Welcome to the Summer 2022 edition of Learning Connections. The theme of this issue is “Rising to the Challenge.”
Over the past few years, we’ve all been challenged to adapt to new circumstances. And organizations and institutions — through the people in them — are no exception.
During my first year as associate dean of communications and advancement for the School of Education, I’ve been constantly inspired by what I’m learning about this place and the tenacity of our faculty, staff, and students. They are engaging with real-world problems, working toward solutions, and building an improved “new normal” we have long been talking about.
This issue introduces several people in the School of Education who are rising to the challenge. You’ll hear from trailblazers like Professor Faisal Abdu’Allah, who is asking new, provocative questions about identity through artistic production.
You’ll get insight from scholars like School of Education leader Diana Hess, who is currently serving as UW–Madison’s interim provost until August 2022, when she will return to her dean post. Since 1997, she has been researching what’s possible when people have the skills to have conversations on controversial topics.
You’ll also learn about a group of talented graduate students and faculty studying ways to change practices and policies across higher education to improve health outcomes for Black women in academia. And you’ll read about students and alumni across the arts, health, and education who are rising to unique challenges in their fields and in society.
We have much to be proud of across our School of Education. Thanks for staying connected and joining us on this journey.
— Marianne Spoon
Associate Dean for Communications and Advancement
UW–Madison School of Education