This award highlights the importance of community-engaged scholarship — which resonates with the spirit and intent of the Wisconsin Idea. This vital work advances the Wisconsin Idea to a new level of partnership and reciprocity.
The broad concept of engagement stipulates that universities should go beyond the traditional one-way transmission of knowledge to society by partnering with their communities in addressing societal ills and creating positive and sustainable change.
Specifically, community-engaged scholarship involves the creation of knowledge for public purposes through a reciprocal and mutually beneficial partnership with the public itself. Work of this nature is advanced through the integration of teaching, research and creativity, and service.
The School of Education Wisconsin Idea Award is presented to an SoE faculty member; staff member; or team in recognition of work that embraces the principles of community-engaged scholarship and the Wisconsin Idea.
Recipients receive a monetary award in support of this essential work.
Eligibility
- Any member of the School of Education faculty or staff leading an exemplary community-engaged scholarship effort (which also may include a team of individuals such as students and members of the community), is eligible for this award
- Individual nominees or team leaders must have at least a half-time appointment in the School
Nomination Procedures
The nomination packet* should include the following items:
- Letter of Nomination containing highlights of the nominee’s career and why they should be considered for this award.
- Letter(s) of support (at least one, but no more than three)
- The letter should make clear to someone outside the nominee’s unit why the work is outstanding
- Neither the Dean nor any member of the review committee may nominate or write letters of support
- The most effective letters of support will come from those familiar with the nominee’s work and will contain a detailed analysis of why the person’s work advances the unit’s mission and merits recognition
*Nominations remain active for two years beyond the year of submission.
Award Criteria
- Contributed to the public good or addressed societal issues;
- Advanced scholarly research and creative activity;
- Demonstrated exemplary partnership practices;
- Was sustained or institutionalized; and
- Achieved one or more of the following:
- Enhanced curriculum, teaching, and learning
- Prepared educated, engaged citizens
- Strengthened democratic values and civic responsibility
Submission
Nominations are due Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Submit nominations in one of the following ways:
- Online Nomination Form (upload digital files of supporting documents)
- Email to Events Manager
Review & Selection
All nominations will be reviewed by a committee of School of Education peers. Award recipients will be recognized at the State of the School and a private reception on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
Questions
Contact our Events Manager