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February 26, 2026
Faculty & Staff
Dean Eric Wilcots curling with other L&S Staff.
Meet Some L&S Curlers
The 2026 Winter Olympics thrust curling into the spotlight. The College of Letters & Science has a surprising number of faculty and staff who are devoted bonspielers. Sometimes they play together, other times they match up against Olympians.
Research Spotlight
Cozy illustrations of items related to the Danish concept of Hygge.
The Changing Chemistry of Invasive Death Cap Mushrooms
UW–Madison researchers just released a groundbreaking study on the same mushrooms behind an uptick in poisonings in California.
Campus News
Rendering of the exterior of Herb Kohl Hall.
A New Home for La Follette School of Public Affairs
Music Hall at the foot of Bascom Hill will be renovated to become the home of the La Follette School of Public Affairs, thanks to a lead private gift from Herb Kohl Philanthropies that honors Sen. Kohl’s legacy.
Announcement
Dean Eric M. Wilcots headshot.
L&S Dean Eric M. Wilcots to Serve as Interim Chancellor
The Dean of the College of Letters & Science will become Interim Chancellor of UW–Madison in May. Dean Eric M. Wilcots is known for his unflinching commitment to the Wisconsin Idea, remarkable research background and dedication to a world-class student experience.
Discourse Across Differences
Mitch Daniels answers a question from La Follette Director Susan Yackee.
A Conversation with Gov. Mitch Daniels
The La Follette School of Public Affairs chatted with Mitch Daniels — former governor of Indiana and president emeritus of Purdue University — about higher ed, public policy and a divided America.
Video
L&S undergraduate, Henry Fries, stands with friends in front of an Igloo built on the frozen Lake Mendota
Check Out the Lake Mendota Igloo
L&S Dean’s Ambassador Henry Fries, who is an undergraduate student studying political science and psychology, built the much-photographed igloo on Lake Mendota.
Photos
A group of music artists speak to crowd during the Interdisciplinary Arts Community Session event.
Honoring MLK’s Legacy
UW–Madison celebrated the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a series of events focused on his impact.
From the Magazine
Lau and Bea Christensen sitting together with their musical instruments.
A Sound Investment
Through an innovative new partnership, Lau and Bea Christensen support students pursuing a future in music.
Madison Moment
Decked out in college swag, L&S students cheers on the Wisconsin Badgers Women's Basketball Team.
L&S Student Night at Women's Basketball
More than 200 College of Letters & Science students came together to cheer on a victory by the Wisconsin Badgers women's basketball team. The annual event has become a tradition for L&S students starting the spring semester — and the team is now on a four-year winning streak at L&S Student Night.
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