New event series builds campus and community connections

Posted midnight Wednesday , Sept. 2 , 2026

New event series builds campus and community connections

This fall, UW-La Crosse will launch the new Spotlight Series, an annual collection of events designed to showcase some of the university's most engaging experiences while strengthening connections among students, faculty, staff, alumni and the broader community.

From thought-provoking ideas and groundbreaking research to cultural celebrations, performances and athletics, the Spotlight Series highlights events that reflect the breadth of what makes UWL distinctive.

Like a spotlight illuminating center stage, the series will shine a light on different events each year, introducing audiences to new opportunities to learn, connect and engage with the university. Organizers will nominate events annually, with selected events representing a wide range of disciplines, interests and community connections.

The inaugural Spotlight Series for the 2026-27 academic year includes:

"Whether it is enjoying a performance or discovering new ideas alongside our dedicated faculty and amazing students, the Spotlight Series shines a light on the many ways people are the central part of what happens here at UWL. It is really the Wisconsin Idea in action," says UWL Chancellor James Beeby. "And while we are very excited about these five Spotlight events, they are just a glimpse of all that is happening here on campus - we hope the series will serve as a reminder to explore the many more opportunities to learn, be entertained, and connect with one another here on the UWL campus."

Many more community events are listed on the community calendar.

The Spotlight Series supports the UWL Forward Strategic Plan, specifically The Driftless Difference pillar, which calls for strengthening UWL's role as a regional partner through meaningful community engagement that extends from local to global communities.

"UWL is a special place, and I believe the La Crosse community is proud to call it its own," says Lisa Klein, UWL director of Community Engagement. "My hope is that people move beyond simply believing in UWL's impact and come to know it personally. Through the UWL Spotlight Series, community members can experience the university firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the people and work that make UWL such an important asset to our region."

How to submit nominations for the next Spotlight Series

The 2026-27 series was selected by the Pillar 1, Goal 3 workgroup. Beginning Nov. 23, event organizers from across campus will be invited to submit nominations for the 2027-28 Spotlight Series through the Spotlight Series webpage. Events selected for the series will receive marketing support, along with complimentary parking and space rental.

"We want to highlight new aspects of campus excellence with each year's Spotlight Series, so we need nominations from across campus," says Meredith Thomsen, dean of UWL Graduate & Extended Learning. "We have a committee with broad representation, but we know that we do not know everything that is happening! Nominations will help tremendously in finding the best UWL has to offer."

Faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members are encouraged to attend Spotlight Series events throughout the year.

"Each of these events connects to a core value for UWL. The fact that the five events are so different illustrates the breadth of our activities," says Thomsen. "It shows how students, staff, and community members with varying interests can all find a way to build a connection with UWL."

Learn more about the Spotlight Series and how to nominate events for the 2027-28 academic year.