One of the things I value most about the School of Education is the sense of community. We have a wide range of departments and programs but we are all bound by a common purpose: enriching lives and making the world a better place.
We know that one of the best ways to work toward those goals is through collaboration and partnership. Just as our departments collaborate with one another to develop new ideas and perspectives, members of our School of Education community collaborate with people and organizations across the state to learn from one another and put knowledge into practice.
In this issue of Learning Connections you will read several stories about how School of Education faculty, staff, and students have reached beyond campus to make connections, gain insight, and form partnerships. These and other efforts within the School exemplify our commitment to our students, to our community, and to the Wisconsin Idea.
As you read these stories, you will notice that Learning Connections has been redesigned. I believe the new format, featuring engaging images and personal perspectives, will bring the stories to life and leave you feeling even more connected to the School of Education.
This issue may look different but we’ve still made sure to highlight some of the exciting developments and announcements of the last few months. These include:
• The Board of Regents approved a new major in the School of Education: Health Promotion and Health Equity. Students will focus on the physical, psychological, and socio-cultural aspects of health.
• We have been recognized as the No. 1 public school of education in the country, a distinction we share with UCLA. This honor is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our world-class faculty and staff.
• Members of our School of Education community continue to wow us with their awards, grants, publications, research, and impact.
As our alumni and friends, you are an invaluable part of our School of Education community. We are very grateful for all you do to support our students, our faculty, our staff, and our School.
— Diana Hess