As a teacher, philanthropist, and advocate, Tashia Morgridge ’55 lived out her belief in the transformational power of education. She showed that commitment in her connections with the University of Wisconsin–Madison. With her husband, John, she gave some of the largest and most far-reaching gifts in the university’s history. But she also offered her time, wisdom, and experience, and she touched many lives. If you’d like to join this tribute page, please share your thoughts.
“Tashia brought strength, grace, warmth, and inspirational humility to all of us who had the privilege of knowing her. It is impossible to overstate the impact she — in deep partnership with her husband, John — had on the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She will be greatly missed. On behalf of our entire community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to John, their children, family, and friends.”
Eric M. Wilcots, Interim Chancellor, UW–Madison
“Tashia Morgridge leaves an extraordinary legacy in Wisconsin, one built on a profound belief in the power of education to change lives. I know I speak for the presidents who came before me, and for colleagues across the Universities of Wisconsin, in expressing our deep gratitude for the remarkable generosity, encouragement, and commitment Tashia and John have shown our universities and our students over many years. Their support has opened doors of opportunity for countless people across our state. Tashia made Wisconsin better, and we will miss her greatly.”
Renée Wachter, Interim President, Universities of Wisconsin
“Tashia Morgridge embodied the very best of what it means to be a Wisconsin graduate: taking what you have learned and achieved and using it to create opportunity for others. Through their extraordinary generosity, Tashia and her husband, John, have changed lives, strengthened public higher education, and demonstrated a deep and lasting commitment to Wisconsin. On behalf of the Board of Regents, I extend our deepest sympathies to John and the entire Morgridge family, along with our profound gratitude for Tashia’s remarkable legacy.”
Kyle Weatherly ’04, MPA’06, President, Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents
“Tashia was a true visionary, with an inherent ability to see the potential of everything she supported. Her belief in people and focus on improving the lives of others was a true gift, transforming thousands of lives for the better.”
Alisa Robertson ’94, MBA’03, President and CEO, Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association
