Campus Connection

UWL Student Life Office awarded Program Excellence Award 

UW-La Crosse employs roughly 2,500 staff and faculty, each helping students reach their academic and personal potential in various ways.  

In 2021, the UWL Program Excellence Award was introduced to recognize the dedicated work, vital services, and outstanding contributions of the university’s non-instructional academic staff. 

This year, the Program Excellence Award has been awarded to the Student Life Office. 

“I am thrilled that the Student Life Office received the 2024 Academic Program Excellence Award,” says Vitaliano Figueroa, vice chancellor for student affairs. “The work that they do has a significant impact on the lives of our students as they support students through some of their biggest challenges and toughest times.” 

Comprising four units — advocacy and empowerment, student conduct, violence prevention, and wellness and health advocacy — Student Life has consistently gone above and beyond in serving the university community, even amidst staffing challenges. 

"Despite the personnel challenges, Advocacy and Empowerment has continued to serve students, faculty and staff without a break in service," explains Issy Beach, student wellness coordinator within Student Life. In the fall 2023 semester alone, the unit served 494 students, handling cases ranging from emergency fund requests to coordinating readmittance.

The Student Conduct unit has also demonstrated exceptional resilience. Amanda Abrahamson, assistant dean of students, managed the entire student conduct caseload during the maternity leave of Kara Ostlund, dean of students. The unit has facilitated numerous misconduct hearings and engaged in reflective conversations with students, helping them learn from mistakes and encouraging values-based decision-making.

"We talk about the impact their choices have not only on themselves but on those around us," Beach says. “This approach ensures that students are not only held accountable but also supported in their personal and academic growth.” 

The Violence Prevention unit plays a crucial role in promoting awareness and offering support to those affected by violence by providing safety planning and legal advocacy, in addition to organizing impactful events. Their outreach extends beyond the campus, with staff actively contributing to the La Crosse County Sexual Assault Response Team. 

Finally, Wellness and Health Advocacy has also made significant strides in promoting student well-being, engaging over 1,000 students through various programs in the spring 2024 semester alone. The unit has continually found creative ways to support and educate students, with Peer Health Advocates playing a crucial role in furthering the Student Life mission. 

“This award is a well-deserved recognition of the dedication and support provided by the Student Life Office, which is comprised of Health and Wellness, Advocacy and Empowerment, Violence Prevention, Student Conduct, Second Year Experience, the assistant dean of students, and the dean of students. Congratulations to the entire Student Life Office team,” Figueroa says. 

In their nomination, Student Life staff emphasized the office's role as a hub of connectivity and support on campus, ensuring that students have the resources they need to thrive academically, socially and personally. 

Beach says, "Our office is intentionally named the Student Life Office because we believe in putting students first. It shows in the work we do."  

Get connected with the Student Life Office.