Looking back: 2008-09 school year

By: Royal Purple staff opinion

Posted: 5/13/09

As the school year comes to a close, the Royal Purple would like to take time to reflect upon the major events of the 2008-09 school year at UW-Whitewater. Groundbreaking changes and achievements occurred during the past two semesters that students and staff should be proud to be a part of. But among the gleefulness of these events were some major tragedies that are not to be forgotten. Here's a short recap of the school year's major events.

September through May:

The death of alumus Mike Chaloupka was a major wake-up call concerning Main Street safety for pedestrians. Chaloupka, who has been greatly missed by his peers and family, unfortunately died in the Fort Atkinson hospital two weeks after being critically injured. The stop light that was recently approved by the Whitewater City Council will help future students from being in danger at the intersection of Whiton and Main, where Chaloupka was hit by a car.

The mysterious death of freshman Joseph Hummer was a heartbreaking event. Hummer, who was only 18, will also be greatly missed.

The grand opening of the new soccer/track complex gave athletes even more opportunities to shine.

Taste of Whitewater 2008 showcased many of Whitewater's restaurants and provided a day of bands, activities and the beautiful scenery of the Cravath Lake front. The Taste of Whitewater is a great way for students to get better introduced to the city of Whitewater and not just the university.

The university hops on the Earth-saving band wagon and attempts to "go green." The implementation of "Trayless Tuesdays" and the new reusable water bottles at Chartwells locations on campus were a big step for UW-Whitewater to help in sustaining the Earth. If students haven't already, they can purchase their own reusable water bottle for only $2.99 and refills are $1.

Richard Telfer was inaugurated as UW-Whitewater's 15th chancellor in November. The Royal Purple would like to thank Chancellor Telfer for taking time to help editors and reporters in interviews. His first semester "in office" was no honeymoon, and he's overcome many challenges.

President Obama was elected as the 44th president. His presidency wouldn't have been possible without the vote of the younger generation. But no matter who students voted for, they were able to help decide a presidential election in an on-campus polling place for the first time.

The football team carried on its tradition of excellence and went to the Stagg Bowl in Virginia for the 4th consecutive time.

The men's wheelchair basketball team sealed up its 5th National Championship in the past seven years. The team has done an amazing job representing Warhawk sports.

Heavily due to student voters, Marilyn Kienbaum defeated Roy Nosek for the councilman-at-large seat that represents all of Whitewater. Students have faith in Kienbaum to accurately represent student interests.

The traffic light for the Whiton-Main streets intersection was approved with a a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. UW-Whitewater was made a safer campus because of it.

In a year of economic turmoil, it's important to keep a positive outlook. Congratulations to graduating seniors, and to everyone else on their way, keep it up.