Wisconsin Idea Programs

Five Programs You Didn’t Know Were Part of the Wisconsin Idea
by Elise Romas and Renee Shields

If you’re from Wisconsin, you probably know a little something about the Wisconsin Idea. However, you probably didn’t know that some prominent organizations are a direct connection to the Wisconsin Idea through UW-Extension, which is a sector of the UW System. UW-Extension embodies the tradition of the Wisconsin Idea through various programs.

IMG_6450
Wisconsin Public Television (WPT) Wisconsin Public Television is located inside Vilas Hall on the UW-Madison Campus. Photo by Elise Romas

WPT is a program under the Public Broadcasting sector of UW-Extension.  WPT provides both local and national content, aiming to “ boldly enrich, educate and entertain diverse audiences of children and adults through the innovative use of television production and broadcasting, other communication technologies and community engagement. Wisconsin Public Television provides access to local and national content, extending its reach and impact in the communities we serve.” This mission statement reaffirms the gist of the Wisconsin Idea. WPT is located inside Vilas Hall on the UW-Madison campus. For more information, go to their website.

IMG_6445
Wisconsin Public Radio The Wisconsin Public Radio sign outside of Vilas Hall. WPR, like WPTV is also stationed inside. Photo by Elise Romas

WPR is also a program under the Public Broadcasting sector of UW-Extension. WPR is affiliated with many renowned public broadcasters, including NPR and BBC. With three content streams to listen to, WPR contains both arts and journalism in their content across 34 radio stations. WPR reaches both a local and regional audience, spreading its influence in both Wisconsin and beyond. WPR is located inside of Vilas Hall on the UW-Madison Campus. For more information, go to their website.

4H_Logox432
4H Youth Development The logo of 4H Youth Development

4H Youth Development (4H) is a community-based club that helps youth become involved citizens. 4H is part of the Cooperative Extension sector of UW-Extension. This mentoring program shows children how they can make a difference and shape the world through their time spent on projects that will ultimately benefit their local communities, state and country. For more information, go to their website.

 

 

Screen Shot 2015-05-01 at 1.02.03 PM
Wisconsin Geological & Natural History Survey

The Wisconsin Geological & Natural History Survey’s (WGNHS) mission is: “Understanding earth. Charting its history. Sustaining its resources.” It is an organization comprised of faculty members from the Department of Environmental Sciences (DES). The group is dedicated to conducting research and surveys about the earth and strives to preserve it based off of the findings of its research. For more information, go to their website.

Screen Shot 2015-05-01 at 1.02.10 PM
UW System E-Campus

UW System E-Campus is a website that provides online degree options through the UW System schools. The 26 campus system provides opportunities to attain degrees and certificates at any one of these universities. Degree options are obtainable and come from the comfort of working from your own computer. The courses are set up like any class except quizzes and exams are taken online in addition to keeping up with the course materials. The Higher Learning Commission has given UW System E-Campus the credibility of a high level online learning site that can be experienced statewide. For more information, go to their website.