Chippewa Valley Times

Eric Wan, a 1996 management information systems graduate, is set to receive the UW-Eau Claire Alumni Association’s 2024 Blugold Spirit Award. The award will be presented on October 10 as part of Homecoming activities. This annual award recognizes a university supporter who has a deep affection for the campus, exemplifies excellence in everyday life, and actively shares the UW-Eau Claire story.

“As it turned out, I left here four years later with an outstanding education, irreplaceable student and life experiences, and many lifelong friendships. UW-Eau Claire gave me a foundation that enriched my life, professionally and personally,” Wan says.

Wan expressed his pride in being recognized by his alma mater: “I am very proud to be recognized by my alma mater. I am proud that I graduated from UWEC, proud of the experiences and friendships I made there and proud that I have been able to give back in meaningful ways.”

During his time at UW-Eau Claire, Wan played four seasons (1992-95) at left-side defense for the Blugold men’s hockey team. He currently serves as the chief growth officer for a pharmacy solutions company and has worked in the healthcare industry for 25 years. Throughout this period, he has maintained strong ties to UW-Eau Claire and held several key leadership positions as an alumnus:

- Alumni Association board member

- College of Business advisory board member

- UW-Eau Claire Foundation board member and vice chair

- Chair of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation board of trustees

Kimera Way, former president of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation, emphasized Wan's contributions: “As leader of the Foundation, Eric oversaw the completion of the Sonnentag project. As vice chair, he also led the Foundation’s strategic planning process which culminated in the announcement of the Sustaining Human Innovation Campaign.”

This campaign aims to secure more than $150 million in private support for facilities, endowed scholarships, and other investments benefiting the university.

In addition to these roles, Wan is also a member of the Foundation’s Haas Society in the Circle of Excellence through his generous support for various university programs including men’s hockey, business scholarships, and more.

Wan described his view on Blugold spirit: "For me it's taking what this institution offers to work hard, treat people well and have a little fun along the way."

Wan resides in Southern California with his wife Rachelle and their two children — Maddie and Jacob. He enjoys returning to Eau Claire for hockey games and Homecoming events.

“I love coming back to UW-Eau Claire for Blugold hockey games and Homecoming," he says. "Connecting with Blugold alumni in business or while traveling is always special."

He adds: “As many have experienced, wearing my UW-Eau Claire apparel often leads to being asked ‘Are you a Blugold?’ It always sparks a great conversation and an instant friend.”