Chippewa Valley Times

Regent Karen Walsh presented the Regents Business Partnership Award to UW-Eau Claire Chancellor James Schmidt and Eau Claire Chamber President and CEO David Minor. The award ceremony took place at the 110th annual Chamber meeting, attended by over 400 people.

"This award recognizes the deep and lasting relationship between UW-Eau Claire and the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce," Walsh stated. "Businesses in the Chippewa Valley are hungry for talent, and UW-Eau Claire is producing more than 2,000 career-ready graduates every year."

The event was also attended by Regent President Amy B. Bogost and UW President Jay Rothman. Rothman highlighted the importance of such collaborations: "The collaboration between UW-Eau Claire and the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce is just one of many critical partnerships between our universities and businesses across Wisconsin."

Chancellor Schmidt emphasized that their partnership with the Chamber is vital for regional initiatives. "UW-Eau Claire is so fortunate and grateful to have a trusted partner in the Chamber," he said. He praised Dave Minor's vision, which has been invaluable over the past decade.

Minor expressed pride in their work with UW-Eau Claire, stating, "The Chamber is proud to be a community convener that helps stakeholders in our region collaborate." He added that strong educational opportunities are central to community development.

Since its inception, numerous prominent Wisconsin businesses have received this award, including Mayo Clinic Health System, Kwik Trip, Haribo, Sentry, and 3M. The Board of Regents plans to present Business Partnership awards at other universities throughout the year.