The Wildcat Way: Tradition, Transformation and Excellence at University School of Milwaukee

In 1965, three distinguished Milwaukee independent schools made a bold decision that reshaped education in the city. Rather than compete, Milwaukee University School, Milwaukee Country Day School, and Milwaukee Downer Seminary united to create the University School of Milwaukee. This episode explores the vision, courage, and shared commitment that brought three proud traditions together to build a...

For nearly three decades, Susan Zarwell ’87 has been a steady and compassionate presence at University School of Milwaukee—as a teacher, mentor, counselor, and leader. From her beginnings as an English teacher to her role as Assistant Head of the Upper School, she has guided generations of students to grow into thoughtful, confident young people. This episode celebrates her remarkable journey from...

This episode of The Wildcat Way explores the enduring tradition of character education at the University School of Milwaukee, from the Thompson Trophy at Milwaukee University School to the Common Trust and today’s Portrait of a USM Graduate. Through voices of alumni, faculty, and students, it reveals how values like respect, honesty, fairness, kindness, and trust continue to shape the Wildcat comm...

Episode 2: Coach Forti: A Legacy of Leadership Host Will Piper ’96 interviews Coach Don Forti, who has been a faculty member at University School of Milwaukee since 1982, about his journey as a coach and teacher at USM and some of his fondest memories.   Credits:  Host: Will Piper '96   Produced By: Brennan Checkalski, Visual Media Specialist, Kirstin Collins, Director of Educational Technology, W...

Episode 1: Rooted in Tradition, Growing Toward the Future Host Will Piper ’96 shares how University School of Milwaukee celebrates its enduring traditions while embracing growth and innovation, from the ringing of the school bell to the powerful sight of seniors and kindergarteners walking together into Opening Convocation. Credits:  Host: Will Piper '96 Produced By: Kirstin Collins, Director of E...