Chippewa Valley Times

Social justice activist Dr. Wayne Au is set to be the featured speaker at the 20th annual Martin Mogensen Education Lecture at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The event, scheduled for May 2, will focus on Asian American identity and the politics of race in education. Dr. Au, who serves as the dean and professor in the School of Educational Studies at the University of Washington Bothell, is known for his expertise in educational policy, school reform, and educational equity and justice.

Dr. Nga-Wing Anjela Wong, a professor of education for equity and justice, highlighted the timeliness of Au's presentation, especially in light of recent legislative changes in Wisconsin. Wong mentioned the state's efforts to include Asian American and Hmong American history and contributions in K-12 public school curriculum through an amendment to Wisconsin Act 31.

The Martin Mogensen Education Lecture, held annually in memory of the late UW-Eau Claire graduate, aims to honor his legacy of valuing education and teachers. This year's event is co-sponsored by the Department of Education for Equity and Justice, the Center for EDI Training, Development and Education, and the UW-Eau Claire Foundation.

In addition to Dr. Wayne Au's presentation, a free event titled "Individual Rights and Democracy: A Conversation with Garry Kasparov" will take place on May 1 at Schofield Auditorium. Furthermore, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire recently received recognition as a gold-level Military Friendly School for its dedication to supporting the military community through education pathways.

Lastly, after an extensive search, Dr. Mary Hoffman has been appointed as the permanent associate vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, a role she has been fulfilling on an interim basis for almost four years.