Message from the Dean

There’s something uniquely energizing about imagining and working toward a better future. Our School community has the privilege of doing that work every day in classrooms, labs, studios, theatres, and communities across Wisconsin and the world. In this issue of Learning Connections, we’re pleased to have the opportunity to tap into that energy and highlight that meaningful and important work.

This issue’s cover story features the work of early and mid-career faculty in our spectacular Department of Educational Policy Studies, a group of scholars who are powering positive change by asking hard questions and seeking pragmatic solutions. From their research that directly touches life here on campus to their community engagement in places from Sheboygan to Colombia, the department is an inspiring example of the Wisconsin Idea in action — and a model for how we can reflect on where we’ve been to improve where we’re going.

I’m also thrilled that this issue shines a light on some of our School’s newest faculty members. Jacob Meyer and Micha Espinosa have brought fresh approaches and inspiring work to campus — Jacob through his exploration of connections between exercise and mental health and Micha through her cross-disciplinary work that unites the arts and science. And this issue’s story about Sabrina Kabakov, a doctoral student in our Department of Kinesiology, is a stellar example of how our students are undertaking ambitious, life-changing research. Sabrina’s current work with young cancer patients and survivors who have also been diagnosed with Down Syndrome is laying the groundwork for what I’m sure will be a remarkable and impactful career of research and service.

Other highlights of this issue include our students getting creative with Pokémon for an elementary school “math night” and a look at our first group of undergraduate scholars to receive vital financial support during all four years of their undergraduate studies.

The work of creating lasting, impactful change can be daunting. I’m honored to take up this hard work alongside all of you, and am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate and support it today and every day.