May 29, 2026

People

New Interim Dean Looks to Build on Success

Kristin Eschenfelder brings a consensus-building, student-centric approach to her role as the Interim Dean of the College of Letters & Science. Keep up with her on Instagram at the new handle, @uwlsdean.

Give & Transform

Science Hall Transformation Supported by $85.2 Million Gift

Alumni and philanthropists John and Tashia Morgridge have committed $85.2 million for the renovation of Science Hall, which is set to begin in 2027. The goal is to restore the iconic exterior, create new gathering space and modernize its interior to support learning and research.

Badgers Helping Badgers

The Journey to Getting a Novel Published

Reading the College of Letters & Science’s monthly newsletter connected Meg Bortin with a UW–Madison alumnus who helped her get her first novel published.

Photos

L&S Graduates getting their photo taken.

Celebrating the L&S Class of 2026

Before the UW–Madison Commencement ceremony, L&S graduates celebrated with their friends and family at the Field House. They posed for selfies with Bucky Badger, danced with the University of Wisconsin Marching Band and were inspired by speeches about the next chapter.

The Latest

Illustration depicting invested money being returned to the state of Wisconsin at a higher amount.

UW–Madison’s Economic Impact

Curious about the economic impact of Wisconsin’s flagship university? The newest report shows that UW–Madison contributes $38.9 billion through research, employment, student spending, partnerships with businesses and much more.

Badgers in Action

Photo Collage of L&S Alumni, Alec Luhn, Evelyn Williams and Leah Terry.

L&S Alumni Who Are Green Lights

Environmental stewardship comes in many forms. From reporting on thawing permafrost in the Arctic to restoring prairies in Wisconsin to lobbying politicians for change, these L&S alumni are showcasing how to make a difference.

Student Spotlight

Celebrating Humanitarianism and Service Across the Globe

Kristhel Vernaza Sanchez was awarded the 2026 Richard Ralph Winter Phoenix Rising Humanitarian Scholarship, recognizing her humanitarian achievements and service.

Fueling Discovery

Candyland boardgame inspired ChatGPT generated illustration with the three grand challenges of corrosion, carbon capture and fertilizer depicted as locations on the game board map.

Oh, the Places Quantum Might Go!

Matthew Otten, an assistant professor of physics, looks to a future where quantum computing can support finding solutions to some of society’s biggest problems.

Madison Moment

Members of the UW Marching Band percussion section preforming at the Varsity Band Spring Concert.

School Spirit and Silliness Ensue at the Varsity Band Concert

This year marked the 50th annual Varsity Band Spring Concert, and the event proved that some things keep getting better with age. The UW Marching Band took center stage to play campus hits alongside rock anthems and modern chart-toppers.

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