MADISON — The University of Wisconsin System today announced plans to host a major celebration of public higher education on Wednesday, March 7 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison.

“UW Day: Building Wisconsin’s Future,” is the title of the event, which was introduced by UW System President Katharine Lyall during this morning’s regular meeting of the UW System Board of Regents.

Each of the 15 institutions of the UW System will be involved in UW Day, said Lyall, and the Board of Regents will join more than 1,500 invited guests from all over the state. The guests include local community leaders, alumni, and other friends of the institutions. A large turnout of legislators and other public officials also is expected.

The focus of the celebration, which will be funded using private contributions, will be the many ways in which the UW System benefits students, the general public, and the Wisconsin economy. Each institution will present a major exhibit demonstrating cutting edge technology and educational partnerships. Also featured throughout the evening will be live performances by student musical groups from throughout the UW System. A brief program at 6:30 p.m. will feature remarks by Lyall and Board of Regents President Jay L. Smith.

“This will be a great opportunity for our institutions to show off a little,” said Lyall, “and to interact with legislators, alumni and friends of the UW System. We’ve never hosted this kind of celebration of the university system before. We’re hoping it will be both fun and informative.”

Additional information about UW Day will be posted on the UW System website (wisconsin.edu) as the date approaches.

Media Contact

Kevin Boatwright UW System 608-263-2227