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�� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs

giffeyt — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:33:20 +0000

�� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs giffeyt February 18, 2026

Dr. Ramakrishnan will advance strategic priorities, foster academic initiatives at Wisconsin ��. ��

�� has announced that a new provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs will begin on Aug. 1.

Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan, currently special assistant to the provost at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, will advance strategic priorities and foster academic initiatives that reflect �� . status as Wisconsin ��. ��.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ramakrishnan to ��. She brings the background, ideas, and experience that will help advance �� . distinct polytechnic identity and support student success,” said Chancellor Katherine Frank, who announced the appointment on Feb. 16.

With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Dr. Ramakrishnan will work closely with faculty, staff and stakeholders to address regional and state needs and support student success. 

Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan

“I am excited to join �� and contribute to its vibrant polytechnic identity,” Ramakrishnan said. “I am inspired by the ‘Do More on Day One’ spirit, and I look forward to partnering with all stakeholders to lead Academic Affairs. Together, we will advance academic excellence in alignment with our core polytechnic tenets to better serve our students.”

Glendalí Rodríguez, who has served as �� . provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs since 2019, will return to the faculty within the Operations and Management Department.

Ramakrishnan will come to �� with considerable academic and administrative experience, having served as a professor, chairperson, program director, dean and associate provost (interim). During her tenure at St. Cloud State University and Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, she secured or contributed significantly to securing more than $9 million in external grants, including several National Science Foundation grants, which provided scholarships in STEM, improved student success, and enhanced research infrastructure. At Commonwealth University, she established the college ��. first external advisory board and empowered faculty to lead the development of the first college strategic plan.

During her interview process at ��, Ramakrishnan demonstrated a strong commitment to student success and excitement to lead the Academic Affairs unit in advancing �� . polytechnic mission. Ramakrishnan holds a Ph.D. in physical polymer chemistry from the Indian Institute of Science; a M.S. in chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras; and a B.S. in chemistry from the Sri Sarada College for Women. She was a Postdoctoral Fellow and a Research Associate at Cornell University from 2000 to 2006, including a year as Epilepsy Foundation and Milken Family Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow.

The Provost ��. Office oversees the Division of Academic Affairs, which includes:

Career Services
Center for Applied Ethics
College of Arts & Human Sciences
College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management
Educational Pathways & Outreach
Graduate Studies
Honors College
Menards Center for the Study of Institutions & Innovation
Multi-Modal Instructional Supports
Office of International Education
Office of Research & Sponsored Programs
Robert S. Swanson Library & Learning Center

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�� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs

Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan will advance strategic priorities, foster academic initiatives at Wisconsin ��. ��

February 18, 2026

�� collaborates on new bachelor ��. degree program at Stanley Correctional Institution

Program is part of statewide coalition that aims to develop workforce, reduce recidivism

September 15, 2025

�� faculty, instructional staff honored for educational excellence

Honorees include two professors receiving system-wide recognition

September 2, 2025

Dr. Latha Ramakrishnan will advance strategic priorities, foster academic initiatives at Wisconsin ��. �� Latha Ramakrishnan 2025

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Chancellor Frank featured on TechEd Podcast

hugginsm — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:20:00 +0000

Chancellor Frank featured on TechEd Podcasthugginsm January 23, 2026

�� chancellor, CVTC president discuss reframing higher education

Listen Online

Higher education is shifting toward a connected model where colleges and universities function as one learner ecosystem. The goal is simple: make credentials stackable, transfer predictable, and pathways flexible enough for learners to move in and out of education as their careers evolve.

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner speaks with �� Chancellor Katherine Frank and Chippewa Valley Technical College President Sunem Beaton-Garcia about how their institutions have developed streamlined pathways for learners that support lifelong learning.

They break down how institutions can design on-ramps and off-ramps, align programs across tech/community college and university systems, expand credit recognition, and keep partnerships active so transfer works in real life (no more “credits to nowhere”). The conversation also expands to what this shift means nationally as technology and workforce needs change rapidly.

Learn more about the Tech Ed Podcast and listen to other episodes at techedpodcast.com.

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PODCAST: Being Human UT features Stout faculty for 2023 Polytechnic Summit recap

Stout professors and undergraduate researcher talk to UT podcast hosts about work presented at the 2023 Polytechnic Summit.

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Chancellor Frank featured on Menomonie Chamber Chatter podcast

Hosts Ashley DeMuth and Scott Montesano welcome Chancellor Katherine Frank for episode #3 of the Menomonie Chamber Chatter podcast..

October 18, 2022

�� chancellor, CVTC president discuss reframing higher education CVTC President Sunem Beaton-Garcia and �� Chancellor Katherine Frank

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Doctoral student ��. AI-enhanced artwork featured on chancellor ��. seasonal greeting card

giffeyt — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Doctoral student ��. AI-enhanced artwork featured on chancellor ��. seasonal greeting cardgiffeyt January 8, 2026

Like her artwork, educator ��. dissertation explores using AI to supplement student creativity

Tom Giffey

For more than 125 years, University of Wisconsin-Stout ��. stately Bowman Hall and its distinctive clock tower have served as landmarks for the campus and the community.

This holiday season, they provided artistic inspiration for a doctoral student who designed an annual greeting card sent by �� Chancellor Katherine Frank to hundreds of recipients. The image — created with a combination of digital tools, including an artificial intelligence assistant — shows the familiar campus building reimagined as a glowing 3D blueprint.

Desiah Melby / Contributed photo

“I wanted the design to capture both my student experience and the character of ��,” explained Desiah Melby of Scandinavia, Wisconsin, who is pursuing an Ed.D. in career and technical education leadership. “My mind went to the clock tower — but I wanted to reimagine it to reflect the changes in education right now!”

Among those ongoing changes is the use of AI in higher education, which Melby is examining as part of her doctoral dissertation as well as in her professional career at Mid-State Technical College, which has four central Wisconsin campuses. Melby is a communications instructor at Mid-State, where she teaches courses in writing, literature, workplace communication and technical reporting while also leading institutional initiatives around AI integration in teaching, learning and faculty development.

�� . iconic Bowman Hall in winter.

‘A Blueprint for the Future’

“We are excited about this year ��. design, which shows, through student work, what it means to learn at a polytechnic university,” stated Frank, who sends out the seasonal cards annually. “Desiah ��. design is the result of applied research and learning. What she has produced tells a story about the tangible results of a polytechnic education that have an impact today through the card ��. design and message, and will continue to impact students through the innovative educational experience that Desiah creates in her own classroom well into the future.”

This is the third year that �� students have been invited to submit designs for the chancellor ��. seasonal card. Melby learned about the contest through a campus email, and she pursued the opportunity to connect her current academic pursuit with her personal curiosity and creativity.

“This design reimagines �� . iconic Bowman Hall clock tower as a glowing, holographic blueprint — blending history with innovation,” Melby wrote in an artist ��. statement. “The tower honors the university ��. proud traditions, while the futuristic aesthetic reflects its role as Wisconsin ��. only polytechnic and its forward-facing embrace of technology, creativity and applied learning.”

In addition to the artist ��. statement, the card carried the phrase “A Blueprint for the Future” emblazoned on its front.

Melby ��. creative process integrated both traditional and cutting-edge processes. After sketching an initial concept by hand, she refined the composition using a photograph in Adobe Illustrator. Next, she uploaded the image to Midjourney, a generative AI service, where she used iterative prompting to reach the holographic-style blueprint style she was seeking. From there, Melby brought the image into Photoshop, where she adjusted the color palettes, layout and background until she was satisfied with the result.

“For me, the refinement stage is always the most enjoyable: adjusting compositional balance, nudging elements and reworking details,” she said. “That ��. the ‘play’ part of the process.”

Supporting creativity with technology

A close-up of the image created by doctoral candidate Desiah Melby for the chancellor's annual seasonal card. / Submitted image

Melby completed her M.S. education with an emphasis in curriculum and instructional design at �� in 2023, and soon after decided to pursue her doctorate at �� as well.

“My master ��. experiences left me with a sense that my work wasn’t finished — I knew there were deeper questions I wanted to explore, especially around educational leadership, instructional design and emerging technologies,” Melby said. �� . Ed.D. program was a “perfect fit,” she explained. She is now writing her doctoral dissertation and expects to graduate in May.

“Crucially, the program lets me focus on my professional passions: innovative pedagogy, workforce preparation and the evolving landscape of digital learning,” she said. “It has also informed much of the work I am doing both in my classroom and leading AI in teaching and learning at my college.”

As a full-time faculty member and committee leader at Mid-State, Melby is grateful that �� . online model has allowed her the flexibility to integrate what she ��. learning into her professional life. “Instead of education happening outside of my work, it has genuinely shaped the work I do every day,” she said.

Likewise, both her work in the classroom and her academic interests lie at the intersection of traditional and AI-enhanced methods. “My dissertation examines how integrating AI tools into first-year writing instruction influences student perceptions of writing, confidence and learning,” she said. “I created a curriculum model that integrates AI literacy, workplace use cases and ethics into writing instruction. Instead of replacing critical thinking, I believe that AI can serve as a scaffold — supporting brainstorming, revision and idea development — when students are taught to use it transparently, responsibly and with academic integrity.”

Melby said she is surprised that her design was chosen but is grateful for the opportunity to represent her educational journey at �� in a unique way.

“This project embodies the heart of my dissertation: student learning and creativity supported by technology,” she said. “I used digital tools to extend, not replace, my artistic intent — much like I ask students to use AI to extend their thinking and writing, not bypass it. The design is my practical demonstration of human creativity augmented by thoughtful technological choices, which is exactly the paradigm I believe education must embrace.”

Designer ��. Statement
“This design reimagines �� . iconic Bowman Hall clock tower as a glowing, holographic blueprint — blending history with innovation. The tower honors the university ��. proud traditions, while the futuristic aesthetic reflects Stout ��. role as Wisconsin ��. only polytechnic and its forward-facing embrace of technology, creativity, and applied learning.
“I created this piece in collaboration with an AI design assistant, making the creative process itself a reflection of Stout ��. identity — where human vision and emerging technologies meet. This choice is also deeply connected to my doctoral research, which focuses on how AI can enhance education and workforce readiness. By incorporating AI into my creative process, I extend my scholarly work into the artistic realm.”
Desiah Melby (’22)
Ed.D. Career & Technical Education Leadership Communications Instructor
Mid-State Technical College

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Like her artwork, educator ��. dissertation explores using AI to supplement student creativity Seasonal card 2025 on white background

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Hero Caption: Using a combination of digital tools, Desiah Melby created this image of Bowman Hall that was used in Chancellor Katherine Frank ��. annual seasonal greeting card.

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Op-Ed: Reframing Higher Education

giffeyt — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Op-Ed: Reframing Higher Educationgiffeyt September 16, 2025

��, CVTC are working together to break down barriers and redefine higher education for the 21st century

By Dr. Katherine Frank, Chancellor of University of Wisconsin-Stout
and Dr. Sunem Beaton-Garcia, President of Chippewa Valley Technical College

As leaders of institutions committed to preparing the next generation of skilled professionals, we find ourselves aligned as regional partners at a decisive moment in the evolution of American higher education. We acknowledge that higher education is changing, that this is a good thing, and that we are uniquely positioned to reframe what higher education means in a 21st-century economy.

In place of perceived rigid educational silos, a more dynamic ecosystem is emerging. One where credentials are increasingly stackable, learning is lifelong, and value is measured not solely by credit hours earned but by competencies gained and career opportunities unlocked at different points in time and flexible to learners. This is particularly true at the intersection of technical education as offered at Chippewa Valley Technical College and polytechnic learning and research at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Together, our institutions serve as launchpads for students and professionals of all backgrounds to enter the workforce, upskill, or transition into new careers. Our aligned missions are not just to educate, but also to connect education directly to employment. Whether a student is earning an industry certification, an associate degree, a bachelor ��. degree, or a graduate degree, the ultimate goals remains the same: to make the on and off ramps for students seamless as they navigate educational pathways, and to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills and experience to thrive in today ��. — and tomorrow ��. — economy.

What sets technical colleges like CVTC and polytechnic universities like �� apart is our intentional focus on aligning learning with labor market demand across our entire program array. We are uniquely equipped to translate credits into careers and experience into impact. From advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity to healthcare and clean energy technologies, our institutions respond rapidly to evolving industry needs and emerging technologies such as the integration of artificial intelligence and automation.

Moreover, we are actively breaking down barriers between credentials by recognizing a wider range of qualifications. The future of higher education is not linear. It ��. modular, flexible, and deeply connected to industry. A student may start with a short-term credential and then stack that into an associate degree at a technical college, and go on to pursue a bachelor ��., graduate, or professional degree at a polytechnic university — all while working and gaining real-world experience. This fluidity is no longer the exception; it ��. the new norm through strong transfer agreements and program alignment between CVTC and ��.

As we look to the future, higher education must be reframed. Not as a one-size-fits-all model rooted in tradition, but as an agile, inclusive system that meets learners where they are and takes them where they want to go. Credentials must be transparent, portable, and a return on investment. Equally important, every student must see a clear connection among what they are learning today, the opportunities that await them tomorrow, and the impact they will have on society.

This is where our institutions excel. At the heart of our work is a shared belief that education should be transformational for the individual learner, their families, their communities, and the broader economy. Our institutions are not just adapting to change; we are driving it.

It ��. time to reframe higher education. The future isn’t about competing models; it ��. about complementary missions that support all learners, at every stage, and help them turn their education into a lifelong advantage. Together, we are building a model that is more responsive, equitable, and aligned with the needs of a rapidly changing world.

As we welcome new and continuing students this fall, and into the future, we do so with pride in our shared commitment to the communities we serve. Our campuses are more than places of learning. They are engines of opportunity and hubs of innovation. Together we are catalysts for a stronger, more vibrant future for all.

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��, CVTC are working together to break down barriers and redefine higher education for the 21st century �� Chancellor Frank and CVTC President Beaton-Garcia

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Hero Caption: Dr. Katherine Frank, �� chancellor, right, and Dr. Sunem Beaton Garcia, president of Chippewa Valley Technical College, at a Sept. 15 ribbon-cutting at CVTC ��. Menomonie campus.

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‘Power of Partnership’: �� celebrates groundbreaking for $144M Heritage Hall renovation

giffeyt — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

‘Power of Partnership’: �� celebrates groundbreaking for $144M Heritage Hall renovation giffeyt September 10, 2025

Chancellor, lawmakers, community and campus leaders join to highlight project that will boost Wisconsin workforce

Tom Giffey

With ceremonial shovels full of dirt, leaders from University of Wisconsin-Stout, the regional business community and the state of Wisconsin celebrated the start of a three-year, $144.3 million renovation project that will transform the half-century-old Heritage Hall into a cutting-edge educational hub to help meet Wisconsin ��. workforce needs.

The project, which began in August and is expected to be completed by fall 2028, will double the number of students Heritage Hall can serve through an extensive, clean-slate renovation.

“Today, we celebrate more than the groundbreaking of a building – we celebrate the power of partnership and perseverance. The renovation of Heritage Hall is a direct reflection of our mission as Wisconsin ��. ��: to provide career-focused, applied learning and research, and industry collaboration that meets the evolving needs of the state ��. workforce and communities,” Chancellor Katherine Frank said at the ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 9.

Chancellor Katherine Frank spoke at the Heritage Hall groundbreaking.

“For more than 50 years, Heritage Hall, originally known as the Home Economics building, has served as a launchpad for thousands of �� graduates – teachers, counselors, police officers, food scientists, hospitality leaders, and more – who have gone on to strengthen Wisconsin ��. economy and enrich our communities,” Frank continued. “With approximately 60% of our graduates remaining in-state and a near-perfect employment rate, �� places students into Wisconsin ��. workforce at a higher rate than any other technical college or university. But the building ��. true value lies in the lives it will shape and the challenges it will help solve – from childcare and education to mental health, manufacturing, and tourism.”

Among those whose lives and careers have already been shaped by �� is state Rep. Clint Moses, a �� psychology alum who now represents the Menomonie area in the state Legislature. In that role, Moses was a strong advocate for funding the project in the state budget.

“I’d like to thank the chancellor and her team for doing an excellent job showing why it ��. important that we support �� and the type of students that this institution puts out,” Moses said. “From hotel, restaurant, and tourism to golf management, all of these create the jobs we need for Wisconsin.”

State Rep. Clint Moses of Menomonie spoke at the Heritage Hall groundbreaking.

Another proud �� alum is Ashley DeMuth, CEO for the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce, who called the project an affirmation of a shared commitment to improving the workforce and the community.

“Heritage Hall truly is more than a building. It ��. a bridge between campus and community. It ��. an investment in the next generation of professionals in education, hospitality, mental health, manufacturing, health care, tourism, nutrition and more,” DeMuth said. “This is where applied learning meets real-world needs. From the Child and Family Study Center to the programs training our future teachers, counselors, and wellness leaders, Heritage Hall has long been at the heart of �� . mission. The Chamber and our investors across all industries are proud to support this vision.”

Before the renovation began, Heritage Hall served more than 2,000 students in 29 undergraduate and graduate programs annually. Once it reopens, this number is expected to grow to more than 4,000 students each year.

The three-year project will involve demolishing the interior partitions of the building to create maximum flexibility for new spaces. An independent feasibility study conducted in 2020 found that while the building is structurally sound, most of its systems are either obsolete and difficult to repair or near the end of their life. The renovation will completely replace the building ��. mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems; replace the roof, windows and entrances; create code-compliant and accessible restrooms; and more.

“The renovation of Heritage Hall represents a bold step forward for ��,” Senior Facilities Officer Justin Utpadel said. “This four-story facility will be completely revitalized with modern infrastructure, including solar panels and enhanced daylighting to support sustainability and wellness. Accessibility will be significantly improved, with accessible entrances on three floors.”

Representatives from the campus, community and state took part in a ceremonial groundbreaking.

The renovation will also directly benefit the community at large, noted Provost Glendalí Rodríguez. “Heritage Hall is not only physically central to the university ��. footprint; along the north it is a key community connection and entrance,” Rodríguez said. “With the renovation, the university ��. Clinical Services Center, which serves members of the community, will be more easily accessible and celebrated.”

Rodríguez went on to outline the plethora of programs that will be housed within the remodeled building, noting that many of them produce graduates who can fill jobs in economic sectors projected to grow in Wisconsin in the near future, including tourism, mental health, education and child care.

The bulk of funding for the project came from the state of Wisconsin through the 2023-25 state budget. The project also received $13.5 million in private funding from university supporters, industry partners and alumni made through the Stout University Foundation. In terms of dollar value, it is the largest project in the university ��. history.

Wisconsin-based Miron Construction will serve as the project ��. general contractor. Andrew Daniels, senior vice president of the company ��. Eau Claire office, said the project is particularly meaningful to Miron because many of its team members are �� graduates.

Miron Construction is the general contractor for the project.

“We’re excited to build a space that reflects the future of learning: flexible, interdisciplinary, sustainable and safe,” Daniels said. “And we’re even more excited to know that the students who will walk these halls – some of whom may one day join our team – will be learning in an environment designed to help them thrive.”

The renovation will allow Heritage Hall to serve Blue Devil students well into the future, said Noah Rosenberger, president of the Stout Student Association, who said he knows the building well as a hotel, restaurant and tourism management major.

“To me, the biggest takeaway from today is that this project shows how much the university, alumni and community believe in us as students,” said Rosenberger, of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. “They are investing in spaces where we learn, grow, connect and live the polytechnic spirit. I can’t wait for the day I walk back into Heritage Hall as an alumnus and see it completely reimagined. Not just new walls and classrooms, but the energy it ��. going to bring to campus.”

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‘Power of Partnership’: �� celebrates groundbreaking for $144M Heritage Hall renovation

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September 10, 2025

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Chancellor Katherine Frank issues a statement following funding approval of Heritage Hall by the Joint Finance Committee.

June 2, 2023

Chancellor, lawmakers, community and campus leaders join to highlight project that will boost Wisconsin workforce Banners at Heritage Hall groundbreaking

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Hero Caption: Ground was officially broken for the $144 million Heritage Hall renovation project on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025.

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�� stands out among peers as enrollment grows in all categories for 2025-26 academic year

giffeyt — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:41:26 +0000

�� stands out among peers as enrollment grows in all categories for 2025-26 academic yeargiffeyt September 9, 2025

Growth in freshman class, transfer admissions among best in Wisconsin

Tom Giffey

University of Wisconsin-Stout already stands out among its peers as Wisconsin ��. only ��. This fall, it also stands apart as the only one of the Universities of Wisconsin to demonstrate growth in all major enrollment categories, including new freshmen, new transfer students, other undergraduates, graduate students, total headcount and full-time equivalent students.

�� . enrollment growth for the 2025-26 academic year is among the strongest of the state ��. 13 public universities, with overall enrollment rising and the freshmen headcount growing by more than 6%.

Enrollment for the fall semester, which began Sept. 3, is estimated at 7,047 students, a 2% increase over fall 2024. The figure put �� in the top five for overall growth among its 12 peers in the Universities of Wisconsin, according to preliminary numbers based on Day One enrollment.

The enrollment figures reflect �� . Polytechnic Advantage – with its ongoing emphasis on applied learning, business and industry partnerships, and career-focused experiences – as well as the university ��. efforts to strategically expand enrollment, Chancellor Katherine Frank said.

“�� has been very intentional in our work connected with enrollment,” Frank explained. “We are delighted to see the increase in our student population and that our stakeholders are recognizing the value of the polytechnic education we offer here at ��.”

Chancellor Katherine Frank speaks at the Blue Rah celebration for incoming freshmen.

Among the strongest areas of growth is in the number of first-year students, which expanded 6.3% from last fall to an estimated 1,273 freshmen on the first day of classes.

“A �� education continues to grow in appeal,” Director of Admissions Brian Weber said. “We hear it from our proud alumni all the time, and future students and families are taking note that the student experience at �� will set them up for long-term success. With an increase of new freshman of more than 6%, including increases in Wisconsin residents, more students are saying yes to a polytechnic education. For many students choosing ��, opportunities to apply learning on campus and through industry collaborations are top of mind – they want to make sure they’re preparing well for life after college, and we plan to support them in that.”

Fully 99% of �� graduates were either employed or furthering their education within six months of graduation, according to the most recent First Destination Report, which covers those who graduated between fall 2023 and summer 2024. Those who received undergraduate degrees during that time reported average starting salaries of $57,000, the highest among universities in the region, while recipients of graduate degrees reported an average salary of $74,000.

Students celebrate at the Blue Rah event.

Another area of notable enrollment growth is among transfer students: That number rose 8% compared with fall 2024 after having grown 16% the previous year, said Meridith Wentz, vice chancellor for enrollment and quality.

“Growth of transfer students is one of the key initiatives in our strategic enrollment plan,” Wentz explained. Steps taken to assist transfer students include significantly expanding articulation agreements with other institutions, streamlining the review process to speed up admissions decisions, and implementing systematic and proactive outreach to re-enroll students who left �� without graduating, she said.

“We very intentionally ramped up support for transfer students through additional staffing to include faster responses and more flexibility for students,” Weber added. “When transfer students work with our team, they know they will quickly get the answers and help that they need.”

Preliminary enrollment estimates for all 13 public universities in Wisconsin were released Tuesday, Sept. 9. Final figures, based upon the number of students enrolled as of the 10th day of classes, will be available later this fall.

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�� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs

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Growth in freshman class, transfer admissions among best in Wisconsin �� students on campus

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Charging toward a more sustainable future: �� unveils new electric vehicle charging stations

goersab — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:39:56 +0000

Charging toward a more sustainable future: �� unveils new electric vehicle charging stationsgoersab June 26, 2025

Stations open to campus and community members, visitors; adding to university ��. ongoing energy solutions

Abbey Goers

A sustainability project more than two years in the making was unveiled at �� on June 23, adding to the university ��. ongoing commitment to clean energy solutions and green transportation options.

Two electric vehicle charging stations, located in Lot 14, on the west side of Sorensen Hall, are now available for campus and community members and visitors.

The level two stations are part of the ChargePoint charging network and provide an opportunity for four electric or hybrid vehicles to charge simultaneously. They will be available for a charging fee of 35 cents per kilowatt hour, said Sustainability Manager Kadi Wright.

The project was made possible through the Stout Student Association (SSA) and its Sustainability Council, the Sustainability Office, the Campus Wide Energy Committee, Facilities Management and Parking Services.

Vice Chancellor Erik Guenard, Stout Student Association Vice President Chris Sander and Chancellor Katherine Frank

Campus stakeholders who spoke at the unveiling were Chancellor Katherine Frank, Vice Chancellor Erik Guenard, Facilities Management Associate Director Zenon Smolarek, Wright and SSA representatives.

Collection Development Librarian Cory Mitchell and Smolarek demonstrated how to activate the stations, how individuals can access them, and where to find more information.

“This event may seem like a small celebration, but it represents something much larger – our institution ��. ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and progress. Every initiative like this is part of a larger strategic plan that represents our goals, is aligned with our mission, and demonstrates our responsibility to the future,” Frank said.

As Wisconsin ��. ��, �� prepares students for the future, Frank said, adding that, “At Stout, education encompasses what happens both inside and outside of the classroom, studio, and laboratory. This means that our campus infrastructure should reflect our values as a polytechnic university: forward-thinking, applicable, and engaged with the issues of our time.”

Guenard agreed. “These new electric vehicle charging stations are more than a convenience – they’re a clear sign of our institution ��. evolving role in addressing climate change and promoting environmental responsibility. We’re not just talking about sustainability – we’re building it into the physical landscape of our college.

“Sustainability is a shared effort. It ��. championed by students who speak up for cleaner systems. It ��. maintained by operations teams who innovate behind the scenes. And it ��. strengthened by every person who chooses to walk, bike, carpool – or now – charge an electric vehicle right here on campus,” he said.

Collection Development Librarian Cory Mitchell (left) demonstrates how the ChargePoint stations works

The Sustainability Office and the SSA council share common goals: to make �� greener and to care for the students, said Bergen Haag, SSA Sustainability director and transportation liaison, who was unable to attend the unveiling

“We have completed numerous projects, both large and small, and this initiative is just one step toward making our campus more eco-friendly. I hope this project benefits many people and inspires further initiatives on our campus. Let ��. keep the momentum going and keep charging toward a more sustainable future,” said Haag, who credited Wright for her many contributions.

“Projects like this show that our campus is serious about turning ideas into action. We’ve had a lot of conversations over the years – about climate change, clean energy, and how we can do our part as a college community,” added SSA Vice President Chris Sander. “This is one of those moments where you can see progress being made. These stations aren’t just about cars – they’re about access, about future-forward thinking, and about reducing our impact. It ��. also a sign that when students, staff, and leadership work together, good things happen.”

Learn more at the Sustainable Stout website.

The ChargePoint Network app shows the locations of available ChargePoint stations

�� . clean energy solutions

As a Charter Signatory of the Carbon Commitment, �� has a commitment to becoming carbon-neutral by 2050. The university incorporates sustainability into its academic programs and operations, including a multibuilding solar and energy efficiency upgrades project.

The U.S. Department of Education named �� a national Green Ribbon school, based on its long-term and ongoing efforts to infuse sustainability into operations and the classroom and to create a campuswide culture that advances environmental initiatives.

The Green Ribbon award, a one-time honor, is given annually to a select number of schools, including early learning centers, elementary, secondary and post-secondary institutions. In Wisconsin, �� was the only university to be recognized in 2024.

Sustainability efforts honored by U.S. Department of Education, statewide Focus on Energy

�� can officially add a new “color” to its identity – green.

�� was re-designated as a bronze Bike Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists through 2028.

University Recreation ��. Stout Adventures offer StoutBikes, a bike share program through which students can rent a bike for a week, semester or over the summer. There are four bike fix stations around campus, a bike shelter at the University Library, bike lockers at CKTO residence hall and Jarvis Hall, as well as bike racks located all around campus.

Surplus Property helps keep more than 100 tons of materials out of area landfills each year to improve university sustainability and profitability. And the campuswide compost and recycling collection system results in a 48% decrease in landfill waste.

Last fall, �� hosted the Universities of Wisconsin Sustainability Annual Meeting, where sustainability leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni and external partners gathered to collaborate on environmental topics and share resources, ideas and knowledge to develop strategic goals and support sustainability efforts on UW campuses, as well as career and economic development across the state.

Earth Week events, coordinated through the Sustainability Office and various student organizations, including UW-Sprout Campus Garden volunteer day and apple tree planting, thrift swap, plant sale, campus cleanup and an Earth Day Bash at the University Library.

More than 80 off-campus students participated in this year ��. Spring Move-Out event, when the Sustainability Office, Waste Reduction Work Group, and campus volunteers helped to properly dispose and recycle approximately 360 items, including furniture, bed frames, grills, electronics and appliances. The office also worked with Chippewa Valley Habitat for Humanity to donate items in good condition. This event was funded by the City of Menomonie and the Stout Student Association.

�� offers a B.S. in environmental science and a P.S.M. in conservation biology, as well as minors in environmental health and sustainability.

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February 25, 2026

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Community invited to exhibitions, civic and literary conversations, film screenings and performances

February 11, 2026

Stations open to campus and community members, visitors; adding to university ��. ongoing energy solutions Vice Chancellor Erik Guenard, Stout Student Association Vice President Chris Sander and Chancellor Katherine Frank

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Education Designed for the Future: �� to host global Polytechnic Summit, May 18-21

goersab — Tue, 13 May 2025 12:47:40 +0000

Education Designed for the Future: �� to host global Polytechnic Summit, May 18-21goersab May 13, 2025

Keynotes on AI, humanities; Evolution of Education panel; Applied Research Showcase

Abbey Goers

National and international academic professionals and community leaders will gather in Menomonie for the global Polytechnic Summit 2025, hosted by ��, Sunday, May 18, to Wednesday, May 21.

The annual summit brings thought leaders together to shape the future of polytechnic education, to build opportunities for collaboration and partnerships, and to discuss the latest in applied research, professional development programs and community outreach activities.

This year ��. theme, “Education Designed for the Future,” will include discussions on industry engagement, humanistic and AI partnerships, future-focused infrastructure, entrepreneurship and polytechnic learning.

“External and internal factors occurring across the globe are accelerating the necessary pace of change for the education sector,” �� Provost Glendalí Rodríguez said. “The theme ‘Education Designed for the Future’ is timely for a convening of polytechnic stakeholders to share insights about how we are evolving to remain relevant and leading edge. We’re excited to gather a dynamic and diverse group of institutions to share ideas, foster collaboration and continue shaping the future of polytechnic education.”

Polytechnic Summit

Welcoming academic professionals and community leaders dedicated to shaping the future of Polytechnic education.

The summit attracts polytechnic universities, colleges, institutes and programs from across the globe, including:

American Association of State Colleges and Universities
Hochschule Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
Howest University of Applied Sciences, West Flanders, Belgium
Purdue Polytechnic Institute, West Lafayette, Indiana
Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas
Utah Tech University, St. George, Utah
Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
LeTourneau University, Longview, Texas

“Stout is leading the way among both Wisconsin and polytechnic universities, as evidenced by our 99% graduate employment rate, which we attribute to reflect the work of staying relevant through applied learning and research, business and industry partnerships, and career-focused learning opportunities,” Rodríguez said.

“Aligned with our commitment to performance excellence, celebrated by our achievement of the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award, the summit allows us to convene with thought-partners, problem-solvers and share best practices in our shared commitment to student success,” she added.

The summit was founded in 2009 by the late Chancellor Charles Sorensen, two years after �� was designated as Wisconsin ��. ��. �� is among the 3% of U.S. universities designated as polytechnics. It also hosted the summit in 2010 and 2019.

Design Wisconsin

Showcasing the impacts of industrial and product design on Wisconsin's culture, commerce, community, and brand.

As a prelude to the summit, �� is hosting the 4th Annual Design Wisconsin Friday, May 16, and Sunday, May 18. The free event is a showcase of Minnesota and Wisconsin industrial design and fashion design. Companies in past years have included TREK, Milwaukee Tool, Kohler, Mercury Marine, Polaris, Fiskars, Oshkosh, Harley-Davidson, Sherwin-Williams and Spectrum.

Keynotes related to AI and the humanities

The opening keynote will be led by international speaker Matt Kirchner, the TechEd Podcast host who focuses on education, workforce development and public policy.

His keynote “Hands-On Higher Ed and How AI Will Transform the University Experience” will discuss how some see advancing technology, shifting demographics and changing attitudes toward post-secondary learning as acute threats to higher education. However, Kirchner asks, might advancing technologies present the greatest opportunities to innovative leaders?

Keynote speakers Matt Kirchner, Rishi Jaitly and David Bruce

Kirchner is president of ATS/LAB Midwest. A former industrial CEO, he led three manufacturing companies for more than 20 years. He is the author of “Teaching the Industrial Internet of Things: Preparing Students and Learners for Industry 4.0.”

Rishi Jaitly, professor of practice and Distinguished Humanities Fellow at Virginia Tech, will lead a keynote on “Invisible Infrastructure: Reclaiming a Humanities-Inspired Technology Landscape.” Drawing on his decades of experience as an entrepreneur, educator and executive in and around Silicon Valley, and his learnings as Founder of the Institute for Leadership in Technology at Virginia Tech, Jaitly will offer his reflections on how the humanities might reclaim their role in technology specifically, and our culture more generally.

David Bruce, an executive partner with Gartner, will discuss “Navigating the Future: AI ��. Role in Higher Education,” where he’ll explore the impact of artificial intelligence and how it can enhance educational outcomes, as well as foster an inclusive and dynamic academic environment. Gartner works with C-suite executives and their teams to deliver actionable, objective insight and expert guidance and tools to enable faster, smarter decisions and stronger performance.

Featured sessions and research showcase

A panel session on the Evolution of Education will be led by �� Chancellor Katherine Frank, Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences President Arnd Steinmetz, Utah Tech University Vice Chancellor Michael Lacourse, Purdue Professor Emeritus Gary Bertoline, Whitehall School District Superintendent of Schools Mike Beighley and Western Technical College Associate Vice President of Workforce Partnerships and Innovation Joshua Gamer.

Katherine Frank, Arnd Steinmetz and Michael Lacourse

Featured breakout sessions will include:

Mindset, an Engineering Report: Bertoline
A Universal Framework for Artificial Intelligence Literacy: Emily Laird, AI integration technologist, ��
Building Future Learning Spaces Using Virtual Reality: Paul Grimm, professor of expanded realities and chief digital officer, Darmstadt
Integrating Industry-Focused Collaboration into Curriculum and Program Design: Keif Oss and Jonny Wheeler, professors of video production, ��

The summit will also host an Applied Research Showcase, a unique platform for faculty and industry partners across multiple institutions to present real-world research and innovative projects that address current challenges across industries and communities.

“Participants can share their findings, network with professionals and gain visibility for their work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. This showcase is the chance to demonstrate impact and inspire future collaboration,” Rodríguez said.

Gary Bertoline, Mike Beighley and Joshua Gamer

Propelling humankind forward

Graphic design and interactive media sophomores had the opportunity to have their concepts showcased at the summit. Students in a foundation ��. studio course with graphic design Program Director Alex DeArmond participated in a short ideation project to create a design that would be printed on tote bags to be given to summit attendees.

Of the 15 students who presented their concepts, Grace Gilhousen, of Dresser, Wisconsin, created the winning design selected by the summit coordinators.

Within her design, Gilhousen conveyed the impact of educators in an abstract graphic resembling a wave or mountain.

Grace Gilhousen's Polytechnic Summit tote bag design

“I was inspired by optical illusions and how powerful the effect could be in a 2D space,” she said. “With that in mind, I constructed a pseudo 3D wave of influence to embody the passage of knowledge between learners. The movement depicted is upward, because education is what propels humankind forward and determines how we all live tomorrow.”

The project encouraged students to “understand that they should always be thinking strategically about how a design can translate across multiple platforms,” DeArmond said. “The students really got a lot out of this exercise. In our final critique, several expressed how meaningful it was to design for a client and a real-world outcome.”

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Certificate courses in areas such as manufacturing, cybersecurity will train hundreds of workers in the next four years

February 10, 2026

Royal Credit Union internship gives �� grad student opportunity to apply skills in data science, machine learning

M.S. applied computer science student finds workplaces experience aligns with coursework

January 29, 2026

Students from three Universities of Wisconsin campuses use machine learning to solve problems for Royal Credit Union

Computer science students from ��, UWEC, UWRF exercise ‘exceptional’ AI acumen for leading financial institution

January 26, 2026

Keynotes on AI, humanities; Evolution of Education panel; Applied Research Showcase Memorial Student Center amphitheater

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Provost's Office

The Provost's Office, working with the deans, department chairs, directors and others, oversees the Division of Academic Affairs.

Welcome from Provost Rodríguez

Photo of Provost Glendalí Rodríguez giving remarks.

Welcome, and thank you for your interest in ��. With our focus on applied learning, career preparation, and collaboration, students graduate from our institution ready for their next steps in work and life. We offer a wide array of specialized programs, and work closely with business, industry, and non-profit institutions to ensure our curriculum is up-to-date.

Our outstanding faculty and staff are dedicated to ensuring that our students leave the University with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful.

Our facilities, with three times more laboratories and studios than traditional classrooms, enhance our focus on applied learning. Our programming, with more than 90% of our students completing a co-op, internship, or other out-of-classroom experience, guarantees readiness for careers. Finally, the infusion of general education courses throughout our programs of study ensures that students are ready not just for their next job, but for future career changes, and their role as contributing citizens in society.

The Provost's Office has oversight of the Division of Academic Affairs, which encompasses the following areas at ��:

Career Services
Center for Applied Ethics
College of Arts & Human Sciences
College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Management
Educational Pathways & Outreach
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Katona named vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations

giffeyt — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Katona named vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relationsgiffeyt March 27, 2025

New administrator joins �� from Minnesota university

Tom Giffey

University of Wisconsin-Stout has selected a new vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Nicholas Katona’s role will also include serving as executive director of the �� Foundation, said Chancellor Katherine Frank, who announced the appointment on March 24.

Katona will provide the strategic vision for university development plans and alumni engagement in order to increase support for the university in accordance with the mission and identity of Wisconsin ��. ��, Frank said.

Katona is currently the vice president of Advancement & Alumni Engagement at St. Cloud State University as well as executive director of the St. Cloud State University Foundation Inc. and St. Cloud State University Alumni Association.

“During the interview process, Nic demonstrated a strong understanding of �� . Polytechnic mission and presented a strategic vision for increasing support for our faculty, staff, and students,” Frank said. “Nic ��. desire to enhance connections with our more than 76,000 alumni will be invaluable as we continue to advance our goals as Wisconsin ��. ��."

He holds an M.P.S. in Political Management and Fundraising from The George Washington University and has served in development and philanthropy roles at several institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom.

“It is an honor to join Stout and advance its polytechnic mission. With the changing landscape of higher education, Stout ��. focus on supporting students by preparing them to be successful in the workforce and advancing innovative research sets us apart from our competitors,” Katona said. “As a proud Wisconsinite I am pleased to come home and join the leading polytechnic of the upper Midwest. I look forward to enhancing connections with our communities, including our alumni, donors, supporters and friends and strengthening this great institution. I am StoutProud and excited to be part of the team.”

Katona will begin his new role at �� on Thursday, May 1.

“We are pleased and excited to welcome Nic Katona to the �� Foundation and Alumni Association,” said Linda Funk, president of the foundation ��. Board of Directors. “His experience and passion for �� is a great match. The Foundation Board looks forward to working with Nic to accomplish our goals to support the university.”

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Matching gifts are opportunity to double support for university community

December 1, 2025

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Teams begin play in state-of-the-art space funded with Foundation gift

October 1, 2025

Statewide scholarship helps �� students ‘study and succeed with more confidence’

Fund for Wisconsin Scholars supports accessibility, affordability of higher education, increases number of graduates

April 15, 2025

University of Wisconsin-Stout has selected a new vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations. Nicholas Katona

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Hero Caption: Nicholas Katona, �� . incoming vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Katherine P. Frank

Katherine P. Frank became the eighth chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stout, after a distinguished career as an administrator and faculty member.

Before her appointment as chancellor, Chancellor Frank served from 2016 in two roles at Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Wash., as Provost and Vice President of Academic and Student Life and Vice President of Academic Innovation. She also held the rank of Professor of English.

From summer 2014 until spring 2016, she was Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Northern Kentucky University. Frank served as Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at Indiana University East, Chair of English and Foreign Languages at Colorado State University-Pueblo, and a faculty member and administrator of programs involving student writing, faculty professional development, and student success.

Chancellor Frank, the first female leader of ��, grew up in Colorado and has a bachelor ��. degree in English from Bates College, Lewiston, Maine. She has master ��. and doctorate degrees in English from the University of Washington, Seattle. Frank ��. research interests include Romantic and Victorian English Literature, rhetoric and composition, the scholarship of teaching, and academic leadership.

“I am delighted to join ��,” Chancellor Frank said. “Throughout the search process, I became increasingly impressed by the high-quality work and creative thinking exhibited by faculty, staff, and students at ��, as well as the strong, reciprocal relationships among the university, community, and regional partners. Everyone demonstrated dedication to the university and exhibited true focus on ensuring student success.

“As beautifully stated by one alumna, ‘Stout is where you need to be.’ I could not agree more and am honored to join this exceptional community of educators, learners, partners, and friends.”

“Dr. Frank has demonstrated throughout her academic career that she is a strategic, dynamic leader,” said UW System President Ray Cross. “She handles challenges extremely well. Her visionary perspective on the future of �� will serve the institution and the state of Wisconsin very well.”

Chancellor Frank and her husband, Joe Dvorsky, live in Menomonie with their three rescue cats. She is an outdoor activities enthusiast, including running, road cycling and mountain biking, and has a love of animals, travel, and adventure.

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Money Magazine names �� one of two public Best Colleges in Wisconsin, top 45 in Midwest

polingj — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 17:47:10 +0000

Money Magazine names �� one of two public Best Colleges in Wisconsin, top 45 in Midwestpolingj September 16, 2024

National rankings highlight affordability and student outcomes

High school students and their parents who are crunching numbers and looking for the best schools their money can buy should consider ��.

That ��. according to Money Magazine, which has included �� on its 2024 Best Colleges list that focuses on affordability and student outcomes. In addition, Money named Wisconsin ��. �� one of the top 94 Best Public colleges in the nation and one of the 45 Best in the Midwest.

“Being one of the best colleges reinforces the value of �� to prospective students, whether they are high school graduates, adults returning to elevate their career success or businesses seeking to upskill their workforce,” said Chancellor Katherine Frank. “We’re focused on continuing to ensure the upward mobility of our graduates and their contributions to the workforce.”

Students walk to class near Harvey Hall during the first week of the 2024 fall semester at ��. / ��

Money named 745 colleges and universities — out of more than 5,000 in the U.S. — to its national list based on graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid, alumni salaries and more. Schools that made the list are not ranked.

�� and UW-Madison were the only public schools in Wisconsin to make the Best of the Midwest and Best Public lists.

“We'd argue we're even more affordable than it appears on the surface,” Frank said, noting that degree-seeking students receive a laptop computer with industry-standard software that are included in tuition and fees.

“And that's just the beginning of additional resources students at other schools pay for later, like textbooks. A lot of our digital education resources and course materials are covered upfront in tuition,” she added.

Engineering students work on a project at ��, which has three times more labs than classrooms. / ��

�� has long been a higher education standout in student outcomes, with a 99% employment rate for recent graduates; a best-in-the-region average starting salary of $58,000 for graduates; and more than 55 Fortune 500 employers who hired recent graduates.

In addition, �� was the only public university in Wisconsin to make the list of Best Colleges with High Acceptance Rates, or above two-thirds acceptance. “A college doesn’t have to be exclusive to deliver a strong return on investment for students,” Money said.

Overall, �� received 4.5 stars out of a possible five-star rating. Money cited its “classroom-to-lab curriculum” with three times as many labs and studio spaces as classrooms “and there are built-in opportunities for hands-on learning and undergraduate research.”

Polytechnic advantage: Graduates see average starting salary rise to $58,000

In pure dollars and cents, the value of a degree from �� has never been greater.

The university ��. applied learning model that guides students to put into practice what they learn in the classroom is the foundation of �� . polytechnic education. Other key aspects are business and industry collaboration and career-focused experiences.

“A polytechnic education informs our strengths in engineering, technology, design and other high-demand career fields, and it ��. why Stout is the best at what we do,” Frank said.

A robust Cooperative Education and Internship Program, with more than 1,000 students participating annually, plays a significant role in in student success.

“Through the CEIP and other workforce initiatives, Stout graduates are not only employed within six months of graduation at an unmatched rate, but their impact is also real on day one,” Frank said.

�� has more than 45 undergraduate and 25 graduate programs, including a School of Engineering and School of Art and Design.

###

High school students and their parents who are crunching numbers and looking for the best schools their money can buy should consider ��. Fall semester 2024 1

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�� is a Best College on the rise, based on the latest rankings by U.S. News & World Report.

Katherine P. Frank

Katherine P. Frank became the eighth chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stout, after a distinguished career as an administrator and faculty member.

“As beautifully stated by one alumna, ‘Stout is where you need to be.’ I could not agree more and am honored to join this exceptional community of educators, learners, partners, and friends.”

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�������� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs

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Doctoral student ��������. AI-enhanced artwork featured on chancellor ��������. seasonal greeting card

‘A Blueprint for the Future’

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Featured sessions and research showcase

Propelling humankind forward

Welcome from Provost Rodríguez

Katona named vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations

Alumni Association

Money Magazine names �������� one of two public Best Colleges in Wisconsin, top 45 in Midwest

Polytechnic advantage: Graduates see average starting salary rise to $58,000

Best College on the rise: �������� makes strides in U.S. News & World Report rankings

�� announces Latha Ramakrishnan as provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs

Doctoral student ��. AI-enhanced artwork featured on chancellor ��. seasonal greeting card

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Meet ��'s Leaders

‘Power of Partnership’: �� celebrates groundbreaking for $144M Heritage Hall renovation

Meet ��'s Leaders

�� stands out among peers as enrollment grows in all categories for 2025-26 academic year

Charging toward a more sustainable future: �� unveils new electric vehicle charging stations

�� . clean energy solutions

Education Designed for the Future: �� to host global Polytechnic Summit, May 18-21

Money Magazine names �� one of two public Best Colleges in Wisconsin, top 45 in Midwest

Best College on the rise: �� makes strides in U.S. News & World Report rankings