- Cultural issues symposium helps white community understand the education and service needs of Native Americans
A gathering of almost 200 persons from across Wisconsin provided a forum for Native Americans and the University of Wisconsin-Superior Center for Continuing Education/Extension to explore and debate issues surrounding racial and cultural sensitivity, to identify divergent views, and to provide guidance in meeting some of the educational and cultural needs of the six Ojibwe tribes in the Superior area. Through discussion and circulation of symposium proceedings, secondary teachers developed new curriculum and Native American educational programs, UW-Superior improved its outreach and admissions policies, social-services agencies identified Native Americans in need of assistance, and several participants increased their advocacy for Native American people within the community and on community boards and agencies.
- Leadership program has personal and community impact in Superior and Douglas County
When citizens get involved, raise their awareness of local issues, and sharpen their leadership skills, their communities reap the rewards. To increase civic participation in the Superior area, UW-Superior's Center for Continuing Education/Extension teamed with the Superior/Douglas County Chamber of Commerce and the Development Association to design a leadership program for local achievers. Since 1992, more than 400 area residents have taken part in the 10-month course. They credit the program with improving their ability to work with others, increasing their community involvement, and expanding their knowledge of the community and of change-making.
- Nonprofit Administration Certificate Program provides needed leadership training in Northern Wisconsin
UW-Superior''s Nonprofit Administration Certificate Program helps nonprofit workers improve their job performance and expand their career opportunities, according to program graduates. The curriculum, designed expressly for directors, staff, and volunteers of nonprofit and governmental agencies, offers participants a well-rounded foundation in the skills and needs unique to their organizations. By 2006, 89 participants had received certification through the university’s Center for Continuing Education/Extension.
- Small Business Development Center state network counseling services retain and develop Wisconsin’s businesses
The UW-Extension Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network provides one-to-one business counseling to help entrepreneurs and established businesses become more profitable, retain jobs and better compete in today's global market. Businesses receiving SBDC counseling increased sales by $113 million incrementally, created 1452 new jobs and retained 601. These businesses generated $ 4.6 million in state tax revenues, and obtained $1.7 million in financing, according to a recent survey.
- Superior Days uses grass roots approach to community development
Spurred by economic stress, Douglas County residents took their concerns directly to the state Legislature in 1986, launching Superior Days under UW-Extension guidance. For 20 years, this model of participatory democracy has fledged community partnerships working toward common goals. Now, 8 neighboring counties enjoy safer highways, greater access to health care, and up-to-date infrastructure supporting education, aquatic research and commerce.
- Training partnership improves youth and family services in Superior community
Northwood Children's Services in northern Wisconsin is a national leader in training social services providers and educators who work with youth in need of special services. By teaming up with UW-Superior's Center for Continuing Education/Extension, they've provided university level training for 68 persons, resulting in a more qualified and competent workforce that is more responsive to the special needs of youth in the social services system. The Youth and Family Services Certificate program gives professionals comprehensive knowledge and skills to use when working with children and their families. Participants have been able to use the information in their jobs, some have made changes in policy or decision-making, and many have received increased responsibilities or promotions as a result of their training.
