International Division
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Stylized map of the world with a variety of colors and textures
“RISE: Exploring Possibilities for Global Research on Climate Change and Health,” co-sponsored by IRIS NRC, gathered students from multiple academic disciplines across campus to explore issues through a global lens.

RISE Initiative

About the RISE Initiative

The Wisconsin Research, Innovation and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Initiative is a multifaceted effort focused on faculty hiring, research infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student opportunity. Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin launched the initiative in February 2024 to address significant, complex challenges of particular importance to Wisconsin and the world. Cross-campus collaboration will identify future RISE Initiative focus areas in which UW–Madison can make a considerable impact on pressing societal concerns. Ultimately, there will be three to five, which currently include RISE-AI, RISE-EARTH, and RISE-THRIVE.

Learn more about RISE

RISE and the International Division

The International Division supports the RISE Initiative by connecting UW–Madison’s expertise with global perspectives through events, programming, and initiatives. Explore how our efforts foster international collaboration to address pressing societal challenges and create real-world impact. Find ways you can engage below.

Featured programming and events

Climate optimism: Empowering K-12 educators with solutions

The Wisconsin International Resource Consortium hosted, “Climate Optimism – Finding Creative Solutions and Making Positive Impacts,” to equip educators with new approaches to teaching climate change.

Global Gateway: Singapore

Discover the island city-state of Singapore, and explore how it approaches issues of land use, sustainable living, and resilience in the face of climate change.

One Health Summer Research Internship

This internship offers undergraduate students a training opportunity to enhance their analytical and technical skills while working with cross-functional teams in an international global health research environment.

RISE: Exploring Possibilities for Global Research on Climate Change and Health

Co-sponsored by IRIS NRC, this event gathered students from multiple academic disciplines across campus to explore issues through a global lens. Speakers addressed the key intersections between climate change and health, focusing on topics such as heat wave impact on vulnerable populations and the effects of floods on women’s reproductive health in Malawi.

Tales from Planet Earth Presents Wild & Scenic: 2024 Rewind

Co-sponsored by the International Division, this special screening highlighted six films from the 2024 Wild & Scenic Film Festival. A “film festival by activists for activists,” Wild & Scenic showcases stories that inspire environmental action and celebrate the beauty of our planet.

UW Wellbeing and the Art of Forest Bathing in Japan

In the age of digital media and increasing mental health challenges, spend two weeks in Kyoto, Japan’s sparkling artistic capital, exploring the connections between mental health, nature, and art. Through a series of forest walks and hands on workshops, students will examine the concept of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and the process of artistic creation.

UPCOMING EVENTS