Continuing with its newest tradition, the Wisconsin Agricultural and Life Sciences Alumni Association (WALSAA) will present the fifth WALSAA Daluge Red Jacket Award at the WALSAA Football Fire-Up event on September 11. This year’s recipient is the late Bob Kaczmarek.
Kaczmarek was named this year’s recipient because of his dedication and service to WALSAA for many years. He served on the WALSAA Board for nine years and was president of the organization in 1997-98. Kaczmarek served the organization as the WALSAA treasurer during WALSAA’s transition from Ag Hall to a self-sufficient organization. He maintained the relationships with Ag Hall and the UW Foundation ensuring all scholarships continued to be awarded as designated. Before his sudden health challenges, he worked behind the scenes to set up the WALSAA Scholarship Fund, a place where members and supporters could donate to continue to support the Outstanding Sophomore Awards. There are few that have done more for WALSAA’s history, present and future. His work still secures WALSAA’s foundation.
Kaczmarek graduated from UW-Madison with a bachelor’s degree in construction administration, and received a master’s degree in business administration from UW-Milwaukee.
“Badger Bob” not only volunteered with WALSAA, but he led the Kenosha area efforts for Wisconsin Alumni Association (WAA), sharing his pride for the UW in the southeast region. Most notably, he is known for all he gave to Badger Boy state. He was a counselor for many years, and enjoyed the opportunity to inspire, teach and lead young men in their civic responsibility and journey. He was a tireless volunteer and advocate for this program.
The WALSAA Daluge Red Jacket Award honors Rick and Peggy Daluge. Rick was WALSAA’s Executive Director for many years and a founding member of the National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association (NAADA). Rick served as CALS Placement Director and CALS Assistant Dean before retiring as FISC Director in 2008. A red jacket is presented in their honor to someone who has made a significant contribution to WALSAA and the future of the organization.
To be a part of Kaczmarek’s recognition, go online at www.WALSAA.org to purchase tickets for this year’s WALSAA Fire-Up event. The WALSAA Daluge Red Jacket Award will be presented on Saturday, September 11 at 4:00 p.m.
