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Photo gallery Governor announces UW plans; lieutenant governor visits campus to promote them

February 16, 2022 By Greg Bump

Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes visited UW–Stevens Point and UW–Madison Wednesday to talk about proposals for higher education that Gov. Tony Evers announced in his State of the State address Tuesday night.

In Madison, Barnes met with student leaders at the Memorial Union. He was joined by Rep. Francesca Hong, whose district includes much of the UW–Madison campus, as well as Dean of Students Christina Olstad and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Executive Director of University Health Services Jake Baggott.

In the State of the State speech, Evers detailed his plan to provide $25 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to the UW System to fund the freeze on in-state undergraduate tuition, which was initially implemented in 2013. He also announced the allocation of $5 million to System to provide mental health services through telehealth counseling and additional mental health support staff on campuses.

Barnes and Olstad’s conversation with students was focused on state support for public higher education, higher education affordability and access, student experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, and resources to support students. Barnes also toured the Red Gym, with stops at the Multicultural Student Center and cultural centers.

People sitting around a conference table

A group of UW–Madison students, along with Dean of Students Christina Olstad and Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director of University Health Services Jake Baggott, talk with Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and 76th Assembly District Rep. Francesca Hong. Photo by: Bryce Richter

Barnes sitting at a table listening to a student

Barnes listens to comments by UW–Madison student Tyler Katzenberger. Photo by: Bryce Richter

Baggott gesturing while Olstad looks at him

Jake Baggott participates in the conversation alongside Christina Olstad. Photo by: Bryce Richter

Hong seated across from a student

Rep. Francesca Hong participates in the discussion. Photo by: Bryce Richter

Barnes talking with a student

Lt. Gov. Barnes talks with UW–Madison student MGR Govindarajan following the meeting. Photo by: Bryce Richter

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