A Story Made Possible by CCTAP Each year, the Child Care Tuition Assistance Program at UW–Madison helps parenting students do something remarkable: finish their degrees. Degrees of Impact tells the stories of graduates who did exactly that, and went on to do remarkable things. For more than two decades, Erin Trondson has dedicated her career …
by Cigdem Unal, Director, Office of Child Care and Family Resources August 2025 marked the 10-year anniversary of Cigdem Unal’s leadership as director of the Office of Child Care and Family Resources (OCCFR). In this reflection, Unal highlights her most significant accomplishments over the past decade — expanding access to high-quality child care for UW–Madison …
Summer is here, and we know that finding high-quality, reliable child care remains a top priority for UW families. Whether you are looking for a last-minute summer camp to fill a seasonal care gap or trying to secure a spot for the upcoming fall semester, the UW–Madison Child Care and Education System is here to …
Wa graduate student found out she was expecting her first child, she wasn’t sure how her research mentor, Jake Brunkard, would react. What she got was enthusiasm, flexibility, and an open door. While the transition to parenthood in academia can feel daunting, Jake made it clear from the start that her goals and her family …
This weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Charlotte Zolotow Award event at the Cooperative Children’s Book Center (CCBC) at UW–Madison. This meaningful gathering celebrates outstanding writing in children’s literature—work that thoughtfully centers the emotional lives, experiences, and voices of children. Congratulations to Angie Kang, author of Our Lake, for receiving this year’s award …
Dear Families, Children, and Early Childhood Educators, As we welcome the Week of the Young Child (April 11-17, 2026) we are reminded of the deep importance of this special celebration. Sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), this week is more than a recognition. It is an invitation to honor …
By Cigdem Unal, Director, Office of Child Care and Family Resources (OCCFR) There’s a special kind of energy that fills the room when our dedicated and passionate early childhood education leaders come together — an energy rooted in shared purpose, care, and a collective commitment to uplifting children, families, and educators across our community. At …
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, the Fathers in Focus conference brought together fathers, mentors, and community members from across Wisconsin for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection. Hosted by the UW–Madison Division of Extension, the event offered workshops and discussions on topics including co-parenting, mental health, family finances, and community support. The Office …
This fall, OCCFR is offering a free series of parenting classes for UW–Madison students, employees, and their families. Led by expert instructors, the sessions cover topics like sleep solutions, behavior challenges, school transitions, and children’s health—providing practical tools and community support for every stage of early parenting.
Student parent success is about more than grades and graduation. It’s about having the support to balance two full-time roles: student and caregiver. At times, that balancing act can be overwhelming. Support may come through financial assistance, peer community, or — as many students have shared — simple empathy and flexibility from professors and supervisors. …