Campus Connection

New fund will provide even greater real-world opportunities for students

One of the strengths of the education provided at UW-La Crosse is the opportunity for students to be engaged in experiential learning activities. Nationally recognized for its commitment to undergraduate research and creative activities by students in all academic disciplines, UWL also promotes internships, student teaching, clinical experiences, campus leadership, community service and many other opportunities that promote learning outside of the classroom. Thanks to a gift from Ron and Jane Rada, the university is working with the UWL Foundation to pursue additional philanthropy to broaden and enhance the portfolio of student experiential learning opportunities. The Radas have pledged $100,000, hoping to leverage this gift as a challenge grant to generate a larger pool of $800,000-$1,000,000 in additional gifts over the next two years. “We believe UWL’s rich history of offerings and leadership with experiential learning is a strength that distinguishes it as one of the finest universities in the state and nation; the Margins of Excellence Initiative will build upon that distinction. We’re excited to be part of the initiative because it will provide even greater real-world opportunities for our exceptional students, further building upon their already outstanding education at UWL.  Please consider joining us in this opportunity — An investment in our students is a great investment in a bright future” — Ron & Jane Rada Among the activities that fall under the heading of experiential learning opportunities:

• Undergraduate and graduate student research
• Creative activities
• Student teaching/clinical experiences in the School of Education
• Clinical experiences, especially in the allied health fields
• Internships that are otherwise unpaid
• Study away/abroad experiences
• Student leadership experiences
• Community service experiences

Gifts may be designated to any and all disciplines across campus. Donors may use their gifts to set up their own funds or pool them into the Margins of Excellence fund or other existing funds. “Ron and Jane have really set the standard for our alumni and friends to support the transformational learning we provide at UWL. We hope others will join us in providing new opportunities for our amazing students” — Joe Gow, Chancellor UW-La crosse experiential learning

• 2,700 students participate in undergraduate research projects
• 861 students were placed in internships, both paid and unpaid
• Nearly 500 students study abroad every year

To support the Margins of Excellence initiative, please contact the UWL Foundation at 608.785.6803 or foundation@uwlax.edu.