Chippewa Valley Times

Dr. Steve Ackerman, professor emeritus of atmospheric and oceanic sciences at UW-Madison, is set to be the featured speaker at the upcoming Thursdays at the U presentation at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire – Barron County. He will be delivering a presentation titled “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald: The Ship, the Storm and the Song” on April 11. Ackerman, known for his expertise in weather, will offer a unique perspective on the November 1975 catastrophe surrounding the Edmund Fitzgerald shipwreck. Additionally, he will delve into the significance of the 1976 hit song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Canadian folksinger Gordon Lightfoot.

Ackerman, who relocated to Wisconsin in 1987 to pursue a career in research science, has made significant contributions to the field of atmospheric and oceanic sciences. Over the years, he has been actively engaged in various academic and research roles, including serving as the interim vice chancellor for research and graduate education at UW-Madison. Ackerman is also known for his appearances as one of the “weather guys” on Wisconsin Public Radio, where he discusses weather and climate-related topics.

The Thursdays at the U series, featuring insightful presentations by distinguished speakers, is open to the public and free of charge, thanks to the support from the UW-Eau Claire – Barron County Foundation. Attendees can join in person without the need for seating reservations or parking permits. For those unable to attend physically, there is a livestream option available, and recordings of past presentations are accessible on the series webpage.

In addition to Ackerman's upcoming talk, the series will continue with a presentation by St. Germaine, professor emeritus of history at UW-Eau Claire, who will shed light on the story of "Ijidiwashikwe: Heroine of the Northwoods, 1840s" on April 4. Furthermore, Christina Garcia and Breanna Showkeir will be discussing the peer recovery-coaching services available in the community, with their presentation scheduled for March 28 at UW-Eau Claire – Barron County.

For further details about the series or specific presentations, interested individuals can contact the campus at 715-788-6244 or reach out to Dr. Linda Tollefsrud, the series organizer, via email at tollefla@uwec.edu.