Farm and Industry Short Course Reunion set for Jan. 28

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course, Wisconsin's longest-running agricultural education program, invites alumni and friends to help celebrate its 127th anniversary at its annual reunion on Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Coliseum Bar and Banquet.

The event begins with an 11:30 a.m. social hour followed by luncheon at 12:15 p.m. and a post-reunion social hour with complimentary refreshments. Polka music will be provided by Bob Kauffman and the Ambassadors. There will also be an appearance by members of the UW Marching Band and Bucky Badger.

The program will include presentation of the Service to Agriculture Award and the Friend of Short Course Award along with a live auction of former CALS resident artist Byron Jorns' reprinted artwork to benefit student scholarships. Larry Meiller, Emeritus Professor in the Department of Life Science Communication will serve as emcee.

Special recognition will be given to the classes of 2002, 1992 and 1982, and to all alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. A variety of door prizes will be given out.

Alumni and friends can sign up for the reunion online at http://fisc.cals.wisc.edu/alumni/. Tickets cost $18 ($16 for current students) for those who register by Jan. 20 or $25 at the door (check or credit card only).

The Coliseum Bar and Banquet is located near the Alliant Energy Center at 232 Olin Avenue in Madison.

"This is a great opportunity to renew old friendships and network with peers and other alumni. It helps people stay connected and informed about the changes taking place with the short course program," says Ted Halbach, Farm and Industry Short Course director.

The short course was established on the Madison campus in 1885, predating the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences by four years. The first session ran for 12 weeks and was taught by four professors. Today's program runs 17 weeks with dozens of instructors teaching more than 55 courses.

For more information contact FISC at 608-263-3918 or email: fisc@cals.wisc.edu.