Originally published Sept. 6, 2008
By Susan Lampert Smith
On a great day for Badger football, let's pause to give thanks to the department that educates so many of our athletes. Yes, I'm talking about my home department, formerly known as Ag Journalism and now, Life Sciences Communications.
If you were at the game, you saw many of our students. In the writing class I teach, I've had quarterback Allan Evridge, fullback and co-captain Chris Pressley, co-captain and All-Big Ten lineman Kraig Urbik, as well as cornerback Alan Langford, and a host of others. I've had a lot of band members, too, including current trumpet rank leader Sara Schoenborn.
But why so many athletes? One theory is that it started when professor (and popular Wisconsin Public Radio host) Larry Meiller was on the athletic board, and the coaches started sending their players to him for guidance. Over the years, I've had students who are now in the NBA and NFL, as well as many more working for agricultural businesses around the country.
Life Sciences Communications is also celebrating its 100th anniversary this weekend. It began in Hiram Smith Hall as the department of agricultural journalism, but changes its name in recent years to reflect the growing influence of the life sciences (such as genetics and biochemistry) in the college. This year, the department moved from its long-time home on Henry Mall to the newly renovated HIram Smith (which still retains vestiges of its years as the cheesemaking school).
Some prominent Life Sciences Communications graduates include Abdul Khan, assistant director general for communication at UNESCO, and Dennis Dimick, executive editor of National Geographic. And, of course, your humble blogger.
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