About

Welcome to UWM Government Relations

The Office of Government Relations at UWM builds strong relationships. We connect with local, state and federal elected officials, policymakers and government agencies. These relationships help advance UWM’s mission. They also build support for the university and help make sure UWM’s voice is part of conversations shaping Wisconsin’s future.

UWM is one of Wisconsin’s premier public research universities. We drive opportunity, innovation and economic growth. We give students access to a high-quality education. We also conduct research and work with communities. Together, this helps address some of the biggest challenges facing our state and region.

UWM’s Impact is Wisconsin’s Impact

More than 80% of UWM students are from Wisconsin. Most of them stay in the state after graduation. This strengthens Wisconsin’s workforce, communities and economy. UWM graduates more than 5,000 students each year. This helps meet the region’s workforce needs at a time when Milwaukee faces a shortage. About two-thirds of jobs need education or training beyond high school. UWM plays a key role in preparing the talent Wisconsin needs to compete and thrive.

UWM is a university of opportunity and access. About 32% of our students are students of color. UWM is also home to Wisconsin’s largest populations of veteran students and first-generation college students. UWM stands out in Wisconsin. We combine access, student success and high-impact research. This makes our whole university community proud.

Be an Advocate for UWM

Every member of the UWM community can help. This includes alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends. You can share UWM’s story. You can also advocate for Wisconsin’s future. Do this through informed, nonpartisan engagement in the legislative process.

Your voice matters. Share UWM’s accomplishments, expertise and impact with elected officials and community leaders. This shows the wide support for Milwaukee’s largest university. It also shows UWM’s contributions to the state.

We invite you to learn more, stay informed and share the UWM story. This website offers resources to help understand issues affecting UWM and higher education. It will also help you appropriately take part in the legislative process.

A Note About Political Activity

UWM is committed to nonpartisan engagement and advocacy. University resources cannot be used for political campaign activity or other partisan purposes. This includes UWM email accounts, facilities, equipment and other resources.

Employees may take part in partisan political activities on their own time. But they must not use university resources to do so. They also must not suggest that UWM supports a specific candidate, political party or campaign.

Thank you for supporting UWM and helping tell the story of how our university strengthens Wisconsin.