The UW–Madison School of Education offers academic excellence in areas spanning the arts, health, and education. We are a proud community of innovative leaders, creative thinkers, and fearless trailblazers. Our talented students are committed to making their college experience a meaningful journey that aligns with their interests and helps them achieve their future goals.
Following is a Q&A with Madeleine Stoffel, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with an emphasis in Metals and Ceramics and graduating in spring 2026.
Where are you from and how did you become interested in pursuing a degree in this field? I am originally from Dubuque, Iowa, and always had a strong interest in the arts throughout my upbringing. When I first came to UW–Madison, I was on track to get my degree in Art Education. That program exposed me to several new mediums, in which I gravitated towards metalsmithing and ceramics. I kept enrolling in those courses and advancing my skills until I was compelled to fully dedicate myself to those practices and major in Art. Spending my days as a maker is paramount, and my time in the Art Department has given me the knowledge and confidence to pursue that.
How did you decide that you wanted to become at UW–Madison Badger? I grew up only an hour and a half away from Madison, so I came here occasionally for weekend getaways. I always enjoyed this city — it has a lot of character and there’s always interesting things to do. The lakes are a wonderful draw as well. The opportunity to live here and attend UW–Madison was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
What has been your most meaningful experience with the Art program? My most meaningful experience in the Art program is that I’ve gotten to be a part of a dedicated community of artists. I am surrounded by supportive friends and mentors. We are always sharing ideas, opportunities, successes and failures, and helping each other out. Art is fun but it’s hard work too. There’s a lot of late nights and things don’t always go the way you plan, but having your peers to commiserate with and mentors that support you makes it all worthwhile. I will miss it here very much!
What class or professor has had the greatest impact on you, and why? I had two very transformative years of Advanced Art Metals with Cate O’Connell-Richards. Cate taught me most of what I know about metalsmithing: from enameling, to casting, to fabrication. Not only did they expand my technical skills, they encouraged me to explore subject matter and objects beyond what I considered to be practical. This opened me up to modes of expression and making I may never have explored without their encouragement, and has helped me to figure out my “why” for making art.
What are your future goals or plans? My future goals have quite a range. My primary interest is being a studio artist, but there are many opportunities within the arts I’d like to pursue. Anything from attending artist residencies, teaching workshops, working for a gallery, or being an apprentice jeweler or potter. I learn of new possibilities everyday, so I’m excited to see what awaits!
Anything else you value about the School of Education or your program that you’d like to share with others who are considering it? My program has been a wonderful experience. I’ve become a much more well-rounded, confident, and skilled person because of it. Art can definitely be intimidating to pursue, but I believe many of us are meant to be makers and we shouldn’t let fear and misconceptions deter us. The Art program here will set you up with the skills and network you need, but you also must be disciplined and self-motivated to continually improve and expand your potential.
Do you have any tips for students thinking about how to maximize their experience? You get out what you put in. Having access to all of these art facilities and mentors is such a privilege — don’t waste it! Be curious, ask questions, and devote your time to your ideas and your craft. I also suggest seeking out community. Studio classes and student organizations are a great place for building connections and learning from each other, so be present and engage with your peers. Finally, use the Kohler Art Library — it is such a rich resource for inspiration!
Can you tell us about a time when an academic advisor helped you? My advisors have been so helpful during my time here. There was one occasion where Annmarie Suglio and I put together an art exhibition showcasing work from the various student organizations within the Art Department. It was an enlightening experience to curate that show together. I always feel so supported by her and she constantly sends me new opportunities for jobs, scholarships, and so on.
Have you participated in any internship/work experience, research, or study abroad programs? What did you participate in and could you talk a bit more about those experiences? I’ve worked multiple jobs throughout my undergraduate degree. Currently, I work as a studio assistant to MFA student Car Riegger and the metals professor Jaydan Moore. With Car we do a lot of mold making and life casting with wax and foam, and for Jaydan we saw antique silver platters to construct large sculptures. These opportunities have introduced me to many new techniques and materials, and I gain so many insights about their art careers while we work.
Anything else that’s important to you about yourself or your studies you would like to mention? This past year, I’ve been putting together a body of work that has to do with domestic wares and natural forms. I often consider our relationship to functional objects and the natural world, and am curious how our understanding of material affects our lives. To know material and how to transform it is empowering and allows me to envision alternative realities. My intention with my work is to make objects that cause us to slow down, act with care, and remind us that we are of the earth.