FOUNDERS DAY AWARDS

Do you know someone who has made an outstanding impact in their career, profession, community, or daily life?

The UW-Whitewater Foundation invites alumni and friends to help us identify exceptional individuals who have demonstrated excellence professionally and personally and deserve this recognition.

Nominate someone for an award »

Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement
Presented to a graduate of UW-Whitewater who has exhibited distinguished professional, personal and career achievement, and is recognized for accomplishments in their field.

Distinguished Alumni Award for Community / Regional Service
Presented to a graduate of UW-Whitewater who has demonstrated outstanding and significant civic and service contributions for their community.

Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to UW-Whitewater
Presented to a graduate of UW-Whitewater in recognition of outstanding support in the development of the university, its goals and mission, and university affairs.

Outstanding Recent Alumni Award
Presented to a graduate of UW-Whitewater no more than 15 years after receipt of a degree from UW-Whitewater. Criteria may include but are not limited to, demonstration of professional achievement and volunteer/civic involvement.

S.A. White Award for Contributions to UW-Whitewater
This award is presented to a non-alumni for significant philanthropic contributions to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Significant philanthropic contributions may include that of time, money, professional leadership and expertise, or other areas having a direct and positive influence on the University.

Nominations can be submitted until October 31.

Selections will be made in January.

The Founders Day Awards Celebration is typically held in April.

If you have any questions, please contact Amy Oeding at oedinga@uww.edu or 262-472-7033.

2026 Founders Day Award winners

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is honored to announce the 2026 Founders Day Award winners.

This represents the highest honor the University bestows upon individuals who epitomize our values of collaboration, diversity and opportunity, integrity, learning and academic excellence, service and social responsibility, and shared governance.

Six awardees are being recognized this year for their outstanding professional and personal achievements.

Kyree Brooks

Outstanding Recent Alumni

Kyree Books BSE '17
Maysee Yang Herr B.A. '98

Distinguished Alumni for Professional Achievement

Maysee Yang Herr B.A. '98
Anthony Prater

Distinguished Alumni for Professional Achievement

Anthony Prater B.S. '80
Denny Waldera

Distinguished Alumni for Service to UW-Whitewater

Denny Waldera BBA '70
Kurt Rose

Distinguished Alumni for Community/Regional Service

Kurt D. Rose B.A. '09, M.S. '19
Mary C. Rowin

S.A. White Award for Contributions to UW-Whitewater

Mary C. Rowin