History
A page within River Studies Center
Our history
Tom Claflin said, “just because we are at a small, comprehensive university, that doesn’t mean that we can’t do great things.”
Professors Claflin and Ron Rada proceeded with the mindset of “being open to the possibilities and pushing the envelope as to what the Center could be.” In the early 1970s when Claflin wanted to establish a River Studies Center at UW-La Crosse, it was stated that “centers” could only be created at UW-Madison. Claflin took the creative approach of establishing the “River Studies Research Group” instead, and it operated under that moniker for a few years. In the mid- 1970s, restrictions were relaxed about where centers could be formed, and we are now celebrating over 50 years of existence! Today, the River Studies Center constitutes the collaborative efforts of 27 members across disciplines ranging from physical to social sciences and the humanities.
Past directors
Thomas Claflin (Founding Director)
Ronald Rada
Robin Tyser
Mark Sandheinrich
Roger Haro