Wisconsin Idea Seminar, 2012
The Wisconsin Idea Seminar is a wonderful professional development opportunity 
specially designed for faculty and academic staff. This five-day bus tour immerses forty UW-Madison participants in the educational, industrial, social, and political realities of Wisconsin. Started in 1985, the seminar introduces and promotes the Wisconsin Idea, the commitment to use university expertise and resources to address the problems of the state.
The 2012 seminar tour is currently being planned. Stops will include the Aldo Leopold Shack, Baraboo; a dairy farm in central Wisconsin; UW-Manitowoc; the Menominee Nation, Keshena; Redgranite Correctional Institution; Wolf River, Langlade; a Milwaukee public high school, and businesses in the Fox River Valley.
What your colleagues say about the Seminar:
Listen to audio interviews with former participants, recorded in 2009.
"Don't miss this chance to meet so many interesting colleagues while taking a 'crash course' in the state and its 
resources." John Niles, College of Letters and Science
"The trip exceeded my wildest expectations and was life-changing in ways that I still can't fully articulate. It was probably the most worthwhile thing I have done in the last year, if not the last several years." Shannon Sparks, School of Human Ecology
"Of course we met dozens of wonderful Wisconsin residents....
The seminar gave me a much better understanding of the kinds of communities from which my students come and the kinds of issues they face." Eric Camburn, School of Education
" Be ready to learn a lot and have a very good time doing it." Jim Luedtke, College of Engineering
"This is an opportunity which is not to be missed. It is truly an educational experience providing a broad introduction to the strengths and challenges faced by the State of Wisconsin and its population." Sarah McAchran, School of Medicine and Public Health.
"GO, go go!! Yes, it's a big chunk of time; but you'll never forget the trip or regret the time commitment." Jeri Barak, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Who may apply
- New faculty members
- Recently tenured faculty members
- New deans and department chairs
- Lead academic staff with statewide responsibilities
Selection process
By March 1, all nominations are due in the Dean's Offices. Space is limited and early nominations are encouraged. After nomination forms are submitted, the Dean recommends candidates for selection to the Graduate School. By mid-April, approximately 40 people from a cross-section of schools and colleges and disciplines will be selected to participate.
To apply or nominate
Complete the nomination form and submit to your dean by February 15. Early applications are recommended.
Funding
Funds are provided by the deans of the Schools and Colleges and by a grant from the Evjue Foundation.
Additional information
For additional information, look at our flyer or contact seminar staff below.
Miriam Simmons, Assistant Dean
UW-Madison Graduate School
333 Bascom Hall
Phone: (608) 262-9970 Fax: (608) 262-5134
email: msimmons@grad.wisc.edu
Joyce Crim, Senior Outreach Specialist
(608) 265-5416 jcrim@grad.wisc.edu
For assistance during the seminar dates, contact the Dean's Office: (608) 262-1044