Development and Alumni Engagement
STACIA STEPHENSON
Executive Director of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association stephensons@uwplatt.edu
PAM BROOKENS Annual Giving Manager brookenp@uwplatt.edu
JIMMY COLLINS Senior Gift Officer collinsjam@uwplatt.edu
ALEXIS TEMPLIN Gift Officer templina@uwplatt.edu
CALEB WENDHAUSEN Gift Officer wendhausenc@uwplatt.edu
KAYLA MOHR Project Manager mohrka@uwplatt.edu
From left: Kayla Mohr, Alexis Templin, Caleb Wendhausen, Jimmy Collins, Stacia Stephenson, and Pam Brookens.
LETTER from the Board Chair
Dear Alumni, Friends, and Supporters,
As Chair of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Board, I am pleased to reflect on the exceptional accomplishments we’ve achieved together over the past year. This annual report signifies an important moment for our university community, as we proudly celebrate another year of record-breaking fundraising.
Under the visionary guidance of Stacia Stephenson, our Executive Director, we have not only met but surpassed many ambitious goals. This remarkable achievement underscores the steadfast support and generosity of our alumni, friends, and supporters.
Every donation entrusted to the Foundation is carefully stewarded, ensuring that each gift is used as intended by the donor. The dedication of our 32-member Foundation and Alumni Association Board reflects our commitment to good governance, trusteeship, and the execution of our fiduciary responsibilities.
Your unwavering commitment and collaboration with UW-Platteville have enabled us to provide exceptional educational opportunities, invest in our dynamic campus environment, and enrich the student experience. Our graduates depart with confidence, ready to embark on their careers and pursue their aspirations.
This year’s success is a testament to your invaluable contributions. We extend our gratitude for your ongoing support, dedication, and belief in our mission. Together, we are helping shape the future of UW-Platteville, ensuring our institution remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, innovation, and ability to meet the challenges in higher education.
Thank you for being an integral part of this extraordinary journey. We eagerly anticipate building upon our achievements and reaching even greater heights of student-focused success in the future.
ANNOUNCING BOARD MERGER
The UW-Platteville Foundation announces the merger of its Alumni Association board and Foundation board, effective July 2024, forming the unified UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, Inc. This decision underscores a renewed commitment to alumni engagement and university support, marking a significant milestone in strategic planning and collaboration.
“The consolidation of our boards will create a stronger, unified voice in advocating for UW-Platteville’s interests and priorities,” stated Dr. Tammy Evetovich, Chancellor of UW-Platteville. “This integration will play a crucial role in nurturing relationships with university stakeholders, attracting potential donors, and championing initiatives that benefit the entire UW-Platteville community.”
The merger is guided by five overarching goals: enhancing fundraising capabilities, streamlining operations, unifying vision and goals, improving alumni engagement, and amplifying influence and advocacy. Leveraging the strengths and networks of both entities, the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, Inc. seeks to bolster donations and financial support for the university.
“Uniting the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association boards holds the promise of a lasting impact on the university’s future,” said UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Board Chair Ron Meissen. “This merger empowers us as a team to enhance alumni engagement and strengthen philanthropic support, paving the way for unparalleled contributions to UW-Platteville’s success.”
Central to the merger is a commitment to fostering a more integrated approach to communications and strategic planning.
“The streamlined administrative processes resulting from this merger will reduce duplication of efforts and optimize resource allocation,” said Aaron Athas, former Alumni Association Board chair. “This operational efficiency will enable us to execute a cohesive strategy aligned closely with UW-Platteville’s mission and priorities.”
With profound appreciation,
Ronald E. Meissen, Ph.D. Chair, Board of Directors UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association
Moving forward, the board is dedicated to engaging alumni and cultivating a stronger sense of community and involvement. With unified leadership, the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, Inc. is poised to advance educational excellence and student success by encouraging deeper alumni engagement and advocacy efforts.
“We both have a very strong commitment to education and understand the impact it has had on our lives and the generations to come in our family. This fund is a way for us to give back.”
Leading the way
EVETOVICHES SHARE A LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION
UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich and her husband Mark Evetovich recently established an endowed fund to support general campus needs—benefiting students, faculty, and staff for years to come.
Chancellor Evetovich says that, as educators, they are both aware of challenges and opportunities facing institutions of learning and are committed to finding ways to make an impact.
“We both have a very strong commitment to education and understand the impact it has had on our lives and the generations to come in our family,” said Chancellor Evetovich. “This fund is a way for us to give back. We are committed to
CHANCELLOR TAMMY EVETOVICH and her husband Mark Evetovich were recently inducted into UW-Platteville’s 1866 Cornerstone Society, which recognizes those with the highest level of giving.
assuring that all those who want the opportunity to go to college, stay in college, and graduate, can do so. We are hopeful this support will help this great university lean into its strengths as an access institution and assure our students, faculty, and staff can be successful. We encourage others to find a way to give back as well, whether it be through time, effort, talent, or a monetary gift. It all has an impact.”
In recognition of their giving, they were inducted into the UW-Platteville Foundation’s 1866 Cornerstone Society, which recognizes Pioneers with the highest level of giving.
“We deeply appreciate the chancellor and Mark’s generous donation, which will certainly make an impact on this university and uplift many lives,” said Stacia Stephenson, Executive Director of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association. “Their kindness and commitment to making a difference at UW-Platteville serves as an inspiration to everyone.”
Stephenson appointed Executive Director of Foundation and Alumni Association, Development and Alumni Engagement
In February, UW-Platteville announced the appointment of Stacia Stephenson as Executive Director of Development and Alumni Engagement and the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association.
A UW-Platteville alumna, Stephenson has more than 13 years of fundraising experience, with the majority spent at UW-Platteville. She most recently served in the role of interim executive director of Development and Alumni Engagement and the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, as well as director of major gifts.
Stephenson’s experience has fostered strong relationships with alumni and donors and contributed to several years of record-breaking fundraising for the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association.
STACIA STEPHENSON (pictured far right) visits with alumni and friends. Pictured left to right are Lara Croft, Bill Huff, Barb Daus, and Dwight Klaassen.
You are a UW-Platteville alumna, and you have spent the majority of your professional career here. Why have you called UW-Platteville “home” for so long?
My career at UW-Platteville has been all about building and nurturing relationships with our alumni, donors, and friends of the university. These relationships are my most important responsibility, and staying here has allowed me to develop trust and strong connections with our supporters. I also deeply believe in the mission of UW-Platteville and the significant impact our work has on the university and its students. UW-Platteville provides my husband and I the opportunity to live near our family, raise our children in a wonderful community, pursue my chosen career, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. It truly is the best job on campus.
What are some of the best memories you experienced here as a student that influence you in your job now?
I met my husband and our best friends here. I played women’s basketball and had great teammates and a supportive coaching staff. I worked as a catering student manager for Deb Putnam and had some great times with my catering colleagues. I was positively influenced by people like John and Angie Krogman, David and Sherry Nevins, and Mick and Rhonda Viney, who were generous and opened their homes to our team during the Winterim break, when we were in the thick of basketball season. Receiving that level of support has had a significant impact on my personal reasons for giving back—whether with time, talents, or resources—to things that matter to me. I always had a support system here, including my family, professors, coaches, staff, advisors, friends, and bosses.
You have seen the impact of donors’ gifts on students and the university for years. What stands out to you as one of the most memorable?
There are so many, but introducing students to donors has always been one of my favorite memories. Our students are genuinely grateful for the generosity of our donors, who were once students themselves. One particularly memorable experience was announcing the recipients of the
Our alumni and donors stand out because of their immense pride. They are proud to be Pioneers, proud of their university, and proud of the meaningful contributions our Pioneers have made and will continue to make in the world.
Capstan Scholarship—a full tuition, room, and board scholarship donated by an alumnus and his wife. It’s a big deal! Sharing that moment with the students and their families was truly amazing. I often think, “We are changing their lives.” It’s indescribable how profound that reality must feel for our Pioneers and their families.
What makes our alumni and donors special?
Our alumni and donors stand out because of their immense pride. They are proud to be Pioneers, proud of their university, and proud of the meaningful contributions our Pioneers have made and will continue to make in the world.
What do you find most rewarding about interacting with alumni and donors?
Whether I’m visiting with alumni in the region or around the country, I bring a little piece of UW-Platteville to them. It’s gratifying to watch our alumni light up when they talk about UW-Platteville.
What message would you like to convey about the importance of supporting the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association?
When you contribute to the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, you’re investing in the future. Your donation supports aspiring entrepreneurs crafting tomorrow’s industry innovations, educators shaping future leaders, criminal investigators solving crucial cases, engineers designing vital infrastructure, and farmers producing the food and beverages we rely on daily. Our campus is the heart of all this positive impact in the world.
Legacy Funds Create Lasting Tribute
Family and friends often seek a meaningful way to honor the memory of Pioneers— whether faculty, staff, or alumni—who held a deep passion for our university. Establishing a legacy fund in their name creates a lasting tribute and helps ensure their love for this university continues to make a positive impact for future generations.
If you are interested in setting up a memorial fund, please contact Jimmy Collins, Senior Development Officer, at collinsjam@uwplatt.edu.
DR. KRISTINA NAVARRO-KRUPKA FUND
$42,000 raised this year
Dr. Kristina Navarro-Krupka served as director of athletics and assistant chancellor for sports administration at UW-Platteville from 2020 until she passed away in November 2023. Navarro-Krupka was an advocate for student-athlete development and women’s leadership initiatives. She is remembered by many for her positive attitude, support of students, and enthusiasm for all Pioneer athletics. The Dr. Kristina Navarro-Krupka Fund was set up to honor her legacy at UW-Platteville and the athletics department and support student-athletes for generations to come.
Contribute Now
RUTH ANN UPPENA SCHOLARSHIP
$110,500 raised this year
Ruth Uppena earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in elementary education from UW-Platteville in 1963 and 1972, respectively. Teaching and UW-Platteville were a part of her family legacy, with her grandmother having received a teaching certificate from Platteville Normal School in 1911. The majority of Uppena’s teaching career—31 years—was spent at Glenwood Elementary School in Greenfield, Wisconsin. Many former students kept in touch with her in retirement. After she passed away in April 2023, a former student wrote “Ruth was my second grade teacher … As a result of her influence, I fell in love with learning and reading. She was so kind to continue answering my letters when we transitioned to civilian life … It was a very difficult time in my young life, but Ruth continued to encourage me to reach for the higher bar. I graduated second in my class, and I know the groundwork was laid by her.”
NINA CARNS SCHOLARSHIP
$250,000 raised this year
Nina Lee Carns was a 1989 graduate of UW-Platteville, where she double majored in soil and crop science and business administration. She worked as a long-time tech rep for Garst Seed Co., Legacy Seeds, and Syngenta Seed, before developing her own consulting firm—NC Nutrient Management LLC. She had a love for traveling and gardening and was a Master Gardener. Carns passed away in August 2023. The Nina Lee Carns Memorial Fund supports a scholarship for agronomy students at UW-Platteville.
DAVID M. NEVINS SCHOLARSHIP FOR STUDENT LEADERS
$26,210 raised this year
David Nevins was director of campus activities at UW-Platteville from 2000 until his retirement in 2019. In his nearly two decades at the university, he mentored and inspired hundreds of student leaders and is remembered by many for his encouragement of and care for the students at UW-Platteville. He supervised Campus Programming and Relations, where he, along with students, planned the many activities that became campus traditions and defined Pioneers’ UW-Platteville experience. Nevins passed away in November 2023. The David M. Nevins Scholarship for Student Leaders was created by current and former students in 2016 to recognize students who exemplify the leadership potential Nevins displayed.
Alumni honored for service
At this year’s 1866 Cornerstone Society Induction and Recognition Dinner, the UW-Platteville Foundation bestowed two awards upon alumni who are making a significant impact on the university. These awards honor individuals and businesses that are helping UW-Platteville advance its mission. The dedication and support from these awardees are crucial to the Foundation’s success.
STRAND ASSOCIATES INC. is presented with the Outstanding Volunteer Award. Pictured in front row, left to right, are Matt Richards, Chancellor Evetovich, Ted Richards, and Kent Locy. Pictured in back row, left to right, are Joe Bunker, Alex Zwart, Jeff Kronser, and Tom Stetzer.
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER AWARD
This award recognizes those who have volunteered their time to serve UW-Platteville and further advance the mission of the university.
Strand Associates Inc.
Strand Associates Inc. has been a dedicated partner of UW-Platteville and its College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science for many years. The Madison-based engineering firm currently employs nearly 70 UW-Platteville alumni, including its current President and CEO, Matt Richards ’91. Strand Associates employees have actively contributed to UW-Platteville in a variety of roles, including serving on academic advisory, alumni, and foundation boards; participating as guest speakers; and mentoring students.
Strand Associates provides internships and faculty assistantships, recruits UW-Platteville graduates, and sponsors senior design projects. The firm’s unwavering support makes them one of the university’s biggest advocates.
In addition to an endowed scholarship established by Strand Associates to support students pursuing civil and environmental engineering, alumni and friends at the firm have also created an endowed fund to support the College of EMS’s Center for Projects, Opportunities, Instruction, Networking, and Teamwork—also known as CenterPOINT. This center provides a welcoming, comfortable space for group work and tutoring, computer stations, and student resources—helping all students be successful.
Strand Associates Inc. is one of the Foundation’s and the College of EMS’s largest donors, making an annual major gift donation in support of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering to support its students, faculty, and staff.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
This award recognizes those who significantly serve UW-Platteville and its mission by enhancing its reputation and influences by substantially contributing time or gifts for its benefits or by influencing others to develop a similar relationship with the university.
Todd and Susan Johnson
Todd and Susan Johnson are long-time supporters of the university. Todd graduated in 1981 with a degree in engineering and management. He is the Chairman and CEO of Capstan Corporation, a third-generation family business he has helped lead for 40 years. Headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota, Capstan Corporation is a holding company that focuses on acquiring and growing businesses in a variety of industries, including construction, ship building, plastics, energy banking, and more. Todd and Susan started the Capstan Scholarship Program, which presents an extraordinary opportunity for deserving UW-Platteville students. As a comprehensive scholarship, including tuition, room, and board, the Capstan Scholarship affords students the honor to graduate debt free from UW-Platteville. The Johnsons’ philanthropic impact goes beyond their generous scholarship contribution. They actively support programs like the College of EMS, Women in STEM, Pioneers Helping Pioneers, and the Pioneer Annual Fund, demonstrating their dedication to nurturing education and fostering innovation. Todd and Susan are strong advocates of UW-Platteville, generous supporters of the UW-Platteville Foundation, and members of the 1866 Cornerstone Society.
CHANCELLOR EVETOVICH PRESENTS the Distinguished Service Award to Todd and Susan Johnson.
Partnership brings transformational experience to student-athletes
Last fall, UW-Platteville’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced an exclusive partnership with Southwest Health’s Orthopedic Institute and the Pioneer Sport Medicine and Sport Performance departments.
Located in Platteville, Southwest Health’s Orthopedic Institute is the region’s most advanced bone, joint, and sports medicine program and will serve all 16 UW-Platteville NCAA DIII sports and its 600-plus student-athletes. The partnership will include an infrastructure change to position the head athletic trainer as the primary liaison with Southwest Health’s Orthopedic Institute. This will include weekly logistical meetings, Southwest Health doctors as official sideline team doctors, and a streamlined referral process to better serve the student-athletes.
“In addition to the athletic training services we provide in the area to seven different high schools, we have always valued our partnership with Pioneer Athletics,” said Southwest Health CEO Dan Rohrbach. “The talent of our Orthopedic team is
unparalleled in communities of our size. Southwest Health’s Orthopedic Institute is led by a team of the area’s only all Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Physicians. We couldn’t be happier to now offer UW-Platteville student-athletes the same level of expertise that typically is only granted to large NCAA Division I programs.”
The Orthopedic Institute is the region’s premier orthopedic experts, having the latest techniques and equipment, including robotic-assisted joint replacement technology.
Dr. Joshua Lindsey has recently been joined by Dr. Alex Strassman. Both are sub-specialty fellowship-trained in sports medicine and serve as team physicians for the Pioneers, working hand in hand with the Pioneer Sports Medicine and Sports Performance staffs.
“I am excited for the opportunity to grow our relationship with the Platteville community through our commitment to taking care of UW-Platteville student-athletes,” said Strassman. “Through my fellowship training in orthopedic sports medicine, I’ve gained valuable experience in catering care specific for student-athletes—whether on the sidelines or in the operating room. I look forward to helping UW-Platteville student-athletes recover from injuries and get back on the field.”
“This partnership exemplifies the spirit of collaboration within our community that we value and strive for,” said UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich. “We are looking forward to growing our partnership with Southwest Health, while also providing the highest level of support to our student-athletes in order to ensure their overall well-being.”
$375,000+ TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED
1,245
TOTAL NUMBER OF GIFTS
350
TOTAL MERCHANDISE ORDERS
(included in the total number of gifts above)
$136,050
TOTAL BOARD CONTRIBUTIONS (100% participation)
63 GIFTS IN ONE HOUR
Largest hour of donations was $1,000 match to fund of your choice
TOP 10 FUNDS DONATED TO:
Pioneer Scholarship Fund
Pioneer Annual Fund
Women in STEM
Pioneers Helping Pioneers
Engineering, Mathematics and Science Program
Pioneer Marching Band Fund
Agriculture Program Fund
Civil and Environmental Engineering Program Fund
Football Fund
Men’s Basketball Fund
Thank you for your generosity on Pioneers Day of Giving SAVE THE DATE APRIL 24-25 2025
Contributions to program funds help elevate the educational experience
This year, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association put out the call to alumni and friends to support our vital program funds, and your response was overwhelming. The UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association received 467 gifts, totaling just over $124,000—a reflection of the strong connection our alumni have to the academic programs and majors that helped shape their careers.
Your support of these funds is an investment in UW-Platteville students and faculty. The flexible program funds are crucial for the three colleges, as they offer the deans the ability to address immediate needs and priorities. This includes purchasing classroom equipment, supporting student research projects, providing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, offering scholarships to deserving students, and much more.
The donations to these program funds directly impact the quality of education we provide, allowing UW-Platteville to continue delivering the hands-on, experiential learning that prepares students for success.
DR. PHILIP PARKER Acting Dean, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science
STUDENTS WORK IN the Huff Family Innovation Center, a nearly 20,000-square-foot makerspace in Sesquicentennial Hall. The College of EMS Program Fund directly and positively affects our faculty and students. Last year, we launched a new program— Springboard to Success—to provide our newest hires with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the classroom. It has been heartening to see evidence of this program’s success. We also piloted a program last summer, and will repeat it this summer, that provides faculty and staff with a two-day immersive experience in our Huff Family Innovation Center, with a financial incentive for attendees who follow up by integrating a project from the HFIC into their course that requires their students to utilize the HFIC. Thanks to this fund, we were able to employ two outstanding student workers in the EMS Dean’s Office—this helped offload some work from our staff as well as built skills in the students. There are many other examples of value-added opportunities that would not have been possible without this fund. I am so appreciative to all our donors for their support.”
Dean, College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture
Contributions and donations to college, school, and department program funds are vital to fulfilling our academic mission to engage students in high impact and hands-on experiential learning. While scholarships are essential in carrying out our access mission, program funds help ensure those students have quality programs to have access to! Examples in the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture include funding for student academic organization travel for conference attendance and competitions (American Marketing Association, National Agri-Marketing Association, Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, livestock judging, soil and crop competi-
tions, and numerous others), faculty/staff development, funding for equipment and supplies for undergraduate research and creative/innovation endeavors, and many others. The flexibility of these funds facilitates the ability for us to meet academic and student needs, further providing the means for us to achieve excellence, create opportunities, and empower individuals.”
The money raised for program funds in the College of Liberal Arts and Education is incredibly valuable and is used to directly support students, faculty, and staff throughout the college. Last year, for instance, the Department of Psychology used program funds to support students working in unpaid internships, and Art purchased supplies for its November Art Show, Pinewood Derby, and other events. Thanks to the availability of program funds, the Department of Environmental Sciences and Society was able to bring Dr. Grace Bulltail to campus to talk about her research in natural resource management and environmental justice in Indigenous communities—and also put together a chainsaw training workshop for students! These are just a couple of examples of the many student-facing, high-impact practices that are only possible because of generous donations to our college program funds.”
Interim Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Education
DR. TRAVIS NELSON
DR. WAYNE WEBER
LAST APRIL, SIX students in the National Agri-Marketing Association Club traveled to Kansas City, Missouri, to compete in the National Agri-Marketing Association Student Competition.
A Generous Gift
A COUPLE’S UNEXPECTED SUPPORT FOR THE UNIVERSITY SHOWCASES THOUGHTFUL PHILANTHROPY
The picturesque campus of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, nestled in the rolling hills of Southwest Wisconsin amidst farmland and a vibrant downtown, serves as the backdrop for Gary and Susan Chace, a couple whose generosity has left an indelible mark on the university. Despite having no direct ties to the university— neither are alumni—the Chaces recently established a Charitable Gift Annuity, a move that promises to benefit both the couple and the university for years to come.
The Chaces’ Journey
Gary and Susan Chace moved to Platteville from Upstate New York, a place bustling with life and non-stop action. After years on the East Coast, they sought a change of pace and found it in Platteville in 2012, a town rich in community spirit, entertainment, and natural beauty.
“We got tired,” explained Gary. “We both got tired of the East Coast pace, and we wanted to slow down a bit and experience a comfortable, safe town. I play golf, and I enjoy trout fish and fly fishing. It’s world-class here.”
Their decision to settle in Platteville was influenced by more than just the impressive surroundings; it was also a homecoming of sorts for Susan, whose father had attended UW-Platteville and graduated in 1953 with a degree in chemistry. Susan spent summers at her grandmother’s home which still stands on Union Street.
“The people are so friendly,” Susan recalls. “We spent vacations here over the years. One memorable moment was when Gary, who was
towing a Model T Ford, stopped in the Menards parking lot. Someone came up to talk with him, and that never happened in New York. This person invited us to our first UW-Platteville basketball game and has been our friend ever since.”
The Chaces attend basketball and football games on campus and are members of the Basketball Booster Club. They utilize the many facilities UW-Platteville has to offer almost every day, including the Center for the Arts and walking their dogs along the Rountree Branch Stream.
“We are astounded at how much is available at UW-Platteville,” said Susan. “People drive to Madison, but we have so much talent and so many opportunities here.”
A Charitable Gift Annuity: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
A Charitable Gift Annuity is a financial arrangement that allows individuals to donate a significant amount to charity while ensuring they receive a fixed income for the rest of their life. It is part of an estate plan that uses a living trust to manage assets.
For Gary and Susan, it was an ideal way to support a cause close to their hearts while ensuring their financial stability. They also established the Gary C. Chace and Susan E. Dresden Chace Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in both the arts and agriculture departments.
“We wanted to do something meaningful because the university plays such a vital role in the life of this city,” Susan explained. “The Charitable Gift Annuity offers us a way to support the university that has become such a big part of our lives, expand our scholarship, and provide us with a reliable income. It’s a win-win situation.”
The Chaces’ gift not only offers them a steady income, but also allows them to take a partial tax deduction for their donation. More importantly, it will fund scholarships, support academic programs, and enhance campus facilities at UW-Platteville, directly benefiting current and future students.
“Gary and Susan’s generous charitable gift annuity will provide invaluable support to our Pioneer students,” said Stacia Stephenson, Executive Director of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association. “Charitable gift annuities like theirs are especially beneficial to our nonprofit, as they provide a reliable stream of income that enables us to prepare for the future and sustain our vital programs. Their support exemplifies how thoughtful giving can create lasting impacts on our campus community.”
Building a Legacy
For the Chaces, the decision to support UW-Platteville through a Charitable Gift Annuity was about more than financial planning—it was about leaving a legacy. They hope their contribution will inspire others in the community to consider similar acts of generosity.
“We just like giving back a little,” Gary added. “Susan is from Pennsylvania, I’m from Massachusetts, but this is home. Platteville, Wisconsin is home for us.”
Susan also emphasized the financial challenges of funding a college education, stressing that for many, every dollar counts.
“We believe in the power of education and the difference it can make in people’s lives,” Susan said. “By supporting UW-Platteville, we’re investing in the future of this community and its young people. We hope others will see the value in that and join us in supporting the university.”
Not many friends in their circle initially believed they had chosen to retire in Platteville. After Gary and Susan arrived in town, a concerned friend posed an unexpected question.
“When we first moved here, a friend asked
me if I was in the witness protection program,” chuckled Gary. “People should experience living somewhere else to appreciate what we have in Platteville. I love this city, the university, the cost of living, and its people.”
A Community United
As Gary and Susan Chace continue to enjoy their life in Platteville with a wide circle of friends, their story stands as a testament to the power of community and the enduring impact of philanthropy. Their gift to UW-Platteville strengthens the university and reinforces the bonds that tie the community together.
“This gift not only reflects their dedication to education but also their belief in the potential of our students to achieve great things,” commented Stephenson.
In addition to the Charitable Gift Annuity and the Gary C. Chace and Susan E. Dresden Chace Scholarship, the Chaces are 1866 Cornerstone Society Members and Legacy Society Members. For more information on supporting UW-Platteville, visit the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association’s website or contact their office directly.
DESPITE
HAVING NO direct ties to the university, Gary and Susan Chace recently established a Charitable Gift Annuity, a move that promises to benefit both the couple and the university for years to come.
Fiscal Year in Review
JULY 1, 2023–JUNE 30, 2024
$9,322,431.71 IN TOTAL FY2024 FUNDRAISING
8,237 GIFTS from alumni friends and corporate partners
FUNDRAISING OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS
“I am deeply grateful for every individual who made this milestone possible. Achieving yet another year of recordbreaking fundraising is truly a reflection of the pride people have in this university. Together, we are laying the foundation for continued excellence and preparing for the future, today.”
– Chancellor Tammy K. Evetovich
GROWTH OF ENDOWMENT ASSETS
OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS
Board of Directors
Richard Burgermeister MEMBER
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1969
Major: Comprehensive business and economics
BOARD OFFICERS
Ronald Meissen
CHAIR
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1971
Major: Civil engineering
Ellen Ullsvik
VICE CHAIR
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2025
Graduation Year: 1975
Major: Elementary education
Margaret Keehn
TREASURER
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Friend of the University
Ann Moyer
SECRETARY
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 2002
Major: Chemistry and biology
Aaron Athas MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 2010
Major: Music – choral
early childhood
Ben Brancel MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1972
Major: Animal science
Chuck Brokopp
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2025
Graduation Year: 1971, 1972
Major: Biology (zoology), medical technology
Douglas Buhler
MEMBER
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1979
Major: Soil and crop science
Kathy Buhr
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 2003
Major: Business administration
Kristen Cadman MEMBER
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 2001
Major: Mechanical engineering
Mittie Den Herder MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Provost Emerita
Mike Fiedler
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1971
Major: Speech broadcasting
Jeff Ingebritsen
MEMBER
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1977
Major: Criminal justice
John Jones
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1985
Major: Mining engineering
Jerry Kobiske MEMBER
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1974
Major: Mathematics
Garrison Ledbury MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 2019
Major: History and English
Greg Loek MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2025
Graduation Year: 1980
Major: Industrial engineering
Darin Pauls MEMBER
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1993
Major: Accounting
Kristy Quarberg MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 2020
Major: Criminal justice and accounting
Matthew Richards MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1991
Major: Civil engineering
Jim Ryan MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1977
Major: Agribusiness and business administration
Dion Shaw MEMBER
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 2015
Major: Project management
Dan Smith MEMBER
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 2012
Major: Soil and crop science and agribusiness
Terry Strittmater MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1982
Major: Accounting and criminal justice
JoAnne Uthe-Gibson
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1973, 1975
Major: Political science, accounting, history
Carol Weber MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2025
Graduation Year: 1989
Major: Electrical engineering
Lana Wiese MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation Year: 1971
Major: Business administration
John Boldt REAL ESTATE FOUNDATION, PRESIDENT
Term: Real Estate
Foundation Liaison
Graduation Year: 1976
Major: Civil engineering
— NOT PICTURED —
Dan Dombrowski
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 2019
Major: Industrial technology management
Everett Werth
MEMBER
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation Year: 1963
Major: Agriculture education
Beth and Carl Abing
Michael and Christine Aide
David L. Andersen
Gerry Anderson and Judy Klitzsch-Anderson
James and Julie Anderson
Dr. Max Anderson and Linda Wright
Dr. Philip M. and Judith Anderson
Wilma Anderson
Dan and Morgan Arnold
Robert and Diana Bates
Gregory and Mary Bauer
Scott S. Baumgartner and Dr. Mary W. Lee
Dr. Harold† and Geneva Beals
Steven and Debra Becker
Dean Bedford and Kathleen Boudreau
Charlene Bennett
Ryan Berg and Nancy Weygant-Berg
Charles and Susan Bergmann
Bradley and Peggy Biddick
Donald and Laurene Birdd
Eric and Susan Bjornsen
John and Barbara Boldt
Mark and Paula Boorse
Richard and Jane Boorse
Roman† and Joan Borkovec
Ginny Bowar
Dr. Gregory Boys and Priya Devaguptapu
Kathy A. Bresnahan
Sandie and Troy Brick-Margelofsky
Dave and Rhonda Broihahn
Allen and Lori Brokopp
Dr. Charles and Marilyn Brokopp
Dr. Howard† and Catherine Brooks
William† and Mary Lou Broske
Dr. Douglas and Jean Buhler
Richard and Mary Burgermeister
Dr. Everett and Michele Burgess
Dr. John and Terry Busby
Dr. Edward† and Lois Busby
Eila B. Butterworth†
Dr. Carol Sue Butts and Ray Meiklejohn
Thank you!
The 1866 Cornerstone Society honors our most generous alumni, friends, and corporate partners to the Foundation. Their generosity has demonstrated commitment to excellence and support of UW-Platteville.
Friends who have gifted $25,000 or more over their lifetime, or have a documented planned gift or pledge of $25,000 or higher (trust, bequest, annuity, etc.) are recognized as full members of the society.
*Membership as of June 30, 2024
Dr. Robert† and Sally Campbell
Nancy and R. Neill Carey
Robert and Elaine Carns
Gary and Susan Chace
Tim and Pam Christen
Patrick and Barbara Clare
Lawson “Skip” and Linda Clark
Dr. Patricia Collins
Dennis and Stephanie Cooley
Gerald and Francis Cooper†
Robert† and Lucille Copas
Robert and Susan Cramer
David and Janet Daniel
Harold and Barbara Daus
John and Jane David
Dr. Nicholas A. David
Dr. Thomas Davis and Sharon Shulka Davis
Jean DeLamater
Dr. Mittie and David Den Herder
Joseph and Kathryn Denk
Nancy Devine
Dr. Fred and Lou Anna Domann
Carlton† and Marilyn Dresden
Dr. Raymond† and Dr. Elizabeth Duewer
Steve and Sandy Duren
Dr. Orlyn and Jana Edge
Gary and Sandra† Einerson
Dr. Milton Engelke and Virginia Lehman
Dr. Tori and Jon Erickson
Dr. Tammy and Mark Evetovich
Eleanore and Arlen Ewers
Michael and Christine Fiedler
Dr. Duane and Sheri Ford
David and Judy French
Frank and Judy Friar
Tom and Becky Frisbie
Curtis E. Fritz
David and Lois Fritz
Scott L. Fromader
Jill and Jason Furman
John and Betty Gebhardt
Roger† and Judy Goke
Gary and Beth Goldberg
Dr. Theodore Goodfriend and Mary Lou† Birkett Goodfriend
Dr. Molly Gribb and William Holder
Gerald Gunderson†
Keith A. Gundlach
Harlan and Gerri Hall
William† and Sharon Hamshire
Janet A. Handley
Curtis and Linda Hanson
Larry and Peggy Hanson
James and Rita Harasha
Richard A. Hardy
John† and Margaret Haskins
Winifred C. Heidenreich†
Dale and Rebecca Heiking
Paul and Julie Heim
Ruth E. Heins
Rolf and Kathleen Hempel
Ralph† and Margaret Henry
Dr. J. Harvey† and Lila Hensley
David G. Herro
Thomas P. Hickey†
Dr. Roger and Francine Higgs
Dr. Reynotta Jahnke Hoberecht
Dr. William† and Cecile Hoffman
Steven and Marjorie Holzhueter
Craig J. Howard
David and Maggie Hoyt
Dr. Jeffrey and Dr. Erin Huebschman
William E. Huff
Margaret and Daniel Immerfall
Terrence and Nancy† Ingram
Robert C. Ivey and Family
Gary and Kathleen Jackson
Dr. Myron and Dr. Elaine Jacobson
Fred and Martha Jaeckle
Corey Janecky and Laura Runyen-Janecky
Todd and Susan Johnson
Sam and Peg Jonas
John† and Christine Jones
Douglas A. Jorgensen
Corey and Teah Kaiser
Khalil† and Marie-Claire Kardous
W. Phil and Barbara H. Karrmann
Margaret and Randy Karsten
Margaret A. Keehn
Daniel and Doris Keyes
Dr. Kenneth and Jessie Kilian
John and Elizabeth Kincaid
Dr. Dwight and Sharon Klaassen
Mac and Toni Klingler
William Kloster and Deborah Rice
Walter and Harriet Knox
Harold Kobbervig†
Janice Kohls†
John and Janey Kortas
Kevin and Diane Kraemer
Travis J. Kraemer
John and Angela Krogman
Jeffrey and Laura Kronser
David Langer and Donna Richard-Langer
Larry and Jennie Larson
Bill E. Lawson
Mark and Janice Lee
Milton Engelke and Virginia Lehman
Jane and Kevin Leighty
Richard and Stacy Lenz
Lisa A. Leuthold
Fred Leverentz
Dr. Thomas and Lee Ann Lindahl
Richard† and Janice Loberger
Greg Loek and Kathleen Rice
Joe and Kathryn Lomax
Patricia and Raymond Lynch
Dr. David and Lou Ann Markee
Jerry and Elena Marty
Arthur Masbruch†
Jeffrey and Brenda Matthias
Dr. Jane McLamarrah and Michael Kohl
Dr. Elizabeth M. McNally
Ronald and Eileen Meissen
Wayne Metzger
Al and Karen Meyer
Mark and Elizabeth Molesworth
Dale and Doris Moody
David and Nora Moody
Russell and Nancy Moody
Jim and Deanna Moris
Dr. Ann and Joe Moyer
David Murphy
Kelley Murphy and Jamie Marvin
David Nalepinski
Randy and Donell Nash
Dr. Thomas† and Carol Nelson
Gregory and Kathy Nelson
Beatrice Niblock†
Jack S. Noble
Lyle† and Sybil Novinski
Daniel and Judy Noziska
George and Sandra Ochs
Kjell and Arliss Oliversen
Marjon B. Ornstein
Dr. Judith and Thomas Paul
Linda Pauls Fleming and Thomas Fleming
Michael and Janet Pawelski
Charles and Carol Pedretti
James and Geraldine Peek
Nancy Preston
Richard E. Prieve
Betty Puryear
Erin Ralph and Jesse Stanton
Wayne Redenius
Dr. Jesse† and Fern Reinstein
Theodore and Sandra Richards
John D. Riege
Donna J. Riess
Charles and Kathleen Riley
Richard and Jean Ripp
Michelle (Schleusener) Rogers
Cheryl Rowan
Dr. Michael J. Roy
Sheila and Tim Ruchti
James and Cecelia Ryan
Bo and Kelly Ryan
Jill E. Rytlewski
Dr. William and Jean Sanders
Thomas Scanlan and Dawn Drake
Steven and Jill Schielke
William F. Schilling and
Lois M. Kaiser-Genthe
Dr. Charles and Sandra Schwab
Scott and Jean Seely
Dion Shaw
Terence C. Sheldon
Dennis J. and Aundra N. Shields
William Shinker and Susan Moldow
Mervin H. Shumate
Thomas and Renee Sigwarth
Wendell and Janet Sisson
Lonny and Kim Stare
David Statz
Tammy Salmon-Stephens, Douglas and Mary Jane Stephens
Steve Stephens
Michael J. Stevens
Anna and Jeff Stewart
Dr. Stan Stojkovic
Jonathan Strand and Helen Lanham
Terry and Susan Strittmater
Dr. Bheru and Dr. Lilawati† Sukhwal
Jeffrey and Tara Swalve
Mark and Celeste Taber
Cynthia J. Tang
†Denotes deceased
James and Kalen Theusch
Robert and Shirley Tinstman
F. Dawson and G. Marie Trine
Dr. Nao Tsumagari and Andrea Kay
Ellen Ullsvik and Roy Campbell
Fr. James Uppena
JoAnne Uthe-Gibson and Donald Gibson
Corey and Molly Valaskey
Dr. Michael and Rhonda Viney
Mary and Daniel Wagner
David and Jean Ward
Nancy Ware†
Brian and Carol Weber
Gene and Jan Weber
Richard and Ellie† Weber
Dr. Tamra L. Wehrle
David and Jacquelyn Weiland
Robert and Lana Wiese
Mary E. Williams
Dr. Joanne Wilson
Florence Wong
Dr. James† and Susan D. Wright
James and Christine Wunderlin
Patricia A. Wunderlin
Rebecca Yasky
Dr. Mark and Twila Zidon
Randy Zinck
†Denotes deceased
CORPORATE PARTNERS
3M Foundation
Affiliated Dentists
Alliant Energy Corp
Alliant Energy Foundation
Amcor
American Family Mutual Insurance Company
American Transmission Company LLC
Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin
Atten Babler Commodities LLC
Ayres Associates
Baker Tilly
Bates Engineering
Baxter International Inc.
Belcan
Benjamin Moore & Company
Biddick Inc.
Bluebeam Inc.
BouMatic
Brodbeck Foundation Inc.
C.D. Smith Construction
Caterpillar Inc.
Centurylink
Chicago Bears Football Club
CHS Foundation
Clare Bank
Clare Family Foundation
Clark Dietz Inc
CNH Industrial America LLC
Community First Bank
Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Compeer
Compeer Financial
Con Edison
Conlon Construction Co.
Corteva Agriscience
Dairy Queen and Country Kitchen of Platteville
Darlington Dairy Supply Co. Inc.
Delta 3 Engineering Inc.
Dorr Foundation
Dubuque Racing Association
Empower
ExxonMobil Foundation
Faherty Inc.
FEF
Follett Higher Education Group
Free Choice Enterprises
Fritz Family Foundation Inc.
Gauthier & Sons Construction
GE Capital Corporation
Georgia-Pacific Foundation
Glenn Davis Charitable Foundation
Goldberg Family Fund
GRAEF
Greenheck Group
Growmark Inc.
Hamilton Sundstrand
Hartung Brothers
Huff Family Foundation
J.H. Findorff & Son Inc.
John Barth Foundation Inc.
John Deere Construction & Forestry Company
John Deere Dubuque Works
John Deere Foundation
John Deere North America Recruiting & Staffing
JP Cullen
JRR & Associates LLC
Keller Foundation LTD
Kern Family Foundation
Kimberly-Clark Foundation
Kohler Co.
Kohler Foundation Inc.
Kraemer North America
Kresge Foundation
Kunes Country
Kwik Trip Inc.
L.E. Phillips Family Foundation Inc.
Lands’ End Inc.
LFJ Foundation
Magma Foundry Technologies Inc.
McKinstry
McKinstry Co. Charitable Foundation
Medical Associates Health Plans
Metalcraft of Mayville
MetalTek International
MetLife Foundation
Microsoft Corporation
Mid-State Power & Equipment
MidWestOne Bank
Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
Motus Financial Inc.
Mound City Bank
MSA Professional Services Inc.
ND Paper
Neal Sisters Foundation
Neenah Foundry Company
Old National Bank
Organic Valley
Origin Design
Oshkosh Corporation
Piggly Wiggly Supermarket
Platte River Assoc. For Science Education, U.A.
Platteville Kiwanis Club
Plexus Corporation
Portage Casting & Mold Inc.
Presto Foundation
Q Casino
Quality Liquid Feeds Inc.
Queen B Radio
Radio Dubuque
Rockwell Automation
Rosemeyer-Jones Chiropractic Clinic
Safway Services Inc.
Scot Industries
Sentry Insurance Foundation Inc.
Shell Companies Foundation Inc.
Sheltered Wings Inc.
Society of Physics Students
Society of Plastics Engineers
Southwest Health
Spectrum Brands
Speedway Sand & Gravel Inc.
Statz Restoration & Engineering Co
Strand Associates Inc.
Studio Gear LLC
Sub-Zero Group Inc.
TDS Telecom
Theta Tau - Nu Beta Chapter
Trane Technologies
TRICOR Insurance-Lancaster
Unison Solutions
University of Wisconsin Foundation
UW-Platteville Alumni Association
UW-Platteville Real Estate Foundation
Victual Inc.
Vita Plus Corporation
Waupaca Foundry
We Energies Foundation
Wisconsin Agri-Business Association
Wisconsin Bank & Trust
Wisconsin Builders Association
Wisconsin Centrifugal Charitable Foundation Inc.
Wisconsin Concrete Pavement Association
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Wisconsin Livestock and Meat Council
Wisconsin Mutual Insurance Company
Wisconsin Pork Producers Association
Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation Inc.
Woodward Foundation
$2M
ESTATE GIFT
TOTAL FY24 145 LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS
Leaving a legacy gift is a wonderful way to show your support for the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Inc. and its mission, while accommodating your own personal, financial, estateplanning, and philanthropic goals.
If you would like to join our Legacy Society or would like more information on planned giving, visit uwplatt.giftplans.org or contact Jimmy Collins, Senior Development Officer in the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Inc., at collinsjam@uwplatt.edu.
Leave Your Legacy
ARTHUR MASBRUCH was a true Pioneer, whose entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his deep commitment to helping others. Though he passed away in 2023, his legacy will endure at UW-Platteville through a generous estate gift, totaling more than $3 million, ensuring his lasting impact on UW-Platteville students for generations to come.
Masbruch earned a three-year mining certificate from the Wisconsin Mining School in 1949. Prior to attending college, he was a tail gunner in the U.S. Air Force, earning the rank of sergeant. Upon graduating, he began working in various construction companies, while also continuing his passion of downhill skiing. Masbruch served as the technical delegate at high-caliber races for 15 years, serving as advisor for pre-race and race events. His experience helped him earn his first patent, when—in 1964—he patented a rescue sled for transporting injured people or loads over snow and ice-covered terrain. This was just the beginning of his growing entrepreneurial spirit, which eventually led him to establish his own concrete company, Art Ash Research and Training Co. in Denver, Colorado.
Masbruch has supported UW-Platteville and its students for years, having established the Masbruch Scholarship and funding educational experiences for civil engineering students, especially those preparing for the concrete industry. He once stated that because he benefited from the GI Bill when he went to school, he understood the importance of giving back and providing similar help to other students.
