The Department of Geography at UW-Milwaukee hosted the annual meeting of the American Association of Geographers’ West Lakes Division on Oct. 23–25, 2025. Faculty and students from across the region – including Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin – gathered to share research on topics ranging from flood preparedness and trout‑stream restoration to urban greenway networks and cycling safety. 

The conference keynote was delivered by Dr. Julie Cidell (University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign), who presented on the evolving geography of warehousing and logistics in the Milwaukee–Chicago corridor. Her talk highlighted how the rapid expansion of warehousing to support online commerce is reshaping development patterns in urban, suburban, and rural communities. 

The department was especially proud to celebrate the success of three 51���� graduate students recognized for their outstanding work. 

In the Master’s paper competition, Thea Brenner earned 1st place for her research on arts organizations in Milwaukee, and Brianna Sas‑Perez earned 2nd place for their study of Milwaukee’s best pizza. 

In the graduate student poster competition, Yiming Zhang received 3rd place for his work on spatial accessibility in Wisconsin’s long‑term care facilities. 

The event showcased the strength of geographic research across the region and the impressive contributions of 51���� students and faculty. 

2025 GIS Day at 51���� Brings Big Energy to the AGSL   

The GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Council hosted GIS Day @51���� at the American Geographical Society Library (AGSL) on Nov. 21. 

One hundred people attended the keynote event, a panel on ‘Careers in GIS’ featuring four 51���� alumni who offered advice for students interested in GIS. Emily Sudar and Baldev Singh, both of whom majored in geography at 51����, emphasized the value of GIS and spatial data to local governments and business. Dominick Ratkowski, who completed his 51���� degree in criminal justice, talked about his work at the Wauwatosa Police Department using GIS for crime prevention. Ryan Covington, who has his PhD in geography and works with the World Wildlife Fund, stressed the importance of continued learning on the job in the world of spatial data. 

The day also featured workshops in QGIS, an open-source GIS app; using Python with GIS software; all maps for relating historic maps to current, georeferenced maps; and humanitarian mapping to assistwith disaster relief efforts around the world. Lunch was provided by the GIS Council, and after lunch there was a tour of the AGSL. Half of the people who participated in GIS day were students; one-fifth were community members; and the rest included 51���� alumni, faculty, and staff.   

The GIS Council would like to especially thank 51���� Libraries for the use of their space and other support. We would also like to thank Dr. Kristin Sziarto, Stephen Appel (Geospatial Information Liberian at the AGSL: MS 2015, Geography, 51����), and Georgia Brown (Interim Head of AGSL and Public Service Librarian at AGSL) for their outstanding contributions to making GIS Day 2025 at 51���� a success.   

Harold and Florence Mayer Lecture and the AAG West Lakes Conference Keynote  

The Department of Geography hosted Dr. Julie Cidell, professor of Geography & Geographic Information Science at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, for the Harold and Florence Mayer Lecture and the AAG West Lakes Division Conference Keynote on Oct. 24, 2025, at the American Geographical Society Library (AGSL). 

In her talk, “The Changing Landscapes of Logistics in the Milwaukee–Chicago Corridor,” Dr. Cidellexamined how warehousing and logistics have evolved over the past three decades and how territorial boundaries shape these emerging landscapes. She highlighted the shift from the early 2000s’“logistics sprawl” to today’s dual pattern of re-concentration in central cities and expansion into rural areas – changes that pose new environmental, economic, and social challenges. Using the Milwaukee–Chicago corridor as a case study, she connected global logistics systems to local urban development and discussed the complex intersections of digital technology, urban life, and marginalized communities. 

Dr. Cidell also participated in the AAG West Lakes Division Conference alongside other attendees. 

Fall 2025 Colloquium by Professor Amanda I. Seligman (Department of History, 51����) 

Professor Amanda I. Seligman (Department of History, 51����) delivered a talk titled, “The Town of Milwaukee, Glendale, and the North Shore: Exploring the History of Suburban Governance in Wisconsin” on Oct. 31, 2025, at the American Geographical Society Library. 

Her presentation traced the development of governance on Milwaukee’s North Shore from the 19th‑century Town of Milwaukee to the present day. She highlighted the emergence of cooperative service arrangements that now form a routine part of contemporary suburban governance. 

Fall 2025 Colloquium by Dr. Elmo Rawling III (Department of Extension Faculty, UW-Madison)  

Geography alumnus Dr. Elmo Rawling III (PhD, 2002) returned to Milwaukee to deliver a talk titled,“The Quaternary Geology of Wisconsin” on Nov. 14, 2025, at the American Geographical Society Library. 

Dr. Rawling discussed his team’s work to update the Quaternary Geological Map of Wisconsin and presented a newly completed copy to the AGSL. 

Fall 2025 Pedagogy Workshop  

Our Colloquium Pedagogy Workshop brought great energy to the American Geographical Society Library on Oct. 20, 2025! 

Faculty and graduate students gathered for an engaging conversation on how to build strong, connected learning communities – especially in large or online classes where connection can be challenging. Led by Dr. Kristin Sziarto, the workshop offered practical strategies, lively discussion, and fresh ideas for making course spaces more inclusive and collaborative. 

It was an inspiring afternoon of shared experiences, new teaching tools, and a strong sense of community across the department. 

Geog 650 fieldtrip on the Research Vessel, the Neeskay  

On Oct. 31, 2025, Geography 650 students boarded the 51���� School of Freshwater Sciences Research Vessel, the Neeskay, captained by Max Morgan. As part of the Geography Field Work class,students have the opportunity to explore Lake Michigan in Milwaukee Harbor and learn how to take plankton, sediment, and water samples at a range of depths. They observe how water temperature, conductivity, and pH are monitored using different sensors. They are also introduced to the navigation system of the ship. 

Fall 2025 Graduate School Open House   

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our fall recruitment events. Our Virtual Open House on Oct. 16 welcomed 74 students, the majority of whom were international. Attendees explored program offerings and engaged with faculty. 

We were also delighted to see so many prospective students at our in‑person Open House on Nov. 6, held in the Wisconsin Room from 5-7 p.m. This event offered another opportunity for students to connect with our community. 

Spring 2026 Meet & Greet  

The Spring 2026 department meet and greet took place at the American Geographical Society Libraryon Feb. 6, 2026, and was hosted by Dr. Anna Mansson McGinty and Chair Dr. Anne Bonds. The meet-and-greet was a great opportunity to socialize and catch up after winter break! Students and faculty discussed upcoming events in the department calendar as well as their favorite sports and athletes to watch in the 2026 Winter Olympics. 

Legacy of 51���� Geography in International Karst Research 

Although published in 2011, a feature by Jean‑Noel Salomon in Acta Carsologica remains a powerful reminder of 51����’s impact on global karst research. The article cites extensive work in the Philippines by 51���� alumni and faculty during the 1990s and early 2000s, including Peter Urich, Phil Reeder, Elaine Bliss, Sonata Figueroa‑Restificar, and Professor Emeritus Mick Day. 

Their contributions continue to inform current research and highlight the long-term strength of 51����’s Geography program. 

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The Department of Geography welcomed Dr. Sarah Elwood, professor of geography at the University of Washington, for this year’s Harold and Florence Mayer Lecture on April 11, 2025. In her talk, “Digital Geographies & The City: Methodologies of Hope,” Dr. Elwood explored the complicated relationship between digital technology, urban life, and marginalized communities and how hope often emerges in the most unexpected ways. Dr. Ellwood also had lunch with our graduate students.  

Geography 600 Undergraduate Research Symposium and Department of Geography Graduation & Awards Ceremony Spring 2025  

The Department of Geography hosted the Undergraduate Research Symposium and Graduation & Awards Ceremony on May 2, 2025, at the AGSL. During the ceremony, we celebrated students’ academic achievements, awarded the Mary Jo Read Undergraduate Scholarship for the 2025–2026 academic year, and recognized graduate students with service awards. For the first time in our department, we also presented awards for special departmental recognition, outstanding teaching and advising, and excellence in graduate teaching. Congratulations to all!  

Congratulations to our May 2025 graduates

Geography Undergraduate  

• Charles Brennan (BA) 
• Tyler Grant (BA) 
• Michelle Hess (BS) 
• Joshua Lenders (BA) 
• Nick Leverenz (BS)  
• Tyler Moeller (BA) 
• Griffin Nash (BA) 
• Olivia Morgan Reilly (BA) 
• Harrison Shapiro Schneider (BS) 

Geography Master  

• Bismark Owusu Asare (MS) 
• Lacey Fever (MS) 

Geography PhD 

• Alex Hamilton (PhD) 
• Dean Maraldo (PhD) 
• Katie Merkle (PhD) 

Fall 2025 Orientation for new graduate students  

The orientation for new graduate students took place on August 27 in the Geography Conference Room. We are excited to welcome two new master’s students. The event began with a welcome address from the Graduate Program Chair, Alison Donnelly, and the Department Chair, Anne Bonds. Following their remarks, all faculty members introduced themselves, as did the new graduate students. 

During the orientation, the Graduate Program Chair reviewed essential policies and procedures for successfully navigating graduate school. She provided guidance on finding resources for funding and support, handling conflicts, and the importance of time management. Experienced graduate students also shared their top tips for succeeding in the program. 

Following an informal lunch, they went to the American Geographical Society Library for a tour of the digital collections, which students may find useful for their research. 

2025 Fall Semester Kick-Off 

Geography graduate students and faculty hang out at Hubbard Park on September 5^th. 

Advising Afternoon for the Undergraduates Students

At the Geography Undergraduate Student Meeting on Friday, September 26th at AGSL, the undergraduate students asked questions about the upcoming spring semester courses and progress toward graduation to faculty. The department chair, Dr. Anne Bonds, and the undergraduate committee chair, Dr. Kristin Sziarto answered the questions from the undergraduate students.  

Geography 650 Students on Field Trip (October 3) 

Geography students take a field trip to the 51���� Saukville Field Station to explore a range of conservation management practices and challenges associated with three different ecosystems on October 3, 2025: tall and short grass prairies, string bog and beech-maple woodland. On a recent trip, we found this amazing mushroom called lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) on a rotting log. This common fall fungus is native to North America and delicious in omelets. 

The American dagger moth (Acronicta americana) caterpillar is native to the area and was just hanging out on a twig. Another common autumn mushroom is the giant puffball (Calvatia gigantea) and this one was just waiting to be found!  

Who knows what we will find next time? 

Geography Graduate Student Meeting 

The graduate student meeting took place in Bolton Hall on Friday, October 10th, and was hosted by Grad Chair Dr. Alison Donnelly and Chair Dr. Anne Bonds. The meeting discussed the upcoming graduate open house for students interested in joining the grad program. Travel and summer funds were also addressed to students who need extra funding for traveling for conferences or summer breaks.   

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Dr. Steven Manson (University of Minnesota) presented a lecture, “Happy Cows: Human-Environment Networks in Agriculture” on November 8, 2024, at American Geographical Society Library (AGSL). Dr. Manson also had lunch with our graduate students.  

Fall Colloquium: Dr. Erin Winkler  

On Friday, October 18th, 2024, Dr. Erin Winkler from the Department of African & African Diaspora Studies delivered an insightful talk titled, “‘[I Like] the Park That Lives Somewhere Else:’ Perspectives on Place from Black, Latine, & Afro-Latine Children Experiencing Homelessness in the Bronx.”  

Fall Colloquium: Data You Can Use: Engaging Communities with Data and Mapping  

On November 22, 2024, the Department of Geography Colloquium featured an inspiring discussion titled “Engaging Communities with Data and Mapping.” Amy Rohan, a proud alumna of our Geography BA program, joined Amanda Beavin from Data You Can Use, a group dedicated to enhancing community access to data and equipping individuals with the skills needed to make informed, equitable decisions—both in Milwaukee and beyond. Their projects are on the    

Checking in with Geography Graduates 

At the start of the 2025 spring semester, the Geography Department hosted a graduate student check-in meeting led by Department Chair Dr. Ryan Holifield and Graduate Program Chair Dr. Alison Donnelly. The meeting provided a welcoming space for students to share updates on their coursework and teaching assistantships. Each participant had the opportunity to discuss their class experiences and TA responsibilities. 

Exciting plans were also announced, including the opening of the GIS room in 420 and the revitalization of the graduate lounge. These improvements aim to ensure students have well-maintained spaces for collaboration and study. The meeting served as a fantastic opportunity for graduate students to connect, share experiences, and discuss ways to enhance their academic and professional environment. 

Advising Afternoon for the Undergraduate Students   

At the Geography Undergraduate Student Meeting on Friday, November 1^st, at AGSL, the undergraduate students asked their questions to faculty about the upcoming spring semester courses and progress toward graduation.  

Graduate School Open House  

The Department of Geography participated in the 51���� Graduate School Open House on November 7th, 2024. We appreciate Dr. Alison Donnelly (the Graduate Program Chair), Dr. Woonsup Choi (Associate Professor of Geography), Dr. Changshan Wu (Professor of Geography), and other geographers who volunteered to meet the applicants at the Graduate School Open House.   

Outstanding International Advocates  

Congratulations to Dr. Ryan Holifield (Professor of Geography) and Dr. Changshan Wu (Professor of Geography), who received the International Advocate Award from the Center International Education (CIE) at 51���� on November 20th, 2024, for their exceptional support and assistance. They were nominated by international students and study abroad participants.    

Fall Picnic   

On Saturday, October 19th, 2024, the Department of Geography hosted a potluck gathering at Gordon Park, bringing together faculty and graduate students for a delightful afternoon of food and camaraderie. Attendees enjoyed the warm fall weather while catching up and sharing various dishes, including appetizers, snacks, entrees, and desserts. The event provided a relaxed setting for everyone to reconnect, savor delicious homemade treats, and celebrate the changing season in good company. 

Holiday Party Highlights 

Kiara, the new member of Dr. Sziarto and Dr. Holifield’s family 

On December 16th, 2024, Dr. Kristin Sziarto and Dr. Ryan Holifield graciously hosted a festive holiday gathering at their home. Guests were treated to a spread of delicious catered dishes, along with homemade contributions brought by attendees. Lively games, including table tennis, darts, and Nintendo, kept the energy high in the basement, while conversations about geography and shared interests filled the evening with joy. A special highlight of the evening was meeting the newest member of Dr. Sziarto and Dr. Holifield’s family – a rescued dog, Kiara, who quickly charmed everyone! It was a wonderful opportunity for colleagues and friends to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a joyful close to the year. 

Alumni Career Panel  

The Geography Department hosted an alumni panel in AGSL on February 14, 2025, providing current students with an opportunity to explore career paths available to those with a geography degree. The event, moderated by Dr. Hyejin Yoon, featured distinguished alumni sharing their professional experiences and insights. The panelists included Tom Bertrand (the Milwaukee County Transit System), Jack Kovnesky (the City of West Allis), Amy Rohan (Data You Can Use), Elton Rogers (the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources), and Francesca Sanchez (the Wisconsin Department of Water Resources). These professionals discussed their career trajectories and answered key questions designed to help students navigate the transition from academia to the workforce. Among the topics covered were what inspired them to pursue a career in geography, how they selected their areas of specialization, and which classes, internships, or projects were most beneficial in preparing them for their careers. The panelists also shared insights on their first jobs after graduation, the impact of those roles on their professional development, and any certifications or additional training they would recommend for students entering the field. 

Additionally, the discussion highlighted the day-to-day responsibilities of their roles, the challenges they encounter, and how they address those challenges. Panelists emphasized the importance of technical skills, such as proficiency in specialized software, while also highlighting the value of soft skills like communication and teamwork in professional success. Following the structured discussion, students had the opportunity to ask their own questions, fostering a meaningful exchange between alumni and attendees. The event provided an excellent opportunity for students to connect with alumni, gain career advice, and better understand the diverse opportunities available to geographers. 

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