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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

jasperb — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:21:54 +0000

#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)jasperb February 12, 2026

Through interactive storytelling, Jacob Schwitzer '20 is helping Indigenous students feel seen and bringing modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

Brenna Jasper

Jacob Schwitzer / Submitted photo

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is changing the way people experience culture, storytelling and connection through video games. His game Powwow Bound: A Menominee Homecoming immerses players in the story of a Menominee family returning to their reservation for the Annual Contest Powwow. Along the way, players explore language, family and tradition, guided by a story that is both deeply personal and culturally authentic. For Schwitzer, the project wasn’t just about creating a game. “I hope Native students feel seen in a medium that doesn’t often share our stories,” Schwitzer says. “And I hope others gain a deeper understanding of what modern Indigenous life looks like.”

His path to creating meaningful, community-centered games began long before the release. A First Descendant of the Menominee Nation, Jacob developed a love for video games and storytelling as he grew up on the Menominee Reservation. That passion led him to ��, where he pursued a degree in computer science with a concentration in game design and development. “Stout really stood out because it had one of the top game design programs in the United States,” he says. “I was excited to be part of a place that combined hands-on learning with industry preparation.”

At Stout, Jacob thrived in game design courses that taught both technical skills and collaboration. He recalls classes where he worked alongside students with different expertise, from art to audio, learning to communicate and develop shared visions. Lab-based projects allowed him to build a game every year, creating a portfolio that would prove crucial in launching his career. Internships, including one with the College of Menominee Nation's Sustainable Development Institute creating VR applications about climate change impacts, gave him the chance to use his skills to directly serve his community.

After graduating in May 2020, he secured a position with Nebraska Public Media, where he works as a programmer developing interactive projects.

The �� Native American Student Organization Executive Board from Jacob's senior year. / Submitted photo

The idea for Powwow Bound grew out of conversations at home. Schwitzer ��. mother, an Indigenous educator in Wisconsin, often searched for meaningful resources to help teach Act 31, Wisconsin ��. requirement to educate students about Indigenous histories. When he had the opportunity to pitch a new project, he recognized a chance to create something both practical for teachers and meaningful for students.

Community collaboration and authenticity were integral to the development process. A Menominee writer, cultural advisers and Menominee language speakers helped ensure accuracy and depth. Nicholas Schwitzer, Jacob ��. twin brother and fellow �� alumnus with a BFA in entertainment design: comics and sequential art, served as character designer, making sure the characters reflected Menominee identity without relying on stereotypes. His younger brother Matthew lent his voice to the project, and his mother, Lela, helped develop the accompanying educator guide.

“The game would be lesser if it was just my voice,” Schwitzer says. “Being able to build this with my community made it stronger.”

The impact of the game has been immediate. Young Indigenous players have seen themselves represented in its characters and storylines, while educators are using it to support Act 31 instruction. Players of all backgrounds are gaining a deeper understanding of Menominee culture and traditions.

Jacob is pictured with co-producer from PBS Wisconsin Angelina Shi at the Powwow Bound game launch. / Submitted photo

Beyond Powwow Bound, Schwitzer has contributed to several other public media games. He worked as a programmer on Expedition Nebraska, a virtual museum experience highlighting the state ��. anthropology and fossil history, and on the Steam release of Civics Scribble, a line-drawing trivia game based on the U.S. naturalization exam. As he looks ahead, Schwitzer is excited about the growing role of public media in interactive storytelling and the opportunity to create games rooted in community and lived experiences. While large studios often prioritize scale and profit, smaller teams can center stories that might otherwise go untold. “We can focus on community-based games that highlight aspects of life and culture that the larger industry often overlooks,” he says. “It creates connection, understanding and meaning through interactive experiences.”

Reflecting on his journey, Jacob attributes much of his success to the preparation he received at ��. “Stout gives students the hands-on experience and confidence to take initiative, try new things and learn by doing,” he says. “Being able to take what I learned and create something meaningful for my community is incredibly rewarding, and that ��. what makes me #StoutProud.”

Powwow Bound
Powwow Bound Website
Powwow Bound Steam Page

Expedition Nebraska
Expedition Nebraska Steam Page

Civics Scribble
Civics Scribble Steam Page

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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

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Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities. Jacob Schwitzer

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Hero Caption: Jacob and the creators of Powwow Bound at the game launch at the 57th Menominee Nation Contest Powwow. Also pictured is the Director of Television of PBS Wisconsin, Jon Miskowski.

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#StoutProud: Katie Brenner ('04)

jasperb — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:37:39 +0000

#StoutProud: Katie Brenner ('04)jasperb January 30, 2026

Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna Katie Brenner ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer goods industry.

Brenna Jasper

Katie Brenner / Submitted photo

Katie Brenner ’04 is helping shape how consumers experience high-protein food products nationwide. As a sales and marketing executive for Stryve Foods, she leads national strategy, oversees multiple product categories and has helped guide a strategic transformation more than two years in the making. Her ability to navigate change, build trust and deliver results reflects the applied, relationship-driven education she received at ��.

Originally from Lakeville, Minnesota, Brenner chose �� for its specialized programs and close-knit campus community. She initially enrolled in the apparel design program, drawn by an early interest in fashion.

She soon recognized that her strengths and long-term impact would be best realized through the retail merchandising and management program where creativity and commercial strategy intersect, a move that proved transformative. Brenner credits �� faculty for helping her identify her strengths and for offering the kind of individualized support that shaped both her confidence and career direction.

Katie at her graduation from ��. / Submitted photo

“The professors always felt like they had time for you,” she said. “I remember one professor could tell I was struggling before I even asked for help. She took extra time with me, and that experience really stuck with me. That ��. how the whole campus felt.”

Once she found the right academic fit, Brenner thrived. Her coursework emphasized applied learning, analytics, leadership and communication — skills that would immediately set her apart after graduation. That advantage became clear in her first role at Dayton ��. (Marshall Fields), where she joined a merchandising training program alongside peers from a wide range of academic backgrounds. “I realized right away I was a step ahead,” she said. “That came directly from my schooling.”

She advanced quickly, earning multiple promotions in her early career. When corporate restructuring led to mass layoffs in Minneapolis, Brenner viewed the disruption not as a setback but as an opportunity to expand her perspective. She transitioned into the broker world and later into manufacturing, gaining a rare, full-spectrum understanding of retail from buyer to supplier.

“That experience made me stronger,” she said. “I wouldn’t be the leader I am today without seeing the business from every side.”

Over the next decade, Brenner continued building her expertise in sales and leadership, including 11 years at The Hain Celestial Group, where she led sales across major national accounts. Relationships she built along the way proved pivotal. When a former boss stepped into the CEO role at Stryve Foods, he knew Brenner would be well positioned to contribute to the company ��. strategic transformation.

Katie is the Chief Commercial Officer for Stryve Foods, which specializes in air-dried beef protein snacks. / Submitted photo

Brenner joined Stryve Foods more than two years ago and now oversees national sales and marketing for the public company. Known for pioneering air-dried beef snacks (biltong) in the United States, Stryve operates in a rapidly evolving consumer goods space where innovation, agility and collaboration are essential.

High Steaks pet treats feature real, air-dried beef. / Submitted photo

Under Katie's leadership, Stryve has executed partner realignments, expanded new customer distribution and executed innovation launches, including the launch of High Steaks, an air-dried pet treat brand. Brenner draws heavily on lessons first learned at ��, from understanding shelf impact and consumer messaging to leading cross-functional teams through complex launches.

Equally influential has been her leadership philosophy. Brenner prioritizes trust, open communication and accountability, creating environments where teams feel empowered to contribute and learn from mistakes.

Her advice to current �� students is simple: build relationships early and often. “Don’t do it alone,” she said. “Every opportunity I’ve had came back to relationships I built and maintained.”

Today, Brenner remains deeply StoutProud, carrying forward friendships, professional confidence and a leadership foundation shaped in Menomonie.

“I think being StoutProud is really honoring the school and campus. The moments that you had, the friendships that you made there and the education that you got,” she said. “I have come into an executive role in the field that I wanted to be in, and I plan to lead a company. Because of Stout, I have the education and foundation to be able to do that.”

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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

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Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer food industry

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Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer food industry Katie Brenner Stryve

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Hero Caption: Katie Brenner is pictured promoting the launch of High Steaks, an innovative brand dedicated to providing high-quality, high-protein, human-grade pet treats.

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#StoutProud: Brian Morgan ('07)

jasperb — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:34:36 +0000

#StoutProud: Brian Morgan ('07)jasperb January 30, 2026

LTC Brian Morgan is helping lead Minnesota ��. response to cyber threats, coordinating the first-ever National Guard cyber mission and shaping cyber defense at the highest levels.

Brenna Jasper

Lieutenant Colonel Brian Morgan. / Submitted photo

Lieutenant Colonel Brian Morgan ’07 has built a career at the intersection of cybersecurity, military leadership and public service, shaping how communities respond to cyber threats at the highest levels.

In August 2025, he played a central role in coordinating Minnesota ��. first-ever National Guard cyber response mission in Saint Paul. During a significant ransomware attack that disrupted critical city services, Brian led the rapid integration of National Guard cyber teams with local, state and federal partners to stabilize systems and protect the public.

Despite the unprecedented nature of the mission and intense public attention, including media appearances, Brian recalls feeling prepared. In a live CNN interview during the response, he explained the Guard ��. role and mindset in tackling such a complex challenge. “I felt remarkably calm,” he says. “That confidence came from preparation. Everything we built over the last two years was designed for this exact moment.”

Brian speaking at the Cyber Security Summit in 2025. / Submitted photo

For his leadership during the mission, Brian received the Minnesota National Guard ��. State Medal of Merit, one of the organization ��. highest honors. He was also recognized with a Visionary Leadership Award from the Cyber Security Summit for creating Minnesota ��. Cyber Coordination Cell, a structure that has significantly strengthened statewide cyber readiness.

Brian ��. path to leadership began long before these high-profile moments. Growing up in Wisconsin, he was drawn to technology and gaming, which sparked an early curiosity in problem-solving and innovation. At ��, that curiosity evolved into a rigorous academic experience that shaped his mindset.

Brian pictured his freshmen year in his Stout dorm room. / Submitted photo

Alongside his coursework, he balanced leadership roles, student organizations and National Guard service, joining the Guard during his second year to follow in his father ��. footsteps and become more well-rounded. After graduating and commissioning as an Army officer, he served as an infantryman and military intelligence officer before being selected for the Army ��. newly established Cyber branch. His �� degree and STEM background made him a competitive candidate for advanced Army cyber and network engineering schools, where officers are trained in offensive and defensive cyber operations, as well as for national-level assignments, including a deployment supporting U.S. Cyber Command.

“If I hadn’t had that STEM degree from Stout, I wouldn’t have been accepted into those advanced cyber and technical training programs,” he says. “That education led me directly to where I am today.” His work continues to protect communities, advance national security and set standards for cyber readiness across Minnesota.

Group run in Kuwait during Operation Spartan Shield, 2019. / Submitted photo

Brian highlights the �� faculty that were instrumental in his growth, particularly professors Chris Bendell and Diane Christie. “They didn’t just teach content,” he says. “They helped us transition into adulthood. I felt nurtured and cared for at Stout in a way that really mattered.”

The university ��. applied learning and supportive environment shaped his leadership philosophy, emphasizing servant leadership and practical problem-solving.

“You don’t want to lead by compliance,” he explains. “You want to lead by commitment. If people trust you and believe in the mission, amazing things happen.”

The Minnesota National Guard's 177th Cyber Protection Team deployment in 2020. Brian is pictured front left. / Submitted photo

Today, Brian applies that philosophy in every aspect of his work, from training soldiers to responding to cyber incidents affecting millions. He remains deeply connected to �� and is proud of its growth in cybersecurity, applied STEM education and emerging fields like game design & development. “Being #StoutProud means my education wasn’t just a moment in time,” he says. “It ��. an intrinsic part of who I am. Any success I’ve had goes back to those foundations.”

Brian Morgan ��. story is a compelling example of how a �� education translates into real-world impact: protecting communities, advancing national security and leading with purpose in an increasingly complex digital world.

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A �� education helped LTC Brian Morgan ’07 lead Minnesota ��. first-ever National Guard cyber response and shape the future of public cyber defense.

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A �� education helped LTC Brian Morgan ’07 lead Minnesota ��. first-ever National Guard cyber response and shape the future of public cyber defense. LTC Brian Morgan Award

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Hero Caption: Brian Morgan won the Visionary Leadership Award in the Security Program and Oversight Leadership category at the Cyber Security Summit in 2025.

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#StoutProud: Diane Deering-Gaston ('00)

jasperb — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:57:11 +0000

#StoutProud: Diane Deering-Gaston ('00)jasperb January 29, 2026

Diane Deering-Gaston ’00 is turning applied learning into action. Discover how her off-grid chalet blends sustainability, education and community impact.

Brenna Jasper

Chalet Homestake View / Submitted photo

High above Colorado ��. Homestake Valley, UW–Stout alumna and CTE STEAM educator Diane Deering-Gaston has created more than a mountain retreat. Gaston and husband Bryon Gaston designed Chalet Homestake View to be a fully off-grid, sustainability-focused property designed to support education, environmental stewardship and community service. Built through innovative construction methods and guided by a commitment to giving back, the project reflects how thoughtful design and applied skills can reach far beyond the footprint of a building.

That mindset was shaped years earlier at UW–Stout, where Gaston arrived with a strong interest in hands-on learning. Encouraged by instructors who recognized her aptitude for technical and creative work, she pursued a technology education degree and quickly found confidence in Stout ��. polytechnic approach. Courses grounded in materials, processes and real-world application pushed her to master tools, machines and systems that would later become second nature. Gaston learned to approach challenges through process, iteration, and experimentation. Years later, those same skills would play a central role in turning a long-held dream into reality.

Diane uses a sawmill to turn harvested trees into lumber for future Biergarten tables and benches. / Submitted photo

The idea behind Homestake View began decades earlier as Gaston ��. vision for a bed and breakfast. Diane and Bryon Gaston spent more than a decade planning, saving and refining the project while navigating rising costs, supply shortages and shifting constraints. Bryon ��. parents, Hugh and Clare Gaston, supported the effort as partners throughout the process. Drawing directly on her Stout education and her career teaching wood and metal working at Powell Middle School in Littleton, Colorado, Gaston embraced flexibility, redesigning the space multiple times and breaking the project into achievable phases.

Ultimately, the couple chose an innovative prefabricated chalet built in Austria and assembled on-site in just nine days. Gaston and her husband worked side by side with master carpenters during the build, deepening their understanding of the structure and reinforcing the hands-on philosophy that defined her time at Stout. The approach allowed for precision, efficiency, and dramatically reduced construction waste.

The interior of Chalet Homestake View. / Submitted photo

Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the process. Leftover construction materials were repurposed into furniture and finishes, while wood harvested directly from the land became tables, benches and gathering spaces. The property operates entirely off-grid using solar power, advanced water conservation systems, and carefully selected appliances designed to minimize energy use. Every system is monitored, evaluated and improved, turning the chalet into a living learning environment. For Gaston, it mirrors the way she teaches: encouraging students to test ideas, adapt to constraints and learn through doing.

Gaston ��. impact through Chalet Homestake View extends well beyond the chalet ��. infrastructure. A portion of the charges for stays supports community partners and service members, with plans to offer donated nights to veterans and nonprofit organizations. Gaston also coordinates local highway cleanups, works with river conservation groups and builds partnerships focused on protecting water sources throughout the region.

A view from Chalet Homestake View features the home ��. signature glockendome, one of its most asked-about architectural details. / Submitted photo

Education remains central to the Gaston's mission. Drawing on her experience teaching hands-on, project-based courses, Gaston envisions Chalet Homestake View as a future service learning site where students and outdoor education groups can engage directly with land stewardship, fire mitigation and sustainable practices tied to the property.

Diane and Bryon pictured in traditional Bavarian attire. / Submitted photo

The community surrounding Chalet Homestake View is equally intentional. Fellow UW–Stout alumni played a meaningful role in bringing the project to life, reflecting the lasting relationships Gaston built during her time at Stout.

“When I think of StoutProud, I think of community,” she says. “It ��. taking what you’ve learned and using it to help others. It ��. the people you meet, the support that stays with you and the confidence to build something meaningful.”

From UW–Stout ��. hands-on classrooms to a purpose-driven place in the Colorado mountains, Gaston ��. journey illustrates how applied education, adaptability and service can create impact far beyond a single career or project.

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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

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#StoutProud: Katie Brenner ('04)

Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer food industry

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#StoutProud: Brian Morgan ('07)

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Diane Gaston ’00 is turning applied learning into action. Discover how her off-grid chalet blends sustainability, education and community impact. Diane and Bryon Gaston

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Hero Caption: Diane and her husband Bryon plant a tree at Chalet Homestake View, reflecting their commitment to land stewardship and environmental sustainability.

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#StoutProud: Brad Dufek ('14)

jasperb — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:50:05 +0000

#StoutProud: Brad Dufek ('14)jasperb January 26, 2026

Brad Dufek ��. time at �� sparked a career expanding opportunity and connection through collegiate rugby.

Brenna Jasper

The return of the Collegiate Rugby Championship, 2021 in New Orleans, La. / Submitted photo

Brad Dufek is helping shape the future of collegiate rugby in the United States. As Director of Men ��. Rugby for National Collegiate Rugby, a national organization that now governs more than 85% of collegiate rugby, Dufek oversees hundreds of programs, thousands of student-athletes and high-profile events that are drawing attention well beyond the rugby community. Under his leadership, a recent national all-star event brought together more than 300 top players from across the country, earning recognition from national rugby media and a feature by a writer formerly from The Guardian highlighting the sport ��. unique ability to connect people, cultures and communities.

For Dufek, he can trace his love of rugby back to his days at ��. Originally from Ashland, Wis., Dufek arrived at Stout as a three-sport athlete planning to continue a traditional athletics path. Instead, he discovered club rugby and decided to give it a try. What he found was more than a new sport. “Rugby is inclusive, global and values-driven,” he said. “There ��. a place for everyone, and the relationships you build last a lifetime.”

Jersey presentation at the 2025 RugbyTown 7s in Glendale, Colo., an elite, annual international event. / Submitted photo

What started as curiosity quickly became central to Dufek ��. life and career. At Stout, rugby was almost entirely player-run. Student-athletes managed scheduling, travel, budgeting and training, an environment that forced leadership to emerge and problems to be solved collaboratively. Dufek credits these experiences as foundational to his career. “Stout gave me the foundation to figure out what I wanted to pursue,” he said. “Those experiences helped shape how I approach leadership now.”

Beyond the pitch he was deeply involved in campus life, serving as president of the American Marketing Association and participating in professional development opportunities that emphasized communication, organization and leadership. Faculty and staff mentors helped reinforce those skills and encouraged him to think beyond a single career track.

Coaching Rebel Rugby high school boys 7s in Salt Lake City, Utah / Submitted photo

After graduating in December of 2014, Dufek took a leap and moved to Connecticut, launching a career in business development while immersing himself in the local rugby scene. He quickly became involved as a volunteer coach for Quinnipiac University ��. NCAA Division I women ��. rugby program and Yale University ��. men ��. club team. Dufek found that balancing corporate work and coaching enhanced his ability to lead, manage people and think strategically. Eventually, Dufek made the decision to pursue rugby full-time, earning his MBA while coaching at the highest collegiate levels.

In 2020, he stepped into a role with an organization that was then a small collegiate initiative. Five years later, it has grown into a multimillion-dollar operation supporting nearly 450 men ��. programs and tens of thousands of players nationwide. Through expanded staffing, increased exposure and greater access to resources, the organization has transformed how collegiate rugby is supported in the U.S.

“Our mission is simple,” Dufek said. “Give more to the college game than it has ever had. More opportunity, more development, more access, more support.”

Yale Rugby coaching staff after defeating Harvard for the Cormack Cup in New Haven, Conn. / Submitted photo

At the same time, Dufek returned to Wisconsin and now works with Madison United Rugby, a nonprofit organization that manages youth programming, community engagement and a rugby-specific facility in Cottage Grove. The facility, which includes dedicated fields, locker rooms and a clubhouse, reflects the global rugby culture Dufek experienced through international travel and competition.

Reflecting on his journey, Dufek says Stout ��. practical, hands-on approach made all the difference. “I give a lot of credit to the culture we had at Stout,” he said. “Stout did a really nice job of giving people practical opportunities, no matter what they were interested in.”

For current �� students and alumni, Dufek encourages openness to the unexpected. “You have to show up, even when it ��. uncomfortable,” he said. “Be present, meet people and expose yourself to new experiences. That ��. where opportunity comes from.”

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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

February 12, 2026

#StoutProud: Katie Brenner ('04)

Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer food industry

January 30, 2026

#StoutProud: Brian Morgan ('07)

A �� education helped LTC Brian Morgan ’07 lead Minnesota ��. first-ever National Guard cyber response and shape the future of public cyber defense.

January 30, 2026

Brad Dufek ��. time at �� sparked a career expanding opportunity and connection through collegiate rugby. Brad Dufek 2

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Hero Caption: Brad Dufek at the National Collegiate Rugby Division 1 Men ��. Semifinals in Berks County, Penn.

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#StoutProud: Dawn Oler ('03, '06)

jasperb — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:48:53 +0000

#StoutProud: Dawn Oler ('03, '06)jasperb January 16, 2026

Dawn Oler's Stout education led to a career of leadership, mentorship and global impact that continues to shape classrooms far beyond her own.

Brenna Jasper

Dawn Oler is pictured with Dr. Diane Klemme, longtime mentor and friend. / Submitted photo

Long before Dawn Oler became a nationally recognized educator, curriculum author and Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching Research recipient, her work was creating ripple effects beyond her own classroom. For 21 years, she taught family and consumer sciences and business at Hinsdale Township High School District 86, one of Illinois’ top districts, helping students develop practical skills for life while fostering problem solving and adaptability. Her leadership extended into curriculum design with Goodheart-Willcox, national workshops and mentoring educators across the country, multiplying her impact into countless classrooms. “My long-term thought process is always: How do we give students multiple access points to succeed?” she said.

Oler ��. path to this broad influence was non-linear. Inspired in seventh grade by her home economics teacher, she knew early on that she wanted to teach. “It was the only class that felt like something I used every single day,” she reflected. After high school, she navigated work and parenting before pursuing an associate degree. She eventually transferred to ��, balancing her studies with full-time work and family responsibilities. At Stout, she found a learning environment that provided flexibility when it mattered most and was supportive of her goals. Professors like Dr. Diane Klemme helped Oler see teaching as more than what happens in the classroom and encouraged her to engage with national professional organizations. Oler joined the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, laying the foundation for leadership that would influence educators nationwide.

Dawn Oler braves the cold during her first week in Finland. / Submitted photo

As her career progressed, Oler ��. leadership and recognition grew. She was named Illinois Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher of the Year, served more than a decade on the Illinois Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Board of Directors, including a term as president, and authored curriculum that supports teachers and students across the country. Her perspective expanded globally through a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching Research, which took her to Finland for five months to study student motivation to choose their profession, focusing on why some would choose teaching as a career. She also gained valuable perspective through work with educators in South Africa and Haiti, as well as through post-Hurricane Katrina education efforts in New Orleans, experiences that deepened her commitment to listening, leading with empathy and fostering inclusive learning environments.

One of Oler ��. proudest moments came from a student inspired by her example. After watching Oler navigate the Fulbright application, the student went on to apply for and receive a Fulbright of her own, now conducting research abroad in Lithuania. For Oler, this illustrated the true purpose of education: empowering others to imagine more for themselves.

Dawn is pictured with U.S. Ambassador to Finland Douglas Hickey and fellow Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching Research recipients Teresa Butler-Doran and Ashley Pankratz. / Submitted photo

Today, Oler continues to amplify her impact as a self-employed consultant through Teach and House by mentoring educators, particularly those in rural districts who may be the only family and consumer sciences teachers in their school. Each teacher she supports carries new skills, confidence and perspective back to their own students, extending Oler ��. influence into classrooms she may never enter directly.

�� played a pivotal role in shaping this ripple effect. The mentorship, encouragement and practical preparation she received allowed her to take risks, engage nationally and continually grow as a teacher and leader. “I am always so excited to tell people I went to Stout,” Oler said. “I got the best education there for what I do and for what I didn’t even know I was going to be doing.”

Building on that foundation, Oler encourages current students to embrace challenges. “Try things. Say yes to the things that scare you,” she advises, a lesson learned at Stout that has resulted in impact felt across classrooms, communities and continents.

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#StoutProud: Jacob Schwitzer ('20)

Jacob Schwitzer '20 is using interactive storytelling to help Indigenous students feel seen and bring modern Menominee stories into classrooms and communities.

February 12, 2026

#StoutProud: Katie Brenner ('04)

Adaptability, relationship-building and leadership define alumna ��. journey to executive roles guiding growth and innovation in the consumer food industry

January 30, 2026

#StoutProud: Brian Morgan ('07)

A �� education helped LTC Brian Morgan ’07 lead Minnesota ��. first-ever National Guard cyber response and shape the future of public cyber defense.

January 30, 2026

Dawn Oler's Stout education led to a career of leadership, mentorship and global impact that continues to shape classrooms far beyond her own. Dawn Oler

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Hero Caption: Dawn Oler was the keynote presenter for the 2024 Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Child Care Conference.

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#StoutProud: Emily Maasch ('07)

smithjen — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:23:28 +0000

#StoutProud: Emily Maasch ('07)smithjen January 8, 2026

Emily Maasch builds stories through costume design, shaping characters for shows like "The Equalizer", "Law & Order" and beyond.

Brenna Jasper

Emily Maasch stands in front of a costume rack on the set of "Law and Order." / Submitted photo

From fitting Queen Latifah on set to styling Martha Stewart behind the scenes, Emily Maasch ’07 has built a career that reaches millions of viewers and contributes to the storytelling power of television. Through her work as a costumer and assistant stylist, she uses creativity, precision and persistence to shape characters and support an entertainment industry that drives both cultural connection and economic impact. “I never knew what would happen when I moved to New York, or where I would end up,” Emily said. “I just knew I wanted to try and see what was possible.”

Raised in Wisconsin, Emily learned to sew from her mom and grandma, developing an early appreciation for craft. She transferred to �� in her second year of college, drawn by Stout ��. apparel design and development program that blended creativity with practicality, a combination that would later prove invaluable in an industry that demands both artistry and efficiency.

Emily Maasch receiving her diploma at her �� graduation in 2007. / Submitted photo

After graduating, Emily moved to New York City. She began with internships and entry-level roles in fashion and technical design, learning pattern making, fittings and garment construction in real-world environments. When opportunities in traditional fashion proved unstable, she pivoted, relying on her adaptability and a willingness to learn and grow. A production assistant role in wardrobe opened the door to television, where her preparation and work ethic quickly set her apart. “I didn’t have a lot of connections,” she said. “I got noticed because I worked hard and proved I could do the job.”

Actress Lorraine Toussaint wearing pants created by Emily Maasch for "The Equalizer." / Submitted photo

Her first major TV credit came on "Ray Donovan". From there, she joined “The Equalizer”, where she spent five years working closely with the show ��. designer. That relationship became career-defining. In addition to supporting fittings and styling, Emily also created a pair of pants worn by a principal character on the show. Recognized for her skill and creativity, Emily became the designer ��. personal assistant and began helping style Martha Stewart, a collaboration that continues today. Her work has also included “American Horror Story”, including “Delicate”, the Emmy award-winning season featuring Kim Kardashian.

Emily is currently working on “Law & Order”, managing behind-the-scenes costume work and on-set responsibilities. Her days can include prepping uniforms for background actors, distressing garments to look camera-ready, dyeing fabrics, managing racks of clothing and following actors through long shoots to ensure every detail matches continuity. It is demanding work that requires technical knowledge, calm under pressure and the ability to solve problems quickly, often overnight. Even while working long hours on set, Emily continues to design in her own time. During breaks between productions, she returns to pattern drafting and garment construction for personal design projects, keeping her creative practice active beyond television. This ongoing work reflects the same hands-on mindset that launched her career and allows her to explore fashion on her own terms.

Actress Queen Latifah stands during a fitting where Emily assisted by documenting the look, organizing pieces, and preparing the outfit for set. / Submitted photo

Throughout her career, Emily has drawn upon the foundation built at ��. “I was shocked by how much knowledge I had when I started working,” she said. “Stout prepared me for far more than I realized at the time.” The technical sewing, pattern making and textile science she learned prepared her to function confidently in professional fitting rooms. She credits her textile coursework teacher Melissa Frank with giving her the knowledge she uses daily, from stain removal to fabric treatments that help clothing read correctly on camera.

Emily ��. story shows that it is possible to break into competitive industries through skill and persistence. She emphasizes that hard work gets noticed, especially in environments where reliability and competence matter. “If you’re willing to start at the bottom and work hard, people notice,” she said. “That ��. how you move forward.”

Looking back, Emily is proud of how far she has come from her days in Menomonie. From a student discovering her potential to a professional on major productions, her journey reflects the polytechnic spirit in action. �� gave her the tools that she uses to shape stories seen by audiences everywhere, a reminder that impact often begins with believing what is possible and embracing opportunity when it arrives.

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Alumna Emily Maasch '07 builds stories through costume design, shaping characters for shows like The Equalizer, Law & Order and beyond. Emily Maasch on set

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Hero Caption: Emily Maasch stands outside a building holding a wardrobe kit and several costumes for a television production, ready for on-set work.

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#StoutProud: Chris DeLeon ('00)

smithjen — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:55:30 +0000

#StoutProud: Chris DeLeon ('00)smithjen December 22, 2025

From first-generation student to STEM innovator: Chris DeLeon inspires purposeful learning.

Brenna Jasper

For more than 25 years, Chris DeLeon '00 has built a nationally recognized STEM program at Hudson Middle School. His programs have earned top honors in nationwide competitions that challenge students to think big. DeLeon says the goal is never the competition itself, but the students’ confidence and resilience that grows from tackling challenges. “What I hope students get from my class is that they see the ‘why’. Why we’re doing something, how it matters and how they can use it. I want them to walk away thinking, I can tackle that.”

That philosophy is shaped by DeLeon ��. own journey. Originally from South Texas, he moved to Wisconsin after high school and spent several years working before pursuing college. As a first-generation student and a nontraditional learner, he arrived at �� without a clear plan. He initially enrolled in industrial technology before discovering that technology education aligned with both his interests and strengths.

Chris DeLeon and middle school students at NASA challenge. / Submitted photo

DeLeon credits Stout with giving him the practical tools and encouragement he needed as a nontraditional learner. The university ��. hands-on approach and mentorship of professors like Ken Welty and Brian McAlister helped him on his educational journey. “They showed me how to write a lesson plan, what to look for and how to decide what to teach. They gave me the tools to be the teacher I am,” he says.

DeLeon ��. achievements as a teacher include an extraordinary run of national recognition, both for his students and for his leadership as an educator. His work has earned honors such as the Herb Kohl Excellence in Education Award, the Project Lead The Way Teacher of Excellence Award and recognition from the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. He has also been selected for prestigious Space Academy for Educators programs and grants, further strengthening the real-world experiences he brings back to his classroom.

That recognition is reflected year after year in student success. DeLeon has mentored student teams across multiple competitions, including NASA Explorer Schools, Siemens We Can Change the World, U.S. Army eCybermission and Project Lead The Way challenges. His students have earned repeated state titles, national podium finishes and invitations to present at high-profile events, building a legacy of excellence that spans more than a decade. In the program ��. second year, a team of five girls not only took first place in their NASA water purification challenge but also won a second NASA competition that same season. Their victories sent them to the Kennedy Space Center twice as NASA VIPs. They presented their project to NASA scientists and engineers, then went on to share their work at the World Algae and Biomass Summit, speaking to an international audience that included students and researchers from India, Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.

Another group, the STEM Sisters, launched a project inspired by the popularity of the movie The Martian. Tasked with studying how light affects sleep, they created an entire awareness campaign around blue light and built an inflatable Martian habitat in the school. They spent a full weekend “on Mars” to simulate a real mission. The project gained widespread attention: they were followed by media and schools around the country and interviewed by the director of the Kennedy Space Center, NASA educational specialists and engineers. The International Space Station even tweeted about their work. Because of the momentum and excitement surrounding these projects, the STEM Sisters were invited to be featured presenters at the national Project Lead The Way Summit, where they shared their research in front of more than 2,000 people. They spent a week in Indianapolis as featured presenters, recording videos for classrooms across the country and meeting Daymond John of Shark Tank along with former Baltimore Ravens player and mathematician John Urschel.

DeLeon ��. ability to help students believe in themselves has changed lives. Some of his former students now work in aerospace or engineering. Others, including students who once received special education services and struggled in school, found his class transformative enough to pursue college degrees and graduate studies. These outcomes reflect a philosophy rooted in empowerment. “Even if they choose not to go into STEM,” he says, “I want them to know they can. Whatever comes their way, they can.”

Chris DeLeon and his family. / Submitted photo

DeLeon carries that belief into every part of his life, from his classroom to his family ��. adoption story, featured in local media for the compassion and determination behind it. His work shows what being a Stout grad can mean: opening doors, sparking confidence and helping young people see a future they might never have imagined without someone believing in them first.

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From first-generation student to STEM innovator: Chris DeLeon '00 inspires purposeful learning. space_center_visitor_center.jpg

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#StoutProud: Mike Bond ('15, '17)

smithjen — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 15:51:53 +0000

#StoutProud: Mike Bond ('15, '17)smithjen December 3, 2025

Mike Bond shares about his time at ��, leadership influences and how he is giving back to student athletes.

Brenna Jasper

Mike Bond arrived at �� as a football recruit, but the university soon became the place where he discovered his purpose. Motivated by helping others and drawn to the people-centered work he saw in the vocational rehabilitation program, he switched majors early in his first year and found mentors who shaped the leader he is today. Faculty like John Klem and Julie Bates-Maves challenged and supported him, and community partners and coaches saw potential that he was still learning to see in himself. “I would not be the guy that I am now,” Mike said, crediting those experiences for grounding him and giving him the foundation that guides his life.

Mike Bond works one-on-one with a Concordia University, St. Paul football player during practice. / Submitted photo

Today Mike serves as an assistant football coach and instructor at Concordia University, St. Paul where he brings that same intentionality to the student-athletes he works with. Mike carries the lessons and values he learned at Stout with him in all he does, both personally and professionally. These values -- leading with empathy, building trust and investing in others -- shape the way he supports and mentors students. His background in counseling helps him support players through pressures on and off the field by facilitating open conversation, developing check-in and support groups and bringing classroom insights into his coaching.

Mike ��. path has also been shaped by the opportunities Stout opened for him, including a rare internship with the Kansas City Chiefs made possible through �� staff members Duey Naatz and Erin Sullivan who believed in his potential. In Kansas City he saw greatness up close.

“Being in a meeting room with Andy Reid leading it, you don’t want to disappoint him because he ��. so likable and holds guys accountable in a loving way,” Mike said. “Seeing how Dave Merritt, who has won five Super Bowls and coached in the NFL for 20-30 years, still connects with the younger generation of athletes showed me the kind of coach I want to be.”

Watching veterans like Trent McDuffie, Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce push just as hard as the rookies to prove themselves showed him what true excellence looks like and strengthened his drive to coach at a higher standard.

For Mike, being #StoutProud means honoring the care poured into him by pouring into others. His work builds on the foundation that began in Menomonie and now reaches student-athletes far and wide.

"The way that I was nurtured and cared for from the years of 18 to 22... that's what Stout Proud is. The lessons I got went beyond football and it grounded me. The community went beyond the classroom.”

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Mike Bond shares about his time at ��, leadership influences and how he is giving back to student athletes. mike_bond_resized.jpg

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#StoutProud Alum: Andrew Murphy ('18)

smithjen — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:15:42 +0000

#StoutProud Alum: Andrew Murphy ('18)smithjen October 1, 2025

Andrew Murphy shares about his time at ��, leadership influences and how he is giving back to others.

Name: Andrew Murphy
Program: M.F.A. Design
Graduation year: 2018
Employer: Apple Retail
Position: Head of Corporate Strategy

Career Path & Leadership:

What inspired you to pursue your career, and how did your time at �� shape that path?
My career path hasn’t been linear, but it’s always been guided by a fascination with how people connect to experiences. I started with a music degree because I was curious about how sound could move people emotionally. That curiosity evolved into studying video and film at UW-Stevens Point, where I focused on narrative design and the power of storytelling to transport an audience.
Eventually, I was drawn to the world of experiential design and how to combine multiple disciplines to create immersive environments that engage people on many levels. That exploration led me to pursue my MFA at ��, where I gained the tools to think more holistically about design. �� helped me bridge creativity with strategy, blending design and business to shape more intentional, impactful experiences.
Looking back, were there any courses, professors, or campus experiences at �� that had a lasting impact on your leadership style or professional philosophy?
Several courses at �� had a lasting influence on my professional philosophy, particularly Design Seminar and Research Strategies in Design. These classes deepened my understanding of the research process in design and how to translate insights into meaningful outcomes.
I was also fortunate to have had several influential faculty members during my time on campus. My program director and academic advisor, Julie Peterson, helped me clarify my goals for the program and emphasized the importance of building on existing knowledge while striving to create new knowledge. Working with Dave Beck on several independent studies taught me how to collaborate effectively, especially when developing and testing theories across different software platforms. From Erik Evensen, I gained valuable skills in digital design and visual prototyping, tools I still use daily in my work.

Stout Experience & Influence:

Are there any lessons from ��’s polytechnic approach to education that continue to influence your day-to-day decision-making or long-term strategy?
��’s polytechnic approach taught me how to bridge theory and practice, how to take design concepts and theoretical knowledge and apply them directly to real-world projects. That mindset continues to influence both my day-to-day decisions and long-term strategy. I’ve learned to start with a strong conceptual foundation, then translate those ideas into practical, tangible outcomes that achieve the end goal.
What advice would you give to current School of Art and Design students at �� who aspire to reach leadership roles?
I would encourage students to pay close attention to the leaders around them. Observe how their actions, communication, and decision-making make you feel, and understand the work that goes into their role. Identify the qualities that inspire you and look for ways to model those behaviors. Just as importantly, learn from the negative experiences, too; understanding what doesn’t work can be just as valuable as knowing what does. Leadership growth often comes from combining those lessons into your own authentic style.

Personal Reflections & Giving Back:

Do you maintain any connections to �� today, whether through mentoring, guest speaking (outside of your upcoming Cabot Executive), or alumni activities?
Yes, I do. I keep in touch with a number of alumni from my program. It’s always fun to look back on our time at Stout and see the different directions our careers have taken. I also try to connect with other Stout grads whenever I’m at the Game Design Conference in San Francisco. And I still email with a few of my professors, which is a great way to stay connected to what’s happening on campus.
What role does mentorship play in your leadership, and did anyone at �� serve as a mentor or role model for you?
While I didn’t have a formal mentor during my time at �� or early in my career, I was fortunate to have several influential leaders in my life. They helped shape the way I think about my work, approach opportunities, and navigate challenges. Their encouragement and example were incredibly motivating, and those experiences are a big reason why I now participate in a formal mentoring program at my current employer. I see mentorship as a powerful way to share knowledge, build confidence, and help others grow.
As someone who has achieved great success in your field, what legacy do you hope to leave, and how does �� fit into that story?
I hope my legacy is inspiring others to see their skills in a broader context—to stay curious, communicate their ideas clearly, and recognize that design and business can work hand in hand. I want to encourage people to remain open to wonder and possibility, because that mindset often leads to the most innovative solutions.
�� is part of that legacy because it gave me the foundation to think both creatively and strategically. I hope to continue connecting with �� students. I believe it is important to encourage them to think philosophically about their lives and to be intentional about how they enter the working world, not just with technical skills, but with a sense of purpose and vision for the kind of impact they want to make.

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Andrew Murphy shares about his time at ��, leadership influences and how he is giving back to others. andrew_murphy_cabot_executive-in-residence.jpg

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Cabot Executive-in-Residence Series

The Cabot Executive Residency Program allows �� to invite major corporate leaders to spend one or several days on campus to get involved.

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