MADISON, Wis. – Along with carnival rides, cows, and cream puffs, the University of Wisconsin System’s longstanding commitment to educational opportunity, research, and statewide outreach will be on display this week at the Wisconsin State Fair.
UW System President Ray Cross was on hand for the fair’s grand opening this morning at the Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in West Allis.
“We look forward to this opportunity to engage with thousands of fairgoers and to share more about how our great university system touches lives and makes a difference every day, in every part of the state,” Cross said.
From weather forecasting insights to lawn care tips, from 4-H youth development programs to Bucky Badger, the impact and reach of the UW System and its 13 four-year universities, 13 freshman-sophomore campuses, and statewide UW-Extension will be showcased during several days of special activities, exhibits, and discussions.
On Sunday, Aug. 3, UW-Milwaukee (UWM) will host UWM Day at the State Fair. Along with hands-on scientific exhibits, games and contests, musical performances, and clinics with UWM athletes and coaches, representatives from many UWM colleges and schools will be available to answer questions and provide information about UWM at the fair’s Central Park.
On Tuesday, Aug. 5, Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development and UW-Extension will celebrate 100 years of growing leaders during Wisconsin 4-H Day at Central Park. Families can learn how to get involved in 4-H opportunities throughout the state or participate in several hands-on activities from robotics to animal science. In the evening, the annual Governor’s Blue Ribbon Meat Products Auction will take place, with funds raised going to support Wisconsin 4-H activities and leadership programs benefitting nearly 355,000 4-H youth across the state.
UW-Madison then hosts its own day at the Wisconsin State Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with activities at Central Park. Bucky Badger and the UW Marching Band will be on hand, as well as students, faculty, staff, and alumni to lead a day of exploration and celebration, with science exhibits, hands-on activities, and a pep rally. Campus outreach staff – including UW-Extension experts — will be available at dozens of stations at Central Park to help fairgoers experience the discoveries of UW-Madison and learn what the university has to offer.
UW-Madison Day will also benefit Milwaukee-area children who are in need of school supplies. Led by the Wisconsin Alumni Association, UW-Madison is sponsoring a school supply drive, where fairgoers can donate new, unopened school supplies and receive a $4 adult admissions discount voucher. Last year, 125 55-gallon bags of school supplies were collected, in addition to $5,500 in cash donations.
“We hope our younger visitors might begin to picture themselves at UW-Madison as a college student,” said Vince Sweeney, vice chancellor for university relations. “And we hope the adults who stop by learn about some of the amazing things happening at UW that have an impact on their health, well-being, and quality of life in Wisconsin.”
For more information, visit: www.wistatefair.com.