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Our History

The Student Parent Success Program, formerly known as the Life Impact Program, was established in 2005 as a collaborative effort between the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. These efforts resulted in a 6-year pilot program that provided scholarship and supportive services to select UWM undergraduate student parents. With additional campus and community support, the Life Impact Program continued to support student parents for another 10 years, surpassing it’s pilot program status. In 2021, our program adopted a new model and name to make parent-friendly academic and social services available to all student parents. Our new campus community model offers holistic support for all UWM students with children, including undergraduate, graduate, and international students.

Our Mission

Providing UWM students with children holistic support designed to empower parents and improve their families’ overall success. 

How We Support Student Parents

Being a student parent comes with unique opportunities and unique challenges. The Student Parent Success Program (SPSP) provides a supportive community and personalized resources to help UWM students balance college, parenting, and their goals for the future.

Whether you’re looking for help navigating campus resources, connecting with other student parents, building professional skills, or simply finding a welcoming place for your family on campus, SPSP is here to support you.

Student Parent Support & Resources

• Personalized Support & Resource Navigation
  • Connect with our support team for individualized guidance, problem-solving, and connections to campus and community resources that support your academic, personal, and family needs.
• Campus Connections & Advocacy
  • Get connected with campus departments and liaisons who can help you navigate UWM and access the resources available to you and your family.
• Mentoring & Peer Connection
  • Build connections with fellow student parents and UWM graduates who understand the experience of balancing college and family life.
• Professional Development & Leadership
  • Explore opportunities to build your professional skills, develop leadership experience, and prepare for a meaningful, family-supporting career.
• Parenting & Family Resources
  • Access books, materials, workshops, and other resources focused on parenting, child development, family well-being, self-care, and student success.
• A Community for Student Parents
  • Connect with other student parents through social events, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to build relationships and celebrate milestones together.

Family-Friendly Events & Activities

SPSP offers opportunities throughout the year for student parents and their children to connect, have fun, and build community, including:

• Family Movie Nights
• Family Bowling
• Parenting Workshops & Lunch and Learns
• Student Parent Social Events
• Family-friendly campus events and activities