The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Education celebrated the grand reopening of its revamped Education Building on Bascom Hill with events tied to American Education Week.
The landmark building was renovated and remade for the 21st century through an initial $31 million gift from John and Tashia Morgridge, both UW-Madison alumni. A rededication ceremony, which included a special thank you for the Morgridges, was held on Monday, November 15. The events featured Dean Julie Underwood, First Lady Jessica Doyle, and Chancellor Biddy Martin.
More than 30 distinguished UW-Madison alumni, faculty and education experts from around the nation took part in the two days of sessions addressing critical issues in education.
“The Education Building renovation and addition has re-energized the School of Education,” Underwood said. “This program reflects that, and also gives us a public opportunity to express our deep gratitude to John and Tashia Morgridge for their generous support.”
At the ceremony, Tashia Morgridge said,”I love the way the old parts are polished, painted and shined. The warmth of the old wood speaks of age, wisdom and endurability,” according to Jennifer Zettel of The Badger Herald.
Tashia Morgridge was quoted as saying the building is impressive but the people educated there will be the real legacy. “Teaching is absolutely the most important job in the world. What happens in this building is of greatest importance.”
The Badger Herald quoted John Morgridge as saying: “Our hope is that, during the building’s second hundred years, the teachers, researchers and students who enter this facility through either one of its two front doors are inspired, energized and creative as the folks who re-created this wonderful structure.”