WC Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Plant and Earth Science Department has received the 2025 Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents Excellence in Teaching Award. This recognition is given to academic departments that show a strong commitment to teaching and learning. The award includes $7,500 for professional and program development.

According to the Regent selection committee, the department was recognized for its interdisciplinary and holistic curriculum, which emphasizes continuous learning for both faculty and students. The committee noted that this approach helps prepare students for careers in plant and earth science industries.

“The Plant and Earth Science Department is deeply committed to teaching excellence and fostering high impact experiences for students. I am proud to work with such a talented and committed team of faculty and staff,” said Holly Dolliver, professor of geology and soil science at UWRF and chair of the department.

The department offers majors in horticulture, crop and soil science, conservation, community and environmental planning, environmental science, and geology. It focuses on experiential learning by providing opportunities for students to engage in hands-on activities such as investigation, experimentation, problem-solving, and discovery. Partnerships with workforce organizations help ensure that graduates are prepared with relevant skills.

Facilities available to students include a campus that serves as a living laboratory with various natural environments—a river designated as an Outstanding Resource Water by the state, a 3-acre restoration demonstration area, two campus farms, 24 acres of registered school forest—as well as a greenhouse, analytical lab, and mineral/rock lab.

The department learned about the award in April. It was formally recognized during the university’s opening meeting on August 25.

More information about the Plant and Earth Science Department can be found at https://students.uwrf.edu/pes.