Campus Connection

Alumni from 1983 to 2012 to be recognized

The UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation is honoring five highly accomplished graduates from 1983 to 2012 with its top alumni awards for 2026. These individuals are being recognized for their distinguished service and outstanding careers.

The award recipients will return to campus Saturday, April 11, 2026, for the Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony. This event is open to the public, and all are welcome to join in celebrating these remarkable alumni and the pride of our UWL community.

Nominate deserving allumni

Nominate deserving alumniNominate deserving UWL alumni for the university’s Distinguished Alumni Awards. Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more about the awards and access the nomination form. The Foundation will contact nominees directly to invite them to submit application materials.

Maurice O. Graff Distinguished Alumni Award

Recognizes outstanding achievement of alumni who have brought honor and distinction to the university. Longtime administrator Maurice O. Graff instituted the honor in 1977.

Daniel Kraeger, ’83

• Medical director of Heartland Hospice-Central Wisconsin in Stevens Point
• Experienced sports medicine physician with a successful track record in healthcare
• Highly engaged community member who has led annual mission trips to Latin and South America.

Rada Distinguished Alumni Award

Recognizes alumni who have graduated within the last 20 years, achieved professional distinction and taken part in humanitarian activities. Professor Emeritus Ron Rada and his wife, Jane, created the award in 2002.

Sarah Arendt-Beyer, ’07 

• Marketing communications manager for Nortek Air Solutions, LLC
• Longtime program instructor for the UWL Small Business Development Center
• Rotarian with 10-plus years of experience with the Rotary Club of La Crosse Downtown.

Parker Distinguished Multicultural Alumni Award

Recognizes outstanding alumni who have contributed greatly to improve multiracial culture and understanding on campus and in their careers. Professor Emeritus James Parker initiated the award in 1997.

Tacara Lovings, ’12

• Executive director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI)
• Key contributor in the creation of an LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group at the DPI
• Strategic thinker who empowers teams and builds consensus around shared values and goals.

Burt and Norma Altman Teacher Education Award

Honors and recognizes outstanding educators and the significant contributions they make to children and communities. Professor Emeritus Burt Altman and his wife, Norma, longtime supporters of teacher education, created the award in 2015.

Amy Oliver, ’02, ’05 & ’08

• Principal of Hintgen Elementary School in La Crosse
• Former UWL adjunct faculty member
• Student-oriented leader who has partnered on community projects benefiting students and families.

Morgan Improving Lives Alumni Award

Recognizes a UWL undergraduate alumnus who has chosen a career in the local region dedicated to improving the lives of others. It was established in 2023 by Provost Betsy Morgan.

Elizabeth Evans (Beard), ’05

• Community impact director for Great Rivers United Way
• Nonprofit professional with 18-plus years of service to greater La Crosse
• Community leader engaged with organizations working to end homelessness and support mental health.