Jane Duffstein named assistant dean for undergraduate student recruitment and outreach
Jane Duffstein joined the UW–Madison CALS staff in September 2023 as the assistant dean for undergraduate student recruitment and outreach in Academic Affairs. In this role, Duffstein will increase the college’s focus on undergraduate recruitment and also work to strengthen outreach opportunities with groups such as high school educators/advisors, 4-H, FFA and science fairs. She will promote the academic and student services CALS provides and interact with faculty, academic advisors and other staff who promote the college’s academic offerings. She reports to Curt Lauderdale, assistant dean for student advising and development.
What is your hometown? Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Milwaukee, WI (northwest side).
What is your educational/professional background, including your area(s) of specialization/focus?
I have a bachelor of arts in Spanish and International Studies from UW–Madison and a master of arts in Education, Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Connecticut. For the last 15+ years, I worked at the University of Connecticut, Bard College (NY), and UW–Madison. My work has been in admissions and recruitment, strategic planning, budgeting, human resources, academic advising, orientation, academic support services, student activities, leadership programs and residence life.
What are your main responsibilities?
Telling CALS’ story to help increase undergraduate enrollment in the 23 CALS majors and variety of certificates. In collaboration with our Prospective Student Program Coordinator (Ben Salomon) and CALS Student Ambassadors, we will connect with prospective and admitted students and their guests. Another goal is to make strong connections with high school educators (with a focus in Wisconsin) who are teaching and supporting students related to the CALS areas of study. I’d love to see more teachers/educators/advisors come visit the CALS campus and see what we have to offer!
What attracted you to this position/the college?
The academic offerings, research and academic affairs support in CALS made me keep an eye open for an opportunity to work with the college. As an employee for the UW–Madison Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment (OAR), I learned enough to know that CALS is helping make the world a better place by encouraging our students to become global leaders, problem-solvers and scientists. I’m honored to be part of CALS and help us tell our story to the next generation of students. CALS is an embodiment of the Wisconsin Idea.
What are you most looking forward to as you start your position in CALS?
I hope to learn more about the 23 undergraduate majors and experience something unique from each one. I’m happy to connect, take a tour or observe awesome things happening in your part of CALS! Send me a message!
What are your hobbies and other interests?
Hanging out with my dog, cats, and wife, running with a purpose, cooking meals from scratch, bonfires and camping, kayaking and vegetable gardening.
How should people contact you?
Email jane.duffstein@wisc.edu or send me a Teams message.