FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10/14/11
Contact: Betsy Pike, (414) 732-6605, homecoming@uwalumni.com
MADISON – The On Wisconsin Society, a new honor recognizing University of Wisconsin-Madison students for positive and lasting contributions to campus, is inaugurating its first members during this week’s Homecoming celebration.
“With this new organization we hope to be able to meaningfully recognize students who truly embody the Wisconsin Experience,” said Betsy Pike, president of the UW Homecoming Committee.
The On Wisconsin Society is a new tradition that recognizes students for notable achievements in their undergraduate careers, as well as demonstrated Badger spirit and energy in their accomplishments.
The three students chosen as the inaugural members of the On Wisconsin Society are:
– Emily Kesner x’12 of Wauwatosa. She is an active member of Greek Intervarsity, and has been involved with Dance Marathon since its inception at UW-Madison in 2007.
– Cara Ladd x’13 of Delafield. She has pioneered efforts to increase the campus presence of UW Slow Food, which spreads knowledge about food sustainability and local food production.
– Steven Olikara x’12 of Brookfield. He is senior class president and has been involved with numerous campus initiatives since his freshman year, including building awareness of the Wisconsin Idea and environmental education.
In past years, students were selected for positions on a Homecoming Court. For the 100th anniversary of Homecoming, the student-led Homecoming Committee chose to update that structure and create the On Wisconsin Society to better honor campus leaders.
“These driven students will set an example for future Badgers,” says UW Homecoming Vice President Jackie Ordan.
On Wisconsin Society members were recognized at events and activities throughout Homecoming week. They will also be honored on the field of Camp Randall during the Homecoming football game and receive a Life Membership in the Wisconsin Alumni Association.
“We are elated to have students recognizing other student leaders,” says Paula Bonner, WAA president and CEO. “Student members of the On Wisconsin Society will continue to inspire Badger alumni and their peers.”
More information about the On Wisconsin Society and this year’s honorees is available at http://www.uwalumni.com/homecoming.
###
