A picture’s worth a thousand words: Human Ecology in 2025

The School of Human Ecology had a year full of activity as an unstoppable force for human well-being and thriving. Throughout 2025, faculty, staff and students advanced the school’s mission through transformative research and exceptional …

Pursuing a love of American art and material culture: Meet Natalie Wright

Written by Nicole Etter During her time as a Design Studies doctoral student at University of Wisconsin–Madison, Natalie Wright has developed a remarkable resume as an emerging scholar in material culture. Wright worked as a …

Researcher Spotlights: Sarah Anne Carter on what everyday objects can teach us about the world — and ourselves

Researcher Spotlights are Q&As that shine a light on School of Human Ecology faculty members’ unique scholarship and research interests. Sarah Anne Carter is the Chipstone Foundation Design and Material Culture Chair, an associate professor …

Luxury brand consultants: Students use coursework to propose innovative market plan

Story by Kaitlynn Steinman and Sofia More x’26, UW–Madison student studying Community Organization and Development Develop a brand pitch and go-to-market plan for a luxury brand. That was the opportunity presented to four Human Ecology …

Center for Design and Material Culture announces new name and celebrates new possibilities for creativity, learning and research

It’s the start of a new chapter for the School of Human Ecology’s Center for Design and Material Culture as it introduces a new name and celebrates the expanded learning opportunities made possible by a …

Faculty members receive promotions and named appointments

Human ecologists who recently received promotions and named appointments will return to campus this fall with added distinction. Marianne Fairbanks has been promoted to professor, and Megan Doherty Bea and Kasey Keeler have been promoted …

Celebrating Fall Research Competition recipients as 2024 application opens

The Fall Research Competition, offered by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, is a chance for UW–Madison faculty members to receive vital funding support for research projects. Applications for the 2024 competition are …

One-of-a-kind experience: Students revitalize iconic heritage brand through consulting project

Story by Sofia More x’26, UW–Madison student studying Community & Organizational Development. Four School of Human Ecology students had an unprecedented learning opportunity: Teaming up with Lands’ End to help revitalize its heritage brand Willis …