University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point
Logo of the | |
School type | Public (Assisted) |
Founded | 1894 |
Location | Stevens Point, Wisconsin |
Campus size | 400 acre (1.6 km²) |
Enrollment | 8,700 students. |
Faculty | Over 400 |
Campus surroundings | Small town |
Sports teams | Pointers |
Mascot | Stevie and Stephanie Pointer |
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) is one of fifteen institutions in the University of Wisconsin System and grants baccalaureate and master's degrees. The campus is located in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.
History
UWSP opened its doors in 1894 as Stevens Point Normal School after securing land and funding from the city of Stevens Point and the county. In addition to teacher preparation, "domestic science" (home economics) and conservation education were offered; the latter formed the basis for the College of Natural Resources, nationally recognized for undergraduate and graduate training in natural resources.
In 1927 Stevens Point Normal School became Central State Teachers College and began offering four-year teaching degrees. When post-World War II enrollment became less centered on teacher training and more focused on liberal arts education, the Wisconsin State Legislature intervened, elevating the school to a Wisconsin State College with the authority to grant bachelor's degrees in liberal arts.
Ever larger numbers of students in the 1950s and 1960s led to construction on campus throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. It was during this period, in 1964, that the college became a Wisconsin State University and began offering graduate degrees. Again in the 1970s the school's name changed from WSU-SP to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point after the two state university systems merged.
Besides teacher education and natural resources, UWSP is known for radio station WWSP's trivia contest, held annually since 1969.
Notable alumni
- Mel Laird, U.S. Secretary of Defense
- Lawrence Eagleburger, U.S. Secretary of State (attended)
External Links
Former UWSP Coaches, Faculty Members, Athletes, & Students