Building access to affordable, high-quality child care for UW families
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 …
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. …
Three accredited child care centers join the UW–Madison Child Care and Education System High-quality child care provides a vital foundation for UW–Madison students, staff, and faculty as they pursue academic and professional goals. The Office of Child Care and Family Resources (OCCFR) recognizes the necessity of child care and is taking another important step by …
Did you know that Earth Day started right here in Wisconsin? Founded in 1970 by former state senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day began on April 22nd as a day of rallies, events, marches, and public lectures to raise awareness about ongoing environmental issues. Since then, Earth Day has been celebrated annually on April 22nd across …
Although Wisconsin isn’t known for its great snowfalls like its neighbor to the west, it’s safe to say that winter of 2024-2025 has been particularly dry when it comes to precipitation. Although building snow forts might not be an option this year, here are a few wintertime activities for which you just need a …
At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Office of Child Care and Family Resources (OCCFR) is dedicated to supporting parenting students as they navigate the challenges of higher education while raising a family. One of the key programs under OCCFR is Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS), a federal grant which provides essential …