Chippewa Valley Times

Seven individuals are set to receive recognition from the UW-Eau Claire Alumni Association for their contributions and achievements. These awards honor both alumni and non-alumni who have demonstrated exceptional service to the university or the community.

Kimera Way, former president of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation, will be awarded the Honorary Alumnus Award. Having joined in 2001 as executive director of development, Way led numerous campaigns, including a $150 million Sustaining Human Innovation campaign. Former University Foundation board chair Eric Wan praises her as “someone who bleeds blue and gold.” Way expressed gratitude for her time at UWEC, stating she has been "blessed by the greatest bosses, colleagues and friends."

Jason Jon Anderson will also receive recognition with an award for his contributions to campus events and student opportunities. As a technical operations coordinator since 2007, he expanded the Event Production Crew significantly. Julia Diggins of the UWEC Foundation describes him as “a talented leader.”

Dr. Tayo Sanders II will be honored with the Outstanding Recent Alumnus Award. A Rhodes Scholar during his undergraduate years at UW-Eau Claire, Sanders co-founded Arrowpoint Labs and serves as chief business officer at Singular Immune. He emphasizes that research experiences "shape lives and careers."

Jeffrey Kowieski is set to receive the President’s Award for his professional achievements as partner and general counsel for Wipfli LLP. Kowieski advises graduates to maintain curiosity: "Listen, absorb and read as much as possible."

The Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award goes to Heather Hoytink for her leadership role at PepsiCo Beverages North America. Hoytink attributes her success to mentorship received during her time at UWEC.

Leiv Erik Lundberg will be recognized with a Lifetime Excellence Award for his role as chief investment officer at the University of Michigan. Under his management, their endowment grew substantially. His advice is simple: "Keep plugging away at your challenges."

Dr. Kathleen Hanlon-Lundberg will also receive a Lifetime Excellence Award. She credits UW-Eau Claire with providing foundational experiences that shaped her career in medical anthropology.

These awards reflect diverse accomplishments across various fields while maintaining strong ties to their alma mater.