Since its founding in 1868, UW-Whitewater has remained committed to fostering an environment where all members of the campus community can express their ideas freely. Reflecting on this history provides an opportunity to recognize the pivotal moments and individuals who helped shape both the university’s and UW System’s commitment to academic freedom and freedom of expression.
Below is a timeline highlighting key milestones in UW-Whitewater’s and the UW-System’s ongoing efforts to uphold these foundational rights.
1888 - First Student Political Organization is Created
Due to faculty restrictions, a formal student government did not exist yet. However, there was a clear interest from students to participate and discuss politics on campus. This interest led to the creation of UW-Whitewater’s first student political organization, the Republicans Club.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University, Whitewater (pg. 104)
1894 - “Sifting and Winnowing” Metaphor is Created by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System
While UW-Whitewater did not join the University of Wisconsin System until 1971, the trial of Dr. Richard T. Ely serves as a significant historical landmark of free expression and academic freedom that impacted higher education in Wisconsin for the foreseeable future.
At the time, Dr. Richard T. Ely was a prominent leader in American economics and a vital piece of the University of Wisconsin’s leadership in economic research. He played an instrumental role in recruiting notable professors to the university, especially those who emphasized the responsibility of social science on the state and federal governments, which eventually grew into the “Wisconsin Idea”.
This work was instrumental but came with many challenges. In 1894, Dr. Ely’s interest in socialism led to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Oliver E. Wells, charging Ely with teaching and supporting “alien and revolutionary doctrines”.
Despite these charges, the Board of Regents of the UW System stood with Dr. Richard T. Ely during his trial and issued the famous “sifting and winnowing” statement in their final report on the trial.
“Whatever may be the limitations which trammel inquiry elsewhere, we believe that the great state University of Wisconsin should ever encourage that continual and fearless sifting and winnowing by which alone the truth can be found.”
1900 - Students Join the First Voters’ League
At the turn of the century, students continued to search for opportunities that allowed them to discuss and participate in matters pertaining to the local, state and federal government. This strong desire led to 25 students joining the First Voters’ League of Whitewater, WI.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University Whitewater (pg. 104)
1901 - First Edition of the Royal Purple is Published
A cornerstone of free expression in higher education is the student newspaper. In November 1901, the Royal Purple Association released its first edition of the Royal Purple. For roughly the first decade of its publication, it served as a monthly newspaper. But, with growing interest, the association decided to convert it to a weekly newspaper in 1913.
The Royal Purple has served as the primary outlet for students to express their opinions, ideas, and perspectives for over 120 years, and continues to provide this outlet even in the digital age of the world.
1921 - Students March Downtown in Protest of the Need for a Dining Hall
In one of the first documented protests at UW-Whitewater, students marched through downtown Whitewater protesting the need for a dining hall near campus. Led by the marching band, they marched until their voices were heard by the university’s administration. By the end of the night, they had been promised $6,800 of the $10,000 needed for the dining hall.
Shortly after, Salisbury Hall was created as the first dining hall of Whitewater State Normal School, thanks to the students' demonstration.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University Whitewater (pg. 172 - 174)
1922 - Board of Regents Make Amendments to Policy on Academic Freedom
While UW-Whitewater did not join the Universities of Wisconsin System until 1971, the amendments made by the Board of Regents to the system’s policy challenged the way the Wisconsin State University System approached academic freedom and freedom of expression.
The Board of Regents formally amended its policies to include the iconic 1894 statement made during Dr. Richard T. Ely’s trial. The Regents further clarified that the principle applied “to teaching in the classroom and to the use of university halls for public addresses, under the control of the president of the University, with appeal to the regents.”
This served as another major milestone for the UW System, as it affirmed that the principle of “sifting and winnowing” extends beyond the classroom. It officially protected faculty members, guest speakers, and event organizers who used university facilities to express their opinions.
Source: History of Academic Freedom in the UW System
1924 - President Hyer Denies the Young Men’s Progressive Association from Utilizing Facilities for Meetings
As student engagement in political affairs continued to grow, the university’s administration faced new challenges that had not yet been formally addressed in policy.
One of the earliest documented disputes involving student free expression occurred when President Hyer denied the Young Men's Progressive Civic Association (YMPCA) permission to use university facilities for their meetings.
Attorney Philip La Follette of Madison became aware of the situation and wrote a letter to the President of the Board of Regents, arguing that President Hyer’s decision infringed on the fundamental right to free expression granted by the U.S. Constitution to students and citizens alike.
Although many students, especially those a part of YMPCA, appreciated La Follette’s effort, the President of the Board of Regents ultimately supported President Hyer’s decision to restrict access to the YMPCA.
This moment sparked an ongoing conversation surrounding freedom of expression at Whitewater and set the stage for the landmark Hyer vs. Cotton case in 1926.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University Whitewater (pg. 153 - 155)
1926 - President Frank S. Hyer vs. Professor J. R. Cotton
Frustrations grew among students, faculty, and staff as President Hyer and members of the university’s administration were increasingly perceived as undermining free expression and academic freedom. These frustrations escalated to the point where Professor Cotton and other faculty members felt they had been treated unfairly because of their educational and political viewpoints.
In response, Professor Cotton submitted a list of 18 charges outlining the actions he believed violated his rights as a faculty member while under President Hyer’s leadership. In defense, Hyer prepared a 39-page report addressing and disputing each of the allegations.
As the conflict intensified, the Board of Regents of the Wisconsin State Universities System conducted a formal review of each side’s argument. In a 6-3 vote, the Board of Regents sided with President Hyer and dismissed the charges brought forward by Professor Cotton.
Although the ruling was significant and carried potential consequences for Cotton, he remained in his position at Whitewater and continued to advocate for more progressive policies across the system.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University Whitewater (pg. 153 - 156)
1941 - Dr. Goff Protects Students’ Right to Express Themselves in the Royal Purple
Roughly 40 years into the Royal Purple’s existence, the publication had developed a strong tradition of free expression, but not without its challenges.
Faculty advisors, such as Professor Goff, played a vital role in upholding this tradition. He served as a “shock absorber” between the Royal Purple and the broader campus community, navigating disputes that arose over the newspaper’s content. Professor Goff firmly believed that students should have the freedom and opportunity to write openly, and remained a consistent advocate for free press within higher education.
Source: 1941 Yearbook (page 127)
1949 - University of Wisconsin System Reaffirms Commitment to Principles of Free Speech
Although UW-Whitewater did not join the University of Wisconsin System until 1971, the University of Wisconsin System’s commitment to free speech influenced the Wisconsin State Universities System’s perspectives and policies on free expression.
The Board of Regents of University of Wisconsin System formally adopted the following principles:
“We believe that the University of Wisconsin, and all other institutions of higher learning, have a unique opportunity and responsibility. An opportunity to critically study the proposals and claims of systems alien to our own is the intellectual right of every student. And freedom to explore and discuss the issues in the field of his special competence is the right of every teacher. We believe this is best done through fair-minded, scholarly teachers working in many different fields of learning, and that it is now being done in this University.”
1953 - “The Whitewater Critique” is Created
As the university continued to grow, so did the opportunities for student expression. Although the Royal Purple had been established for more than 50 years, students desired an additional outlet to express their perspectives, which created The Whitewater Critique.
This new publication described itself as “student opinion intrepidly expressed”, signaling a bold commitment to the student voice. With two active student publications, the university had greatly expanded its avenues for expression since the tenure of President Salisbury (1885 - 1911).
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University Whitewater (page 199)
1962 - More Than 800 Students Protest Rent Increases for Housing on Fraternity Lane
In a decade defined by free expression, more than 800 students gathered in early December to protest proposed rent increases for housing on Fraternity Lane. The demonstration moved throughout campus and ultimately concluded at President Wyman’s house.
A group of student representatives presented President Wyman with a petition signed by 208 students, representing nine of the eleven housing units impacted by the rent increase. As a result of the protest, President Wyman and the university’s administration reviewed the housing situation on campus and initiated plans for new dormitory construction to address the students’ concerns.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University, Whitewater (pg. 216)
1964 - Students Represent UW-Whitewater at the United Council of Wisconsin State Colleges
The United Council of Wisconsin State Colleges was established to create a forum where student governments from each institution in the system could meet and address issues impacting their campuses. At the time of this particular meeting, all nine colleges were represented, collectively speaking on behalf of more than 24,500 students.
During these meetings, the council considered a wide range of concerns. According to historical records, “many problems and actions have been discussed and have taken place at three meetings including the completion of the Wisconsin State Colleges brochures, attack on increase in tuition, and a stand on academic freedom of expression”.
These discussions guided the Council’s advocacy efforts and helped shape the policies and actions taken throughout the Wisconsin State Colleges system for free expression and academic freedom.
Source: 1964 Minneiska Yearbook (page 133)
1964 - The University Religious Center Opens
In an effort to support the freedom of expression and association, UW-Whitewater established the University Religious Center, also known as the Open House. As the first center of its kind in Wisconsin, it provided 12 religious groups with a shared space to meet and engage in conversation. The center created opportunities for interfaith discussions, helping people foster a deeper understanding of diverse religious traditions among students and the broader community.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University, Whitewater (pg. 229), 1965 Minneiska Yearbook (page 119)
1966 - President Wyman Endorses Nine Principles from the AAUP Related to Freedom of Expression
Dr. Walker D. Wyman, the ninth Chancellor of UW-Whitewater, discussed the importance of academic freedom for all citizens in a free society. He specifically mentions the American Association of University Professors’ (AAUP) statement on how the university and its professors have the obligation to protect the students’ right to academic freedom and free expression.
Dr. Wyman outlined and endorsed the following principles:
Source: Royal Purple Article - Volume 66, Issue 14, pg. 4 (12.15.1966)
1966 - President Wyman Hosts Open Forums on Student Freedom and Responsibility
President Wyman encouraged students to engage in thought-provoking discussions, which led to a series of open forums hosted throughout his tenure.
In 1966, forums were held on topics such as the “God Is Dead” theory, new moral frameworks, and broader social change. These events provided students the opportunity to actively participate on campus, learn from diverse perspectives, and contribute to conversations shaping society.
This period also saw increased student involvement in political organizations, with many dedicating themselves to making an impact locally, nationally, and internationally.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University, Whitewater (pg. 229)
1968 - Faculty Senate Affirms Its Commitment to Open Inquiry
Faculty members have long demonstrated their support for freedom of expression and academic freedom, recognizing the importance of maintaining a true marketplace of ideas. On campus, this often includes hosting speakers from diverse backgrounds and presenting a wide range of perspectives on social and political issues.
The Faculty Senate affirmed its commitment to open inquiry in the following statement:
“The presentation of a speaker on campus does not imply endorsement of him…but only the dedication of the University to the best American traditions of freedom of speech and thought and to the best academic traditions of freedom to teach, freedom to learn, freedom to investigate, and freedom to publish the results of investigation”.
Source: A History of Wisconsin State University, Whitewater (pg. 235)
1968 - Father Groppi Visits UW-Whitewater
During a decade shaped by the Civil Rights Movement, the university welcomed Father James Groppi to campus, a prominent civil rights activist from Milwaukee, WI.
Students in the freshman class, along with members of the Catholic Student Association, raised funds in support of Father Groppi’s work. Their efforts helped bring him to speak on campus at the Hyer Auditorium, where he addressed a capacity crowd. Students, faculty, and staff attended the event, representing a wide range of perspectives. During his talk, Groppi addressed issues like open housing, crowded living conditions in Milwaukee’s North Side, segregated schools, “Black Power”, violence, and inequities in education.
Although controversial for some, hosting Father Groppi provided the campus community with an opportunity to better understand the challenges faced and to engage with pressing civil rights issues.
1970 - President Carter Removes Dr. Burrows and Suspends Four Other Faculty Members
The start of a new decade brought one of the most controversial moments in UW-Whitewater’s history. Dr. William L. Carter, the university’s 10th Chancellor, removed Dr. Burrows from his position as chair of the English Department. President Carter cited concerns that he and his “executive committee…[were] working to create a completely autonomous Department of English”.
This decision sparked significant controversy across campus and led to widespread protests in support of Dr. Burrows. During this period, four additional faculty members of the English Department were suspended for participating in political events, despite Dr. Carter’s directive not to attend.
The incident became known as the case of the “Whitewater Four”, resulting in a lawsuit against President Carter and the Board of Regents of the Wisconsin State University System that challenged the legality of the suspensions.
To learn more about the Whitewater Four, visit “Who Were the Whitewater Four?” by Wendy Feldner.
Source: Royal Purple Article - May 21, 1970
1970 - Students Protest President Carter’s Removal of Dr. Burrows
In response to President Carter’s removal of Dr. Burrows, students organized marches, teach-ins, rallies, and boycotts in support of Dr. Burrows and his colleagues. One of the most active organizations, known as the “Out to Lunch” group, was created specifically to oppose Carter’s decision.
In the early spring, the “Out to Lunch” group led one of its largest demonstrations, drawing more than 3,000 students in support of Dr. Burrows.
Source: 1970 Minneiska Yearbook (page 82-83)
1970 - Students Burn Handbooks in Protest of the Mistreatment of Black Students
UW-Whitewater’s administration disciplined 14 black students for their alleged involvement in a disturbance at the Phi Chi Epsilon house, where reports claimed that furniture and athletic trophies were damaged. However, many students objected to the way the administration handled the situation.
Protests were held on Graham Mall, where approximately 40 students burned a small pile of Student Handbooks in response to what they viewed as an unjust and poorly managed disciplinary procedure. Afterward, a smaller group of students marched to the administration building carrying a box of ashes from the burned handbooks, along with a list of demands aimed at promoting a more inclusive campus environment. Their concerns centered around racism on campus and closing loopholes in the Student Handbook that created inconsistent and discriminatory administrative action.
Source: Royal Purple, Volume 69, Issue 31, pg. 3
1971 - Dr. Vlad Thomas Calls Out Administration for a Lack of Freedom On Campus
As student demonstrations became more common on campus, some faculty members also began voicing concerns about restrictions on freedom at UW-Whitewater.
Dr. Vlad Thomas, professor of English, utilized the university’s yearbook as a platform to challenge the administration on its limitations on freedom of expression and academic freedom. He wrote:
“How this wasteland climate has undermined freedom of expression and action is explained in the 1968 investigative report of the American Association of University Professors, which led to the censure of Whitewater. One of the reasons cited for the strained and troubled atmosphere here was the lack of understanding among some Board members, administrators, and some influential faculty members on the meaning and importance of the widely accepted principle of academic freedom”.
Dr. Thomas urged both students and faculty to speak out and protest administrative policies in hopes of prompting reforms that would better support freedom of expression and academic freedom at the university.
Source: 1971 Minneiska Yearbook (page 239)
1975 - Students Protest Dr. George Patten, Director of Tutorial Services
Four years after its creation, the Tutorial Center faced growing criticism from students regarding its operations and leadership under Dr. George Patten.
In early May 1975, a group of 35 Hispanic students organized a demonstration calling for Dr. Patten to be removed from his role. While their concerns were not rooted in racial discrimination, the students expressed frustration with what they saw as inadequate academic support and ineffective leadership. They stated that Dr. Patten had “shown a lack of good faith and an overabundance of negative attitudes towards our attempts to discuss and resolve the problems at the Tutorial Center”.
The demonstration began in front of McCutchan Hall, where the Tutorial Center was located, and continued across campus before ending at the administrative offices. There, Vice Chancellor Morphew spent 20 minutes with the group, listening to their concerns.
1985 - Board of Regents Reaffirms Commitment to Academic Freedom
While the Board of Regents’ was preparing for its Study on the Future of the UW System, President Lyall read a report from 1955 that included a recommendation of “no restrictions be placed on freedom of speech or assembly, beyond those established by state or federal laws”. While that statement was made thirty years prior, many of the same sentiments existed on the national landscape.
President Lyall, with the support of the Board of Regents, offered the following statement: “Lest there be any doubt, I would like to reaffirm clearly that the University of Wisconsin System will continue in the future as it has in the past to insist on maintaining the academic freedom of students and faculty to speak, argue, debate, sift and winnow ideas and values openly and without fear of reprisal or intimidation. Disagreement and debate is the stuff of which learning is made. We do not fear it, but it should be done openly and without threat or coercion. Great universities share this common commitment to open expression.”
Despite political pressures, the Board of Regents of the UW System displayed continued commitment to academic freedom and freedom of expression for students, faculty, staff, and guests of the UW System’s institutions.
1991 - Dr. Binagi Challenges Students to See the World Through a Different Perspective
Like many before him, Dr. Lloyd Binagi, a professor of race and ethnic cultures, encouraged his students to engage with course content through a different lens. He aimed to “internationalize” the issues discussed in class so students could consider a broader perspective and better understand the challenges faced by others. He also emphasized the real-world consequences of oppression.
“I like to provoke my students in order to evoke strong responses on issues. I want them not to accept the way things are, but to ask why they are that way”.
Dr. Binagi is one of many UW-Whitewater faculty members who have challenged students’ assumptions in the classroom, with the goal of cultivating a more inclusive and thoughtful campus culture.
Source: 1991 Minneiska Yearbook (page 40)
1994 - UW System Celebrates 100th Anniversary of the Exoneration of Professor Ely
The Board of Regents’ celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the exoneration of Professor Ely, and passed Resolution 6787 in honor of this historic moment. The resolution reaffirmed the system’s commitment to academic freedom and issued the following statement:
“One hundred years after our predecessors guaranteed Professor Ely’s academic freedom, we reaffirm our commitment to the untrammeled search for truth. We call upon all members of our several academic communities -- administrators, faculty, staff, and students alike -- to guard this precious legacy, to consider differing points of view, and always to engage in ‘that continual and fearless sifting and winnowing by which alone the truth can be found”
2002 - Administration Hosts Open Forum for Students and Staff to Voice Concerns on New Protest Policy
In January 2002, a revised policy was proposed, but rescinded due to inconsistent wording and concerns about protests that did not provide prior notice to campus administration.
UW-Whitewater’s administration decided to host an open forum in April to allow students, faculty, and staff members the opportunity to voice their concerns to the committee that was formulating the policy. Primarily, forum attendees raised concerns about the right to protest without prior notice. In the previously proposed policy, the university would require all groups to register for protests and eliminate the ability to counterprotest.
The open forum reflected the university’s commitment to campus safety and the protection of free expression.
Source: Royal Purple Article - April 17, 2002
2005 - Chancellor Miller Awarded WCTELA Lee Burress Award for Intellectual Freedom and Expression Free from Censorship
Dr. Jack Miller, the 13th Chancellor of UW-Whitewater, received the Wisconsin Council of Teachers of English Language Arts (WCTELA) Lee Burress Award for Intellectual Freedom and Expression Free from Censorship.
During his tenure, Chancellor Miller welcomed speakers and guests from various political, religious, and ideological backgrounds. His goal was to inspire students, faculty, and staff to engage with diverse perspectives and challenge their own beliefs.
Chancellor Miller stated, “I have faith that our faculty, staff, and students are able to decide for themselves whether to listen, and to critically assess the messages of those who speak on campus”.
While many leaders faced pressure to limit who could appear on campus, Chancellor Miller demonstrated and reaffirmed UW-Whitewater’s mission of providing a safe space for open dialogue regardless of viewpoint.
2015 - Faculty Members Join American Association of University Professionals (AAUP)
The UW System institutions faced challenges from the State Legislature regarding academic freedom, prompting 29 UW-Whitewater faculty and staff members to join the American Association of University Professionals (AAUP). The chapter was established to help protect the right to academic freedom and freedom of expression by incorporating the perspectives of staff from across campus.
James Hartwick, Faculty Senate Chair, concluded the inaugural AAUP event by saying, “If you care about your students, you are in this fight”. As he recognized the importance of faculty’s and staff’s ability to exercise their right to academic freedom and how that may impact students' ability to express themselves freely.
Source: Royal Purple Article - October 7, 2015 (pg. 4)
2016 - Chancellor Kopper Reaffirms UW-Whitewater's Commitment to Freedom of Expression
On the horizon of the 2016 federal election, Chancellor Beverly Kopper reaffirmed the university’s focus and commitment to academic freedom and the freedom of expression.
“I am committed to shared governance, academic freedom and tenure. These three cornerstones of academia have contributed greatly to the current excellence of UW-Whitewater.
Academic freedom and tenure are critical to the ongoing discovery of new knowledge and are principles that help our students develop their own sense of critical thinking and discovery. These tenets of higher education allow faculty to challenge the status quo and investigate new ideas and concepts without fear of reprisal”
Source: Royal Purple Article - March 30, 2016 (pg. 7)
2019 - UW-Whitewater Hosts KEMPA Conference, Emphasizing the Right to Free Speech in Schools
UW-Whitewater hosted the Kettle Moraine Press Association (KEMPA) for its annual conference in October 2019.
The event brought high school students from across Wisconsin to campus to explore journalism and the rights and responsibilities of student journalists. Keynote speaker Mary Beth Tinker, best known for the landmark Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines, emphasized the importance of students speaking openly about issues that matter to them. She also used the conference as an opportunity to hear directly from students about the freedoms and limitations they encounter in their school media.
The banner image shows students gathering on Graham Street Hill during a 1967 demonstration related to open housing and civil rights. More than 600 students stopped to listen to multiple speakers addressing the subject. Source: Soleau, D. (1967, October 5). Graham St. Hill Scene of Heated Open Housing Debate. The Royal Purple. p. 1.