Vision, Mission & Values

Vision

The Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy & Service envisions that all citizens of Wisconsin will become educated and engaged community members and active participants in civic life.

Mission

As a component of the UW Colleges and UW-Extension, the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service seeks to address local, state, and national issues by linking public scholarship, civic outreach, and student service to enhance community life throughout Wisconsin.

Core Values

Community education and deliberation

We provide programming that allows the citizens of Wisconsin to become knowledgeable on key policy issues, to have their voices heard through meaningful public dialogue, and to understand the importance of civic participation.

Civic engagement and service

We provide opportunities for students to become involved citizens and leaders in a democracy by offering service learning, internships, and other avenues for community involvement, thereby complementing the traditional liberal arts curriculum.

Research and public scholarship

We apply academic faculty and staff resources and interdisciplinary expertise to community, state, and national issues in practical ways that offer direct public benefits.

Non-partisan collaborative partnerships

We create partnerships by building collaborative relationships with key sectors – government, business, non-profits, education, health care – to address issues of public concern. We do not hesitate to tackle controversial topics, but we are committed to addressing issues with integrity, sensitivity, and uncompromising political neutrality.

Responsible stewardship

We are determined to manage our resources from both public and private sources with clear accountability, and we conscientiously seek objective assessment of our activities and programs.