UW-Madison hosts grandparents university

The Wisconsin Alumni Association and the UW-Extension Family Living Programs will host Grandparents University July 18-19 at the university.

This event brings children and their grandparents together to learn from each other while being instructed by some of the finest faculty and staff. Grandparents and children participate in intergenerational fun and educational activities in one of six major areas of study. This year’s areas include astronomy, communication arts, ecology, fine arts, health and science.

Grandparents University will begin with a chemistry demonstration by Bassam Shakhashiri, a well-known UW–Madison professor. Following Shakhashiri’s demonstration, children and their grandparents will move into their major areas of study and participate in a variety of hands-on learning activities including rocket building, printmaking, acting, yoga and DNA extraction.

“We are so pleased to be able to host this award-winning conference on campus once again this year,” remarks Paula Bonner, WAA president and CEO. “Nothing gives me more pleasure than being able to welcome alumni and prospective students all at the same program.”

Students of Grandparents University will have the opportunity to experience all aspects of student life. In addition to the classroom instruction, participants will have the chance to attend a tailgate party and cookout, stay in one of the UW residence halls, and attend a graduation ceremony and celebration featuring “deans” from each of the six majors, who will hand out diplomas at the program’s conclusion.