News

Inspiring Graduate: Josie Finocchiaro, B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

goersab — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 18:13:35 +0000

Inspiring Graduate: Josie Finocchiaro, B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Educationgoersab January 13, 2025

‘What really stood out about my �� experience was the polytechnic aspect and how quickly I got into doing what I was learning.’

Inspiring Graduate: Josie Finocchiaro (’24)

Hometown: Rockton, Ill.
Degree: B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education
Minors: Spanish

With �� being only one of two colleges in Wisconsin that offer a family and consumer sciences education program, Josie Finocchiaro knew right where she wanted to earn her teaching degree.

Josie Finocchiaro and Chancellor Katherine Frank at commencement / ��

She was also encouraged by her father, who earned his doctorate in career and technical education leadership from ��.

“My father ��. positive experience, as well as his love for the CTE program, influenced me to consider attending. I also loved the atmosphere and environment that is cultivated on this campus,” she said.

Finocchiaro earned her bachelor's in family and consumer sciences education and crossed the commencement stage on Dec. 14, along with 510 �� graduates.

She accepted a teaching position last summer, months ahead of graduation, at Longfellow Middle School in La Crosse. She’ll begin her career in January.

How has your �� experience changed you?

My �� experience helped me develop into a more well-rounded person. Being at this college has opened me up to experiences and opportunities that I had never considered before.

Josie Finocchiaro celebrates at commencement / ��

I gained more experience and skills being a leader and was in an environment where I could learn from my mistakes and grow as both a student and a person.

I feel I am leaving �� a more grounded and open-minded person than when I entered.

How well has �� prepared you to work in your field?

�� has prepared me profoundly well to work in my field. Through experiences such as multiculturalism, prestudent teaching and student teaching, I have had multiple experiences in the classroom.

Being in different classroom environments helped me become adaptable in the classroom, as well as helped me apply and build upon the classroom management skills I was taught. Along with this, attending conferences helped me establish professionalism and also build connections within my concentration and others as well.

Josie Finocchiaro received her FCSE degree on Dec. 14 / ��

What really stood out about my �� experience was the polytechnic aspect and how quickly I got into doing what I was learning. I was making lesson plans and discussing methods of classroom management and teaching lessons within my first year at Stout.

My program director, Professor Diane Klemme, supported and pushed me to keep learning and was consistently helping me to become a better student and teacher. It was partly her passion for family and consumer sciences that pushed me to join the program.

How did your involvement on campus impact your experience?

I tried to be involved in multiple different organizations so I could get a holistic experience while at Stout, and I did.

I was on the executive board for the Stout Fashion and Retail Association, Phi Upsilon Omicron, and Stout Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. Academically, I enrolled in the Honors College to expand and challenge myself more in the classroom. I also was a mascot for the hockey team in Chippewa Falls.

Along with these, I worked for on-campus organizations such as the Involvement Center, where I was the social event lead and for orientation.

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

Wood Medallion recipients Charest, Timm share experiences in service on and off campus

Because of my involvement, I was awarded the Samuel E. Wood Medallion at �� . 2024 Leadership Awards.

My involvement really helped me grow and push past the boundaries I had set for myself. It taught me how to put myself out there and market myself. It opened me up to new people and helped me establish connections that will last a lifetime.

By taking on multiple roles and responsibilities, I was able to learn more and enjoy college more. My involvement in these organizations, both on and off campus, helped me grow into someone who is open to new experiences and learning opportunities, which is not who I was when I entered ��.

What challenges did you face in earning your degree?

Josie Finocchiaro was hired before graduation / Josie Finocchiaro

A challenge I faced while earning my degree was paying for college. Stout did a really good job of explaining my options for paying and also helping me through the process of getting loans.

Along with this, the scholarships I received helped alleviate that financial burden and reinforced my confidence in completing my degree, including a scholarship I was awarded at the Phi Upsilon Omicron Conclave at �� this fall.

What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?

I think what I am most proud of as I finish my degree is the person I have become. I seek out new opportunities for learning, new experiences and connections, and new ways to become a better person professionally and personally.

I am leaving �� prepared for the path ahead of me, and thankful for the institution and people who helped me get there.

Inspiring Graduates

All Inspiring Graduates News

Inspiring Graduates Share Their Stout Experiences

Celebrate our graduates as they cross the commencement stage and reflect on the journey that brought them here

December 23, 2025

Inspiring Graduate: Hanahh Eggum, M.S. Training & Talent Development

Supporting campus community through the Dean of Students Office

December 23, 2025

Inspiring Graduate: Zaid Abdullah, M.S. Operations & Supply Management

Automation Displays procurement engineer aims to deliver measurable value to organizations

December 23, 2025

‘What really stood out about my �� experience was the polytechnic aspect and how quickly I got into doing what I was learning.’ Josie Finocchiaro

University Marketing

B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

Our B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education program will prepare you for a career teaching middle and high school students or working in business.

Learn More

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leaders

‘Be a difference maker’: 510 graduates at Dec. 14 commencement ceremony look to impact the future

Inspiring Graduate Q&As

Is content a Story?: Yes

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leaders

goersab — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:11:15 +0000

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leadersgoersab December 17, 2024

‘Be a difference maker’: 510 graduates at Dec. 14 commencement ceremony look to impact the future

Abbey Goers

While snowflakes dusted the sidewalks outside, 510 smiling graduates crossed the commencement stage at �� – Wisconsin ��. �� – on Dec. 14.

At two ceremonies in Johnson Fieldhouse, two alumni guest speakers and three graduates of the Class of 2024 shared warm messages of overcoming the uncertainty of success, living as your genuine self and the power of communication and connections – all lessons they learned through their academic and personal journeys at ��.

Emily Fanucci, engineering manager at Advanced Molding Technologies, in Circle Pines, Minn., addressed the undergraduate ceremony; and Laura Knudsen, outpatient clinical dietitian, diabetes care and education specialist with Mayo Clinic Health System, the Graduate Studies ceremony.

Alumni speaker Emily Fanucci, engineering manager at Advanced Molding Technologies

Ceremonies were held at 10 a.m. for the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management and the College of Arts and Human Sciences; and at 2 p.m. for Graduate Studies.

Student speakers were:

Undergraduate ceremony: Ethan Myers, of Pleasant Prairie, packaging; and Hannah Timm, of Fremont, family and consumer sciences education
Graduate Studies ceremony: Kalsow, of Menomonie, master ��. in clinical mental health counseling.

‘Be a difference maker’

Fanucci, a 2010 graduate in technology education and manufacturing engineering, spoke of her prior fear of public speaking, overcoming this fear, and her recognition of the importance of teaching soft skills, like communication, teamwork and critical thinking. It is these soft skills that have made her a trusted leader, she said.

“By showing up as my true self, listening to understand, and getting to know my team members on a personal level, I demonstrate my commitment to them. By nurturing these human connections, I empower my team to grow and succeed,” Fanucci said.

“Whether you’ve excelled in hands-on learning or in more traditional academic settings, this university has prepared you to succeed,” she added. “And as you take that next step into your careers, I hope you continue to remember the lessons that Stout has taught you – not just the technical expertise you’ve gained, but the importance of staying open to growth and learning in all areas of your life.

“As you move forward, find the courage to speak up and share your thoughts. The more you trust yourself and your ideas, the more you’ll discover the power of your own voice.”

Alumni speaker Laura Knudsen, outpatient clinical dietitian with Mayo Clinic Health System

Knudsen, a 2005 dietetics and 2008 master's in food and nutritional sciences alum, emphasized the importance of creating connections to strengthen collaborations, as well as employability now and down the road.

“�� . focus on hands-on learning helped me to make connections in the community, which ended up being key for all of my jobs after graduation,” Knudsen said.

“Know that you have connections at Stout, you have connections through your work experience, you have connections through your classmates and friendships. We are meant to have relationships and connections with others.

“Use your resources to collaborate with others to excel where you are. Use your resources to help you get where you want to be careerwise. Thrive in your field. Be a difference maker. You are qualified,” she said.

Embracing their stories with no regrets

Myers and Timm encouraged their peers to embrace their own unique stories, to continue to be brave through challenges and not to confuse what-ifs with regrets.

Student speaker Hannah Timm, family and consumer sciences education graduate

“Each of us has had to dig deep. And we have grown – not just as students, but as individuals. We’ve learned, adapted and seen the world through new perspectives,” Timm said.

“I know there ��. a lot of uncertainty out there. We don’t always know what comes next,” she added. “But that ��. also the beauty of it. The unknown brings with it endless possibilities. So, I urge you: Embrace it. Embrace the challenges, embrace the change, and above all, embrace the opportunity to keep growing. Continue to be a lifelong learner, far past the hallways of ��.”

Myers urged his peers not to compare their stories to others, nor the choices they made.

“Your story is what got you here. And that is worth celebrating,” he said. “My freshman year I was very worried about pleasing the people around me. I wanted to make sure that what I was doing was seen as ‘cool.’ I had looked at the stories other people were creating and decided that my story should be the same.”

Student speaker Ethan Myers, packaging graduate

But those who know Myers, who spends his weekends as a street magician, know that isn’t true anymore.

“Magic is now a defining part of who I am, and it is how most people know me. And if I was caught up in my what-ifs, if I was full of regret, if I went back and stopped doing this thing I loved, I’d lose any sort of individualism I had. Remember how your unique experience brought you here,” he said.

Timm and Myers are both recipients of the Samuel E. Wood Medallion, the highest nonacademic award for students at ��, at the 2024 Leadership Awards. Fewer than 1% of full-time students receive the award. It is presented to seniors who have contributed in student activities, leadership and scholastic ability. Winners are chosen by a committee representing faculty, staff and students.

‘A future waiting to be illuminated’

Kalsow ��. message of growth was born of the poem “New Beginnings” by Stephanie Lane Sutton.

For years, Kalsow was afraid of success and what that would mean in both their education and future career, even to the point of letting their fear draw them near academic probation.

Graduate Studies student speaker Kalsow, clinical mental health counseling graduate

Through Sutton ��. poem and with faculty support, Kalsow was inspired to “strive for success, own that effort, and tolerate the subsequent fear over and over again.”

Sutton ��. poem begins: “what is a state line if not a line in the sand? on one side, the life you know. on the other, a future waiting to be illuminated.”

Kalsow noted that commencement is a transition in life and asked their peers, “How much is your future illuminated? Who do you trust to light your future if you’re not able to? … What does it mean to be yourself? What could happen when you engage with the world as your full self? … Venture forth into new beginnings. Your next path starts as you embrace success and cross this commencement stage.”

Commencement

All Commencement News

Polaris, School of Education directors encourage grads to be proud as they ‘improve our world’

Students share messages of community, kindness, belonging with graduates at Dec. 20 ceremony

December 22, 2025

Fall commencement scheduled Dec. 20 for more than 525 graduates

Chancellor, students, alumni to speak in two ceremonies at Johnson Fieldhouse

December 15, 2025

Kraus-Anderson vice president, regional education leaders credit �� with shaping them

Student speakers share messages of strength in community with nearly 1,180 graduates at May 10 commencement ceremony

May 13, 2025

‘Be a difference maker’: 510 graduates at Dec. 14 commencement ceremony look to impact the future Hats at commencement

University Marketing

Fall commencement scheduled Dec. 14 for 510 graduates

Chancellor, three students, two alumni to speak in two ceremonies at Johnson Fieldhouse

Inspiring Graduates Share Their Stout Experiences

Celebrate our graduates as they cross the commencement stage and reflect on the journey that brought them here

Hero Caption: Packaging students decorated their caps for commencement on Dec. 14

Bethany Risler

Full Name: Bethany Risler

Job Title: Executive Assistant

Include in Directory: Yes

Department: Chancellor's Office

Education:

Web Production

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Early childhood education faculty Lindsay Barnhart recognized with national Phi Upsilon Omicron adviser award

goersab — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:26:46 +0000

Early childhood education faculty Lindsay Barnhart recognized with national Phi Upsilon Omicron adviser awardgoersab October 9, 2024

Students receive national service award for second year in a row for dedication to community projects

Abbey Goers

Representatives from 24 universities nationwide recently attended the Phi Upsilon Omicron Conclave at ��, hosted by student members of �� . Tau Chapter.

Phi Upsilon Omicron, with 99,000 members nationwide, is the National Honor Society for Family and Consumer Sciences. The organization ��. conference, held on Oct. 3-5, supports educators and students in FCS and related fields.

Lindsay Barnhart (left) receives her Phi U adviser award / Abbi Williams

The three-day event included presentations and workshops led by leaders in education, a community service project and an awards ceremony, where �� . early childhood education Program Director Lindsay Barnhart was recognized for her distinguished service as a Phi Upsilon Omicron adviser.

Barnhart received the Bachtel/Holbrook Collegiate Advisor Award. She was nominated by her Tau Chapter student members.

“Lindsay is our biggest cheerleader when it comes to any service or planning we do. We wouldn't be able to do any of it without her support,” said Abbi Williams, Tau Chapter president. “Lindsay encourages us to be our best selves by taking on leadership roles. Lindsay does so much for Tau chapter and Phi U, as a whole.”

“Having my members nominate me was unexpected and an honor,” Barnhart said. “It is a joy to be a part of this organization and lead these stellar students to do the work they do. Hearing how they are impacted makes it even more rewarding."

Phi U members from across the country join at the Memorial Student Center amphitheater during the conclave / Abbi Williams

“There are 71 active national Phi Upsilon Omicron chapters. While this award is not the highest honor the organization bestows, it is very meaningful when there are 70 other individuals that have the opportunity to receive it," she added.

Barnhart was initiated as a Tau member in 2009 while earning her Ed.S. in career and technical education. She began serving as financial adviser in 2011 and became co-adviser in 2017 with her mother-in-law, Carolyn Barnhart. Lindsay Barnhart has served as adviser since 2020.

Student activities and awards

Conclave attendees joined in a community service project to pack 50 birthday bags to donate to Stepping Stones of Dunn County, a nonprofit food pantry and homeless shelter. They tied six blankets and donated sheet sets for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit dedicated to building beds for children in need.

The Tau Chapter was selected by the national council to receive a top honor for its work within the community – the Region 1 National Service Project Award, for the 2023-24 academic year. It also received the award in 2022-23.

Tau Chapter members receive their national service award / Lindsay Barnhart

“The national project award is so special. Our organization really prioritizes giving back and completing service projects, and to be recognized for our hard work is very much appreciated,” Williams said. “It is a total team effort when it comes to these projects. We have 12 members in our chapter, which is low compared to other chapters. But I think why we are so successful when it comes to service is that we all work together, and we all pitch in.”

Last year, Tau members completed nine service projects, including gathering donations for Sleep in Heavenly Peace and the Menomonie Public Library. They made appreciation bags for support staff at River Heights Elementary and Wakanda Elementary and participated in Teach Day, a biannual �� event that invites high school students to explore education majors.

They sent seasonal cards to elderly community members, and volunteered at elementary school events, Sunday school programs and the Special Olympics basketball tournament. They made port pillows for local cancer patients and a gift basket for an alumni member who was going through cancer treatment.

Tau members tie blankets to donate to Sleep in Heavenly Peace / Abbi Williams

Williams thinks there is a definite connection between teaching, community service and the theme of family.

“Through my experience in the teaching field, ‘family’ is something that comes up often, both in supporting our students’ families and in creating our own family in the classroom and school,” she said.

“Our chapter is privileged to make a difference in the lives of others. We are very lucky to have received monetary donations to complete service projects. As a family, it is our responsibility and honor to give back to others who may be less fortunate. Completing service projects is one of my favorite parts of Phi U because it empowers us and the individuals we can help.”

Eight �� students were awarded more than $26,000 in scholarships at the conclave:

Megan Buhrow: early childhood education, Menomonie
Josie Finocchiaro: family and consumer science education, Rockton, Ill.
Sarah Flock: early childhood education, Cashton
Anna Johnson: family and consumer science education, Eau Claire
Taylor Luxem: human development and family studies, Appleton
Kennedy Reckmann: early childhood education, Lake City, Minn.
Hannah Timm: family and consumer science education, Fremont
Williams: early childhood education, Waupaca

Williams was one of three recipients of the Phyllis S. Howe Scholarship, who received $6,050 each.

“Teaching was always my plan, and even when I thought about doing something else, I always came back to teaching. Teaching brings me so much joy. I feel like there is no better investment than investing in future leaders. As a teacher, my goal is to provide a space where my students feel supported, safe and empowered to make a difference,” Williams said.

The conference also included presentations and workshops by �� faculty, staff and area educators: Associate Lecturer Ann Brand led a workshop on mindfulness; school psychology Program Director Angela Axelrod led presentations on Trauma Informed Strategies and Teaching, and ADHD and Learning Disabilities in the Classroom; AI Integration Technologist Emily Laird presented on generative AI ��. role in education, and family and consumer sciences area teacher Sue Halama led a workshop on Laughter Yoga.

Allison Feller, director of the university ��. Child and Family Study Center, led a tour of the state-licensed and NAEYC-accredited child care facility.

�� . School of Education offers nine undergraduate and five graduate programs, including on-campus and online options, along with five certificates and three certifications.

School of Education

All School of Education News

�� marketing and business education students apply learning to make DECA conference succeed

�� marketing & business education majors organize on-campus DECA competition for high schoolers

January 20, 2026

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

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

January 8, 2026

Inspiring Graduate: Karolyn Waldman, M.S. Career & Technical Education

Wausau West marketing and business teacher supports students' leadership skills

December 23, 2025

Students receive national service award for second year in a row for dedication to community projects Tau Chapter members receive their national service award

University Marketing

School of Education

The �� School of Education offers challenging education programs that prepare highly qualified and successful teachers, leaders, and student services prof

Lindsay Barnhart

Bio Introduction: Lindsay Barnhart is the program director and instructor in the B.S. Early Childhood Education program.

Full Name: Lindsay Barnhart

Job Title: Instructor / Program Director

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Arts & Human Sciences

Department: School of Education Teaching, Learning & Leadership Department

Program

All Degree Programs

B.S. Early Childhood Education

Education:

CACHSS

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

goersab — Wed, 08 May 2024 14:14:48 +0000

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremonygoersab May 8, 2024

Wood Medallion recipients Charest, Timm share experiences in service on and off campus

Abbey Goers

Alongside more than 100 of their peers, 13 seniors were awarded the Samuel E. Wood Medallion for their outstanding leadership in student involvement at �� . annual Leadership Awards ceremony.

The program, held on May 1, included Outstanding Student Leader; Student Employee of the Year; Outstanding Cooperative Education and Internship Student of the Year and more.

The event was sponsored by the Involvement Center, Stout Student Association and Career Services. Those nominated for awards also were recognized.

Wood Medallion winners

The Wood Medallion is the highest nonacademic award for students at ��. Less than 1% of full-time students receive the award. It is presented to seniors who have contributed in student activities, leadership and scholastic ability. Winners are chosen by a committee representing faculty, staff and students.

2024 Samuel E. Wood Medallion recipients / Braeden Lange and John Roeber

Award recipients are:

Olivier Charest, applied science, La Prairie, Quebec
Ava Cinealis, applied biochemistry and molecular biology, Sheboygan
Kalie Dahl, hotel, restaurant and tourism management, Cologne, Minn.
Josie Finocchiaro, family and consumer science education, Rockton, Ill.
Camryn Gettendorf, retail merchandising and management, Weyauwega
Emily Holze, animation and digital media, Chilton
Anna Johnson, family and consumer science education, Eau Claire
Ethan Myers, packaging, Pleasant Prairie
Bailey Pedersen, professional communications and emerging media, Gillett
Aliyah Smetana, mechanical engineering, Suamico
Amanda Shipley, engineering technology, Rockford, Minn.
Hans Stelpflug, construction, Colgate
Hannah Timm, family and consumer science education, Fremont

Samuel E. Wood was a longtime assistant chancellor for Student Services/Dean of Students. He retired in 1991 and died in February 2013.

Charest and Timm are honored to receive the Wood Medallion, they said.

“It is a true honor to be associated with Samuel ��. name. He was a pioneer here at Stout, and I am very proud of receiving his leadership award,” Charest said. “Even though all my actions came from the bottom of my heart, it is touching to know that my contribution, as well as that of other students, is being underlined and rewarded. It sets a great example for the next generation of students.”

Timm received the award along with two of her classmates and rugby teammates and feels privileged to join the prestigious group of campus leaders.

“This award is not just a reflection of my efforts, but a testament to the communities built here on campus,” she said. “The amount of support and inspiration from all the individuals I have had the privilege to work with make it so easy to dedicate my time and service. To know I am joining this amazing group of leaders is so motivating to continue to strive for excellence in leadership.”

An outstanding researcher and scholar athlete

Charest was a student premedicine adviser through the Pre-Health Society, advising and mentoring younger students seeking medical school. He served as a biology and chemistry student tutor; a biochemistry and organic chemistry teacher assistant; and a neuroimmunology student researcher, assisting Professor Jennifer Grant.

Wood Medallion recipient Olivier Charest with Professor Jennifer Grant and fellow recipient Ava Cinealis / Braeden Lange and John Roeber

He recently received the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher award at �� . annual Research Day.

He volunteered as a certified nursing assistant in palliative care at Dove West Healthcare and in the emergency department at Mayo Clinic in Menomonie. He also assisted in the French class at Menomonie High School, as French is his first language.

Charest played forward on the Blue Devil men ��. ice hockey team. He was one of 48 seniors recognized as a �� Scholar Athlete, an award given to senior student athletes with a 3.5 grade point average or higher.

“Many people believed in me and paved the way for me to succeed, so being able to have these opportunities meant the world to me. They allowed me to fulfill my desire to leave a positive and long-lasting impact on my fellow students, my professors, �� and the Menomonie community,” he said.

Charest graduated on May 4 and is returning to Quebec. He will attend medical school starting in September.

Advocating for teacher excellence and the polytechnic advantage

Timm served as president of the Stout Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, was a Student Unit officer for the Wisconsin Association of Family and Consumer Sciences and was named a student representative for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction ��. Professional Standards Council for Teachers.

Wood Medallion recipient Hannah Timm and Chancellor Katherine Frank / Braeden Lange and John Roeber

She served as vice president of Phi Upsilon Omicron, an academic honor society that builds relationships with community families and supports them through acts of service.

She is a tour guide with the Admissions Office, is a resident adviser and hall manager with University Housing, and was captain, president and treasurer of the women ��. club rugby team.

“My journey at �� has helped prepare me for my future. I have been fortunate to have had many professional development opportunities that have given me a strong network and perspective on my role in education, and I look forward to growing more,” Timm said. “I take pride in advocating for teacher excellence and finding ways to reward our teachers, who are making a difference in their students’ and co-workers’ lives and communities.

“As a tour guide, I love meeting prospective students and giving them a brief view of life as a Blue Devil,” she added. “I love showing families why I love Stout and how our polytechnic advantage can benefit their education. Being a small part of their decision to be a Blue Devil is just so exciting.”

Timm will student teach culinary at Hudson High School this fall and graduate in December. She has already received a job offer from Hudson to teach family and consumer sciences.

Leadership Awards

Winners of the annual Leadership Awards are chosen by a committee made up of faculty, staff and students.

The winners are:

Outstanding Student Leader of the Year, three winners: Lauren Arenz, Onalaska; Kalie Dahl, of Cologne, Minn.; David Tesar, Lety, Czech Republic
Student Employee of the Year, three winners: Jared Doran, of St. Paul, Student Center ��. event technology crew; Francis Kaunda, of Lilongwe, Malawi, University Housing; and Nicole Wrona, of St. Paul, University Housing
Student Staff Team of the Year, three winners: Student Center ��. event technology crew; University Housing ��. North Campus housing staff team; and University Housing ��. operations managers
Student Organization of the Year, two winners: Service Club and Stout Students Unite
Student Organization Event of the Year, three winners: Service Club, Dog Toy Making; International Club, International Night; and Stout Packaging Association, Packaging Jamboree
Bill Siedlecki Advisor of the Year, two winners: Danielle Clarizio, International Club; and Malinda Herbert, Service Club

Outstanding Student Leader of the Year award recipients Lauren Arenz, Kalie Dahl and David Tesar / Braeden Lange and John Roeber

Outstanding CEIP Student of the Year Award

The Outstanding Cooperative Education and Internship Program Student of the Year Award was given to 25 students.

This past year, Career Services reported nearly 1,030 students participated in co-ops and internships through Career Services at more than 650 employers in 32 states and four international countries.

The winners are selected by the program ��. Advisory Committee for excellence and achievements in their positions, for contributions to their employers and for academic achievement.

The winners, their majors, hometowns and employers are:

Tony Candler, business administration, Dallas, Wis., Talon Development - The Heights
Mareike Christianson, interior design, Edgar, Samuels Group
Kalie Dahl, hotel, restaurant and tourism management, Cologne, Minn., IDeaS
Ethan Draeger, business administration, Jackson, Client First Tax and Wealth Advisors
Camryn Gettendorf, retail merchandising and management, Weyauwega, Burlington Stores
Whitney Hamilton, rehabilitation services, Menomonie, Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility
Greyson Hammer, packaging, Milton, Boston Scientific
Nolan Harke, supply chain management, Appleton, Pierce Manufacturing
Riley Henk, interior design, Amery, Fluid Interiors
Jason Hovarter, computer and electrical engineering, Menasha, BW Systems
Isaiah Hoyord, construction, Iola, Hoffman Planning, Design and Construction
Nicole Kress, graphic design and interactive media, Dodge Center, Minn., Royal Credit Union
DJ Kron, mechanical engineering, Cold Spring, Minn., Jennie-O Turkey Store
Mitchell Kubeny, mechanical engineering, De Pere, Greenheck
Jenna Jablonski, psychology, Red Wing, Minn., Partners in Excellence
Annie Jacobson, real estate property management, Minneapolis, Weidner Apartment Homes
Glen Jakober, real estate property management, Colfax, Weidner Apartment Homes
Ana Maupin, digital marketing technology, Muskego, Midland Plastics
Emily McNett, applied mathematical and computer science; computer science, Milton, NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research
Zachary Morgan, manufacturing engineering, Eau Claire, Andersen Corporation
Jeremy O'Connor, construction, Preston, Minn., Knutson Construction
Waveland Rushton, engineering technology, Menomonie, Phillips-Medisize
Madison Skaggs, graphic design and interactive media, Sheboygan, PetSmart, Inc.
Pheng Thao, studio art, Green Bay, �� School of Art & Design
Emma Lynn Tynan, fashion and retail, Rio, Kohl's

Career success is a hallmark of an education at Wisconsin ��. ��, along with applied learning and industry collaboration.

The latest First Destination Report found that �� graduates from fall 2022 through summer 2023 were employed at a near historic high of 99% soon after receiving their degree and also had a record average starting salary of $58,000, the best among higher education institutions in west-central Wisconsin.

To learn more about the academic programs of the award winners, visit the websites of the College of Arts and Human Sciences and the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Management.

Student Highlights

All Student Highlights News

Career-connected learning: SkillsUSA brings nearly 400 middle, high school students to ��

Engineering, technical, design competitions prepare young people for future careers

February 25, 2026

Co-op Q&A: Amber Kuhn, IBM, Rochester, Minnesota

Computer science senior hired as a hardware developer before graduation

February 4, 2026

�� marketing and business education students apply learning to make DECA conference succeed

�� marketing & business education majors organize on-campus DECA competition for high schoolers

January 20, 2026

Wood Medallion recipients Charest, Timm share experiences in service on and off campus Wood Medallion recipients, 2024

University Marketing

Search Keywords: Applied science degreepre-medicine programFamily and consumer sciences education degree

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Teaching excellence: Four School of Education alum honored with awards

polingj — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:08:45 +0000

Teaching excellence: Four School of Education alum honored with awards polingj March 20, 2023

Emily Larson recognized as state family and consumer sciences Teacher of the Year

In 20 years of teaching family and consumer sciences, Emily Larson has built a powerhouse program at Amery High School in northwestern Wisconsin.

Larson created a Leadership Academy and directed an overhaul of the school ��. family and consumer sciences kitchen, among other achievements, to help students “become leaders in the classroom and the community.”

In March, the 2003 University of Wisconsin-Stout alum was named the 2023 Teacher of the Year by the Wisconsin Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. She is one of four School of Education alum, whose programs are based in Heritage Hall, to be recognized recently.

Emily Larson, a 2003 �� graduate, recently was named Teacher of the Year by the Wisconsin Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. She teaches at Amery High School. / Contributed photo

“I was honored, delighted and surprised because I knew I was against some incredible FCS teachers. Wisconsin has some of the best family and consumer sciences teachers in the nation, and I am fortunate to collaborate with them because it makes us better teachers for our students,” said Larson, who accepted the award at the WAFCS conference in Onalaska.

The other School of Education alum recently recognized are:

Kendra Haessly, 1988 graduate and a teacher at Grant Elementary in Marshfield, received a regional Crystal Apple award for the second time.
Jamie Nord, who is executive director of the St. Croix River Education District, received the Outstanding Central Office Leader award from the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. She received a Master of Science in education in 2006 and an Education Specialist degree in school psychology in 2008.
Jonathan Szymanski, 2022 graduate and a counselor at Manz Elementary in Eau Claire, received a Golden Apple regional honor.

�� has seven undergraduate and three graduate programs in teacher education. Students in the programs will benefit from the renovation of Heritage Hall, which received priority approval from the UW System Board of Regents, is ranked No. 1 in the Chippewa Valley and No. 3 for major academic building renovation projects.

School of Education

The �� School of Education offers challenging education programs that prepare highly qualified and successful teachers, leaders, and student services prof

Renovation, supporting Wisconsin ��. workforce needs including teacher shortages, is slated to begin in 2026.

“�� . alumni are well-prepared as educators, and these award recognitions demonstrate the impact the recipients are making in their schools and communities. I am so proud of these alumni for their accomplishments and for the examples they set for others,” said Deanna Schultz, School of Education director.

The employment rate for graduates from the programs in fall 2021 and spring 2022 was nearly 100%, according to �� . new First Destination report.

�� was foundation for career

A native of Merrillan in Jackson County, Larson said �� “was excellent at helping me prepare for my family and consumer sciences education degree. �� instructors go above and beyond to help and encourage.”

She cited late Professor Carolyn Barnhart. “She was not only an outstanding instructor, but she also mentored me until her passing in 2020. She would send me encouraging quotes and visited me when I had my classroom remodeled. She brought me a �� banner to hang in my classroom,” Larson said.

Larson, who has maintained strong ties with ��, oversaw a renovation of the kitchen in the family and consumer sciences program at Amery. / Contributed photo

“This award is not only mine but also Dr. Carolyn Barnhart's. I am where I am today because of her mentorship and guidance throughout my FCS career.”

Larson returns to �� annually to speak at a family and consumer sciences conference and has been a guest speaker in classes.

Larson supports students, community

The WAFCS award is one of Larson ��. many honors. In 2018, she was Wisconsin VFW Teacher of the Year, is in the Who ��. Who Among American Teachers and has received a National Presidential service award. She also was chosen to create lesson plans for the National Pork Association.

She also serves on the WACFS board and was president in 2022.

One of her major achievements was creating the FCS Leadership Academy in 2015 at Amery. Students explore career pathways, participate in service-learning, develop leadership skills and take dual credit classes through two colleges. They can become certified and earn certificates in the areas of leadership, health, food and child care.

Leadership activities include youth apprenticeship, work-based learning, running a school-based enterprise, online school store and catering business. One business enterprise is roasting coffee beans — all opportunities aligned with the polytechnic, applied learning identity of ��.

B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

Our B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education program will prepare you for a career teaching middle and high school students or working in business.

Learn More

She is the only family and consumer sciences teacher in the high school.

“I love teaching my students life skills, like being a good parent or preparing healthy, nutritious meals,” she said, citing 21 classes she has taught including subjects such as child development, foods and nutrition, food science, architecture and design, catering, health and leadership.

As part of her teaching and outreach, Larson directs the high school chapter of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, which promotes personal growth and leadership development. About 25% of students take part, and the chapter consistently ranks in the top three in the state for membership. Students can take part in an FCCLA event each year at ��.

Larson, who has three children, is licensed to teach health education and earned a minor in health at ��. She is a certified CPR instructor and has been active as a volunteer in Amery and Polk counties. Her husband, Neil, also is a �� graduate and teaches technology education in the Clear Lake school district.

Larson also teaches summer classes at Clear Lake Elementary.

###

In 20 years of teaching family and consumer sciences, Emily Larson has built a powerhouse program at Amery High School in northwestern Wisconsin. Emily Larson 2

University Marketing

School of Education ��. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

Education students help to inspire others to meet the growing need of teachers in Wisconsin

Alumna wins national family and consumer sciences award

A University of Wisconsin-Stout alumna and family and consumer sciences/health teacher at Bloomer High School has been named a 2021 National Merit Finalist by a

Barnhart honored by American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences

University of Wisconsin-Stout Professor Emeritus Carolyn Barnhart has earned the 2020 Distinguished Service Award from the American Association of Family and Co

Inspiring Graduate: Jessica Daley, B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

Daley, hired before graduation, enjoys teaching students life skills

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

School of Education ��. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

goersab — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:02:16 +0000

School of Education ��. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’goersab November 28, 2022

Education students help to inspire others to meet the growing need of teachers in Wisconsin

Abbey Goers

Nearly 150 high school students from 27 schools around the state attended Teach Day at �� on Nov. 14.

Hosted by the School of Education, the event is an opportunity for high school students to learn from �� teacher education students and for university students to practice their skills as future teachers.

“We are thrilled to be hosting so many students from across the state,” said SOE Director Deanna Schultz. “The interest in teaching as a future career is exciting to see, and we hope these young people will leave with information and the determination to continue on this career path.”

Over the next five years, Wisconsin is projected to need nearly 2,400 additional qualified teachers, with job growth expected to increase by 3.5% over the next decade. The value of graduates from ��'s education programs has never been greater for Wisconsin schools.

University students led much of Teach Day, with support from program directors. Students shared why they chose the university, why they plan to enter the teaching profession and led breakout sessions where high school students learned about their program of interest.

High school students from around the state attended ��'s Teach Day. / ��

Isabelle Whited, a visiting student from Wausau West High School, joined the technology education group. “I found technology was an area I excelled in. I wouldn’t have explored it if it weren’t for my teacher Mr. Peterson. I want to help other students explore and excel in technology,” Whited said.

High school students learned how to write a lesson plan, which they could take back to their schools and use to teach a class. They also toured campus and met with university students during lunch to talk more about their programs of interest.

Event responds to growing need for teachers

Last year ��. pilot program focused on family and consumer sciences education; marketing and business education; and technology education. About a dozen Wisconsin high school students attended.

Teach Day, this year, expanded to include nearly all undergraduate SOE programs: art education; early childhood education; family and consumer sciences; marketing and business education; math education; special education; and technology education.

“The expansion resulted in an increase in numbers, especially those interested in early childhood education. The event was also marketed to teachers at the �� Family and Consumer Education Conference in September, and many of them brought their students to Teach Day,” Schultz said.

Students interested in early childhood education and family and consumer sciences made up nearly two-thirds of the attending registrants.

Teach Day expanded to include nearly all undergraduate School of Education programs. / ��

Sarah Korte, a junior in family and consumer sciences, volunteered during Teach Day “because I know that not only do we need teachers, but I love to inspire and encourage others to find what they love to do in life.”

Korte was in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America in high school. FCCLA and her family and consumer sciences teacher helped her learn that she loves to teach.

“I love this event because I get to share my passion for teaching, and I get to teach other people about my major and ��. This event gives people the opportunity to explore teaching in an interactive way,” Korte said.

Technology education majors Sam Konieczny and Ben Schmitt also volunteer during Teach Day. Their high school technology education teachers were influential in their decisions to teach.

Schmitt assisted his teacher in high school, working with his classmates and stepping up into a leadership role. “I hope my involvement with Teach Day gives high school students that opportunity to experience teaching for a day and gain clarity about a path to teaching through ��,” he said.

“Teach Day gives high school students who are looking at a career in education a chance to see the other side of the desk and what Stout has to offer them,” Konieczny added.

Konieczny believes education is one of the most rewarding careers. “It is the best thing to be working with someone and watch what they weren’t understanding click and make sense. And to work and inspire students to find themselves and prepare them for a future in a career that excites them,” he said.

Students participated in breakout sessions to learn more about their programs of interest. / ��

Korte, of Wisconsin Rapids, hopes to student teach at Mauston High School before graduating in spring 2024. She plans to teach in central Wisconsin. Konieczny and Schmitt plan to student teach in fall 2023 and graduate that semester. Schmitt, of Somerset, would like to teach in western Wisconsin.

Konieczny, from Oak Creek, a Milwaukee suburb, would like to “go back to the Milwaukee area and give back to the community that helped me get to where I am today,” he said. “When I look back at some of the people who made the biggest difference in my life, it was my teachers. For me to think I can make that same difference and influence someone in that way is something that excites me.”

�� . School of Education, housed in Heritage Hall, offers seven undergraduate teaching degrees, as well as postgraduate degrees in career and technical education, education, school counseling and school psychology and eight education certificates and certifications.

SOE programs are among the many workforce-ready programs administered in Heritage Hall, a near-50-year-old building that is scheduled for major renovation after receiving priority approval from the UW System Board of Regents. The project is ranked No. 1 in the Chippewa Valley and No. 3 for UW System academic buildings.

School of Education

All School of Education News

�� marketing and business education students apply learning to make DECA conference succeed

�� marketing & business education majors organize on-campus DECA competition for high schoolers

January 20, 2026

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

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

January 8, 2026

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors

Construction, interior design, technology education majors build garden products for senior living home residents

November 20, 2025

Education students help to inspire others to meet the growing need of teachers in Wisconsin Teach Day, students at breakout session, 2

University Marketing

School of Education

The �� School of Education offers challenging education programs that prepare highly qualified and successful teachers, leaders, and student services prof

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

School of Education impacts field of teacher education, develops instrument adapted by national colleagues

goersab — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 17:19:53 +0000

School of Education impacts field of teacher education, develops instrument adapted by national colleagues goersab September 28, 2022

Housed in Heritage Hall, teacher education programs address Wisconsin ��. workforce needs

Abbey Goers

Professors at �� . School of Education have developed an instrument for measuring students’ dispositions, part of the school ��. assessment system for its seven undergraduate teacher education programs.

The disposition committee presented “Professional Dispositions: Development, Validation and Implementation” to colleagues from universities around the country at the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education conference in March, in New Orleans.

A disposition is the professional attitudes, values and beliefs of educators, demonstrated through their verbal and nonverbal behaviors as they interact with students, families, colleagues and communities.

Kevin Mason / ��

The committee developed the new disposition instrument to measure education students’ progress as they reach benchmarks within their teaching programs. Students’ dispositions are reviewed by faculty and staff before they begin student teaching.

The committee identified 15 dispositions to be measured that fit under five major categories: collaboration, continuous learning, inclusiveness, professionalism and reflection.

Kevin Mason, special education program director and disposition committee chair, believes it is “absolutely vital for every teacher to be able to collaborate and communicate effectively and respectfully with students and families. Those skills cannot be measured on a standardized exam for teacher licensure.

An early childhood education student works with preschoolers / ��

“At ��, we teach our preservice teachers to work effectively with students and families in our courses and through a variety of field experiences in the classroom. We want our graduates to be great with kids and contribute positively to their school and community,” he said.

After the conference, Mason received several requests from colleagues around the country who wanted more information.

“The attendees were very impressed with the development, validation and implementation of our professional disposition instrument at ��,” Mason said. “Some have adapted it for their own teacher education programs.”

Universities that requested the disposition instrument include:

Brigham Young University, in Provo, Utah
College of Education and Human Development, University of Missouri, in Columbia, Mo.
Feinstein School of Education and Human Development, Rhode Island College, in Providence, R.I.
St. Mary's College, Notre Dame, in South Bend, Ind.
Thelma P. Lally School of Education, College of St. Rose, in Albany, N.Y.

Career and technical education students in an APA writing course / ��

Assistant Professor Julienne Cuccio Slichko at the College of St. Rose created self-paced modules for their students to learn about the dispositions. “We are so very grateful to �� . department for getting us started,” she said.

The committee members are Mason; Ann Carlisle, art education; Allison Feller, Child and Family Study Center; Diane Klemme, family and consumer science education; Jim McMullen, school counseling; Chris Peterson, school psychology; and Deb Stanislawski, marketing and business education.

AACTE is a nonprofit national alliance of education programs dedicated to the professional development of pre-K-12 teachers and school leaders, representing more than 800 postsecondary institutions with educator preparation programs.

A renovation to support Wisconsin ��. workforce needs

Technology education students in a Mechatronics course / ��

�� . School of Education, housed in Heritage Hall, offers seven undergraduate teaching degrees and five postgraduate teaching degrees, as well as eight education certificates and certifications

SOE is working to fill a statewide need for teachers, as many school districts struggle to fill existing positions. Wisconsin K-12 schools made nearly 3,700 emergency teacher hires in 2020, according to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

SOE graduates approximately 100 undergraduate students and 25 graduate students each year, with a 99% employment rate within six months of graduating.

Heritage Hall, one of the university ��. busiest classroom and lab buildings, serves more than 2,000 students each academic year. It is also home to the School of Hospitality Leadership, nutrition and family health, and the Weidner Center for residential property management. It will be the future home of four Graduate School programs in clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, psychology and school counseling.

Major renovation of Heritage Hall ranked No. 1 in Chippewa Valley, third for UW System academic buildings

A critical renovation project of one of �� . busiest classroom and lab buildings has taken a major step forward.

A major renovation of the hall received priority approval on Aug. 19, at the UW System Board of Regents meeting held at UW-Green Bay. The project is ranked No. 1 in the Chippewa Valley and third for UW System academic buildings.

The state job outlook for graduates from most of the programs based in the building is expected to grow between 6% and 15% by 2025. The improved capacity provided by the Heritage Hall renovations will help provide qualified Wisconsin workers to address workforce needs.

The Board of Regents’ action means that the renovation will be in the UW System ��. capital request to the Legislature for the 2023-25 state budget. If the $120,614,000 project is included in the state budget, final approval still is needed by the State Building Commission. Construction could begin as early as fall 2025 and will take about 24 months.

School of Education

All School of Education News

�� marketing and business education students apply learning to make DECA conference succeed

�� marketing & business education majors organize on-campus DECA competition for high schoolers

January 20, 2026

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

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

January 8, 2026

Students collaborate across degrees in community project for The Neighbors

Construction, interior design, technology education majors build garden products for senior living home residents

November 20, 2025

Housed in Heritage Hall, teacher education programs address Wisconsin ��. workforce needs early_childhood_education_student_working_with_preschoolers.jpg

University Marketing

School of Education

The �� School of Education offers challenging education programs that prepare highly qualified and successful teachers, leaders, and student services prof

Heritage Hall Renovation

This project creates a new, unified home for workforce-critical degree programs in the College of Art & Human Sciences and more.

Kevin Mason

Kevin Mason is a Professor of Education and Chair of the Teaching, Learning, and Leadership Department at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. He previously held positions as a chemistry and physics teacher at Chippewa Falls High School and Middleton High School.

Full Name: Dr. Kevin Mason

Job Title: Professor

Include in Directory: Yes

College: College of Arts & Human Sciences

Department: School of Education Teaching, Learning & Leadership Department

Curriculum Vitae: Kevin Mason CV (198.13 KB)

Education:

Degree: Ph.D. Curriculum & Instruction

University: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Degree: M.Ed. Education

University: University of Minnesota

Degree: B.S. Chemistry

University: University of Minnesota

CACHSS SOE

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Faculty members continue lifelong learning through sabbaticals, professorships

goersab — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 15:04:35 +0000

Faculty members continue lifelong learning through sabbaticals, professorshipsgoersab September 20, 2022

Seven professors earn awards for research, to improve teaching expertise through professional development

Abbey Goers

Lifelong learning is part of �� . vision, offering applied learning, theory and research not only to its students but to its faculty and staff as well.

As a part of the lifelong learning process, seven professors and associate professors have been awarded sabbaticals and earned professorships for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 academic years.

Sabbaticals, which enable recipients to engage in intensive study to become more effective teachers and scholars, are granted to faculty based on their merit of past academic contributions. This academic year ��. recipients are:

Professor Jim Bryan, design department chair
Professor Dmitry Kadnikov, chemistry and physics department
Associate Professor Kimberly Loken, program director of game design and development-art

Jim Bryan, center, with a class outside of Applied Arts / ��

Bryan will research two projects during his sabbatical: a proposal for an art museum exhibition and a study of Frank Sinatra ��. political stances.

His exhibition will feature “works of art in which real people take on the guise of someone else, such as in religious masquerading ceremonies in which participants are believed to manifest the supernatural beings they are dressed as, or in portraits in which the sitter adopts the costume and accessories of some mythological character,” he said.

Bryan's second project is to research Sinatra ��. mid-1950s bachelor pad, for which he hired African American architect Paul R. Williams. “At the time, Sinatra was a very prominent celebrity supporter of the civil rights movement and was liberal in his political views. But in a televised tour of his apartment, he never mentioned his Black architect,” Bryan said. “This is a fascinating example of what was considered ‘progressive’ in Eisenhower-era America, and how far even a legendary celebrity would or would not go on live TV then.”

Kim Loken, center, and game design students. / ��

Loken teaches game design and talks with students about systems and the cause-and-effect relationships within them. As a licensed architect, she tends to research ecosystems.

“I’ll be designing a tabletop game about re-wilding rivers,” she said. “But my reading on land use and resource management also feeds another creative inquiry – a prototype for an agri-hood, in which I will study a modular approach to blending food production with moderately dense housing.”

Bryan believes sabbaticals are valuable in that they allow faculty a set amount of time to focus on what is important rather than just what is urgent.

“In an organization as big, and with as many different needs as a university, there are always lots of things to be addressed – classes to teach, students to advise, meetings to attend, forms to be filled out, problems to be resolved, future plans to be made. All of this matters, but it demands a lot of time and energy,” he said.

“The sabbatical means that those long-term goals can be given exclusive attention. It allows faculty to ‘uni-task’ rather than multitask so that through their research they can make further contributions to society ��. total body of knowledge, which is one of their professional obligations,” Bryan said.

Professorships are prestigious positions awarded to high-performing faculty to help them improve their areas of teaching expertise through professional development.

This academic year ��. professorships were awarded to:

Diane Klemme / ��

Professor Diane Klemme, program director of family and consumer sciences education: Q Endowed Chair, awarded for two years, $46,000.
Assistant Professor Karen Ostenso, program director of dietetics: Grace Laudon Ostenso Nutrition and Food Science Endowed Chair, awarded for two years, $19,000.
Professor Chris Peterson, program director of M.S.Ed. and Ed.S. school psychology: Maybelle Ranney Price Professorship, awarded for one year, $2,000.
Assistant Professor Vivek Singhal, engineering and technology department: John “Jed” Copham Memorial Professorship, awarded for one year, $10,000.

Klemme will explore the teacher shortage in career and technical areas by looking into the factors that contribute to students' choices in pursuing a CTE teaching career. She'll work to identify career development programs and practices used in secondary schools that help students seek a CTE teaching career.

Her research methods will include student surveys and interviews with secondary school staff. She'll also explore the research regarding the Alpha Generation and potential avenues for this generation to opt for a CTE teaching career.

Karen Ostenso / ��

Karen Ostenso will address the lack of evidence-based nutrition interventions for community-dwelling older adults to reduce malnutrition and promote successful aging.

“The goal is to develop, implement and evaluate an evidenced-based cooking curriculum for community-residing older adults and caregivers as part of a comprehensive nutrition program model being initiated through the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources Inc.,” Ostenso said.

Grace Laudon Ostenso, a 1954 graduate of the family and consumer educational services program, now the dietetics program, founded the endowed chair to provide leadership and vision to ensure expert instruction for �� students and the continued success of its food- and nutrition-related programs.

Chris Peterson / ��

Peterson plans to attend conferences and workshops that align with her interests in literacy and intervention for struggling readers. “Literacy and particularly reading intervention expertise is critical to the role of the school psychologist, and I am grateful for the opportunity to update my own professional development in the area, which will enhance teaching and learning in the classroom,” she said.

Maybelle Ranney Price graduated from the Stout Institute. The professorship is awarded in recognition of outstanding ability and promise and provides support for professional activities.

Vivek Singhal / ��

Singhal plans to collaborate with the local industry to develop an applied, hands-on course on laser material processing. “There is a regional and national shortage of qualified people in this field, and only a few programs in the country offer any relevant training,” Singhal said.

The John "Jed" Copham Memorial Professorship is in memory of Copham, a 1997 industrial technology graduate who died in a swimming accident in 2018. This professorship is intended to support faculty and staff in the engineering and technology department, with preference for projects that have a connection to automobiles or motorsports.

Faculty must apply for the professorships, which are funded through the Stout University Foundation. They are awarded based on recommendations made by the Named Professorship Committee and are approved by Chancellor Katherine Frank. Use of the stipends must meet state guidelines and be approved by the UW System.

Faculty Highlights

All Faculty Highlights News

Board game renaissance: �� professor puts the pieces in place for successful game design business

Dave Beck ��. Paverson Games creates elaborate, concept-driven games with the help of other talented faculty

February 16, 2026

On the vanguard: An artificial intelligence filmmaking course emerges at ��

AI-Assisted Film and Video Production class to open summer 2026

January 12, 2026

�� students’ submarine survival game surfaces to victory at M+DEV, the Midwest ��. biggest game industry event

PC game ��. win at M+DEV expo highlights �� . globally ranked program

December 9, 2025

Seven professors earn awards for research, to improve teaching expertise through professional development jim_bryan_center.jpg

University Marketing

�� Foundation

Supporting ��'s legacy

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

With successful alum like Jones, university stands out in national survey

polingj — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 18:11:14 +0000

With successful alum like Jones, university stands out in national surveypolingj June 8, 2022

High percentage of graduates from five, 10 years ago pleased with career preparation, advice, results

After a recent national survey, University of Wisconsin-Stout has a clearer picture of career satisfaction and success among graduates from two recent classes.

In multiple areas, thanks to graduates like De’Andre Jones, �� stood out compared with other universities and colleges, providing evidence that the university is on the right track with its career-focused undergraduate programs and student services.

�� ranked 10% or more higher than other public schools and all schools in the survey in several areas, including:

Career advice, 93% satisfaction
Career and self-improvement skills, 81% satisfaction
How well-prepared graduates believe they were to begin their careers, 73%.

De’Andre Jones, a 2016 �� graduate, is director of alumni engagement at Seattle University. / Contributed photo

The National Alumni Career Mobility survey of 2011 and 2016 graduates was conducted in fall 2021. Results were released recently.

Since taking the survey, Jones, already has advanced his career — his fourth upwardly mobile move since earning a bachelor ��. degree in 2016 in family and consumer sciences education.

In February, he was named director of alumni engagement at Seattle University in Seattle, moving into his first management position a little more than five years after graduating.

“What I really liked about Stout was the polytechnic emphasis and the way the curriculum was laid out, the courses I took. I received a breadth of experience. I knew there would be a lot of transferable skills and that I’d be well-equipped to work in any field,” Jones said. “Stout was such a transformational place for me.”

Jones earned a master ��. degree in education from Seattle University, where he now works. / Contributed photo

After graduating, Jones chose to enter graduate school, a benefit of the McNair Scholars Program in which he took part at ��. The program supports traditionally underserved student populations, including services to help students with graduate school preparation.

“Overall I felt prepared, and the skills I gained at Stout did prepare me for the rigor I was going to experience,” he added.

In 2018, Jones earned a master ��. in education in student development administration from Seattle University. Then, he spent two years as a K-12 mentor in a national nonprofit organization, Summer Search, in the Seattle area. He returned to Seattle University as assistant director of student involvement for events and traditions.

Now, as alumni engagement director, he has a staff of three and oversees direct contact with the university ��. more than 86,000 alumni. “It has been fun. It ��. challenging work, but I think a lot of my work is relationship building,” he said.

For the survey question about career mobility, �� ranked higher in 12 of 13 questions than all public institutions and all colleges and universities involved.

The survey results provide another level of insight into graduates’ careers beyond �� . annual First Destination Report. The most recent report found that 98.4% of graduates advanced their career within six months of earning their diploma, the vast majority with full-time jobs.

Bryan Barts, �� Career Services director / ��

“The NACM survey provided key insights into the value and impact of our polytechnic programs straight from our alumni. At five and 10 years out, our alumni responded overwhelmingly that their experience at �� set them up for future success,” said Career Services Director Bryan Barts.

�� also participated in the 2020 survey of 2010 and 2015 graduates and was one of only two universities ranked exemplary in educational satisfaction.

Along with Career Services, the survey was supported at �� by Planning, Assessment, Research and Quality, the Alumni Association, and Learning and Information Technology.

Meridith Wentz, assistant chancellor and director of PARQ, was pleased to see that �� . rating exceeded the benchmark comparisons on many of the metrics.

“�� . ratings on career mobility questions exceeded the comparison group on 92% of the questions, which speaks to �� . core competency of career-focused education,” Wentz said.

Appreciative of education, support

Jones is from Austin, Texas, but he went to high school in Wisconsin, in Waukesha where his mother lived at the time. After high school, he spent a year at Austin Community College when a plan to attend a hospitality school in Denver, Colo., fell through.

Jones celebrates his graduation from �� with former staff member Julie Miller, left, and Linda Young, transfer coordinator. / ��

He was at Madison Area Technical College to establish Wisconsin residency when he met �� Transfer Coordinator Linda Young. The personal connection and a visit to campus “really solidified the deal for me, and the community I found at Stout also was just another big piece.”

He cited Young, the McNair program and his undergraduate program director, Dianne Klemme, as important career influences.

Jones came out as gay while in college. He worked at the Qube, the university ��. LGBTQIA+ resource center, and was in a fraternity. He received multiple awards, including the Samuel E. Wood Medallion for leadership, Outstanding Student of the Year for family and consumer sciences and the Scott Griesbach Award for Excellence in LGBTQIA+ Advocacy.

“Stout was my first time being truly away from home. Each of those different spaces on campus helped me learn different skills that I think highlighted my values and amplified what I knew to be true about myself and where I saw myself headed,” he said.

“Stout really laid the foundation for me to feel confident and believe I could go to graduate school. I really do owe a lot to my time in Menomonie,” he said.

Student success is the leading goal of �� . FOCUS2030 strategic plan.

NACM survey

�� contacted about 3,500 alumni who graduated in 2011 and 2016 to ask them to take the survey.

All 13 UW System schools participated, with the System providing the funding.

The Career Leadership Collective, a higher education solutions group, oversees the survey, providing advisory and data services to assist campuses in building capacity around career development effectiveness.

###

After a recent national survey, �� has a clearer picture of career satisfaction and success among graduates from two recent classes. De'Andre Jones

University Marketing

Career Services

Career-focused support for �� students and alumni.

Hero Caption: De’Andre Jones receives his diploma during commencement in 2016. / ��

Meridith Wentz

Primary areas of responsibility:

Enrollment Strategies & Initiatives
- Admissions
- Advisement Center
- Financial Aid
- First-Year Experience
- Registration & Records
- Title III
Planning, Assessment, Research & Quality
- Strategic Planning Process
- University Policies
- University Accreditation
- University-Wide Assessment
Director of Institutional Research
Director of Applied Research Center

Full Name: Meridith Wentz, Ph.D.

Job Title: Vice Chancellor for Enrollment & Quality

Include in Directory: Yes

Department: Office of Enrollment & Quality Planning, Assessment, Research & Quality

Education:

PARQ

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

Graduate from Montana finishes degree to help her local school keep life skills classes

powersp — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 19:40:26 +0000

Graduate from Montana finishes degree to help her local school keep life skills classespowersp December 13, 2021

Hoffman, who will attend commencement, also wanted to show her son importance of education, that sacrifices pay off

Megan Hoffman saw a need in her hometown K-12 school and decided she needed to help resolve it.

Hoffman graduates from University of Wisconsin-Stout on Saturday, Dec. 18, with a degree in family and consumer sciences education. She teaches the subject already at the Medicine Lake School in Medicine Lake, Mont., a position she was allowed to fill conditionally until she graduated from ��.

“We had a need in our school for a family and consumer sciences teacher to teach life skills,” said Hoffman, who was interviewed via video. “It was a program I didn’t want to see gone from my school.

“We are really rural. The school has 85 students. I needed to find an online program. I liked Stout was a smaller school. What clinched it was after I talked to Diane Klemme, the program director, before I even applied. I liked her. She was really warm. I knew if the college employed people like her, it was the right fit.”

Megan Hoffman and her son, Finn / Photo courtesy Megan Hoffman

Commencement will take on even more special meaning to Hoffman, of Brockton, Mont., because the 770-mile trip to Menomonie with her family will be her first time on campus.

“I get finally to meet everyone,” Hoffman said, smiling.

Online program provided flexibility

Working full time and volunteering in her community as a paramedic, Hoffman, who started at �� in 2019, found the flexibility of the online program fit her schedule. She could work on classes when she had time, including evenings and weekends.

Hoffman first became an emergency medical technician in her early 20s and then a paramedic in her mid-20s, following in the footsteps of her father who was a physician and her mother who was a nurse.

“I used to go on rounds with my dad,” Hoffman recalled, noting she grew up in Ohio. “I just love medicine. My favorite part is the social work aspect of it helping people who might need to set their home up safer or need food in their refrigerator. I like making things better for people.”

That interest made an easy transition to teaching. Hoffman first started as a paraeducator in the Medicine Lake School and then decided to become a teacher. �� accepted 36 transfer credits from Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio, where Hoffman started college in her 20s.

Moment of closure, celebration

Hoffman partially wanted to finish her degree for her son, Finn, age 10.

“I wanted my son to see women can do this and continue to better themselves,” Hoffman said. “I wanted him to see Mom working hard and that sacrifices pay off. I barely graduated high school. I was so unmotivated.”

Diane Klemme / �� photo

Hoffman is graduating with a near 3.5 grade point average. “I’m proud of that,” she said. “I didn’t just get by. It was important to me to do as well as I could for myself, my students and my kid.”

Finn will join his mom at commencement as will her mom, dad and step-mother. Her husband, Jeremy, will stay in Montana to care for the family dairy farm.

Hoffman said she knows she will cry at graduation. “I have never graduated from college,” she said. “I could have watched the ceremony on YouTube, but I knew I was going to go to campus. It ��. important to me. It ��. a moment of closure and to celebrate with other people.”

Professor Klemme, who is also the teaching, learning and leadership department co-chair, is looking forward to meeting Hoffman on commencement day, if not before.

“She has been just a delightful person to work with,” Klemme said. “She is very committed to her community, to family and consumer sciences education and to her school.”

Hoffman represents what the customized instruction program was designed to do, develop more family and consumer sciences education teachers, Klemme said.

“It was designed out of need because we saw a shortage,” Klemme said. “The shortage hasn’t lessened. It provides that flexibility piece students need as they are gaining experience teaching.”

Megan Hoffman / Photo courtesy Megan Hoffman

Others thinking about returning to college should seriously consider it, Hoffman said.

“I went full-time year-round. I took four to five classes a semester while being a wife, mom, volunteer paramedic and working full time, and I could do it. Being an online student, you have amazing flexibility, and you can even take one class and just dip your toe in. I just dove in. My one suggestion is to weigh your classes and take a lighter load if you have harder classes. I am not Wonder Woman. I love to sleep. It is definitely doable.”

Hoffman hopes others will take advantage of the online degree program at ��.

“I had the best experience at Stout. People were so warm and accepting. Professors were available to help. I felt I got such a great education. I never thought I was missing anything.”

Family & Consumer Sciences Education

All Family & Consumer Sciences Education News

Megan Hoffman saw a need in her hometown K-12 school and decided she needed to help resolve it. meganhoffman4.jpg

University Communications

Include in Directory: Off

Exclude from Internal Site Search: No

News

Inspiring Graduate: Josie Finocchiaro, B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

Inspiring Graduate: Josie Finocchiaro (’24)

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leaders

Alumni recognize communication, connections, genuineness as necessary to be trusted leaders

‘Be a difference maker’

Embracing their stories with no regrets

‘A future waiting to be illuminated’

Fall commencement scheduled Dec. 14 for 510 graduates

Inspiring Graduates Share Their Stout Experiences

Early childhood education faculty Lindsay Barnhart recognized with national Phi Upsilon Omicron adviser award

Student activities and awards

School of Education

More than 100 outstanding students recognized at annual Leadership Awards ceremony

Wood Medallion winners

An outstanding researcher and scholar athlete

Advocating for teacher excellence and the polytechnic advantage

Leadership Awards

Outstanding CEIP Student of the Year Award

Teaching excellence: Four School of Education alum honored with awards

School of Education

B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

School of Education ��������. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

Alumna wins national family and consumer sciences award

Barnhart honored by American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences

Inspiring Graduate: Jessica Daley, B.S. Family & Consumer Sciences Education

School of Education ��������. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

Event responds to growing need for teachers

School of Education

School of Education impacts field of teacher education, develops instrument adapted by national colleagues

A renovation to support Wisconsin ��������. workforce needs

Major renovation of Heritage Hall ranked No. 1 in Chippewa Valley, third for UW System academic buildings

School of Education

Heritage Hall Renovation

Faculty members continue lifelong learning through sabbaticals, professorships

�������� Foundation

With successful alum like Jones, university stands out in national survey

Career Services

Graduate from Montana finishes degree to help her local school keep life skills classes

School of Education ��. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

School of Education ��. Teach Day gives high school students opportunity to ‘explore teaching in an interactive way’

A renovation to support Wisconsin ��. workforce needs

�� Foundation