MADISON, WI – On March 23, a distinguished panel of Wisconsin thought leaders will explore what it means to belong and find home in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters is proud to announce “Finding Home in Wisconsin: Perspectives from Academy Fellows,” a special public event taking place on March 23, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Monona Terrace Lecture Hall and with live streaming.
Four distinguished voices. One essential question: What does it mean to call Wisconsin home?
The evening features an extraordinary panel of esteemed Academy Fellows:
- John Gurda (History): The preeminent chronicler of Wisconsin heritage and an Emmy-winning historian, Gurda has authored over 20 books that define our understanding of the state’s urban and community identity.
- Richard J. Davidson (Neuroscience): A global pioneer in the study of emotion and contemplative neuroscience, Davidson is the founder of the Center for Healthy Minds and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.
- Katherine Cramer (Political Science): A trailblazing researcher on the “politics of resentment,” Cramer is a national authority on rural consciousness and the social forces that shape our sense of belonging and division.
- Karen Ann Hoffman (The Arts): An NEA National Heritage Fellow and master of Haudenosaunee Raised Beadwork, Hoffman is a world-renowned artist whose work is held in the Smithsonian and reimagines traditional Indigenous forms for the modern era.
- The discussion will be moderated by Steve Paulson, Executive Producer of To the Best of Our Knowledge, and Wisconsin Academy Fellow.
“Our Finding Home series creates a bridge between the complex challenges facing our state and the deeply personal stories of its people,” said Erika Monroe-Kane, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Academy. “By bringing together these brilliant and creative luminaries we hope to foster a dialogue that moves beyond polarization toward greater connection and understanding.”
At this hallmark event, the Academy will officially announce the newly nominated 2026 Class of Academy Fellows. This announcement serves as the precursor to the formal Fellows Induction Gala scheduled for Fall 2026.
Event Details:
What: Finding Home in Wisconsin: Perspectives from Academy Fellows
When: March 23, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Monona Terrace, Lecture Hall (1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI)
Open to the public. Attendees may join in person or virtually via Zoom and purchase tickets at wisconsinacademy.org.
About the Wisconsin Academy
A champion of independent thought, creativity, and civil discourse, the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters connects people from across the state and builds common ground. Through exhibitions, publications, and initiatives, the Wisconsin Academy sparks curiosity, creativity, and dialogue across the state. The James Watrous Gallery celebrates contemporary Wisconsin artists, while Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine explores the intersections of science, culture, and the humanities. The Climate and Energy Initiative advances pathways to a sustainable future, and public talks foster meaningful connections among engaged and inquisitive people. The Academy also honors excellence through the Fiction & Poetry Awards and Fellows Awards, supports the Wisconsin Poet Laureate, and nurtures ideas and conversations that shape a better future for Wisconsin.
