First built in 1961, the tower is our school's most iconic symbol. Over the years, the tower has become part of our cherished traditions, including the annual "lifer" signing. This past summer, the tower received much-needed care, including new windows and a fresh coat of paint. Learn more about the restoration efforts, the care that was taken to preserve the tower's history, and a gallery of photos documenting the restoration.

Calling all alumni! Return to your alma mater for one of our most spirited events of the year, USM's Homecoming! Enjoy an all-school cookout on Friday, Sept. 29 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by the football game vs. Martin Luther under the lights of Don Forti Stadium. After the game, be sure to stay for a special fireworks display sponsored by the USM Booster Club. Tickets for the cookout include admission to the football game and are $10 for an individual or $30 for a family (3 or more). Don't miss the other athletic events happening during Homecoming week. Contact Will Piper '96, assistant director of alumni relations and reunion giving, with any questions. Go Wildcats!

"Why does it matter?" An essential question that every student remembers from their time in Mr. Taft's classroom. Each day, Mr. Taft brings passion and excitement into his classroom as he teaches our 8th grade students about our nation's history. Hear from Mr. Taft about his inspiration in teaching, and why he still believes that American history rules!

From being a "lifer" to teaching the next generation of "lifers", Lisl Gapinski '92 has made countless memories at USM. She brings a passion for teaching and her cheerful smile every day while teaching our junior kindergarten students, and she helps to build community and make memories for our young Wildcats, just like the community and memories that she developed in her time as a student. Read more about Lisl's favorite memories at USM and why she loves teaching at her alma mater.

The USM Alumni Association hosts numerous events throughout the year, and we would love to see you, either at an on-campus event or at one of our regional visits throughout the country. This year, we are excited to offer new events including a concert by the Ahrensburg Youth Orchestra and a family-friendly Turkey Bowl on the Turf, in addition to other beloved alumni events. Mark your calendars for these great events, and check back soon to see when USM will hit the road for a visit to your town!

Earlier this summer, you should have received the Spring/Summer 2022-23 issue of USM Today. The issue explores many aspects of USM life, including a close look at women who broke barriers in girls' sports, an interview with members of the Upper School's "Little Shop of Horrors" cast, and a conversation with a Middle School student who met his real-life hero: a World War II veteran, among other stories. If you didn't receive your issue, click here to update your mailing address information, and don't forget to submit your class note to be included in a future issue!

The Ahrensburg Youth Symphony Orchestra from Germany will be visiting USM for a concert on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. The concert will feature the Dvorak Symphony No. 8 and the Elgar Cello Concerto. Before the performance, join us for a pre-concert talk with the maestro himself, Head of School Steve Hancock. Mr. Hancock will share his wonderful knowledge of orchestral music with our guests to prepare for the concert experience. Learn more today!

Introducing Wildcats in the News, a place where we highlight some of the amazing things our alumni are doing in their communities.

• Dean Dietrich '70 was sworn in as the 68th president of the State Bar of Wisconsin

• Bill Zito '82, general manager of the Florida Panthers and former Brewers bat boy, was featured by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel after the Panthers made the NHL Stanley Cup Final
• Steffi (Major) Baker '83 won gold in her division at the 2023 U.S. Adult National Figure Skating Championships
• Raj Chetty '97, director of Harvard University's Opportunity Insights, was interviewed by The New York Times about a study into the correlation between affluence and acceptance rates at elite universities
• Sachin Shiveram '99 joined the board of directors for the Green Bay Packers
• Nadya Perez-Reyes '02, assistant secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, and David Bowles '09, president of CMRignite marketing agency, were named to the Milwaukee Business Journal's 40 Under 40
• Djdade Denson '14 was featured by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for the summer camp, Camp "Xhongo" Peace Father, Son, and Friends Retreat, which he directs
• Greta Hinke '22 was selected to participate in the USA Field Hockey National Team selection camp
• Lucy Art '23 was named the USA Today High School Sports Awards national Humankind Courage Award winner for winning the WIAA 50 freestyle state championship less than two years after surviving a shark attack
• Ingrid Lofgren '23 won a gold medal in the 2023 CanAmMex Regatta

Do you know of an alumna or alumnus that was recently featured in the news? Let us know!