Wisconsin Archives - ��ý��Ƶ

��ý��Ƶ Embarks on Chapel Restoration Project

Communications — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:45:58 +0000

��ý��Ƶ’s Memorial Chapel will soon be undergoing an eagerly awaited restoration of the building’s impressive front façade bordering College Avenue. Work on the project, which entails replacing the entire front pediment and entablature, is targeted to begin between April 28 and May 4.

“For more than a century, Memorial Chapel has served as a vibrant cornerstone for both the ��ý��Ƶ campus and the greater Appleton community,” said ��ý��Ƶ President Laurie A. Carter. “This restoration is not just an investment in our campus infrastructure, it is a commitment to preserving a shared space where our students and our neighbors can continue to gather, celebrate, and connect for many years to come.”��

��ý��Ƶ the Chapel��

Memorial Chapel began as a collaborative effort between ��ý��Ƶ and the Appleton community to create a gathering place and performance space for cultural, political, social, and major ceremonial events for both the campus and local community. A landmark of the Appleton historic district, the Chapel remains a vital part of campus and community life.��

Designed by William J. Smith of Chicago and built by C.R. Meyer and Sons, ��ý��Ƶ Memorial Chapel was dedicated in 1918. Its six majestic white columns and portico support an intricately decorated pediment and steeple. Eight exquisite stained-glass arched windows decorate the side walls with depictions of both religious and secular scenes along with the institutional seals of ��ý��Ƶ and the City of Appleton.��

This Appleton landmark has been lauded by the Wisconsin Historical Society as “perhaps the most distinguished example in Wisconsin of a Georgian Revival church structure,” and stands as a reminder of the enduring bonds between the campus and community.��

“Memorial Chapel has served as the backdrop to countless community moments for more than 100 years,” said Vice President for Advancement Joe Emmick. “Embarking on this renovation will ensure the Chapel continues to be a valuable community resource for future generations.”��

Scope of the Renovation��

Memorial Chapel has been diligently maintained and improved over the decades. A magnificent 41-stop mechanical-action organ built by John Brombaugh, one of the world’s most distinguished organ builders, was installed in 1995. In more recent years, the Chapel’s flooring and seats have been replaced, HVAC and mechanicals upgraded, and new insulation added. The roof has been replaced, an accessible entrance updated, and all stained-glass windows repaired and restored. AV equipment upgrades and lighting and acoustic improvements have been made to enhance the guest experience.��

Despite careful maintenance over the years, the 1,184-seat Chapel was due for major historic preservation to repair and restore it for the future. Unfortunately, wood rot affected the domed wooden belfry and spire, which led to roof leaks. Hidden water damage from the leaking caused a small portion of the front façade to chip off in 2024. For safety, netting and scaffolding were installed and will remain in place until the restoration is completed.��

Weather, water damage, and age have led to significant deterioration of the Chapel façade. An architectural investigation recently confirmed the damage is beyond repair and that a full replacement of the front pediment and entablature is necessary. The project will include new sheet metal and flashing, refinished columns, repaired capitals, and a water management system to prevent future damage. The work is expected to be completed by early winter of 2027. Repairs to the belfry and spire will be addressed in a second phase of this historic preservation project.��

A Unique Restoration Approach��

The entire pediment and entablature of Memorial Chapel will be replaced with CastWorks® Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete. GFRC is a lightweight but extremely durable material that can be cast into highly detailed structures. The material is watertight, but the glass fiber throughout the concrete mixture makes it much lighter, stronger, and more resilient to cracking and wear from environmental forces.��

The entire pediment and entablature will be removed in sections and molds will be created for each section. The GFRC mixture will be applied to the mold, allowing the original architectural details to be meticulously replicated, and a steel framing attachment will be applied to the back. The individual panels will then be installed on the building. Once all panels are in place, the entire façade will be finished and sealed.��

“It is exciting to have the restoration work get underway for a building that has been such an integral part of campus and community life for so long,” said Senior Vice President of Facilities Operations Joseph M. King. “We look forward to seeing this historic building free of the scaffolding that has enshrouded it to reveal a beautifully restored structure.”��

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Former students reflect on the lifelong impact of professor emeritus Hugo Martinez-Serros

Communications — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:53:30 +0000

Professor Emeritus Hugo Martinez-Serros passed away on Feb. 26, 2026, leaving behind family, friends, and generations of students whose lives he had touched. He was 95.��

Hugo taught at Knox College and the University of Oklahoma before joining the faculty of ��ý��Ƶ in 1966. He taught Latin American and Spanish Literature for the next 29 years until his retirement in 1995.��

A first generation Mexican-American raised in South Chicago, Hugo earned his bachelor of arts degree in Spanish from the University of Chicago, and his master’s and Ph.D. degrees from Northwestern University.��

In addition to teaching, Hugo was passionate about writing. During his tenure at ��ý��Ƶ, he published “The Last Laugh and Other Stories,” a collection of short stories about life in the Mexican-American community of South Chicago, a selection from which was published in Chicago magazine. In retirement, Hugo continued to write, publishing two novels, “Enamored Dust,” and “The Brothers Duran of Mexican South Chicago.” He published a new edition of his short stories titled “Steeling Chicago: South Side Stories.”��

Throughout his life, Hugo was committed to education and social justice. He adored teaching and though he expected much of his students, he was always encouraging and supportive of them. One of his former students, Barbara Lawton ’87, a current member of the ��ý��Ƶ Board of Trustees and former Wisconsin Lt. Governor (2003-11), described the impact Hugo made on her academic journey.��

“I was convinced that if Hugo would take the time to publish his brilliant method of teaching the complexities and nuances of the Spanish language, it would become the gold standard,” she said. “But he was leading students to see how language revealed culture, and then to learn how to read and write anew in the study of Latin American literature. And then the conversation continued at regular tertulias (salons) hosted in his home, building a vibrant community of Spanish speakers. I came to ��ý��Ƶ to test my intellectual mettle, and Hugo pushed me, and all his students, to discover themselves as scholars. The quintessential ��ý��Ƶ difference. He gave us his all.”��

Another former student, Peter Kelly ’87, echoed Lawton’s sentiments about finding challenge and inspiration in equal measures in Hugo’s classes.��

“Hugo was obsessive in his drive to have students not simply read and follow plot, but also to live within the words on the page,” Peter said. “He never let general observations on characters or narrative go unchallenged, always exhorting the student to justify based on text. He would bring his whole body to bear, patiently quieting his voice while deepening his gaze as he strained to place the student back into the pages of the story or novel while guiding the reader to find the author’s precise word choice or phrasing that substantiated the general observation. It could be a tiring and painful exercise, but it was clear that Hugo gave energy in equal measure to the student. He was indefatigable in the classroom, usually patient, always demanding, and relentlessly supportive.”��

Frances Siekman Romero ’73 was part of a study group travelling with Hugo to Guanajuato, Mexico, for an experience that would end up changing the course of her life.��

“Professor Martinez encouraged me to be open, to adapt, and to fully embrace a new culture—even when it meant stepping far outside my comfort zone and learning to accept whatever was placed before me,” Frances said. “Little did I know, I would embrace the culture a little too well—and never leave. It was in Guanajuato where I met my husband, the father of my children, and where the foundation of my family began. That journey has brought us 10 children and 10 grandchildren, and in 2000, I became First Lady of Guanajuato when my husband, Juan Carlos Romero, became governor. Professor Hugo Martinez did more than teach—he opened doors, broadened perspectives, and created opportunities that continue to ripple across generations. His legacy lives on in my life and my family because of the experiences that began with him. I am forever in his debt.”��

Luis Alberto Villaseñor G. ’79 met Hugo in Guanajuato, Mexico, where the professor served as director of ��ý��Ƶ’s off-campus program for Spanish students. He learned about ��ý��Ƶ from students in the program and dreamed of one day attending himself. Thanks to what he described as a combination of providence and generosity, Luis was able to enroll at ��ý��Ƶ, where he earned his B.A. in Mathematics.��

“Despite my focus on mathematics, I had always intended to take a class with Professor Martínez—or as my mother affectionately called him when she first met him in Guanajuato, Señor Mister Martínez,” Luis said. “His course on the great Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes was among the finest I took in my entire academic career. Professor Martínez was an exceptional lecturer—passionate, deeply knowledgeable in Spanish literature, and uniquely gifted at guiding students to fully appreciate what is often considered the greatest novel ever written, Don Quixote. His lectures transported us to the age of knights and chivalry, making us feel as though we ourselves were setting out to battle windmills or falling in love with the imagined beauty of Dulcinea. In the classroom, he would vividly bring to life the sardonic humor and earthy wisdom of Sancho Panza, while also conveying the timeless reflections of Don Quixote as he instructed his loyal squire in the deeper meanings of life. While deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Martinez, we are profoundly grateful for the privilege of having known him.”��

For Juan Hernandez, a visit by Hugo to his parent’s Instituto Guanajuato for Arts and Languages would shape the course of Juan’s life.��

“A gifted teacher and writer, Dr. Martinez inspired in me a deep appreciation for language and literature,” Juan said. “During that visit, he spoke about an assistantship scholarship for students from the University of Guanajuato to work with the Spanish faculty and their students. I immediately applied, and within a few months, at only age 17, I was on my way to ��ý��Ƶ. The Martha Siekman family in Appleton welcomed me as one of their own, supporting not only me but many students over the years, as generous donors to ��ý��Ƶ. Guided by extraordinary mentors, I completed my B.A. at age 19, becoming one of the youngest graduates in the University’s history. I was not an “A” student, but I was a student who understood the value of those mentors, especially Professor Martínez. Years later, I earned my Ph.D. in Spanish and English Letters – a path that began with his encouragement. I will never forget the support I received from Dr. Martínez.”��

Outside the classroom, Hugo worked for social justice in all its forms. He was most proud of his family’s role as resident family for the Appleton chapter of the ABC (A Better Chance) program for two academic years in 1970-71 and 1971-72. In this role, he and his wife, Mary-Alice, provided guardian care, moral support, a positive learning environment, and home-cooked meals for 10 young men who attended Appleton area high schools. A highlight of his time at ��ý��Ƶ was the great honor of hosting acclaimed poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou at his home when she came to Appleton in 1976 to receive an honorary degree from ��ý��Ƶ.��

In retirement, Hugo moved to Colorado and then New Mexico before settling in Madison, Wisconsin to be near his children. Fiercely independent to the end, he was an accomplished cook who enjoyed reading, classical music, fine food, good wine, and most of all, the company of those he loved.��

Though he is deeply missed, his spirit lives on through his stories, and through the memories of all those who cherish him. He is survived by his loving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.��

The family requests that gifts in Hugo’s memory be made to the ��ý��Ƶ Fund. ��

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��ý��Ƶ to launch Data Science & Statistics major

Communications — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:41:59 +0000

Program responds to soaring industry demand for data-literate employees

��ý��Ƶ announced it will launch a new Data Science & Statistics major beginning with the Fall 2026 academic term. The program builds upon the success of the minor, which has seen consistently high interest and enrollment since it was established in 2020.

“Data has become a common currency across industries,” said Andrew Sage, associate professor of statistics. “It empowers business leaders and healthcare professionals to identify trends, make informed decisions, strengthen competitive advantage, and improve people’s lives. Employees with the ability to manage and draw insights from increasingly large and complex datasets are indispensable to employers.”

Career prospects are very promising for graduates of this in-demand degree program. Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, much faster than the average for all occupations. As a result, data scientists can anticipate high earning potential and abundant employment opportunities across multiple industries.

A unique intersection of technical and interpersonal skills

The Data Science & Statistics major at ��ý��Ƶ is an interdisciplinary program that creates a formal structure for leveraging the strengths of multiple areas of study. Drawing on core courses in mathematics, statistics, computer science, and related disciplines, such as biology and economics, students develop the computational skills, mathematical foundations, and advanced statistical techniques that comprise the data science discipline.

“The interdisciplinary structure of our Data Science & Statistics major allows students to customize their degree program around their academic and future career interests,” said Peter Blitstein, provost and dean of the faculty. “In this program grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, students learn core technical skills for data analysis while also strengthening professional skills in critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.”

The Data Science & Statistics major is a natural fit for ��ý��Ƶ students because its interdisciplinary structure allows students to customize the major around their academic interests and career goals. For example, a student interested in health sciences might take electives in bioinformatics and experimental design. A student interested in economics and finance might take econometrics and a data visualization course. That flexibility allows students to hone their skills to their specific area of interest.

��ý��Ƶ’s local and regional partnerships also open pathways for students to apply their knowledge in actual practice. The major culminates in a capstone experience in which they conduct hands-on analysis of real data, often in collaboration with a community organization. Through internships, guest lecturers, field studies and other applied learning opportunities, students build a professional portfolio while they are in school that prepares them for rewarding careers after graduation or acceptance into the nation’s top graduate schools.

For more information about Data Science & Statistics or other degree programs at ��ý��Ƶ, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@lawrence.edu or 920.832.6652.

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Board of Trustees elects David R. Shepard ’83 to serve as Board Chair

Communications — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:44:20 +0000

The ��ý��Ƶ Board of Trustees has elected David R. Shepard ’83 to serve as Chair of the leadership group responsible for the stewarding the development of strategic initiatives at ��ý��Ƶ, ensuring the fiscal and operational health of the institution and working collaboratively with President Laurie Carter and other university administrators in charting a course for the future of ��ý��Ƶ.��

David R. Shepard ’83

Shepard has served as a member of the ��ý��Ƶ Board of Trustees since July 2023. He assumed his role as Board Chair on July 1, 2025.��

“We are delighted to welcome Dave Shepard as our new Board Chair,” said ��ý��Ƶ president Laurie A. Carter. “His knowledge and leadership during his tenure on the Board and the President’s Advisory Council have proven invaluable and we look forward to collaborating with the Board under his leadership as we embark on a new era of institutional growth and strategic development.”��

Shepard is chief operating officer and board member of Marki Microwave, an RF semiconductor and component company. He has served in the semiconductor industry for his entire 37-year career, including more than 20 years in executive leadership positions.��

Shepard began his professional career at Texas Instruments, where he served for nearly 20 years. He went on to become president and CEO of Sequoia Communications, a startup developing RF transceivers for mobile handsets. He subsequently held senior leadership positions at Peregrine Semiconductor and Integrated Device Technology. He joined Marki Microwave as chief operating officer in 2019.��

An Appleton native now living in the San Francisco Bay Area, Shepard received a bachelor’s degree in physics from ��ý��Ƶ, after transferring as a junior from Middlebury College. He earned his M.S. degree in electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. ��

Shepard serves as board president for a nonprofit organization that rehabilitates injured wildlife and educates K-12 students on wildlife conservation. He also serves on the boards of several tech startups. Prior to joining ��ý��Ƶ’s Board of Trustees, Shepard served on the President’s Advisory Council for more than six years, including more than four years as co-chair.��

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��ý��Ƶ Names Alumnus Dan Galante ’87 as Head Football Coach

Communications — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 23:02:20 +0000

��ý��Ƶ Director of Athletics Jason Imperati announced today that Daniel “Dan” Galante ’87 has been named the next Head Football Coach of the Vikings. A ��ý��Ƶ Athletics Hall of Famer with more than three decades of coaching and recruiting experience across the Midwest, Galante returns to his alma mater to lead the next era of Viking Football.��

“We are thrilled to welcome Dan back to ��ý��Ƶ,” Imperati said. “His belief in this institution, proven experience developing student-athletes, and deep recruiting network make him the right leader for our program. Dan understands ��ý��Ƶ at its core, and he brings the passion, energy, and vision needed to move Viking Football forward.”��

Galante arrives with a distinguished career that spans college and high school football, enrollment management, and program building. His impressive coaching résumé includes 16 years as head football coach and director of admissions at Saint Patrick High School in Chicago, where he became the longest-tenured coach in school history and led the team to eight playoff appearances and a conference championship.��

His college coaching experience includes serving as Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator at North Park University, where he helped restructure the defensive system and supported all aspects of football recruiting. Galante also served on staff at Northwestern University as a graduate assistant, contributing to defensive operations and recruiting evaluation.��

Dan Galante ’87, ��ý��Ƶ’s head football coach

“It is an incredible honor to return home to ��ý��Ƶ,” Galante said. “This place shaped me as a student-athlete and as a person. I believe deeply in the mission of the University and in the potential of Viking Football. I’m excited to work with our student-athletes, reconnect with alumni, and build a program that represents ��ý��Ƶ with pride, toughness, and excellence.”��

A respected recruiter, Galante brings decades of established relationships with coaches, families, and prospective student-athletes across Illinois, Wisconsin, and the greater Midwest. His background in both coaching and admissions provides him with a strong understanding of how to identify and recruit student-athletes who can thrive academically and athletically at a top-tier liberal arts institution like ��ý��Ƶ.��

“Dan’s return to ��ý��Ƶ is a homecoming that reflects our commitment to excellence and tradition as we build our future,” said President Laurie A. Carter. “His experience, leadership, and deep connection to ��ý��Ƶ will inspire our student-athletes and alumni.”��

Galante graduated cum laude from ��ý��Ƶ in 1987 with a degree in history and classics. He starred for the Vikings from 1983–86, earning first-team All-Midwest Conference honors four times, only the second player in ��ý��Ƶ history to do so, and becoming the only player in program history to be named a four-time All-American. A team captain in 1986, Galante anchored a nationally ranked defense in 1985 and remains one of the most celebrated athletes in ��ý��Ƶ football history. He also holds a Master of Science in Education with a focus in higher education administration from Northwestern University.��

As head coach, Galante will lead all aspects of the football program, including player development, staff leadership, recruiting strategy, and alumni engagement. He will immediately begin preparations for the 2025-26 recruiting cycle, with a focus on strengthening ��ý��Ƶ’s presence in key recruiting regions and building strong relationships with prospective student-athletes who exemplify the University’s academic rigor and values.��

“��ý��Ƶ Football has an incredible history and a bright future,” Galante added. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this program, and I can’t wait to get started.”��

Galante succeeds Adam Gonzaga, who led the Vikings for one season. ��ý��Ƶ thanks Coach Gonzaga for his contributions and wishes him well in his future endeavors.��

Galante will begin his duties immediately as ��ý��Ƶ prepares for the upcoming season.��

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��ý��Ƶ Launches Commuter Student Program

Communications — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 22:36:17 +0000

��ý��Ƶ is excited to launch a new Commuter Student Program, designed to provide access to a remarkable education close to home for outstanding students in our region who, for personal or family reasons, choose to live at home while pursuing their degree.

We at ��ý��Ƶ recognize that the college experience looks different for every student. Commuter students balance academics, home, work, and travel, and ��ý��Ƶ is committed to ensuring they feel supported, connected, and empowered.

Through dedicated Commuter Student Resources, participants will have access to:

A commuter lounge in the Mudd Library with study space, appliances, and a welcoming environment.
Lockers and storage options for convenience throughout the academic year.
Targeted engagement opportunities, including commuter‑specific events and a Commuter Welcome during LU Welcome Week.
Meal plan options tailored to commuter lifestyles, ensuring access to campus dining.
Transportation and parking resources, along with guest housing options to support involvement in campus activities.
Safety and academic support services, including the LU Alert system and access to the Center for Academic Success.

By integrating commuter students into the full academic and co‑curricular life of the university, this program strengthens ��ý��Ƶ’s ties to the Fox Cities community and expands opportunities for the region’s best students to thrive.

We look forward to welcoming our commuter students and building a vibrant, inclusive community where every student belongs—no matter where they live.

Gather more information on ��ý��Ƶ’s Commuter Program.��
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John Pfefferle, Paul Hoffman, and Tom Janssen Gift Prime Downtown Appleton Property to ��ý��Ƶ

Communications — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:03:00 +0000

��ý��Ƶ is proud to announce the generous gift of property��located at 122 East College Avenue, Units 001 and 002, in downtown Appleton from Pfefferle Investments, Inc.; Hoffman Holdings, LLC; and the Thomas J. and Diana L. Janssen Revocable Trust.

“We are proud to entrust this property to ��ý��Ƶ,” said John Pfefferle, President of Pfefferle Investments. “��ý��Ƶ has demonstrated a strong commitment to the vitality of downtown Appleton, and we believe they will be excellent stewards of this space. This gift reflects our shared vision for a thriving, interconnected community.”

This significant donation, valued at approximately $2.4 million, marks a meaningful milestone in the partnership between ��ý��Ƶ and Pfefferle. The property extends ��ý��Ƶ’s footprint in the heart of Appleton’s vibrant downtown and deepens the university’s connection to the local community. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at Pfefferle Investments, Inc., Hoffman Holdings, LLC, and Thomas J. and Diana L. Janssen Revocable Trust for considering ��ý��Ƶ as the steward of such prime property,” said President Laurie A. Carter. “This gift not only reflects the trust and collaboration between our institutions but also reinforces our shared commitment to the vitality of Appleton.”

The property is part of the City Center (CC) East building, a mixed-use development that has become a cornerstone of the College Avenue Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Located within the historic corridor of College Avenue, the building blends modern design with the architectural heritage of Appleton. It houses a mix of commercial, residential, and institutional spaces and is governed by the CC East Condo Association.

With this acquisition, ��ý��Ƶ becomes an owner within the CC East building and a member of the CC East Condo Association.��The University looks forward to utilizing the space to further its mission, exploring opportunities for innovation and engagement.

“This gift is a testament to the power of partnership and shared vision,” said Brian Foss, Vice President for Finance & Administration. “We are excited about the possibilities this property opens for ��ý��Ƶ and the broader Appleton community.”

The university will share more details about its plans for the space in the coming months.

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��ý��Ƶ Welcomes Joseph Emmick as Vice President for University Advancement

Communications — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:25:45 +0000

Seasoned fundraising leader brings decades of experience to drive ��ý��Ƶ’s mission forward

��ý��Ƶ is proud to announce the appointment of Joseph R. Emmick as its new Vice President for University Advancement, a strategic role that will shape the university’s future through philanthropy and alumni engagement.

Emmick joins ��ý��Ƶ, bringing nearly 30 years of advancement experience in higher education, most recently from Garrett Theological Seminary. His distinguished career includes leadership positions at Wabash College, Elmhurst College, and Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he consistently delivered record-breaking fundraising results and implemented innovative strategies to strengthen alumni engagement and donor stewardship.��

“Joe’s deep experience and proven success in aligning institutional priorities with fundraising strategies make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said President Laurie A. Carter. “His passion for the transformative power of the liberal arts education and commitment to student success will help us strengthen ��ý��Ƶ’s future and expand opportunities for generations to come.”��

Throughout his career, he has closed six- to eight-figure gifts and led campaigns totaling more than $250M. His expertise spans capital campaigns, predictive analytics for alumni engagement, and building high-performance advancement teams. “I would like to thank President Carter and am honored to join ��ý��Ƶ and contribute to its tradition of excellence,” Emmick said.��

A first-generation college graduate and Wabash College alumnus, Emmick brings a deep personal commitment to the values of liberal arts education. “I know first-hand how the liberal arts equip students with critical thinking skills, sound judgment, respect for a broad spectrum of perspectives, and a desire for multi-disciplinary life-long learning,” Emmick said. “I look forward to working alongside President Carter, my colleagues, and the thousands of Lawrentians around the globe to advance the mission of preparing students for lives of achievement and meaningful citizenship.”��

Emmick will officially assume his role on December 8, 2025.��

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A voice for the Vikings, Joe Vanden Acker retires after 25 years of service

Communications — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 22:04:21 +0000

For 25 years, ��ý��Ƶ Athletics has been guided by the steady hand, voice, and dedication of Joe Vanden Acker. Known to generations of Vikings simply as “JVA,” he has served as Sports Information Director since 1999, leaving a legacy of professionalism, passion, and care that will be felt for years to come.

“It’s a rare person who is immediately identifiable by a singular name,” said Jamie Reeve ‘95, co-chair of the Vikings Athletics Advocacy Council. “And rarer yet are individuals known simply by their initials. Typically, only celebrities and politicians are identified by a singular moniker. But for the last quarter-century at ��ý��Ƶ, every Viking knows JVA instantly.”��

Students didn’t call Vanden Acker by his legal first or last name. They knew him as JVA, and his office always had an open door for students to come in and talk. Over his tenure, he mentored several scholar-athletes and colleagues.

��“I’ve never met someone who cares so much about each individual person and detail, all while bringing a positive attitude to everyone he meets,” said Erica Grube, Women’s Soccer Scholar-Athlete. “Words can’t describe how much we are going to miss seeing him around the athletic department every day or hearing his voice on the broadcast.”

Joe Vanden Acker served as the “Voice of the Vikings” for three varsity sports: hockey, baseball, and softball.

��ý��Ƶ is rooted in values of belonging, respect, integrity, and sustainability, and Vanden Acker exemplified what it means to live out those values and nurtured a culture of belonging for scholar-athletes to thrive.��

“He set the tone for our culture in many ways,” said Jason Imperati, Director of Viking Athletics. “JVA reminded us that every student-athlete matters, and every story deserves to be told. That belief has motivated generations of Vikings because they knew their efforts would never go unnoticed. Even on the hardest days, he made sure ��ý��Ƶ Athletics looked and felt like it belonged.”

A Legacy of Dedication and Excellence

From championship moments to quiet midweek contests, Vanden Acker was there to capture the story. He wrote thousands of recaps, logged every statistic, and ensured that the work of ��ý��Ƶ student-athletes and coaches was recognized and remembered. He built websites, designed publications, managed broadcasts, and served as the voice behind Viking athletics for more than two decades.

“JVA embodies everything that is great about our department,” said Jason Fast, Head Cross Country Coach and Assistant Athletic Director. “Through every step of my coaching career, he’s been there to support my teams and me. His love for sports and ��ý��Ƶ Athletics always came through in his writing. His hard work made the athletic experience for thousands of student-athletes a great one. He is truly one of the best to ever do this job.”

Joe Vanden Acker accepted the Midwest Conference Meritorious Service Award in late 2024 and the College Sports Communicators (CSC) 25-Year Award in 2025.��

Vanden Acker’s dedication to athletic events, attention to detail, exceptional recall ability, and care for others cultivated trusting relationships with everyone he met.��

“He’s dutifully reported wins and losses as well as human-interest stories of the teams and athletes,” Reeve said. “Across the multiple conferences in which LU competes, JVA is a giant and a font of knowledge. His recall for detailed stats evidences his keen memory. But more importantly, his personality reflects his genuine interest in others. While he loves to recall the glory days, he’s just as keen to ask about life after ��ý��Ƶ to learn how the world is made a better place by Vikings after graduation. Simply put, JVA cares.”��

An Impact of Care and Mentorship

Vanden Acker’s greatest impact came from the relationships he forged. Coaches trusted him to present their programs with care, athletes appreciated the recognition he gave to every contribution, and alumni valued his perspective and willingness to support others. He built lasting bonds with student-athletes, parents, and colleagues, becoming not only a chronicler of Viking history but also a mentor and friend.��

“Future students may not realize how much of what they experience was built by JVA, but they will benefit from it. From the records he preserved, the traditions he carried forward, and the example he set for what it means to care about people,” said Jason Imperati. “His legacy will continue to echo through this department for years to come.”

As Vanden Acker retires from his role as Sports Information Director, he’s celebrating more than a career. As a celebrated colleague who gave ��ý��Ƶ Athletics his voice. His dedication, heart, and influence will remain woven into the history of Viking athletics, and his presence will continue to be felt in the community he helped shape.

“JVA has been one of the most important people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside during my time at ��ý��Ƶ,” said Jason Imperati. “From my very first conversations here, he gave me perspective and honesty that I’ve come to rely on. My favorite memories are the conversations we’ve had; the level-headed advice and his ability to see things clearly, which grounded me more times than I can count.”

��ý��Ƶ and Athletics extend deep gratitude to Joe Vanden Acker for 25 years of service, stories, and care.��

“On behalf of Athletics Alumni, we applaud your commitment to ��ý��Ƶ and our Vikings. We are grateful for keeping us all informed of the wins and losses,” said Reeve. “As the vanguard of our Hall of Fame, you ensure athletics excellence is highlighted and institutionalized forever. You embody the best of what LU offers our student-athletes. Thanks for being its biggest fan and consummate cheerleader.”

Vanden Acker’s plan for retirement is to cheer on his daughter, Anna, a scholar-athlete in her senior year at ��ý��Ƶ. Vanden Acker’s daughter, Anna, is majoring in Business & Entrepreneurship and English Literature. In her final year competing within ��ý��Ƶ’s tennis and track program, Vanden Acker will cheer her on at various meets and MWC tracks as a fan of ��ý��Ƶ athletics.��

(Left to right) Julie, Anna, and Joe Vanden Acker

“It has been so special for me to share my time at ��ý��Ƶ with my dad. He is the hardest worker I know, and everything he did was completed with the best attention to detail and dedication,” Vanden Acker’s daughter, Anna, said. “I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work side by side with him. I am sure many other students will relate to having long conversations with him that made them laugh, taught them something new, or left them feeling happier than they were before.”

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��ý��Ƶ named Wisconsin’s No. 1 small private university by U.S. News

Communications — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:20:16 +0000

��ý��Ƶ once again retained its top spot as Wisconsin’s No. 1 small private university in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings published Sept. 23 by U.S. News & World Report.��

��ý��Ƶ was ranked on the following lists:��

National Liberal Arts Colleges (#65)��

Best Value Schools (#32)��

Social Mobility (#63 – tied)��

Undergraduate Teaching Programs (#59 – tied)��

Earning the No. 65 position in the National Liberal Arts Colleges category, ��ý��Ƶ gained four places from 69th place in 2025 and up from the 75th position in the 2024 rankings. ��ý��Ƶ is the only Wisconsin institution ranked in the top 90 this year, and one of only four Wisconsin schools ranked in the category.

“Our focus on developing new opportunities for students through innovative campus/community partnerships and keeping students first in all of our decision-making is reflected in ��ý��Ƶ’s continued climb in the rankings,” said ��ý��Ƶ president Laurie A. Carter.��

The university improved its rankings over last year in other categories as well.��

��ý��Ƶ surged ahead six positions to No. 32 among Best Value Schools, up from the 38th position last year. The university has been ranked in this category nine times since the 2016 edition, logging its best ranking so far in the 2025 rankings.��

View ��ý��Ƶ's Awards, Recognitions, and Rankings

��ý��Ƶ also was recently earned a spot on the America’s Top Colleges list by Forbes and was included on its list of 25 private schools with the most generous financial aid.��

“Students and their families understand their college education is an investment that returns dividends for the rest of their lives,” said Vice President and Chief of Staff Christyn Abaray. “A ��ý��Ƶ education equips students, not only with in-depth knowledge of their academic discipline, it prepares them to thrive in an environment of continual change and to lead in careers that may not yet even exist. In such a setting, skills that are the hallmark of a liberal arts education – problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, information literacy, ethical decision-making, and collaboration – empower ��ý��Ƶ graduates to successfully navigate the dynamics of the workplace they will be entering,” Abaray said.��

��ý��Ƶ skyrocketed up the Social Mobility rankings this year to the 63rd position (tied with five other schools), gaining an impressive 49 places from its 112th place spot last year.��

“Our students come from all over the world and from all walks of life to pursue a high impact, immersive and collaborative education that encourages them to dream bigger and to confidently pursue their personal vision of success,” said President Carter. “That’s what we do at ��ý��Ƶ – what we always have done; it is gratifying for ��ý��Ƶ to be recognized for its nearly two centuries of shaping the futures of students.”��

For the seventh time since the 2016 edition, ��ý��Ƶ has appeared on the rankings for Undergraduate Teaching Programs, this year taking the 59th position (a tie with six other schools) down slightly from last year.��

“I am pleased that ��ý��Ƶ continues to be recognized for its commitment to providing a transformational education that prepares students to make a difference in the world as they follow their unique paths,” said President Carter.��

��ý��Ƶ the Rankings��

U.S. News & World Report ranks colleges by key measures, including Outcomes, Peer Assessment, Faculty Resources, Financial Resources, and Standardized Tests. Learn more at .��

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Wisconsin Archives - �������ý��Ƶ

�������ý��Ƶ Embarks on Chapel Restoration Project

Former students reflect on the lifelong impact of professor emeritus Hugo Martinez-Serros

�������ý��Ƶ to launch Data Science & Statistics major

Board of Trustees elects David R. Shepard ’83 to serve as Board Chair

�������ý��Ƶ Names Alumnus Dan Galante ’87 as Head Football Coach

�������ý��Ƶ Launches Commuter Student Program

John Pfefferle, Paul Hoffman, and Tom Janssen Gift Prime Downtown Appleton Property to �������ý��Ƶ

�������ý��Ƶ Welcomes Joseph Emmick as Vice President for University Advancement