Campus Connection

Seven to receive awards

Alumni who graduated during the past four decades will receive the top awards bestowed by the UWL Alumni Association in September. They’re being honored for distinguished service and successful careers. They’ll return to campus to speak with students and participate in a panel at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, in the Great Hall, Cleary Alumni & Friends Center. The event is free and open to all. An Alumni Awards Brunch and Ceremony is planned for 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, in The Bluffs Room, UWL Student Union. Tickets are $25 per person and can be ordered through the Alumni Association at 608.785.8489 or at: https://www.uwlax.edu/alumni/events/2018-alumni-awards/ Find out more about the awards and how to nominate deserving alums. This year’s recipients include: The Maurice O. Graff Distinguished Alumnus Award Recognizes outstanding achievement of alumni who have brought honor and distinction to the university. Long-time administrator Maurice O. Graff instituted the honor in 1977.   [caption id="attachment_52618" align="alignright" width="150"] Jon Erickson, ’76[/caption]   Jon Erickson, ’76 • Internationally recognized expert on college and workforce readiness assessment; retired president of ACT Inc. •Bachelor’s of Science in history and social studies.     [caption id="attachment_52624" align="alignright" width="150"] Joonkoo Yun, ’92[/caption] Joonkoo Yun, ’92 • Scholar, productive contributor and mentor in the fields of kinesiology and adapted physical activity; professor at Oregon State University. • Master’s of Science in special physical education.     Rada Distinguished Alumnus Award Recognizes alumni who have graduated within the last 20 years, achieved professional distinction and taken part in humanitarian activities. Professor emeritus Ron Rada and his wife, Jane, created the award in 2002.   [caption id="attachment_52632" align="alignright" width="150"] Matt Brantner, ’05[/caption]   Matt Brantner, ’05 • Dedicated conservation advocate; founding executive director of WisCorps, a statewide conservation corps. • Bachelor’s of Science in biology.     [caption id="attachment_52638" align="alignright" width="150"] Marc Gall, ’03[/caption] Marc Gall, ’03 • Successful bank consultant; respected humanitarian, philanthropist.; vice president of BOK Financial, Milwaukee. • Bachelor’s of Science in finance and economics.     Parker Distinguished Multicultural Alumni Award Recognizes outstanding alumni who have contributed greatly to improve multiracial culture and understanding on campus and in their careers. History Professor Emeritus James Parker initiated the award in 1997.   [caption id="attachment_52641" align="alignright" width="150"] Thomas Harris, ’01[/caption]   Thomas Harris, ’01 • Esteemed student mentor, and leader of equity and social justice; long-time student advisor and assistant director of Multicultural Student Services at UWL. • Master’s of Science in College Student Personnel.     [caption id="attachment_52642" align="alignright" width="150"] Houa Xiong, ’98 & ’00[/caption] Houa Xiong, ’98 & ’00 • Respected student counselor with a passion for helping struggling students; senior academic adviser at UW-Oshkosh. • Bachelor’s of Science in recreation management; Master’s of Science in Education, College Student Development and Administration.     Burt and Norma Altman Teacher Education Award Honors and recognizes outstanding educators and the significant contributions they make to children and communities. Professor Emeritus Burt Altman and his wife, Norma, long-time supporters of teacher education, created the award in 2015.   [caption id="attachment_52659" align="alignright" width="150"] Phil Ertl, ’88[/caption]   Phil Ertl, ’88 • Accomplished educator; Superintendent of Schools in the Wauwatosa School District since 2005. • Bachelor’s of Science in physical education.