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Marketing and University Communication UW-Green Bay, CL 815 2420 Nicolet Drive Green Bay, WI 54311-7001 (920) 465-2626 E-mail: hildebrs@uwgb.edu Last update: 9/26/07 |
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In
the News Archive - Year:
April 7, 2007 Institute for Learning Partnership takes control of UWGB youth program to continue even if Shepard takes new job By Kelly McBride
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay's Institute for Learning Partnership is taking over administrative responsibilities for Phuture Phoenix, a program that introduces kids from 19 area elementary schools to college life through tours and mentoring.
Program director Cyndie Shepard and her husband, UWGB chancellor Bruce Shepard, could be leaving after this academic year. Bruce Shepard is one of four finalists for the position of president at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo.
After co-founding and nurturing Phuture Phoenix, having to leave it wouldn't be easy, Cyndie Shepard said Friday. But having the program more firmly grounded in university operations will help to ensure its success, no matter what happens, she said.
"That was the whole point of it from the beginning," she said of the plan to align Phuture Phoenix with the Institute for Learning Partnership. "I really do want the university to feel comfortable with this program, and have it firmly ensconced in the education department. And we see that now."
More than 4,000 area fifth-graders from low-income schools have spent a day on campus since the program's inception, said co-founder Ginny Riopelle. And Phuture Phoenix continues to expand.
"We would obviously prefer that she stay, but the program will go on," Riopelle said.
Phuture Phoenix has been a sort of satellite program for the university, run by volunteers. Those individuals will continue to play an important role, Shepard said, but with a greater degree of collaboration.
The Shepards will visit the Western Michigan campus next week, and school officials expect to make their decision by mid-month.
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