The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Division of Professional Studies was recently awarded a grant from the Dubuque Racing Association (DRA). Funds will help upgrade video conference equipment to outfit a conference room that is frequently used for meetings held among on-campus and remote participants.
The project supports the Division of Professional Studies, which includes the Center for Distance Learning, Continuing Education Institute and School of Graduate Studies. The primary goal of video conferencing equipment is to improve the experiences of students, employees and external stakeholders the division serves. The new equipment will replace outdated technology that has limited functionality for those participating in meetings remotely. Virtual meetings with external partners, remote employees and UW-Platteville branch campuses in Richland Center and Baraboo are essential components of day-to-day functions for the division. By enabling employees and partners to have more productive meetings and work sessions, DRA’s generous support will serve all the students and community members the division reaches through on-campus and online graduate degree programming, continuing education programs and community classes.
Dan Avenarius, executive director of the Center for Distance Learning, acknowledged the importance of the DRA grant on university operations. “Communicating with faculty and staff who work remotely from all parts of the country is vital to the efficient operations of the Center for Distance Learning,” said Avenarius. “The very generous grant received from the Dubuque Racing Association will be used to upgrade the video conferencing system in our conference room that serves as the communications center for all meetings conducted between on-campus and remote staff.”
The mission of the UW-Platteville Division of Professional Studies is to empower personal and professional growth through academic programs that prepare learners for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. The Center for Distance Learning offers thirteen online degree programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level, and the School of Graduate Studies serves on-campus graduate students. The Continuing Education Institute provides adult professionals certificate and credential programs, as well as serves all ages through community classes.