Ever wonder what it’s like to be Bucky Badger? Step inside the world of UW–Madison’s beloved mascot at Wisconsin Idea Spotlight: Becoming Bucky in Minneapolis. Kick off the evening with a spirited reception, where you can connect with fellow alumni, Badger fans, and past Buckys. Then, settle in for the featured program: a special screening of Bucky!, a PBS Wisconsin documentary that brings the mascot’s adventures, antics, and traditions to life on the big screen.
After the film, stay for a lively panel discussion featuring UW–Madison’s associate dean for collections David Pavelich ’98, MA’04 and former Buckys Devin Deegan ’19, MS’20, Blake Johnson ’08, and Taylor Shuster ’15, who will share firsthand stories from their time in the iconic striped suit and what it’s really like to embody Bucky.
Be sure to wear your Badger Red because it will also be Day of the Badger!
This is a free event, but registration is required.
Schedule
| 5:30–6:15 p.m. | Check-in and reception with refreshments |
| 6:15–7:45 p.m. | Welcome and Bucky! screening |
| 7:45–8:15 p.m. | Panel discussion and Q & A |
About the Speakers
David Pavelich ’98, MA’04 has been with the University of Wisconsin-Madison since 2016, first as the director of Special Collections and Archives, and now as associate dean for collections. In this role, David provides leadership for library collections as well as nine departments and functional areas: the Department of Special Collections (rare books and manuscripts), Archives and Records Management, Kohler Art Library, Mills Music Library, Collections Strategy, the Office of the Gender and Women’s Studies Librarian, Shelving and Storage, Preservation, and Cataloging. He works broadly across disciplines while the areas under his leadership have a significant focus on the humanities and the arts. He works to ensure that our collections meet the needs of our users and that our services are responsive, expert, and inclusive.
Devin Deegan ’19, MS’20 was a member of the Bucky Badger team from 2016 to 2019. Some of his favorite Bucky memories include roaming Times Square for the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, sharing the stage with Mike Leckrone at his final Varsity Band Concert, and throwing down on wedding dance floors throughout Wisconsin.
Blake Johnson ’08 served as Bucky Badger from 2006 to 2008. During his time on the Bucky team, he enjoyed countless memorable game days and appearances, with highlights including developing the on-ice headstand as “Ice Bucky,” narrowly missing a national mascot championship, and building lifelong friendships with his fellow Buckys while bringing joy and excitement to fans across Wisconsin and beyond.
Originally from Baraboo, Wisconsin, Taylor Shuster ’15 attended the UW from 2011 to 2015. While in Madison, he was selected as one of the members of the Bucky team from 2013 to 2015, which ultimately turned his life upside-down. As part of the mascot “furternity,” he had the opportunity to further his love of the UW and Wisconsin pride while performing as Bucky at hundreds of events across the state and country. Notable events include the Women’s NCAA National Championship Volleyball game, Jack Links TV commercials, the Outback Bowl, Big Ten 10K, Mascot Nationals in Orlando, and countless others.
Parking
Guests attending events at the venue have the following parking options:
- Street Parking: Available along N Washington Avenue.
- North House Lot: A small parking lot is located behind North House, accessible via 2nd Street.
- Nordic Parking Ramp: Located at 728 3rd Street, this ramp offers additional parking capacity.
