Connecting Campus and Community through Community-based Service, Learning, and Research
By Sammie Garrity | September 8, 2025 For Jack Cousineau, creating community has always been a priority in his personal life and education. Originally from Appleton, WI, Cousineau is a junior in UW–Madison’s School of Human Ecology, majoring in consumer behavior and marketplace studies. Alongside his studies, he serves as president of Alpha Psi Lambda …
Morgridge Center events kicked off the year with community and connection. Students explored the Dane County Farmer’s Market, toured the State Capitol, celebrated 30 years with bingo, connected with nonprofits at the Public Service Fair, and volunteered at the Arboretum—a strong start to a year of impact and involvement! See more of what Badgers were …
As the Morgridge Center celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, it rests on the legacy and foundation of the relationships with campus and community partners, as the lived-out vision of the Wisconsin Idea. The 30th anniversary of the Morgridge Center is not just a testament to time, but a reflection of its enduring impact on the thousands of students, faculty and community members who contributed to its legacy.
Connect with nationally recognized organizations and nonprofits at this year’s Public Service Fair, including notable participants such as Habitat for Humanity and the Ronald McDonald House. If you’re interested in a potential career in the public service sector, come and network with some local and national organizations.
Registration for Badger Volunteers is now open, offering students the chance to connect with local organizations through meaningful service each week. By joining, you not only give back to the Madison community, but also gain valuable experience, build relationships and explore interests outside the classroom. This is a way to make a tangible impact while developing skills that last well beyond your time on campus.
And that's a wrap to Summer Badger Volunteers 2025. Check out what some of our volunteers were up to at Vera Court, the Social Justice Center, Doors of Hope and more.
Seventeen faculty and campus members at the University of Wisconsin–Madison have been named Morgridge Fellows. The Morgridge Fellows program is a unique opportunity for individuals to learn and explore ways to further weave community engagement into the core functions of the university.
Caitlin Proffitt, a three-year participant in the Badger Volunteers program and now a Morgridge Center Badger Volunteers intern, has always had a passion for community engagement. Her time spent with the residents of the Central Wisconsin Center has been nothing short of transformative, as she has developed personal relationships with several of their members along the way, just one of the many experiences that demonstrate Badger Volunteers' lasting impact.
The Morgridge Center is excited to welcome back Emma Gleed as the new educational programs manager. Emma is a returning member of the center, having formerly served as both an intern and Americorps Achievement Connections Coordinator. She looks forward to bringing her extensive community engagement skills into this new position.
Highlights from this year include: the launch of BadgersEngage through the software platform Givepulse, Wisconsin Idea Conference, hiring of Dr. Dave Lassen, community-university partnerships awards and more.