The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire announced on April 22 that several alumni and one honorary recipient will be recognized with Alumni Awards during a ceremony on April 24.
These awards honor individuals for their service, professional achievements, and contributions to the university and broader community. The recipients represent diverse fields such as medicine, business, nonprofit leadership, optometry, technology consulting, and media.
Jane Larson will receive the Honorary Alumnus Award for her 25 years of service as alumni engagement coordinator. Michele Olson said, “There seemed to be no better time than now, after 25 years, to honor Jane in this way. She truly is a Blugold at heart, as shown by her decades of service and dedication to UW-Eau Claire alumni all over the globe.” Kimera Way added that “Working with Jane was one of the best aspects of being with the UW-Eau Claire Foundation.”
James Brandes is honored with the Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award for his career in nephrology. Brandes said his education at UW-Eau Claire “ignited a passion for knowledge” that led him through medical school and into teaching roles. Chelsey Moore also receives this award for her leadership in optometry; she said lessons learned as a student-athlete at UW-Eau Claire shaped her approach to medicine: “Take chances because growth rarely happens in comfort… Lead with integrity, give back generously and stay connected to those who support you.”
Patti Habeck is recognized with the Lifetime Excellence Award for leadership roles including president and CEO positions at New North Inc. and Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin. Suzanne Becker said Habeck set an ambitious agenda addressing hunger needs across Wisconsin.
Alex Brown receives the Outstanding Recent Alumnus Award for supporting scholarships benefiting students interested in forensics or cultural immersion programs. Brown said: “Growth rarely comes from staying within the job description you started.” Leslie Peterson also receives this award; she has advanced quickly at NBC Universal Studios’ Ad Sales Center of Excellence after moving to New York City without prior connections.
Dan Wenzel is awarded the President’s Award for his work as vice president of global tax at Driscoll’s Inc., highlighting how values from UW-Eau Claire influenced his international career: “Practice humility — always be open to hear from anyone… Hold yourself accountable to deliver your best.”
The University supports initiatives like its Blugold Marching Band according to its official website, contributes broadly through collaborations according to its official website, features facilities shared with Mayo Clinic Health System according to its official website, has received national recognition for quality and affordability according to its official website, partners on health sciences initiatives according to its official website, and emphasizes critical-thinking skills alongside career preparation according to its official website.
These recognitions highlight both individual accomplishments among graduates and ongoing efforts by UW-Eau Claire toward academic excellence, collaboration across sectors, student success initiatives, community involvement opportunities.
