Category: People

Embracing the Career Squiggle: From Environmental Sciences at UW–Madison to Environmental Specialist at Alliant Energy

In our “Where Are They Now?” series, current student interns interview former students about their experience at the Office of Sustainability (OS), particularly how that experience has helped them since graduation. In the following entry, Brynne Hill relates her conversation with Mackenzie Thelen, a student who was involved in research within the OS. Mackenzie Thelen, …

In Case You Missed It: Amplifying Queer Voices in Agriculture

Redefining Farming Through Inclusion and Resilience On March 14, 2024, the Office of Sustainability’s Social Sustainability Coalition hosted “Rooted in Inclusion: Queer Narratives in Farming,” which aimed to amplify the voices of those traditionally excluded from leading roles in agriculture. The event started with a land acknowledgment that recognized the University of Wisconsin’s occupation of stolen …

14 Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

In Wisconsin, the effects of climate change have already become apparent. Over the last several years the state has been challenged by the warmest and wettest decade on record, early and toxic algae blooms in Lake Mendota, and diminished ice cover on Wisconsin lakes. The winter of 2024 was especially mild, marking the warmest winter …

Candid Moments: Snapshots from the Office of Sustainability Intern Program

Applications are now open for the Office of Sustainability’s internship program. If you’re intrigued by the experiences highlighted in this photo essay, consider applying for the Student Intern Program by February 13, 2024. All UW–Madison undergraduate students with at least one academic year left are eligible, regardless of major or background. As the Office of …

Land Acknowledgements and Environmental Access: Recapping the Social Sustainability Coalition’s fall events

The Social Sustainability Coalition (SSC), composed of interns within the Office of Sustainability, saw a successful fall semester, hosting both the “Perspectives on Indigenous Land Acknowledgements” panel discussion and the “Access to the Environment” informational event. Both events delved into social justice and equity through expert discussion and a built learning environment. These events continued …

Post-Landfill Action Network membership offers benefits for UW–Madison community

UW–Madison is a PLAN Member until December 31st, 2024. All UW–Madison students, staff, and faculty are eligible to take advantage of the campus membership offerings. Below, you can learn more about benefits and registration details. The Post-Landfill Action Network (PLAN) “aids college students, as well as campus faculty and staff, in tackling unsustainable infrastructure on …

In Case You Missed It: Universities of Wisconsin Annual Sustainability Meeting 

In our In Case You Missed It series (also known as ICYMI), student interns from the Office of Sustainability offer reflective reports on sustainability-related events and lectures at UW–Madison. The following entry is by a special guest, Anna Silverman, who is the Sustainability Co-Coordinator for the ASM Sustainability Committee.  On October 12th and 13th, students, …

10 Years Strong: A Celebration of Sustain-A-Bash

Sustain-A-Bash began in 2014 to introduce first-year students to the sustainability initiatives in University Housing. Ten years later, it serves as a celebration of sustainability on campus.

Where Are They Now? Emma Erickson Interviews Kylie Thomasen

Recent graduate Kylie Thomasen reflects on her internship with the Office of Sustainability and how the experience helped her in graduate school and beyond.

In Case You Missed It: Fall Harvest Festival

In our In Case You Missed It series (also known as ICYMI), student interns from the Office of Sustainability offer reflective reports on sustainability-related events and lectures at UW–Madison. The following entry is by Britta Wellenstein.  The People’s Farm celebrated this years’ harvest season with the Fall Harvest Festival, a day of sunshine, smiles, and surprises …