1. PURPOSE OF THE HANDBOOK

The University of Wisconsin Superior Staff Handbook is an informational resource that provides an overview of the organizational structure and function of the University and serves as a single repository for procedures and policies of interest to staff members.

Other helpful UW-Superior publications include the biannual General Catalog, Student Handbook, the biweekly University Bulletin, and annual Social Issues publications.

2. HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY

Serving the people of northern Wisconsin: That single phrase is key to the University of Wisconsin-Superior's role today and for more than 100 years past.

As the only comprehensive University of Wisconsin campus in the northern third of the state, UW-Superior provides the region's residents with access to the wealth of knowledge and opportunity embodied in the Wisconsin Idea.

Thousands of students have earned undergraduate degrees in the intimate academic setting of UW-Superior's small and secure campus. Graduate programs in education, communicating arts and visual arts enable others to advance their careers and bring the benefits of higher learning to their communities.

By using the latest in computer and video technology, the University extends its reach to cities and schools hundreds of miles from campus. Outreach programs also bring the expertise and experience of University faculty to businesses and communities across the region.

UW-Superior's dedication to service has roots in the institution's original purpose a century ago: Training teachers to work in the small towns and one-room schoolhouses of northern Wisconsin.

Wisconsin legislators in 1893 authorized establishment of a Normal School in Superior. Three years later, with political and financial backing from local businesses and residents, Superior Normal School greeted its first students.

After training a generation of teachers, the school received authority in 1927 to award a bachelor's degree in education. A new name, Superior State Teachers College, reflected the institution's progress.

More growth followed as the region's needs changed. In 1946, the college began offering a four-year liberal arts degree. Three years later, it was authorized to offer graduate courses. A school administration program began in 1950, and the first master of education degree was granted in 1953.

The institution adopted the name of Wisconsin State University-Superior in 1964. The same year it added the specialist in education degree.

Additional graduate degrees were added in the late 1960s. In 1971, following a merger with other state universities, the campus took its present name and became part of the University of Wisconsin System.

UW-Superior today stands committed to offering "quality programs with a personal touch" to students from across the United States and around the world. The University earned accreditation in 1916 and has maintained it ever since - the longest accreditation of any Wisconsin academic institution. The University helps students excel by stressing strong academics, one-on-one advisement, a supportive environment, and innovative teaching methods. In 1999 the UW System President designated UW-Superior as Wisconsin's Public Liberal Arts College.

3. CAMPUS MAP

The campus map can be viewed at http://www.uwsuper.edu/aboutuwsuperior/maps/index.cfm and an interactive campus map can be viewed at http://www.uwsuper.edu/aboutuwsuperior/maps/customcf/interactive/index.html.