Skip Navigation
Line art of the Lake Mendota Statue of Liberty

Forward Award Recognition

Celebrate Alumni Who Move the World Forward

You are invited to honor the accomplishments and contributions of six outstanding alumni. Please attend this forward-focused event recognizing individuals who represent the best of the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Join Us for an Inspiring Evening

The Forward Award Recognition event honors the service, discovery, and progress of alumni. It’s an opportunity to hear firsthand from the recipients, who have made an impact in their professions and communities, and on their alma mater. Then, enjoy mingling with the awardees and fellow Badgers during a reception featuring complimentary appetizers and beverages.

There’s no cost to attend but registration is required. RSVP by Thursday, Sept. 24.

2026 Forward Award winners. Left to right: Ryan Clarke ’14, Derek Ho ’18, MS’21, PhD’24, Katy Jinkins MS’17, PhD’20, Dakota Kaiser ’11,Jessica Lyga ’14, Patricia Paskov ’15

Forward Award Recipients 2026

Schedule of Events

5 p.m. Check-in and Welcome Reception
5:30 p.m. Opening Remarks by Erin Ryan ’07, MS’09 Vice Chair of the Wisconsin Alumni Advisory Council
5:45 p.m. Presentation of Awards with Sarah Schutt, Chief Alumni Officer and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Alumni Association
6:15 p.m. Reception Begins
7 p.m. Event Concludes

Parking

There are numerous campus parking ramps near Memorial Union. The closest is Lot 6, the Helen C. White Garage, located across the street from Memorial Union at 600 N. Park Street. Lot 46, at the corner of Lake Street and Johnson Street, is also a good option, as is the State Street Campus Garage at 430 N. Frances Street. Visit the UW’s “Visitor Parking” page for more information, parking maps, locations, and hours.

October 1, 2026
WHEN
October 1, 2026
5-7 p.m.
WHERE
Memorial Union, Great Hall
800 Langdon Street
Madison, WI
View Map and Venue Details
COST
Free to attend
Memorial Union, Great Hall
800 Langdon Street
Madison, WI
October 1, 2026
WHEN
October 1, 2026
5-7 p.m.
WHERE
Memorial Union, Great Hall
800 Langdon Street
Madison, WI
View Map and Venue Details
COST
Free to attend

Upcoming Events

Due to campus cooling issues, Below Alumni Center and One Alumni Place (650 N. Lake) are temporarily closed, and member boat rides are temporarily suspended until further notice. Visit alerts.wisc.edu for details.