University of Wisconsin–Madison

Learning Connections Summer 2025

Learning Connections Summer 2025 issue cover featuring soccer players huddled together

Welcome to the latest edition of Learning Connections — a magazine for alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the UW–Madison School of Education. Our summer 2025 issue features the innovative and exciting work of Badger Inquiry on Sport (BIOS), a program that aims to build a bridge between athletics and research at UW–Madison — and beyond. In this issue, we’re also proud to showcase what community-engaged research on one long-term effect of COVID-19 looks like, share the experiences of alumni working in the NFL and NBA, and celebrate life-changing investments that will support our School for years to come.

Aerial view of rowing team on lake

Take a peek at some snapshots of life on campus this spring and summer.

Dean Haddix standing outside smiling

Dean Marcelle Haddix reflects on how this issue highlights the excellence of our community.

Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson holding NBA championship trophy

Hall of Fame Coach Phil Jackson co-teaches a class in the Master’s in Sports Leadership program — here are some of his top tips for leaders.

Badger Inquiry on Sport (BIOS) aims to bridge the gap between athletics and research at UW–Madison – including a deep dive on the science of leadership.

The three BIOS leaders stand on a football field
bascom hill on a summer afternoon

A look at how our School is leading on the top issues facing education today.

Shinye Kim

Research led by Shinye Kim sheds light on challenges minority communities face in seeking treatment for chronic pain.

Geoff Kaplan walking alongside Houston Texans football player

An alumnus shares his experience working at the highest level of professional football.

Illustration of a brain in a fog

A look at community-driven research on how to measure one long-term effect of COVID-19.

UW–Madison alumnus Carlos Bustamante posing

An alumnus shares his path from UW–Madison’s athletic training program to the NBA.

Dean Marcelle Haddix, Charles Pulvino, Mindi Thompson, Carol Pulvino, Todd Pulvino, Katie Pulvino and Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin pose for a group photo.

The first endowed chair in the School of Education honors the legacy of Charles and Carol Pulvino.

Lowe’s “Feathered Canoe, ”

Renowned alumnus and former faculty member Truman Lowe’s legacy at UW–Madison lives on through a new scholarship.

bucky statue in front at uw madison

Class notes

Check out what School of Education alumni from across the globe have been up to.

Woman holding weights doing resistance exercise's

A look at recent, cutting-edge research from the School of Education.

Baron Kelly

School of Education faculty and staff recently shared expertise in media including Madison Magazine and the Los Angeles Times.

classroom wall showing art projects by students in the class

Keep in touch!

If you have questions or comments about Learning Connections, email Todd Finkelmeyer at todd.finkelmeyer@wisc.edu, or call 608-890-1430.

The School of Education wants to hear from our alumni and friends. We also want to make sure you are hearing from us. If you have not received electronic updates, it may mean we don’t have your current e-mail address. Please visit the Wisconsin Alumni Association website to update your information. In addition, the WAA offers free e-mail accounts to all alumni.