Campus Connection

Alumni who graduated during the past three decades have earned the top awards bestowed by the UWL Alumni Association. They’re being honored for distinguished service and successful careers. The alumni will return to campus in fall to speak with students and participate in a panel at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, in the Great Hall, Cleary Alumni & Friends Center. An Alumni Awards Brunch and Ceremony is planned for 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, in The Bluffs Room, UWL Student Union. Tickets are $25 per person and can be ordered through the Alumni Association at 608.785.8489.

The awards and honorees 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.

• Shelmina Abji, ’85

[caption id="attachment_48251" align="alignleft" width="206"] Shelmina Abji, '85[/caption]                   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.

• Patrick Gonzales, ’05
• Hollie Nyseth Brehm, '08

[caption id="attachment_48255" align="alignleft" width="206"] Patrick Gonzales, '05[/caption] [caption id="attachment_48256" align="alignright" width="215"] Hollie Nyseth Brehm, '08[/caption]                   [caption id="attachment_48260" align="alignright" width="231"] Jessica Rae McMunn, '05[/caption] 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.

• Jessica Rae McMunn, ’05

      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.

• Lisa Koenecke, ’91
• Christopher Gleason, ’02

[caption id="attachment_48266" align="alignleft" width="208"] Lisa Koenecke, '91[/caption] [caption id="attachment_48267" align="alignright" width="210"] Christopher Gleason, '02[/caption]