UW–Madison Welcomes New Badgers, Tackles Vandalism, Hosts Calf Care Conference, and Announces Tuition Hike and Admission Changes

Good afternoon, Badgers! It's Monday, September 22, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin has officially welcomed students, faculty, and staff to the new academic year. This fall, UW–Madison is proud to introduce nearly 10,000 new students, including 8,500 freshmen and 1,300 transfer students, along with 144 outstanding new faculty members. The Chancellor emphasized our shared commitment to curiosity, courage, and embracing new perspectives. On September 12, the UW–Madison Police Department began investigating significant vandalism that occurred during the early morning hours. Library Mall's Hagenah Fountain and Bascom Hall were defaced with red paint, and flyers were affixed to Bascom Hall. The university is actively working to clean and restore these areas and has stated that such criminal damage is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the UW–Madison Police Department. The 2025 Smart Calf Rearing Conference is making its U.S. debut from September 24 to 27 at the Memorial Union. Hosted by UW–Madison in collaboration with the University of Guelph, Förster-Technik, and Trouw Nutrition, this international conference will focus on the future of calf care, covering topics such as health, nutrition, physiology, and welfare. A special Producer Day on September 27 at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station will offer hands-on experiences for local dairy producers and calf raisers. Starting with students entering college in the fall of 2025, a new law guarantees admission to UW–Madison for Wisconsin high school students who graduate in the top 5% of their class. Other UW campuses will admit students in the top 10%. This initiative aims to retain top talent within the state and strengthen Wisconsin's workforce. The Board of Regents has unanimously approved a 3.75% increase in in-state tuition for the upcoming school year. Including fee increases, the overall average spike in tuition and fees will be 4.4%. This marks the second consecutive year of tuition hikes following the end of a decade-long freeze. The increase is expected to generate approximately $39 million annually to address rising costs. That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and as always, On, Wisconsin!