<p>Hello all,</p>
<p>In school I'm learning about something called the "Wisconsin Idea". This was a concept from the Progressive Era of American politics which stated that public research universities are integral to the functioning of a state because they provide the state's citizens with research advances, employment/educational opportunities, community outreach events, etc. Would you say that this concept is still alive at University of Wisconsin-Madison today? Is the university that crucial to the state's well-being? I'd love to here what some current/prospective University of Wisconsin students have to say.</p>
<p>Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>UW alumnus/recent long time WI resident. Yes- UW -Madison as the flagship U has a mission to serve the state, not just the on campus people. Look at the various outreach programs- accessible from the UW website. Ag (agriculture) extension is only one field that is all over the state. The Chemistry department is involved in chemical education and from my annual Badger Chemist does get around. The Band also does concerts around the state. It is not only the alumni that are active away from Madison.</p>
<p>[The</a> Wisconsin Idea](<a href=“http://www.wisconsinidea.wisc.edu/]The”>http://www.wisconsinidea.wisc.edu/)</p>
<p>The Wisconsin Idea is the principle that the university should improve people’s lives beyond the classroom. It spans UW–Madison’s teaching, research, outreach and public service.</p>
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<p>btw- current, prospective students are unlikely to think about UW outside of the campus. Most may not be aware of UW’s other roles.</p>