On-Campus Life

Alumni & Friends Foundation

Cleary Alumni & Friends Center
608.785.8489 
https://www.uwlax.edu/foundation/

The focus of the UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation is building lifelong relationships and raising private support to advance UWL. It provides alumni and friends the opportunity to stay connected with campus, get involved, and give back. Every year, thousands of alumni and friends continue to be involved in the advancement of the university through giving their time, talent, and treasure creating lasting impact in the UWL community.

You can stay connected to UWL by attending alumni events, coming back for a visit, cheering on our athletic teams, nominating an alumnus for a distinguished alumni award, wearing your maroon and gray, and keeping up with all the amazing things happening at UWL by engaging with us on social media – not seeing a form of engagement that resonates with you? Reach out to foundation@uwlax.edu and we can help you find a fit.

Philanthropic support is integral to the mission of preparing UWL students for the world. The UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation is the largest private funding source for the university. Donor gifts directly support UWL. There are over 800 funds that you can give to at UWL – whatever your interest or passion, you can support it at UWL.

Resources we provide to students​:

  • Scholarships - Many scholarships have been established over the years by alumni and special friends of the university in an effort to enhance students' experiences and make their education more affordable. 
  • Student Philanthropy Council - Undergraduate student club promotes a culture of philanthropy at UWL. 
  • Student Outreach Center - Our team of students calls, emails, and texts UWL alumni and friends each spring and fall semester on behalf of the UWL Fund. They work to reach thousands to deliver the latest campus news, update contact information, and invite donors to make a gift in support of students.
  • Caps Off to Commencement - This is a one-stop shop for soon-to-be graduates. Each semester, this event is hosted at the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center to provide future alumni with all their commencement and resource needs.
  • Student & Alumni Networking - We connect students with alumni to learn more about their respective fields and life post-graduation.

Resources we provide to graduates:

  • Alumni Networking Events - Get to know fellow alumni in your area and stay connected to the UWL community.

  • Alumni & Campus News - Each fall we distribute our alumni magazine, The Lantern, to alumni to keep you up to date on milestones and important stories on campus. We also distribute monthly emails, called LightReads, to alumni and friends about current campus updates and stories. Want to get on our mail or email list? Reach out to foundation@uwlax.edu.

  • Distinguished Alumni Awards - Each year, we recognize alumni who are excelling and demonstrating what it means to live maroon in their lives. Want to nominate an outstanding alumnus? Nominate them here.

  • Giving Back Opportunities - Alumni and friends play a key role in supporting the advancement of the university and the success of our students. It is because of donors that we are able to take students’ educational experiences from excellent to exceptional. To make a difference, you can make a gift any day of the year or join us for our annual giving day, One Day for UWL, to celebrate the power of philanthropy together.

We know you are only a student for a short time, but you will be an alum for a lifetime. Once you move-on from UWL, we hope you will come home and visit!

Departmental honors programs policy

Departmental honors programs are available in the Departments of Archaeology and Anthropology, Economics, English, Geography and Environmental Science, Global Cultures and Languages, Mathematics and Statistics, Microbiology, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science and Public Administration, Psychology, and Sociology and Criminal Justice.

Designed to provide opportunities for special in-depth research, reading and writing for majors in the departments listed above, department honors programs also emphasize independent and creative work with highly personalized student-teacher contact and discussion.

The minimum requirements for all departmental honors programs are:

  1. Admission: junior standing, 12 credits in major, 3.25 cumulative grade point average in the major, recommendation of two faculty members from major department.
  2. Program: completion of the regular major, one course in a seminar, independent study, research study, or other appropriate honors options within the major program of study.
  3. Evaluation: a cumulative 3.50 grade point average at graduation in the major, distinguished performance on a paper or project (a project might be a ballet in the area of the arts, or a study of some aspect of local economic conditions in the area of business), and presentations of the paper or project to a colloquium of faculty and students in the major.

Honors programs may vary by department. The following departments have honors programs:

Additionally, there are numerous student honor organizations. See the "Honor and Recognition Society" category in the online listing of recognized student organizations on MyOrgs.

Intercollegiate athletics

126 Mitchell Hall
608.785.8616
www.uwlathletics.com

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has a longstanding commitment to excellence in both the academic and physical development of its students, as memorialized in the university’s seal, which is emblazoned with the phrase "mens corpusque" ("mind and body"). The intercollegiate athletics program sponsors 21 sports competing as a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III, the National Collegiate Gymnastics Association (NCGA), and the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC). UW-La Crosse’s rich history in intercollegiate athletics is highlighted by 79 national championships, 443 conference championships, and thousands of All-American performers. Just as importantly, UW-La Crosse’s student-athletes have set a high bar in the classroom, with a cumulative GPA that consistently ranks as the highest in the WIAC and, for 22 out of the last 23 years, has exceeded the GPA of UW-La Crosse’s general student body. The nearly 600 student-athletes competing in UWL Athletics embody the program’s mission: Building Champions. In Sport. In School. In Life.

UW-La Crosse Athletics is committed to equal opportunity for student-athletes and staff. The program offers 12 women’s sports (basketball, cross country, golf, gymnastics, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, indoor and outdoor track and field, and volleyball) and nine men’s sports (baseball, basketball, cross country, football, swimming and diving, tennis, indoor and outdoor track and field, and wrestling).

The director of athletics reports directly to the chancellor. Two faculty athletics representatives provide academic oversight to the athletic program. In keeping with the campus commitment to shared governance, an Athletics Committee comprised of students, faculty, and staff monitors and advises the program on budgetary matters. A Student-Athlete Advisory Committee that includes representatives from every sport program meets regularly and consults with the program’s leadership.

Music activities

608.785.8409
www.uwlax.edu/music

The Department of Music welcomes all University students to participate in its performing organizations. Music ensembles function as part of the curriculum for our music majors and minors but non-music major students from all colleges and programs make up a large percentage of the participants in our ensembles. There are a variety of music ensembles available including: Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Screaming Eagles Marching Band, Jazz Bands and combos, Concert Choir, Women's Chorus, Mannerchor, Chamber Choir, Vocal Jazz Choirs, Korean Percussion Ensemble, and various other chamber ensembles. The large ensembles regularly perform on tours within the state, nationally, and internationally. Auditions are required for admission and placement for some ensembles. Contact the Department of Music for details on audition dates, times, and repertoire. Also, for students who enjoy listening to music, the abundance of concerts presented by our ensembles throughout the academic year provide ample opportunities to attend a wide spectrum of musical events.

Recognized Student Organizations

For a current listing of over 200 UW-La Crosse Recognized Student Organizations, visit MyOrgs.

Recreational sports

130 Recreational Eagle Center
608.785.5225
www.uwlax.edu/recsports

UWL students study hard, work hard, and play hard. Once you put down your books, check out what the Rec Sports Department has to offer. We have programs and facilities designed to help you stay active, meet new friends, and reduce your stress level. So let's move! 

RECREATIONAL EAGLE CENTER (REC) 
Looking for a court to play your three-on-three game or flow about an indoor track for those cold winter months? With over 133,000 square feet of activity space, the REC offers numerous spaces to meet all of your indoor sport and fitness needs. Spaces include the fitness center, courts of all varieties (racquetball, multi-activity and basketball) and houses most of the programs and services you'll read about below. Most current UWL students are members of the REC as it is included in the segregated fees students pay.

FITNESS CENTER
Come on into the fitness center for a great workout. This state-of-the-art facility is over 13,000 square feet complete with cardio and strength equipment for all your workout needs. You will also find 25 yards of turf for agility, functional training workouts and stretching.

SECOND FLOOR FITNESS & TRACK
Our second floor fitness space offers cardio equipment, strength equipment and a 200 meter track. The space is great for those new to fitness or those who prefer an environment that is less crowded with more opportunities for privacy. You will find fewer heavy weights, however the equipment is the same great quality as in the fitness center.

PERSONAL TRAINING
Do you want to grow your confidence and experience while establishing a consistent exercise routine? Our certified trainers will help you set realistic goals and build a customized program to achieve them. Whether you want to run your first 5K, learn how to back squat, or ramp up your training for a competition, we’ll match you with a trainer that best meets your needs. Our excellent personal training staff will guide you to improve your training effectiveness by educating you on proper technique and training methods. Paid 1-1 training, custom six week workout programs and free fitness equipment orientations are available. 

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES
Rec Sports offers 40+ group fitness classes per week to meet a variety of interests, fitness levels and schedules. From kickboxing and Zumba to cycling and yoga, the group fitness program offers it all for an affordable supplemental fee of $40 per semester with discounts and free classes available the first week of each semester.

OUTDOOR CONNECTION TRIPS & GEAR RENTAL 
With rugged bluffs, scenic valleys and the majestic Mississippi flowing through the La Crosse area has many opportunities for you to begin your first or next outdoor adventure. Outdoor Connection offers outdoor trips to locations near and far to match any skill level. No experience is necessary. Planning your own adventure? Outdoor Connection offers low-cost outdoor gear rental. Whether its inline skates, ice skates, snowshoes, bikes, a hammock to use around town, tents, sleeping bags, backpacks or paddling equipment, Outdoor Connection has you covered.

CLIMBING GYM
The REC climbing gym is your destination for adventure, challenge, and community. Our state-of-the-art facility aims to introduce and share the sport of climbing with individuals of all backgrounds, skill levels and abilities. Whether it's your first time climbing, or you’re a seasoned pro, our goal is to foster a welcoming, inclusive space where participants can explore their potential, build community, and challenge themselves. Our staff are committed to supporting both recreational climbers and those seeking to refine their skills in a collaborative, safe, and engaging environment. Stop in anytime we’re open and a friendly staff member will help get you started. All essential climbing gear is available to UWL students at no charge.

Key features:

  • Top rope, bouldering and lead climbing available 
    • 21 feet high & 2,560 square feet of climbing surface
    • 25 climbing lanes, 7 with auto belay devices
    • Over 50 routes & bouldering problems
  • 12x12 Kilter Board
  • Classes and Events

INTRAMURAL SPORTS
The intramural sports program is one of the most popular extracurricular activities on campus. The program provides a great way to meet new people and continue playing the sports you have grown to love. Intramurals offers team, dual and individual sport leagues where participants compete for the coveted intramural champion t-shirt. Competitive and recreational leagues are available. You can create your own team or utilize the free agent list. The Rec Sports staff form the league, supervise play, monitor and track league standings and organizes tournaments; all you have to do is be a good sport and have a great time.

SPORT CLUBS
Travel, camaraderie and good times are a few hallmarks of the UWL Sport Club program. Clubs practice during the week and compete on weekends. Each sport and recreation-oriented club/student organization is organized and led by students, for students. A full list of clubs is available on the Rec Sports website.

EZONE ESPORTS & GAMING
The EZONE offers gaming for both casual and competitive gamers on 24 high-end gaming PCs and on Xbox, PlayStation, VR and Nintendo Switch gaming consoles. Come meet new friends or play against your friends on campus or around the world. The space also includes a viewing area and a streaming room for streaming on Twitch. Whether you are new to gaming, or a top ranked competitive online gamer, the EZONE has a game for you!

MITCHELL HALL POOL LAP SWIMMING
Mitchell Hall's pool is a six lane, 25-yard competitive pool which is open for lap swimming at lunch time during the week, and evening and weekend hours as well.  Current faculty, staff and students just need to bring their current UWL ID with them to gain access to the open lap swim hours. Enter the pool through the Mitchell Hall locker rooms on the lower level.

INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS
Learn something new through Rec Sports instructional programs. Programs offered include First Aid/CPR/AED Certification, Into to Mindfulness, and Self Defense classes.

SPECIAL EVENTS
Rec Sports offers a variety of unique recreation/spore events throughout the year. There is something for everyone and activities include: REC Fest, Moonlight Mile, Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk, Night on the Slopes, Canoe Battleship & more. Try new activities, win prizes, meet new friends and have a blast with us.

EMPLOYMENT
The Recreational Sports Department employs over 200 students per year. It truly is a program for the students by the students. Positions available include lifeguards, group fitness instructors, intramural sports officials, building manages, competitive sports supervisors, customer service representatives, outdoor connection staff, climbing wall staff, fitness center supervisors, graphic designers, EZONE representatives and more.

Student Association and Student Government

2244 Student Union
608.785.8775
www.uwlax.edu/student-association

Chapter 36.09(5) of the Wisconsin State Statutes reads: "The students of each institution or campus shall have the right to organize themselves in a manner they determine and to select their representatives to participate in institutional governance." To exercise that right, the students have established the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Student Association (UW-LSA). Each student enrolled at UWL is a member of the UW-LSA. The student government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative (Student Senate), and judicial. The executive and legislative branches are elected by the members of the UW-LSA each year. The judicial branch is appointed by the executive branch and approved by the legislative branch. The Student Association seeks to provide a student voice by advocating for student rights and responsibilities, fostering leadership, communicating student issues, and demonstrating respect for diversity in their actions.

Student-Faculty Committees

The Academic Initiatives Differential Allocation Committee (AIDAC) is responsible for the annual distribution of academic initiatives differential tuition money to programs which fall under one of four cornerstones: advising, research, internationalization and diversity. AIDAC is made up of students, faculty and staff members who must determine how to allocate the budget so as to be the best advocates of student money through program presentations and budget deliberations.

The Segregated University Fee Allocation Committee (SUFAC) recommends to the Student Senate the manner in which funds collected by the university for support of student activities are to be distributed among eligible organizations. The committee also allocates funds to eligible groups for equipment and supplies, reviews requests for the Sustainability Fund, and makes recommendations to the Student Senate.

The Legislative Affairs Committee is responsible for encouraging student participation in voting and other events and maintaining the by-laws of the various Student Senate committees.

The Student Organizations Committee is responsible for recommendations to the Student Senate for general policies concerning Recognized Student Organizations. The committee reviews new Recognized Student Organization requests, bylaw and name changes for existing Recognized Student Organizations, and grants for non-budgeted organizations. The committee is also responsible for choosing commencement speakers and reviewing requests for graduation regalia applications.

The Student Services and Buildings Committee recommends policy concerning services provided to students with regard to the Student Union, Recreational Eagle Center, Student Health Center, Campus Child Center, and Whitney Center. In addition, it is responsible for making recommendations to SUFAC for distribution of segregated fees for sport clubs, and student media.

The Marketing and Special Events Committee focuses on organizing and planning events sponsored by UW-LSA. With the help of the Executive Cabinet, the committee also aids in facilitating creative discussion on the best way for the group to positively impact the experience of UWL students.

Student Governance Associations

Student governance extends beyond the UWL Student Association on campus. The Fraternity and Sorority Life Community is governed by The Panhellenic Council and the Interfraternity Council. 

University Centers (UC)

3200 Student Union
608.785.8888
www.uwlax.edu/university-centers

University Centers is a financially self-sufficient part of the Division of Student Affairs, comprised of the Student Union and Whitney Center. The focus of the Student Union is on student involvement, development, leadership and services, while Whitney Center provides the main dining operations on campus. Our objective is to support the academic mission of the institution by providing a wide variety of engaging educational and cultural programs, while supporting students with a multitude of free or affordable services and amenities.

  • University Reservations and Audio Visual Lighting Support (AVLS) assists the university community by coordinating reservations, offering information for event planning, and serving as a liaison with university services. The Reservations Office offers equipment and assistance for events and meetings occurring in the Student Union. In addition, they can assist with reserving classrooms (when classes are not scheduled), fundraisers, and outdoor events. Event Support consists of experienced technicians and event planners who help Recognized Student Organizations develop and produce events of all sizes.
  • Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student-run programming board that provides cultural, educational, and entertaining activities for the entire campus community. Events such as small and large concerts, comedians, craft nights, bingo, game nights, and special events are offered. CAB events are open to all students. 
  • Dining Services offers 12 different dining locations within the Student Union and Whitney Centers to meet the variety of needs and tastes of the campus community. Students may select from several contract dining plans, block meal plans, and cash/Campus Cash options. Students looking for a light snack or beverage between classes can visit the coffee shop located in Centennial Hall, which features a variety of sandwiches and pastries. Murphy's Mug in the library also serves a great cup of coffee, along with sandwiches and pastries.
  • Eagle ID/Dining Plan Office is located in the Student Union, on first floor, room 1131. Students can get help with their Eagle ID card, dining plans, or Campus Cash. It is also the place to have your Eagle ID card picture taken. Your Eagle ID may be used as an official ID document when voting in Wisconsin. Please be sure to sign the back of the card if intending to use it for this purpose. The Eagle ID does not register you to vote. The ID card does not expire while the student is actively enrolled.
  • Center for Organizations, Vision, & Engagement (The COVE) is the student organization suite located in 2200 Student Union. The COVE is a space for all student organizations to come together to share ideas, collaborate, and find resources specifically for student organizations. It physically houses: Campus Activities Board, COVE Graphics Garage, Leadership & Involvement Center, Green Fund, Fraternity and Sorority Life, designated Multicultural Student Organizations, the Pride Center, Student Association, Racquet Press, and UWL Votes. The "front porches" in each of the spaces are an extension of the organization's office space, giving students the opportunity to interact with others in a relaxed setting. Although some porches are open for any student to sit in, students are asked to respect these spaces and be mindful that organizations use this space for meetings and gatherings. Public computers and workspaces, two conference rooms, as well as a variety of graphics supplies are available for use within the COVE.​ The two student-staffed groups that operate out of the COVE are:
    • COVE Graphics Garage provides graphic design and printing services to all UWL students and staff. COVE Graphics Garage can help with all your printing needs including custom stickers, lamination, print flyers, and print up to 24x34 posters.

    • Leadership & Involvement Center offers a variety of leadership, involvement, and service opportunities for students, including support of the Ugetconnected volunteer portal. 

  • Ugetconnected matches prospective volunteers with service opportunities that fit their interests, skills, and availability. Ugetconnected is a collaboration between Great Rivers United Way, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Viterbo University, Western Technical College, and more than 200 community agencies. Ugetconnected is a tool for UWL students to use and get involved in the community. It also produces a volunteer resume with room for site leaders to write references and recommend you for other volunteer opportunities. Login to the site with your net ID and password.
  • MyOrgs Student Organization database provides resources regarding information on starting a new Recognized Student Organization, campus publicity guidelines, flyers & posters on campus, cash box forms, fundraising registration forms, event funding assistance requests, and t-shirts, apparel & swag artwork approval forms (t-shirt/apparel printing approvals).
  • Fraternity and Sorority Life Community (FSL) is rooted in the four pillars of: leadership, scholarship, friendship, and service. These are the core, shared values that all of the social fraternities and sororities have in common. Members of the community engage in a variety of different areas of campus and community development including individual philanthropic partnerships, participation in leadership conferences at the local and national level, community service and outreach endeavors, and academic development opportunities. The goal of the FSL community is to empower students to reach their fullest potential by living the values of their organization every day.
  • The Pride Center provides education, advocacy, support, outreach, and resources to UW-La Crosse LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and their allies. We work collaboratively to improve the campus climate and to foster a sense of belonging for all LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and allies.
  • The UWL Food Pantry is housed in The COVE and is a free service provided to all faculty, staff, and students. Interested users should visit MyOrgs to register for access to the pantry or complete the Campus Food Pantry Access Request online.

Theatre and dance activities

608.785.6701
Box Office: 608.785.6696
www.uwlax.edu/academics/department/theatre-and-dance

The Department of Theatre and Dance produces a theatre season of six-seven shows in the 418-seat Toland Theatre and in the more intimate Frederick Theatre. The season is a thoughtful mix of contemporary plays, classics, musicals, dance productions, theatre for young audiences, and cutting-edge new works. Tickets for all Toland and Frederick Theatre productions may be purchased in advance online beginning October 1st each year. They can also be purchased in person or by phone during regular box office hours.

Any UWL student registered for at least three credits is eligible to audition and be cast in productions. The same applies to any student wanting to work backstage or in various capacities of the production team. Whether or not you are experienced in theatre, your participation is welcomed. Students work both with faculty and guest directors, designers, and choreographers on a wide variety of theatrical offerings. Opportunities to become involved are announced across campus, or you can contact the Department of Theatre and Dance for more information.