The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members–Coretta Scott King

For decades, strong connections between the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s three campuses and local businesses and organizations have strengthened the economy and quality of life in the greater Fox Valley region.

“As we near UWO’s sesquicentennial in 2021 and begin reflecting on the transformation of the institution over the last 150 years, there is a theme and success story coming into clearer focus: partnerships,” Chancellor Andrew Leavitt said.

Examples of such connections abound:

• UWO nursing students gain clinical skills at local hospitals.
• Future teachers practice how best to deliver lessons in Wisconsin public school classrooms.
• Faculty members lend their expertise to help solve social and scientific issues facing the region.
• Thousands of alumni help power the workforce in the Fox Valley.

“Since our founding in 1871, the boundaries between campus and community have continuously blurred. More and more successful enterprises, local governments, school districts and service organizations have interlaced initiatives, goals and missions with UWO’s. They have come to rely on us, and we need them to help hone students,” Leavitt explained.

One long-time partner has been the Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB).

“The Oshkosh CVB and UW Oshkosh have had a strong partnership for many years, which has allowed us the privilege to help fund great projects and bring amazing events to the university,” said CVB Executive Director Amy Albright. “Throughout those years, we have formed strong relationships with university staff and enjoyed numerous opportunities working with university students.”

Recently, the Oshkosh CVB has employed student interns and worked closely with different university programs. “We are thankful for the friendships we’ve made and are excited about the future of our partnership with UW Oshkosh,” Albright said.

Seven UWO alumni are serving on the Fox Cities Chamber Board of Directors, helping to grow business opportunities in the region.

“UW Oshkosh does a good job of instilling a culture of service and leadership within our students and provides many opportunities for them to be engaged civically and then they continue that within their own communities as alumni,” UWO Alumni Director Christine Gantner said.

One key component of UW Oshkosh’s University Studies Program (USP) curriculum is the community engagement experience during the second year of school. Gantner said alumni speakers who visit classes help students appreciate the impact UW Oshkosh grads have in their profession and in their community.

Chancellor Leavitt is grateful for the growing synergy between UWO and the greater community.

“We are so thankful for this growing legion of community partners and the many ways they invest in Titans’ learning and lifelong success,” he said.