split into two sessions, with nationally renowned keynote speakers leading each.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announces a new partnership with the California Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP). The partnership recognizes that UW-Platteville’s curriculum meets the high standards of the CAP, allowing California’s early childhood educators to take advantage of UW-Platteville’s innovative and engaging online courses.

The California Early Childhood Curriculum Alignment Project supports transfer and curriculum consistency in the foundational preparation of early childhood education students. Regionally accredited community colleges, CSUs, and private universities can participate in the alignment process and be recognized statewide as partners in creating streamlined pathways to degree completion.

This year, the Continuing Education Institute’s extensive schedule of programs will all be virtual, but no less valuable, for its diverse audience of learners. Hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and its branch campuses in Baraboo Sauk County and Richland Center, learners will continue to receive the human connection and interaction they expect from CEI’s exceptional community and professional classes, now experienced from the convenience and safety of home.

With a broad array of classes covering a multitude of topics, the only difficulty this fall may be deciding which opportunities to select. Non-credit courses vary by subject and age range, but all promise meaningful development and a degree of fun! Topics include:

We all know earning a degree is important for enhancing one’s career, but it’s not the only step students can take to better position themselves for success. Knowledge of the workplace and the ability to make strong connections can prove just as valuable, which is why the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is pleased to offer the Alumni Mentee-Mentor Program—a resource for those seeking additional support outside of their studies.

Established in 2019, the program is available for all students currently enrolled in a distance education program (both graduate and undergraduate). Using a one-on-one pairing model, the program connects mentees with appropriate mentors in a support system that is beneficial to both parties.

As the lead admissions specialist for the Center for Distance Learning, Clint Nemitz works with his team to connect prospective students with their desired academic programs. He is also the latest participant of the Division of Professional Studies’ Pioneer Profiles—a series of Q&A’s with members of the division’s dedicated staff. The following conversation details Clint’s thoughts on the benefits and challenges of his position, as well as his passion for helping distance students.

You first joined the Center for Distance Learning in 2006 and have stayed with the department ever since. How has your background and experience shaped you as an advocate for distance learning?

What does it take to lead change in the 21st century workplace?  I remember my first time being trained on how to lead change while working for a U.S. automobile manufacturer. Everything focused on ensuring each step enabled activities that won the hearts and minds of the workforce and empowered leaders to lead the change efforts. When we rolled out the change plan, we followed a structured “waterfall” approach for each step that required everyone to fall in line, follow orders and meet all agreed upon deadlines. In that environment and at that time, this top-down approach worked surprisingly well. Flash forward to me working as an external change management consultant and teaching organizational change leadership at UW-Platteville, I find that these principles of change leadership, structured change plans, and change-ready workforce remain as pertinent today as they have over the past several decades.  

"Teachers can't simply take a face-to-face lesson and put it online and expect great learning to happen."  -- Callie Bush

Virtual is Here to Stay 

Although virtual teams and collaboration have been in practice in recent years as an extension and addition to traditional work processes, the recent pandemic has turned auxiliary virtual into a permanent feature of how we live and work. Learning and professional development are no exception. 

Management Training Lost in Translation 

Since this is a time of great challenge and change, effective management skills are now needed more than ever. Managers need to develop new competencies and create new management systems that are appropriate for a virtual world. It is imperative that management development programs continue—but how to do this effectively is not a simple matter. 

Methodology and guidance have significantly evolved since MIT Professor Michael Hammer published his first business process re-engineering article in the July-August, 1990, Harvard Business Review.

Back then, companies were struggling with downsizing, restructuring, and new technologies to boost performance in a competitive environment. Today businesses are struggling with issues like rural talent drain, workforce reductions as baby boomers retire, and COVID-19.  

Companies that embraced the innovation in thinking and action transcended these difficulties for dramatic results of a 70-90% increase in performance. They radically redesigned core business processes like order fulfillment, supply chain, credit to collection, and customer service inquiry to resolution.  They pulled the processes out of the traditional organizational silos and set them up as standalone end-to-end process solutions. 

I’m inspired by the people around me that are using their CliftonStrengths to pull their remote teams together and do great work. I want to share a few examples in the hope that they inspire you and your team. 



Challenge 1: Isolation 

The UW-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is re-inventing its summer youth series, rolling out 11 virtual camps in place of its traditional face-to-face offerings.

Continuing Education Institute staff will host a virtual open house Thursday, June 11 for families to learn more about the programs, all geared toward third through 12th grade campers.  The open house will provide a more detailed overview and offer more information about these unique learning opportunities.

“Our virtual open house will be a great chance for any parent looking to engage their children in learning this summer to see what our programs can offer. They are going to be fun, creative and delivered in a safe online format,” according to Strategic and Program Manager Rebecca Powell.

On May 12, Dr. Susan Hansen stepped into the role of interim dean for the Division of Professional Studies, which together is comprised of Continuing, Distance, and Online Graduate offerings. Previously, Hansen served as the associate vice chancellor of Academic Affairs at UW-Platteville, among other leadership roles. The following conversation details the new dean’s thoughts on higher education, leadership, the nature of change and distance learning.

You first joined UW-Platteville in 1991. Since that time, you’ve worked as a professor, the director for the School of Business, the interim dean of BILSA, and as the associate vice chancellor of Academic Affairs. How has your experience shaped you as a leader, and how has it helped you prepare for the responsibilities you’ll be undertaking as part of the Division of Professional Studies?

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is providing a new, free resource to further its mission of nurturing lifelong learners during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Happening right now, the Continuing Education Institute is offering the LearnForward series. It features six free online workshops, with local experts sharing valuable knowledge and leading conversations on relevant current topics in both the community and corporate worlds. 

"We wanted to do something to give back and stay connected to our community," said Kerie Wedige, executive director of the Continuing Education Institute.

The wheels for the LearnForward series first started rolling following the decision to cancel the remainder of face-to-face spring semester courses at UW-Platteville. Utilizing the talents of the Continuing Education Institute staff, the LearnForward series went from concept to reality in just 10 days.

The Charles “Sonny” Tiedemann Charitable Fund awarded $1,000 to the UW-Platteville College for Kids program during the Lancaster Community Grant presentation ceremony held at Vesperman Farms. The check was received by Jessica Munz, program manager. These funds will provide scholarships to Lancaster students, who without financial assistance, would not be able to participate in the popular summer program, College for Kids (Grades K–4) and Middle University (Grades 5–7).

Monday, July 6, 2020, will mark the beginning of the university’s annual College for Kids program, where area students enjoy a taste of college life during four afternoons of learning and fun. In 2019, 208 children participated, and this first-time award will provide full scholarships for 10 Lancaster students in the 2020 program.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville College for Kids program was granted $700 from the Robert and Marian Graham Community Fund, which will provide full scholarships for seven students to attend the 2020 program. The award was received by Jessica Munz, program manager, during the Platteville Community Fund Awards Banquet. This grant will benefit children in kindergarten through seventh grade from the Platteville School District. The scholarships allow children who, without financial assistance, would not be able to participate in the popular summer program, College for Kids (Grades K–4) and Middle University (Grades 5–7).

Monday, July 6, 2020, UW-Platteville’s Continuing Education Institute will mark the beginning of its annual College for Kids program where area students enjoy a taste of college life during four afternoons of learning and fun. In 2019, 208 children participated, including nine who did so in thanks to scholarship support.

You never know when inspiration might strike. For Mark Tully, it came in 1969 during a family tour of Gettysburg, Washington D.C., and other U.S. historic sites. The trip was unforgettable in many ways, yet it was the costumed interpreters and restored sites at Colonial Williamsburg that spoke to his young imagination. Nearly five decades later, the power of history coming to life through reenactment still influences Tully and his Continuing Education course, “Wisconsin History—From Discovery to Statehood.”

In the course, Tully invites learners in the Baraboo Sauk County area to travel through time and explore the vast history of Wisconsin. Spanning nearly 10,000 years, the three course session discusses pre-history and early indigenous people plus the arrival of Europeans and the early fur trade. Along with his carefully crafted reenactment costumes, Tully tells the story of Wisconsin through the art, tools, and materials of those who lived it.

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Division of Professional Studies will host an open house and block party showcasing its many offerings to the public. This free event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Nohr Gallery located in Ullsvik Hall on the UW-Platteville campus. Refreshments will be served and music will fill the air.

Attendees will meet staff, view highlights from the division, and learn more about new programs and projects. Some of the featured topics include:

Romilia Schlueter has joined the team of early childhood educators for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Early Childhood Education Program, which is provided through the Continuing Education Institute.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to share that Romilia will serve as our new instructor for the Infant-Toddler Credential Program in Spanish,” said Chenoa Ruecking, Education and Training Program Manager.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announced today that early learning educators and childcare operators from around the state will come together on Saturday, Oct. 26 for a day of learning provided by the “Wonder Guides” of the Wisconsin Nature Action Collaborative for Children. The group is committed to connecting children with the natural world by making nature education a sustaining and enriching part of their daily lives.

​“The Wonder Guides’ mission aligns with everything my experience has shown me to be true,” said Chenoa Ruecking, early childhood education program manager for UW-Platteville’s Continuing Education Institute. “Children learn best when they are invited to examine and explore the natural world. Research proves that the first few years of a child’s life have the biggest impact on their future, and the Wonder Guides will show us how nature-based instruction can foster a lifetime love of learning.”

On July 8-11, two courses, Mission: Robots and LEGO Robotics, were hosted at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville by the Continuing Education Institute, College for Kids and Middle University. The program emphasized the science and technology fields and catered to students in the third and fourth grades and fifth, sixth, and seventh graders, respectively.

It was a new experience to spark children’s interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and have fun building skills for the future. Interaction with real-life industrial robots was a highlight of the program. 

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute is pleased to announce that alumna Xochitl Ortega is the winner of the 2019 Wisconsin Lifetime Learner Award. The Wisconsin Registry gives the award annually to recognize an individual who has excelled in the early child care and education field and demonstrates a passion for lifelong learning.

At the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute, our staff works hard to build relationships with learners no matter where they live. Many time this means sharing knowledge through our online Child Care Credential courses, however, our subject matter experts also attend many conferences and events to share their knowledge. This spring is no different and we invite you to connect with our staff at the following events.

Early Childhood Education and Training Program Manager Chenoa Ruecking will be attending the New York National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference April 4−6 in Verona, New York.

After spending 23 years in the childcare field, Tricia Lupiezowiec was confident in her ability and enjoyed her work. But when her boss at PleasanTime Child Care Center in Cambridge, Wisconsin proposed moving her from the Toddler room she’d spent the last 16 years in to their Preschool room, she felt a little nervous.

“It’s not a huge age difference, but developmentally a four-year-old is at a much different place than a toddler. I wanted to make sure I could address those needs,” Lupiezowiec said. Her supervisor encouraged her to complete the Registry's Preschool Credential through UW-Platteville. Though she enjoyed her first class with UW-Platteville, Lupiezowiec also took a class with a local technical college. However, she soon discovered that UW-Platteville was where she was meant to be.

When Matthew Janisch started coaching youth and high school football in Stoughton, Wisconsin, it unlocked a passion for teaching he didn’t know he’d had. Working with students of any age drove him to be a positive influence in their lives. However, he didn’t have a degree to pursue a full-time teaching career. Thankfully, he found a position as a Head Start Teaching Assistant with Reach Dane, an organization that was willing to help him advance his career.

With working full-time, coaching, and returning to school Janisch knew he’d need a flexible program. The Human Resources department at work recommended the UW-Platteville Preschool Credential program because they offered the program online, as well as all the credentials offered by The Registry.

Michele Turner is part of three generations of child care providers. She got her start in child care with her mother, who opened Roberson Kiddie Lane Day Care in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1989. Turner later opened her own in-home day care when her children were born, but returned to her mother’s center once they were in school and began taking classes herself, earning child care credentials through the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In 2009, she took over as Director of Kiddie Lane Day Care. Since then, Turner has continued her education in child care and earned her doctorate in fall 2018. She also teaches credential courses for the Continuing Education Institute.

Randall Roden has always been an artist, with teacher coming in a close second.



Roden earned his bachelor’s degree in art education from Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin; however, the job market for art teachers was not very strong after graduation. So, he founded his own company, Roden Creative, which specializes in graphic design, marketing, and photography. But he continued to pursue his dream of teaching, and eventually returned to school to earn his Master of Arts from UW-Madison. It took him six years while working part-time and managing his company.



Throughout his career, Roden has taught at several universities and colleges, but has now gotten back to his original plan of teaching art at the high school level. He is currently a long-term substitute art teacher at Oregon High School in Wisconsin.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Continuing Education Institute would like to thank the Dubuque Racing Association for its generous contribution regarding a needed renovation for the university’s pool, located in the Pioneer Activity Center.

Provided through a grant, the funds were used toward the purchase of a new aquatic ramp that offers a comfortable entryway into the pool area, which is enjoyed by both students and the larger Platteville community. This ramp serves as a replacement for the old one, and is especially helpful for the Continuing Education Institute’s swim programs, which invite audiences of all ages to participate in a variety of water-based exercises.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Child Care Credential program has won the Online Learning Consortium’s, John R. Bourne Outstanding Online Program Award. This award recognizes an outstanding online certificate, degree or continuing education program offered by an OLC member institution. The ideal recipient of this award would be an institution who houses a degree, certificate or continuing education program that has a proven record of excellence, as demonstrated by its success in providing expanded access, learning effectiveness, and high levels of student and faculty satisfaction, in a cost-effective manner.



The award criteria used to judge a program included:

Distance and Continuing Education at UW-Platteville are undergoing a transformation. After months of consideration and research, Alternative Delivery Systems is being renamed and rebranded as the Division of Professional Studies. This new division encompasses three departments: The Center for Distance Learning (formerly the Distance Learning Center), the Continuing Education Institute (formerly the Office of Continuing Education), and the School of Graduate Studies.

This rebranding marks a new chapter that will continue to build on our long-standing reputation for delivering outstanding curriculum, instruction, support services, professional programming, and community outreach. It also signifies our growth in areas like academic research, corporate training, mobile-friendly learning, virtual reality experiences, and more.

A UW-Platteville Continuing Education Child Care Leadership Credential graduate, Tammy Dannhoff, won the governor’s Pioneer Award. Governor Scott Walker, Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, and the Wisconsin Women’s Council announced the recipients of the 2018 Governor’s Trailblazer Awards for Women in Business, recognizing women pioneers in the business community. Click here for the full article.

Rosaura Richards celebrates with the first graduates of the Preschool Credential Program in Spanish.

Dr. Craig Wilson will be the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s first dean of distance, continuing, and graduate education. Following a national search by an internal committee, Wilson will officially join UW-Platteville on Monday, Jan. 22, 2018.