The event will also showcase new murals by local artist and UW alumna Lilada Gee that are now visible throughout the space and an exhibit of photos of South Madison by photographer Hedi Rudd. Mark Espanol, current Odyssey Project student and alumnus of Odyssey Beyond Bars, will DJ the celebration live.
“The relationship between UW–Madison and our surrounding community continues to grow and deepen,” says Brenda González, UW–Madison’s director of community relations, in a statement. “We’re excited to celebrate the South Madison Partnership’s bigger, better space and to finally welcome everyone inside to see what’s happening.”
There will be brief remarks at 4:30 p.m. given by UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin, followed by words from local community leaders including Madison Alder Sheri Carter, Dane County Judge Everett Mitchell, and poet Dr. Fabu Carter.
The UW South Madison Partnership opened in 2015 to connect UW–Madison with an area of the city whose residents historically have had less access to university programs and resources. It is currently home to several nonprofit organizations, including Madison365, and works with campus partners across eight schools and colleges, five divisions and two institutes, in addition to the Division of Extension.
UW South Madison Partnership Community Celebration will be held today, 4-7 p.m. at the SMP space at the Village on Park, 2238 S. Park St. For more information about the celebration, click here.