The Pre-College Enrichment Opportunity Program for Learning Excellence program was honored for its work in diversity efforts throughout Wisconsin by the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents at a meeting Friday.
The Regent Diversity Award, currently in its sixth year of service, acknowledges both people and groups within the system that strive to improve the awareness of populations that have been previously underrepresented.
The PEOPLE program, which is housed within the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Division of Diversity, Equity and Educational Achievement, is a scholarship program that targets low-income, disadvantaged K-12 students around Wisconsin, ensuring their opportunity of achieving higher education.
“This award is a testament to the excellence of our students and our staff, but it’s also a testament to the power of partnerships,” PEOPLE program executive director Jacqueline DeWalt said, citing the partnerships with UW-Madison, as well as local K-12 schools.
The program has grown significantly from the 66 participants it catered to in its inception in 1999, as it now serves over 1,300 students across Wisconsin, DeWalt said.
Regent José Vásquez stressed the importance of having the diversity award, even in a time where efforts have been made towards equality, saying there needs to still be recognition for those who look past judging based on skin color, accent and native country.
DeWalt extended a challenge to the regents to actively think about what their role is in closing the equity gap, using the words that she said had resonated with her upon coming to UW-Madison: “If not me, then who? If not now, then when?”
Director of UW-Madison Athletics Barry Alvarez also presented updates on the school’s program at the meeting. Alvarez noted the success of the competitive success of the athletic program, saying that in the 2012-’13 season, all but one sport participated in post season play.
The regents will convene next at their March meeting, where it will be the first assembly with Raymond Cross as UW System President.
