| MADISON, WI – The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters is pleased to announce the selection of Zachary Robbins as Director of Development. A highly-experienced networking and fundraising professional, Zachary (Zack) Robbins has served in development and external relations roles with a variety of organizations in the arts and sciences. Prior to joining the Wisconsin Academy, Robbins served as the Director of Development for the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras. His Wisconsin experience includes positions with the Morgridge Institute for Research, the UW-Madison Arts Institute, and the Wisconsin Science Museum. He also previously served as Director of External Relations and Faculty Affairs for the Physics Department at the University of Maryland and as Director of Corporate Relations for Duke University. Wisconsin Academy leadership welcomed news of Robbins’ hire. “As the Wisconsin Academy works to further engage and connect with communities across the state, Zack will be key member of our team,” stated Executive Director Erika Monroe-Kane. “In addition to his impressive skills and credentials, Zack is an authentic and engaging person who will help strengthen relationships and help build the Academy’s next chapter.” Robbins is excited to help the Academy advance its efforts to promote civil discourse in Wisconsin and reinforce the role of science. He is an avid supporter of the arts and loves to discuss ideas that encourage openminded dialogue and creative solutions to difficult problems. “I’m thrilled to join the Wisconsin Academy’s amazing staff during this exciting and transformative time,” said Robbins. “I believe the Academy is poised to play a strategically central and critical part in advancing constructive dialogues and helping to bring the people of Wisconsin together to solve difficult problems. The creative power of the Wisconsin Idea is actively expressed through the Academy’s programs and publications, and I look forward to helping to advance that important work.” An East Coast native, Robbins received his BA in Political Science, with concentrations in theater and dance, from Bates College and his MS in Management from the University of Maryland University College. He said that he “fell in love with Wisconsin” after meeting and falling in love with his wife Laila, who grew-up in Madison. The couple returned to Madison so Laila could pursue graduate school. They have since settled in the city and are raising two sons, Ramsey and Coleman. Zack loves his adopted home of Madison, and enjoys taking part in local arts, nature, music, education, sports, and cultural activities. |
| The Wisconsin Academy creates opportunities for people to connect, learn, and collaborate to improve life in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Academy showcases contemporary Wisconsin art at the James Watrous Gallery, examines science and culture in Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine, and explores pathways to a sustainable future through the Climate and Energy initiatives. The Academy Courses and public talks provide opportunities to learn and explore, while making connections with curious and creative people across Wisconsin. The Academy recognizes excellence through the annual Fiction & Poetry Awards and Fellows Awards for leadership in and across disciplines. We also support the Wisconsin Poet Laureate and many other endeavors that help the Academy create a better world by connecting Wisconsin people and ideas. |
