Alumni & Foundation
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UW-Stout Foundation & Alumni Association
Portrait of Nikki Smith against a pink background as hands around her display necklaces and earrings from her jewelry collection.

#StoutProud: Nikki Smith ('10)

With 100,000+ orders, three stores and 35+ employees, Nikki Smith ’10 built a jewelry brand that creates opportunities and inspires confidence nationwide.
A person stands beside a large interactive "Bitty City Fire & Rescue" play structure at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire. The fire truck-themed display features hoses, gauges, lights and firefighting equipment.

#StoutProud: Bob Fuller ('67, '68)

Bob Fuller ('67, '68) turns creativity into hands-on learning, inspiring thousands of children through interactive museum exhibits each year.
Portrait of a person wearing a blue sweater seated indoors.

#StoutProud: Cindy Pawlcyn ('77)

James Beard Award-winning chef Cindy Pawlcyn '77 helped redefine American dining through innovation, leadership and a people-first approach.
Michael Hilliger poses with costumed characters from Yo Gabba GabbaLand! in front of a promotional display featuring flowers and a colorful backdrop.

#StoutProud: Michael Hilliger ('22)

Michael Hilliger ’22 is making his mark on the entertainment industry, leading animation teams and contributing to projects seen by millions worldwide.
Person smiling in front of the Colosseum in Rome on a sunny day with visitors and greenery in the background.

#StoutProud Impact: Grace ('27)

Philanthropic support at UW-Stout Polytechnic has helped Grace thrive as a a designer, leader and athlete in the classroom and on the national stage.
Two older adults seated at a restaurant table, smiling at the camera, with a turquoise wall and “Green Tree” sign behind them.

#StoutProud: Chuck Appeldoorn ('78)

Alumnus Chuck Appeldoorn turned early business lessons into a career spanning cable, hospitality and brewing that support jobs and community growth.