Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Today was another remarkable day for UW-Oshkosh. I am delighted to share that we hosted Governor Tony Evers this morning, just days after he signed the state budget, which includes funding toward the revitalization of Polk Library. We were also honored to be joined by Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman, state Representative Lori Palmeri and a representative of State Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim.

Our library team and many of you contributed to the new vision for Polk Learning Commons. We are thrilled that the State Legislature’s and Governor’s budget agreement includes a $137.5 million investment in this critical complex, which is central to our campus and mission. It will serve as a futuristic crossroads for student support and discovery, university research and community connection. Polk Learning Commons will be a busy hub as we convene and welcome the minds and perspectives of Oshkosh and Fox Valley regional leaders and partners like never before.

This is one of the largest investments in UWO’s history. While much planning has been done, our work to realize this vision now begins in earnest.

The revitalized learning commons is expected to be completed and operational in 2028. In the meantime, we will begin the planning to ensure our library team and services have adequate temporary facilities to continue supporting students and the community. We will keep you updated and seek your guidance and input as we move forward.

Today, let’s celebrate this significant investment in UWO and thank the Governor and state legislators for their support. I also want to thank our library and facilities teams for their incredible stewardship of the existing library over the years.
With gratitude and commitment,

Manohar Singh

Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh