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 29 members across disciplines ranging from physical to social sciences and the humanities.
Rada Endowed Fellowships in River Studies
Ron and Jane Rada
A $1.3 million gift from Ron and Jane Rada established two permanent fellowships for the director and associate director of UWL’s River Studies Center. The Rada Endowed Fellowships in River Studies provide critical funding to support faculty time, research and outreach tied to the Upper Mississippi River and its ecosystems. The first Rada Endowed Fellowships in River Studies were awarded in summer 2025.
Ron Rada, a longtime UWL faculty member and administrator who led the River Studies Center from 1979 to 1997, says the impact will be felt beyond the sciences. “With all that expansion and activity, the center’s visibility and relevance have increased,” Ron says. “It’s in recognition of this long, rich history and exceptional reputation that we make this gift. Our vision is that the center will use the endowed fellowships to enhance its reputation for excellence by building upon the multidisciplinary base of freshwater knowledge and education, and by further extending its influence beyond the whole of academia, ultimately informing, educating and inspiring individuals of all ages in the community and beyond.” View this Campus Connection article for more information about the Rada Endowed Fellowships in River Studies.
Research Vessel Prairie Springs
Christening of R/V Prairie Springs by Carolyn Scott
R/V Prairie Springs is a 32-foot research vessel designed to prepare the next generation of freshwater professionals. R/V Prairie Springs was acquired in 2023 through a generous gift from Prairie Springs: The Paul Fleckenstein Trust. Trustees Carolyn Fleckenstein Scott and her husband, Jay Scott, funded the vessel’s construction in memory of Carolyn’s brother, Paul, who was a powerful proponent of environmental education and conservation. Paul had a boat of his own, which he called Nereus, the personification of the sea in Greek mythology. When Carolyn and Jay sold the boat following Paul’s death, they hoped to use those funds to support a new vessel for students and faculty who share Paul’s passion. Photographs and specifications of R/V Prairie Springs can be viewed on the RSC Research Vessels page.
Past directors
Thomas Claflin (Founding Director)
Ronald Rada
Robin Tyser
Mark Sandheinrich
Roger Haro