Support Wisconsin's Polytechnic University
Wisconsin’s state budget process is in progress, and UW-Stout needs your support. Contact your elected officials and members of the Joint Finance Committee and encourage their support for Stout’s Recreation Complex Renovation Project and other critical priorities.
UW-Stout's #1 Capital Priority
UW-Stout's $31.7M Recreation Complex Renovation Project provides essential updates to a 60-year-old building. The university is seeking bonding authority in the 2025-27 capital budget. Due to the strong and continued student support, the project will be funded through student-approved fees and without the use of taxpayer dollars. The university received a record $5M gift that will create a new welcome and community space. The renovated Recreation Complex will benefit students, athletes, industry partners, and the community.
Why Your Support Is Critical to UW-Stout
- In 2025, Wisconsin fell to 44th out of 50 states in public funding of four-year universities—falling another spot behind from 2024.
- The lack of investment jeopardizes Wisconsin’s economic vitality. The Universities of Wisconsin (UWs) current budget proposal returns UWs to the middle nationally in funding.
- In comparison to other polytechnic universities,
- Michigan Tech receives 73% more state support
- Utah Tech receives 88% more state support
- Cal Poly receives 204% more state support
- In comparison to other polytechnic universities,
- An “up-to-the-middle” budget, would allow the UW-Stout to invest in:
- Retaining & Developing Talent: With 99% of classes taught by industry-experienced instructors, Stout directly competes with industry for its teaching talent and would need an additional $1.99M to be competitive.
- Affordability: One of only two public Wisconsin universities recognized for affordability and student outcomes on Money Magazine’s “Best Public Colleges for 2024-2025,” UW-Stout offers the state’s best-value applied education. The only UW laptop+ campus, Stout ensures the increasing costs of technology aren’t a barrier to success by providing students with a laptop, industry-standard software, digital course materials, and more in the cost of tuition.
How You Can Help
1. Learn More About the Importance of Investing in UW-Stout in the 2025-27 Budget and Supporting the UW-Stout Recreation Complex Renovation
- Familiarize Yourself with the Recreation Complex Renovation Project
- Learn Why Investment Matters to UW-Stout
2. Identify Your Elected Officials
Use the State of Wisconsin's website to identify your state representative. You can also advocate with members of the Joint Committee on Finance.
3. Send an Email of Support to Your Legislator or Call Their Office
The Joint Finance Committee could meet in the coming days, so it's critical that you show your support as quickly as possible. We've drafted a sample message for you to personalize and send to representatives by email or use for a phone conversation with your legislator or their staff.