On behalf of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Board of Directors, I am pleased to share with you highlights from another impactful year—one made possible through your generosity, trust, and belief in our mission.
Your contributions have been instrumental in helping the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association advance student success, foster academic excellence, and enrich co-curricular programs. Your gifts have directly funded life-changing scholarships and hands-on learning experiences that empower our students to excel in a dynamic world. Your investment continues to distinguish UW-Platteville as a leader in higher education.
We are deeply committed to honoring your intentions as donors. Every gift is managed with the utmost care, transparency, and integrity, ensuring it delivers maximum impact in alignment with your vision—whether supporting scholarships, capital projects, or targeted academic initiatives. Your trust inspires us to steward these resources responsibly and effectively.
The strength of our Pioneer community lies in our shared dedication of supporting our students. Your generosity fosters a legacy of opportunity and excellence at UW-Platteville. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support, which is not only appreciated but essential.
With gratitude,
Ronald E. Meissen, Ph.D. Chair, Board of Directors UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association
PIONEER GIVING COMMUNITIES
The mission of the Pioneer Giving Communities is to honor, recognize, and celebrate the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association’s most generous alumni and friends, fostering a strong connection between our donors, the university, and their contributions. Members of these communities represent not only special levels of giving but also a vital part of the university’s future success.
The Pioneer Giving Communities celebrates donors across a broad spectrum of giving levels. It features seven distinct communities, each offering unique benefits and opportunities, with tiers ranging from $2,500 to over $1,000,000 of lifetime giving.
Donors are recognized for their generosity with a distinctive pin for each level achieved, symbolizing their lasting impact and commitment.
As part of this exclusive program, these communities recognize Pioneers whose dedication helps drive the continued growth and success of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association. Your generosity is essential to UW-Platteville’s future and demonstrates your commitment to the value of a Pioneer education.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us at 608.342.1181 or foundation@uwplatt.edu.
PETE’S PIONEERS
$2,500–$9,999
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event
1866 CORNERSTONE SOCIETY
$25,000–$99,999
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, campus recognition, certificate of recognition, donor list in Annual Report, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event
PIONEER CIRCLE
$500,000–$999,999
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, campus recognition, certificate of recognition, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event, two tickets to athletic event with the chancellor1, tickets to two shows in the CFA, VIP eight-person Pioneer Stadium press box 2 , group Zoom meeting with the chancellor, private unique campus visit, special pin display
ORANGE AND BLUE CLUB
$10,000–$24,999
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, campus recognition, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event
MINER’S CLUB
$100,000–$499,999
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, campus recognition, certificate of recognition, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event, two tickets to athletic event with the chancellor1, tickets to one show in the CFA, handmade Pioneer gift, VIP eight-person Pioneer Stadium press box 2
CHANCELLOR’S CIRCLE
$1,000,000 and above
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, campus recognition, certificate of recognition, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event, two tickets to athletic event with the chancellor1, tickets to three shows in the CFA, VIP eight-person Pioneer Stadium press box 2, group Zoom meeting with the chancellor, private unique campus visit, private event with the chancellor, special pin display, medallion
LEGACY SOCIETY
Any documented planned gift
Incentives: pin, annual calendar, gift, campus recognition, invitation to the annual Pioneer Giving Communities event
¹ Availability is limited and prioritized by giving level.
² VIP Pressbox access is prioritized by giving level and may be subject to scheduling limitations.
* Corporate giving is recognized separately from individual giving within the Pioneer Giving Communities. Stewardship levels and recognition for corporate donors will be determined at a later date.
ALUMNI AWARDS
ALUMNI HONORED FOR SERVICE
At this year’s 1866 Cornerstone Society Induction and Recognition Dinner, The UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association bestowed two awards upon alumni whose dedication and generosity have left an indelible mark on the university.
OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER AWARD
This award recognizes those who have volunteered their time to serve UW-Platteville and further advance the mission of the university.
Homecoming Awards Committee
This dedicated group of eight volunteers—comprised of alumni and retired faculty—brought a wide range of perspectives and deep institutional knowledge to the selection process. With several members serving for more than 28 years, the committee exemplifies commitment, thoughtfulness, and passion. Their careful review of hundreds of nominations and their steadfast dedication to recognizing excellence have left a lasting mark on the university community.
Homecoming Awards Committee Members:
David Allen
Max Anderson
Aaron Athas
Rick Burgermeister
Barb Daus
Dan Fairchild
Roger Higgs
Dwight Klaassen
Deb Rice
The UW-Platteville Foundation is deeply grateful to the Homecoming Awards Committee for their unwavering service. Their collective efforts ensure that the university continues to celebrate those who embody the Pioneer spirit. Through their discernment and dedication, they have upheld a tradition of excellence and built a legacy that will inspire future generations of alumni and friends.
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.
Gary and Beth Goldberg
Both 1981 graduates in mining engineering, Gary and Beth Goldberg have remained deeply connected to UW-Platteville through their generous support of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science.
Their lasting impact includes the creation of two endowed scholarships—the Beth and Gary Goldberg Scholarship and the James and Joan Brandt Goldberg Memorial Scholarship—providing critical financial support to engineering and chemistry students from Wisconsin.
In addition to their scholarship support, the Goldbergs have contributed to the Civil and Environmental Engineering program and helped make the Busby Hall of Engineering expansion a reality.
Their commitment to enhancing student experiences and academic resources reflects their deep pride in their alma mater and ensures future Pioneers will continue to thrive.
FORGING FUTURES THROUGH INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP
In a bold investment in the future of construction, Milwaukee Tool donated more than $70,000 worth of professional-grade tools, equipment, and safety gear to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville’s Construction Management program. The donation reinforces a shared commitment to hands-on learning, innovation, and workforce readiness.
“At UW-Platteville, we take immense pride in providing students with a hands-on education that prepares them not just to enter the workforce, but to excel in it,” said UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich. “Partners like Milwaukee Tool make this possible. This marks the first partnership in our program to outfit our lab with tools—an exciting milestone that will benefit students for years to come.”
By aligning with educational programs that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world application, Milwaukee Tool not only supports student development but also contributes to the advancement of the construction industry as a whole.
“Milwaukee Tool shares UW-Platteville’s dedication to enhancing safety and productivity in the construction industry,” explained Kevin Murphy, Key Account Manager with Milwaukee Tool. “This collaboration ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the construction field upon graduation.”
Milwaukee Tool donated a wide array of industry-relevant equipment, including top-tier power tools, cordless light equipment solutions, and personal protective equipment. These tools are carefully selected to reflect those commonly used by professionals in the field, giving students valuable experience with equipment that aligns closely with current industry standards.
In addition to providing access to professional-grade tools, the donated equipment incorporates advanced safety features designed to enhance both jobsite safety and productivity. Technologies such as AUTOSTOP™, RAPIDSTOP™, and the Anti-Vibration System (AVS) contribute to a safer, more efficient working environment.
“By providing access to professional-grade tools and cutting-edge safety technology, Milwaukee Tool helps ensure our students graduate not just with knowledge, but with meaningful, hands-on experience that directly translates to the jobsite,” said Gretchen Bockenhauer, Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of construction management and construction safety management. “We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation and investment in our students’ futures.”
The partnership exemplifies how collaboration between industry and academia can elevate student learning. By equipping students with real-world tools and technology, it closes the gap between classroom instruction and jobsite readiness.
“We know that this partnership will ensure that students are not only familiar with the latest tools but also understand how to utilize them effectively and safely in professional environments,” explained Murphy.
That shared commitment to practical learning and innovation is reflected in the success of UW-Platteville graduates who are now driving progress within the industry.
“I know we have many alumni working at Milwaukee Tool, which really shows the full circle of this partnership,” said Evetovich.
For Larry and Sharon Pink, UW-Platteville isn’t just where their careers took root—it’s where their hearts have remained for more than four decades. Sharon, who earned bachelor’s degrees in sociology and psychology in 1981 and a master’s degree in counselor education in 1985, first stepped into a leadership role as a resident assistant in Dobson Hall. That early commitment to student life blossomed into a career of service, with Sharon dedicating over 35 years to TRIO-Student Support Services. Though she officially retired in 2021, she continues to work part time with TRIO, a testament to her unwavering dedication.
“We give to UW-Platteville because I received a top-notch education here, because we both were fortunate to have long lasting and enriching careers here, and because we are supporters of and believe in contributing to our ‘communities’ via gifts of talent, time, and money,” said Sharon.
Larry Pink joined the UW-Platteville community in 1993, first as a maintenance worker in student housing and later as an HVAC specialist with the campus physical plant. Over his 28 years on campus, Larry worked behind the scenes to ensure that the university’s facilities supported a comfortable, safe environment for learning and living.
“Please do it,” they say to first-time donors. “And hopefully it’s the first of many. UW-Platteville has a storied history of providing a quality education as well as life learning experiences in and out of the classroom. It will continue to do so into the future with a dedicated staff, involved students, and financial backing.”
For 39 consecutive years, the Pinks have contributed to various areas of the university, reflecting their belief in education, community, and the lasting impact of generosity.
“I like to support the department and college where I earned my degrees, and the Marching Pioneers—an experience that was meaningful not only for me but also for our three sons,” said Sharon. “We also enjoy supporting the athletic department, as we’ve loved attending games over the years, and we feel strongly about contributing to Pioneers Helping Pioneers, which provides vital assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardship.”
At UW-Platteville, the legacy of Larry and Sharon Pink continues to inspire others to invest in the future—just as they always have.
MIKE ROY
For more than 39 years, Mike Roy has been a steadfast supporter of UW-Platteville, generously giving back to the institution that helped shape his life. A proud graduate of the class of 1969, Roy earned a degree in biology with a focus in zoology. His time at UW-Platteville left a lasting impression, not only through academic achievement but through meaningful connections with fellow students and faculty.
Roy’s journey as a donor began with a simple phone call from a faculty member reaching out to alumni.
That initial connection sparked what would become a nearly four-decade tradition of giving.
“It became a habit,” Roy said. “One deeply rooted in my desire to support university education, its mission, and an outstanding institution.”
Roy’s legacy extends well beyond philanthropy. After completing his undergraduate studies, he pursued graduate education and embarked on a career as a scientist in the federal government, focusing on biotechnology. For years, he worked at the cutting edge of biomedical research, dedicating himself to the development of vaccines.
Parallel to his scientific work, Roy also served his country through the U.S. Army, later continuing his service in the Army Reserves for an impressive 26 years. His military work centered on diagnostics in infectious diseases. His dual roles—as a scientist and military officer—underscore a lifetime of service through knowledge and innovation.
Beyond his work in science and service, Roy also owns Applewood Tree Farm in northern Grant County near Boscobel, Wisconsin, where he raises hardwood trees such as oak, walnut, and cherry.
Roy shared his passion for science with the next generation by teaching part-time at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Through the years, he’s always kept UW-Platteville close to his heart. Among the many memorable moments from his college years, one stands out more than others.
“One of the moments that has always stayed with me from my college years was a chance meeting with Harry Nohr—the man behind the name on the campus art gallery. It was encounters like that which reminded me how this university brought together academic excellence and a true sense of community.”
Today, Roy directs his support toward the Biology Department Alumni Fund and the Biology Exploration Award. These contributions help empower faculty initiatives, fund student field experiences, and encourage undergraduate research—continuing the tradition of excellence that he experienced firsthand.
BILL AND RITA HENQUINET
Bill and Rita Henquinet’s story began in a freshman English class at UW-Platteville in 1959. With the seating chart organized alphabetically, Rita Hughes took the desk next to Bill Henquinet—and that simple coincidence led to a lifetime together. Through their college years, both poured themselves into their studies and campus life. In 1963, Rita earned her degree in education, and Bill majored in agricultural business and economics, setting the foundation for a career that would span decades in the agricultural finance industry.
Over the years, their journey took them from Wisconsin to California and Michigan before retirement brought them back to the Henquinet family farm in Peshtigo, Wisconsin. No matter where they lived, UW-Platteville remained close to their hearts.
“Some of my best memories were being on the cross-country team. I lettered in it,” Bill recalled. “I also had a wonderful professor who helped me get a graduate scholarship to continue my studies at UW-Madison.”
The friendships they also made at UW-Platteville endured, with reunions and phone calls keeping their college circle close-knit through the decades.
After Rita’s passing in early 2025, Bill continues their tradition of giving, a commitment that has spanned over 39 years. Together, they established the William D. and Rita A. Henquinet Class of 1963 Scholarship to provide aid for students from northeast Wisconsin pursuing degrees in agriculture.
“UW-Platteville was so good to us,” Bill said. “We made so many friends there and we all stayed in touch through the years. I had a terrific career, and UW-Platteville helped me a lot.”
Their legacy lives on through every student their generosity helps, and every life those students go on to touch.
–Christine Bellport
GIVING BACK, THE SMART WAY
There are many ways UW-Platteville alumni give back to the campus that helped shape their lives. Walter Knox has chosen two: serving on the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Board of Directors and finding a financially savvy, forwardthinking way to support the university through a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
“There are tools out there—you just have to be aware of them,” Knox explains.
The path that led Knox to the board of directors and his generous support began when he discovered UWPlatteville. Knox grew up in the Milwaukee area, and with an uncle living in Lancaster who was familiar with Platteville, he found his way to campus and never looked back. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in elementary education, with an emphasis in mathematics. He also wrestled for three years.
Though he signed a contract to teach in the Riverdale School District in Muscoda, Wisconsin, his time in the classroom was brief. Knox had joined the Navy Reserve in 1963 and received a deferment during college. Just one semester into teaching, the Navy called because he owed two years of active duty.
“That was it—one semester teaching, then off to the Navy,” Knox recalled.
He served for 17 years on active duty and 16 more in the Reserve, retiring after a 33-year military career at the rank of Commander.
“The Navy turned out to be a pretty good gig,” he said. “It fit me better than teaching and I got to see a lot of the world.”
It was a second career that ultimately led Knox to deepen his support for his alma mater.
“I went back about three years ago for the 1866 Cornerstone Society recognition event and started talking with people from the foundation and those
involved in fundraising efforts,” said Knox. “My second career was as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, and I realized I might be able to help.”
Encouraged to apply for a position on the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association Board of Directors, Knox submitted an application. When a vacancy opened, he was invited to join, serving on the board from his home on the Island of Hawaii.
“It’s been interesting to see how the foundation operates and how things get done to benefit future students,” he said. “I hope I’m adding value by offering advice on constructive changes and contributing my knowledge of investments.”
He is using that knowledge to contribute to the future success of students attending UW-Platteville. He’s committed to giving $15,000 a year from his Required Minimum Distribution for the rest of his life.
WHY KNOX CHOSE A REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION – AND WHAT HE DID WITH IT
After years of deferring taxes and letting retirement savings grow in a tax-advantaged account, the time eventually comes when the government wants
its share. That’s where RMDs come into play. Once you hit a certain age—currently 73—the IRS mandates that you start taking withdrawals from retirement accounts. It’s their way of reclaiming the taxes on money that’s been growing untouched for decades. For many, RMDs are simply a way to fund retirement.
“You take the amount you’re required to, and you live on it,” says Knox. “But my wife and I don’t need that income right now. So rather than take it and pay taxes on money we don’t need, we chose a different path.”
That path is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). It’s a tax-smart move that allows individuals over age 70 to transfer up to $100,000 annually directly to a qualified charity. The beauty of the QCD? The money never hits your bank account—so it doesn’t count as taxable income.
“All we had to do was tell our custodian: we want to send this amount to this organization on this date,” Knox explained. “Since we never received the funds personally, there are no taxes. And the charity gets 100% of the money.”
It was a win-win: fulfilling the RMD requirement while supporting a cause Knox cares about—and avoiding the tax bill in the process.
He initially committed to donating $15,000 annually from his RMD but soon recognized that those funds were limited. In addition to contributing to his retirement through a company 401(k), he established a Charitable Gift Fund. This strategy allowed him to avoid capital gains taxes while also receiving a charitable tax deduction. Today, the $15,000 annual contribution is made from the Charitable Gift Fund, which is designed to be a more sustainable source of funding than the RMD.
BRINGING FINANCIAL WISDOM TO THE FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Knox brings the same financial acumen that guides his personal decisions to his role on the foundation board.
“The goal is always to reduce volatility and generate good returns, but those two don’t always go hand in hand,” he explained. “Volatility isn’t inherently bad.
It can mean the market’s going up or down. The key is understanding what risk really means.”
For Knox, risk isn’t just about short-term market swings—it’s about long-term outcomes.
PRICELESS RETURNS
Knox holds close to his heart many wonderful memories from his time as a Pioneer. That’s why he encourages others to give back: to honor those moments and help pave the way for future students to create their own.
One of Knox’s favorite memories is from 1967, when he and his fraternity, Lambda Sigma Pi, carved a massive eagle—25 feet tall with a matching wingspan—for the Crystal Capri Winter Carnival.
He vividly remembers how the idea came to life.
“The story behind the eagle is that three or four of us were lying around on the fraternity living room floor, wondering what we were going to carve,” he said. “Someone flipped a quarter, and when it landed, we saw the eagle on it and said, ‘That’s what we’re doing!’”
The process wasn’t easy. They hauled ice blocks from the Rountree Branch Stream, working long hours in the cold. But in the end, it was worth it.
“Before the judging, we had a light snowfall, which gave everything a beautiful dusting,” Knox recalled. “It’s just a really good memory. We had 30 people working on it, and we won that year.”
Memories like that are priceless. And it’s exactly those kinds of experiences that inspire Knox to give— through service on the board and through thoughtful financial contributions—so future students can create memories of their own.
–Christine Bellport
If you'd like to learn more about financially strategic ways to give, including tax-efficient options and legacy planning, please contact us at foundation@uwplatt.edu or visit our website for additional resources.
uwplatt.giftplans.org
JULY 1, 2024–JUNE 30, 2025
$8,690,505 IN TOTAL FY2025 FUNDRAISING $999 AVERAGE GIFT SIZE
GROWTH OF ENDOWMENT ASSETS OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS
FUNDRAISING OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS
$6M $8M $10M
$5M $7M $9M
$2M
FOUNDATION AND ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF
Ronald Meissen
Chair
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1971
Major: Civil engineering
Greg Loek
Vice Chair
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1980
Major: Industrial engineering
Terry Strittmater
Treasurer
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1982
Major: Accounting and criminal justice
Carol Weber
Secretary
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1989
Major: Electrical engineering
Aaron Athas
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 2010
Major: Music – choral early childhood
Mark Boorse
Development Committee Chair
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1997
Major: Civil engineering
Ben Brancel
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1972
Major: Animal science
Chuck Brokopp
Member
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1971, 1972
Biology (zoology), medical technology
Doug Buhler
Member
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1979
Major: Soil and crop science
Rick Burgermeister
Member
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1969
Major: Comprehensive business and economics
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
Friend of the University
Dan Dombrowski
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 2019
Major: Industrial technology management
Mike Fiedler
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1971
Major: Speech broadcasting
Jeff Ingebritsen
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1977
Major: Criminal justice
John Jones
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1985
Major: Mining engineering
DIRECTORS
Walter Knox
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1986
Major: Elementary education
Jerry Kobiske
Member
Term: Third
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation year: 1974
Major: Mathematics
Tom Laufenberg
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1996
Major: Civil engineering
Garrison Ledbury
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 2019
Major: History and English
Margaret Keehn
Member
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Friend of the University
Darin Pauls
Member
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation year: 1993
Major: Accounting
Matt Richards
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation year: 1991
Major: Civil engineering
Jim Ryan
Member
Term: Second
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation year: 1977
Major: Agribusiness and business administration
Danny Shaw
Member
Term: First
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
Jeff Swalve
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2028
Graduation year: 1995
Major: Business administration
Joanne Uthe-Gibson
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 1973, 1975
Major: Political science, accounting, history
Kristy Quarberg
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2027
Graduation year: 2020
Major: Criminal justice and accounting
Lana Wiese
Member
Term: First
Term ends: June 30, 2026
Graduation year: 1971
Major: Business administration
ALUMNI GATHERINGS BRINGING PIONEERS TOGETHER
Alumni gatherings are a wonderful way to connect with fellow Pioneers, no matter where you live. These events provide opportunities to network, share memories, and celebrate the UW-Platteville experience in your own community. From casual meet-ups to organized socials, gatherings strengthen the ties between alumni and keep the Pioneer spirit alive across the country.
If you are interested in hosting an alumni gathering in your area, we would love to support you. Please contact us at 608-342-1181 to learn more about how you can bring Pioneers together in your community.
Two alumni events were held in sunny Florida! Special thanks to Doug (’73) Atkinson and committee for hosting in The Villages, as well as Mark (’72) and Sue (’72) Martens for hosting in Fort Myers.
Enjoying a fun night in Beloit, Wisconsin thanks to our gracious hosts, Kathleen (’86) and Tom (’85) Hughes
Watching old friends reunite, new relationships form, and hearing all of the wonderful memories will never get old! A special thanks to Ron (’74) and Jan (’73 and ’84) Weier for hosting one of the two events held in Mesa, Arizona!
Spending time with our alumni in Tucson, Arizona, thanks to our hosts, Carol (’89) and Brian (’88) Weber!
Special thanks to Lana (’71) and Bob (’70) Wiese and Margaret Keehn for hosting this alumni event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin!
PIONEER GIVING COMMUNITIES MEMBERS
Beth and Carl Abing
James and Julie Anderson
Eric and Susan Bjornsen
John and Barbara Boldt
Dean Bedford and Kathleen Boudreau
Dr. Charles and Marilyn Brokopp
Mary Lou Broske
Dr. Douglas and Jean Buhler
Dr. John and Terry Busby
Robert and Elaine Carns
Timothy and Pam Christen
Dr. Gregory Boys and Priya Devaguptapu
David and Judy French
Dr. Theodore L. Goodfriend
Cynthia Tang and Joseph Grant
Curtis and Linda Hanson
Paul and Julie Heim
Dr. Mittie and David Den Herder
Fred and Martha Jaeckle
Sharon A. Amundson
David L. Andersen
Gerald Anderson and Judy Klitzsch-Anderson
Dr. Philip and Judith Anderson
Wilma L. Anderson
Dan and Morgan Arnold
Gregory and Mary Bauer
Geneva M. Beals
Steven and Debra Becker
Charles and Susan Bergmann
Bradley and Peggy Biddick
Mark Boorse and Paula Johnson-Boorse
Richard and Jane Boorse
Joan D. Borkovec
Dave and Rhonda Broihahn
Allen and Lori Brokopp
Catherine H. Brooks
Dr. Everett and Michele Burgess
A. Jorgensen
William Schilling and Lois Kaiser-Genthe
Phil and Barbara Karrmann
Travis J. Kraemer
Gregory and Kathy Nelson
Jack S. Noble
Charles and Carol Pedretti
Greg Loek and Kathleen Rice
Theodore and Sandra Richards
Cheryl Rowan
Steven and Jill* Schielke
Terence C. Sheldon
Wendell and Janet Sisson
Elizabeth J. Summers*
Jeff and Tara Swalve
Robert and Shirley Tinstman
Monsignor James Uppena
Lana and Robert Wiese
James* and Christine Wunderlin
Carol Sue Butts and Ray Meiklejohn
Ellen Ullsvik and Robert Campbell
Nancy and R. Neill Carey
Gary and Susan Chace
Patrick and Barbara Clare
Dennis and Stephanie Cooley
Lucille J. Copas
Robert and Susan Cramer
David N. Daniel
Barb and Harold Daus
John and Jane David
Dr. Thomas and Sharon Davis
Jean DeLamater
Joseph and Kathryn Denk
Nancy Devine
Marilyn B. Dresden
Dr. Nicholas David and Dana Drochner
Dr. Elizabeth A. Duewer
Steve and Sandy Duren
Gary and Beth Goldberg Todd and Susan Johnson
William E. Huff
Douglas
Ronald and Eileen Meissen
Corey and Teah Kaiser
Michael and Christine Aide
Dr. Orlyn and Jana Edge
Dr. Tori and Jon Erickson
Dr. Tammy and Mark Evetovich
Patricia Wunderlin and Eugene Faughnan
Michael and Christine Fiedler
Dr. Ellen L. Fitzsimmons
Linda Pauls Fleming and Thomas Fleming
Dr. Duane and Sheri Ford
Thomas and Rebecca Frisbie
Bruce and Susan Fritz
Dave and Lois Fritz
Jill and Jason Furman
Greg and Michelle Gard
John* and Betty Gebhardt
JoAnne Uthe-Gibson and Donald Gibson
Judy L. Goke
Jason and Cari Gold
Dr. Molly Gribb and William Holder
Harlan and Gerri Hall
Sharon Hamshire
Janet A. Handley
Larry and Peggy Hanson
James and Rita Harasha
Richard A. Hardy
Rolf and Kathleen Hempel
William and Rita* Henquinet
Lila A. Hensley
David G. Herro
Dr. Roger and Francine Higgs
Dr. Reynotta G. Hoberecht
Steven and Marjorie Holzhueter
Craig J. Howard
Dr. Jeffrey Huebschman and Dr. Erin Huebschman
Margaret and Daniel Immerfall
Robert C. Ivey
Dr. Myron and Dr. Elaine Jacobson
Corey Janecky and Laura Runyen-Janecky
Kimberly J. Johnson
Margaret and Randy Karsten
Nao Tsumagari and Andrea Kay
Margaret A. Keehn
Robert Kern
Daniel and Doris Keyes
Dr. Kenneth and Jessie Kilian
John and Elizabeth Kincaid
Dr. Dwight and Sharon Klaassen
Mac and Toni Klingler
Deborah Rice and William Kloster
Walter and Harriet Knox
Dr. Jane McLamarrah and Michael Kohl
John and Janey Kortas
Kevin and Diane Kraemer
John and Angela Krogman
Jeffrey and Laura Kronser
David Langer and Donna Richard-Langer
Jonathan Strand and Helen Lanham
Larry and Jennie* Larson
Thomas and Brenda Laufenberg
Bill E. Lawson
Scott Baumgartner and Dr. Mary Lee
Mark* and Janice Lee
Dr. Milton Engelke and Virginia Lehman
Richard and Stacy Lenz
Fred D. Leverentz
Janice F. Loberger
Joe and Kathryn Lomax
Dr. David and Lou Ann Markee
Jerry and Elena Marty
Kelley Murphy and Jamie Marvin
Jeffrey and Brenda Matthias
Dr. Elizabeth M. McNally
Wayne L. Metzger
Al and Karen Meyer
William Shinker and Susan Moldow
Mark and Elizabeth Molesworth
Deanna and Jim Moris
Dr. Ann and Joe Moyer
David J. Murphy
Randy and Donell Nash
Carol A. Nelson
Lyle* and Sybil Novinski
Daniel and Judy Noziska
George and Sandra Ochs
Marjon B. Ornstein
Dr. Judith and Thomas Paul
Michael and Janet Pawelski
Nancy Preston
Richard E. Prieve
Fern C. Reinstein
Janet and Sam* Riechers
John D. Riege
Donna J. Riess
Charles and Kathleen Riley
Richard and Jean Ripp
Dr. Michael J. Roy
James and Cecelia Ryan
William and Kelly Ryan
Jill E. Rytlewski
Dr. William and Jean Sanders
Dawn Drake and Dr. Thomas Scanlan
Patricia and James Schaefer
Dr. Charles and Sandra Schwab
Scott and Jean Seely
Thomas and Ting Ting Shaver
Dennis and Aundra Shields
Ruth Miller and Rob Slotten
Dr. Raymond Spoto
Jeffrey M. Squires
Erin Ralph and Jesse Stanton
Lonny and Kim Stare
David and Denise Statz
Steve L. Stephens
Michael J. Stevens
Anna and Jeff Stewart
Dr. Stan Stojkovic
Terry and Susan Strittmater
Dr. Barbara A. Strohm
Mark and Celeste Taber
Dawson* and Marie Trine
Dr. Marilyn J. Tufte
Dr. Michael and Rhonda Viney
Robert and Mary Pat Vosberg
Daniel and Mary Wagner
David and Jean Ward
Gene and Jan Weber
Carol and Brian Weber
Richard E. Weber
Mary Uppena-Weed and Stanley Weed
David and Jacquelyn Weiland
Dr. Joanne Wilson
Florence Wong
Dr. Max Anderson and Linda Wright
Howard and Sharon Zastrow
Dr. Mark and Twila Zidon
Randy C. Zinck
*Deceased 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, Interim Executive Director of the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, at collinsjam@uwplatt.edu. ESTATE GIFT TOTAL FY25: $1,033,110.00
SOCIETY MEMBERS: 148
Dr. James Wright
Dr. James Wright, a proud UW-Platteville alumnus and a tireless advocate for veterans and nontraditional students, passed away in 2022. His legacy continues to shape the university through the Robert and James Wright Center for Non-Traditional and Veteran Students—a resource he helped bring to life through vision and generosity.
The Wright Center opened in 2014, creating a lasting support system for students balancing education with military service, work, and family obligations. James’ brother, Robert “Bob” Wright, also an alumnus, passed away in 2013, shortly after the center’s name was announced. In a powerful continuation of their shared commitment, James made a $143,000 gift that significantly enhanced the center’s programming, scholarships, and student resources—ensuring even greater impact for years to come.
The Wright brothers grew up in Galena, Illinois, and both served in the U.S. military—James in the Marine Corps and Bob in the Navy. They were also the first in their family to graduate from college, a milestone that marked the beginning of lives dedicated to education and service.
The Wright family has a long tradition of attending UW-Platteville. Their father briefly attended the old Normal School during the Depression before financial hardship forced him to withdraw. Two of his sisters completed a special training program in Platteville for rural schoolteachers, while two uncles on their mother’s side enrolled as veterans after World War II. Several cousins also graduated from the school, continuing the family’s strong connection to the university. This legacy has inspired the family to support the current generation of veterans and non-traditional students.
After graduating from UW-Platteville in 1964, James earned a Ph.D. in history from UW-Madison and went on to become president of Dartmouth College. He never forgot his roots in Southwest Wisconsin or the transformative power of higher education.
James once said, “It is good to be able to help the current generation of veterans and non-traditional students.” Through his enduring legacy—and the generous gift that expanded the Wright Center’s reach— he continues to do just that, empowering others to follow in his footsteps and achieve their goals.
