From the moment Grace arrived on campus, she knew UW-Stout Polytechnic was a place where her passions could flourish and her future could take shape. Drawn by Stout’s polytechnic mission and renowned design programs, she found an environment where creativity, applied learning and real-world preparation come together.
“As a polytechnic university with strong design programs, I knew I could learn in a hands-on, creative environment,” Grace says. “At the same time, Stout’s Blue Devil Dance Team welcomed me into a space where I could continue performing and competing as a Division III athlete. Pursuing my passion for dance and my education together made Stout the right place for me.”
Grace’s journey reflects what is possible when a student enters a university intentionally built around academic innovation and student success. At UW-Stout Polytechnic, she found a campus committed to removing barriers to her education. Grace benefited from individualized student support that met her academic, personal and career goals. Committed faculty and strong industry collaborations ensured her coursework is relevant and connected to real‑world needs. Her experience has been strengthened by innovative living and learning spaces, a vibrant campus life and competitive athletics that foster belonging, engagement, leadership and school spirit.
Grace’s Stout journey expanded globally when she studied abroad in Florence, Italy at Accademia Italiana. Immersed in one of the world’s most influential fashion and art capitals, she deepened her understanding of design, craftsmanship and cultural perspective. Learning from international faculty, exploring historic studios and engaging with Florence’s creative community broadened her artistic voice and strengthened her confidence as a designer.
Philanthropic support shapes a university where students not only succeed but thrive and where journeys like Grace’s become both possible and powerful.
“Taking applied courses from my first semester, along with a study abroad experience helped confirm my interest and passion for a career in fashion design and development,” she says. “It pushed me to build not only technical skills but also problem-solving and design skills that will stay with me throughout my career.”
Her Stout experiences extend beyond the classroom. As an honors student, student-athlete and campus leader, balancing coursework, practices, work and creative projects takes focus and resilience.
The tremendous support Grace received from the UW-Stout Polytechnic community made that balance possible. “The support gave me the confidence to fully engage creatively, academically and athletically,” said Grace.
Grace’s leadership as a two‑season captain of the Blue Devil Dance Team has been shaped and strengthened through the support systems that define UW-Stout Polytechnic. She leads practices, performances and team‑building activities with intention, creating an environment where athletes feel supported and motivated to excel. Her growth as a leader reflects UW-Stout Polytechnic's commitment to developing the whole student, empowering individuals to excel academically, creatively and personally while carrying those strengths confidently into life beyond campus.
“After graduation I plan to continue my passion for dance by working as a designer in performance wear and costuming,” Grace says. “I love being able to blend my interests in fashion, movement and creativity into work that helps performers feel confident and expressive.”
Grace vividly recalls two #StoutProud moments that capture the depth of her Stout experience.
One came on a national stage when the Blue Devil Dance Team traveled to Florida to compete in the Universal Dance Association College Dance Nationals.
“Performing alongside athletes from across the nation was incredible,” she says. “I was so proud to represent UW-Stout Polytechnic.”
The other came in the design studio and on the runway. During the 2025 Fashion Without Fabric show, she and her partner earned first place for their creative and innovative work.
“Late nights in the studio and spare minutes between classes spent preparing for the show ended with us hand in hand on the stage, as #StoutProud as one can be,” she says.
Grace credits her success, not only to her own determination, but to a community of supporters who believe in students like her. In her words, “Thank you for believing in students like me. Your generosity gives us the confidence and support to pursue our passions and achieve our goals. While each of us has a unique path, we are united by the pride, community and opportunities that come with being a Blue Devil.”
Philanthropic gifts through the UW‑Stout Foundation and Alumni Association to the #StoutProud Fund provide critical resources for the university community. Your generosity removes barriers to a polytechnic education, fuels academic innovation and success, strengthens individualized student support, creates dynamic living and learning spaces and sustains a vibrant campus life.
Grace’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact a university can have when it is built to empower students to thrive and remove barriers to their success. Her growth as a leader, creator and emerging professional reflects what becomes possible when a community invests in students wholeheartedly. Your generosity ensures that Blue Devils like Grace can learn, lead, compete and thrive as they carry their skills, confidence and passion into the world beyond UW-Stout Polytechnic.
Your gift to UW-Stout Polytechnic provides opportunities for members of our #StoutProud community by removing financial barriers to a UW-Stout Polytechnic education, providing robust and individualized student support, advancing academic innovation and success, creating dynamic living and learning spaces while ensuring a vibrant campus community – the full Stout Experience. Through your philanthropic support you provide the necessary flexible funds to ensure UW-Stout Polytechnic thrives and continues to make positive impact on industry, in our communities and on society. Make your gift today.
