The power of the badger network — students and alumni unite for Eat & Greet series – La Follette School of Public Affairs

Students and alumni connect at the first State Capitol Eat & Greet, co-hosted with the Political Science Department, held in September at the Wisconsin State Capitol. The event targeted those interested in careers in legislative service agencies, capitol offices, and advocacy organizations.

Christa Pugh chatting with 2 students, offering advice, inside the capitol.

State Capitol Eat & Greet panelist Christa Pugh (MPA ’14), left, shares her experiences with students. “Turnout for the event was amazing and I was impressed by the interesting and thoughtful questions from students. It’s great to see so many students interested in connecting with alumni and considering careers working in or with the Legislature,” said Pugh, who works as a team supervisor for the Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

Four panelists stand at the front of the room presenting to students.

At the October Eat & Greet focused on local government, students engaged with alumni about community development and policy implementation. The event was co-hosted with the UniverCity Alliance who La Follette partners with on client projects.

Drake Daily speaks with a student at the Eat & Greet.

Drawing on his leadership experience in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, City Manager Drake Daily (MPA ’15) encourages students to pursue careers in local government and public policy. Daily also highlighted available jobs and opportunities for La Follette students after graduation.

A crowded room of students are watching a presentation.

A full room of students and alumni connected at the November Higher Education Eat & Greet, co-hosted with the School of Education, exploring careers across campuses and higher education institutions. Experts in student affairs, advising, administration, and other campus-based roles shared wisdom with the next generation of higher education professionals.

Five people gather around a standing table at the event talking.

MPA student Anna Spahn, in green, engages with alumni during the Higher Education Eat & Greet, gaining insights into working in colleges and universities. “The Eat and Greet events are a great opportunity to network with people I admire that I wouldn’t have been able to meet otherwise. The La Follette team is great at equipping us to effectively communicate with professionals in our field and then creating spaces for us to make connections,” Spahn said.

Multiple students and alumni talking at the event in the capitol.

Conversation and connection filled the room as Badgers, former and current, exchanged stories, advice, and opportunities for future collaboration at these events. The Eat & Greet series reflects La Follette’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful, career-ready lives.