Inspired by a mentor at UW–Madison, physics alumna Casey Durandet ’89, MS’91, PhD’95 has turned her gratitude into lasting impact. Her formative experiences in research and hands-on discovery — especially under the guidance of physics professor Albert Erwin — shaped a career devoted to science, teaching, and mentorship. To honor Erwin’s legacy and expand opportunity, Durandet established an endowed gift in his name to fund a graduate program supporting women in particle physics. Her generosity helps remove barriers, fosters diversity in STEM, and ensures future Badgers can pursue discovery with the same support that once transformed her own path.
“Those years at the UW were some of the best years of my life,” says Durandet. “If it hadn’t been for Albert, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”