The Fine Art of Conversation

The Wisconsin Exchange encourages civil dialogue on campus and beyond. Bryce Richter

We need to talk.

And not just small talk. I’m referring to the possibility of real communication, no matter our differences. That’s the goal of the Wisconsin Exchange, a new UW initiative that encourages civil dialogue on campus and beyond. Read “The Case for Constructive Conversation” to see why the university considers this goal a top priority.

At a time when higher education faces significant challenges, our Spring issue also explores UW–Madison’s contributions to the world. UW researchers are laser-focused on practical innovations: boosting national security, protecting against severe weather, and improving health outcomes. Alumni such as wildlife ecologist Matthew Becker ’96 and physician Sarah Spelsberg ’95 are making a difference around the globe.

Of course, there’s more to the UW–Madison experience than labs and classrooms. Take a stroll up State Street to remember good times on one of the country’s most vibrant campus corridors. Learn about UW traditions that have faded away, including an etiquette guidebook, mascot kidnappings, and Venetian Night. Meet UW basketball phenom John Blackwell x’27 and tour LaBahn Arena, home of the indomitable women’s hockey team.

We’re hopeful that the Wisconsin Exchange will get all of us talking in a productive way. We also hope On Wisconsin’s Spring issue plays a part by giving our UW community a range of interesting things to talk about.

Published in the Spring 2026 issue