Details
Date: September 30, 2021
Time: 4–5:30 p.m. CDT
Location: Near East Fields, in front of Dejope Residence Hall
1810 Observatory Drive
Madison
Join the University of Wisconsin–Madison and University Recreation & Wellbeing in celebrating the future of the Natatorium with an exciting announcement you won’t want to miss. This groundbreaking ceremony to replace the old Natatorium will welcome a new health and wellness facility. The fresh space will provide unique activities and features for all Badgers, such as:
- Sports simulators
- Indoor jogging track
- Teaching kitchen
- Wellbeing services
- Ice rink
- Expanded fitness space
- Recreational pool
- Multipurpose studios
- Indoor climbing and bouldering wall
- And more
Once completed, the architecture will embrace the special location by bringing nature inside. From large picture windows flooding rooms with natural light and views of Lake Mendota to indoor greenery at every turn, the tranquil ambiance will provide the environment needed to pursue a healthy lifestyle while staying in touch with nature.
Cost: Free to attend, but registration by September 22 is required.
The Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association will follow applicable COVID-19 public health guidelines to ensure the health and safety of our guests and staff at this in-person event. All registered guests will be sent information about COVID-19 protocols prior to the event. If updated guidance requires further changes to the date, time, or location of the event, registered guests will be notified via email.
Honoring the Ho-Chunk Nation
The Willow Drive effigy mounds existed long before the Natatorium. Soon, a sculpture outside the new facility will honor the Ho-Chunk’s long tradition of health and recreational activities while serving as a space for reflection and tribute.
Each of the 12 clans, or family groups, of the Ho-Chunk Nation will be represented by 12 individual steel sculptures, arranged in a circle outside of the facility and close to Lake Mendota, the Lakeshore Path, and the Willow Drive effigy mounds.
With their arrival in the region at least 12,000 years ago, the Ho-Chunk and other native peoples began perfecting the skills and technologies that became the sports we recognize today as archery, canoeing, snowshoeing, and lacrosse. This sculpture will acknowledge and celebrate the influence of native peoples in the Four Lakes region.
Questions? Contact Karen Lux at [email protected] or call 608-262-9565.