A message from your Dean of Students Christina Olstad as you prepare for the upcoming weekend:
Hello Badgers,
As we head into Halloween weekend, I’d like to share a few reminders with you: Be smart and safe, celebrate, and show respect.
Be smart and stay safe:
— Travel in groups, use SAFEwalk, and look out for one another. If you see something that isn’t right, call 911 in an emergency. You can report a non-emergency campus incident to the Dean of Students Office online or call University Police at 608-264-2677.
— Be responsible if you plan to drink alcohol. We all play a role in making UW–Madison a safe community. Be aware of how your actions affect those around you and take care of one another. If you encounter another person who is impaired and needs medical assistance, make the call for help and stay until someone arrives. Both you and the person you’re helping will be protected from police or disciplinary action by the university’s medical amnesty guidelines. Your safety is most important — do the right thing.
Let’s celebrate:
— … because it’s Halloween weekend: Snuggle up and or carve a pumpkin using Badger-themed pumpkin stencils.
— … enjoy student events at the Wisconsin Union: A few fun events through the Wisconsin Union include Pumpkin Carving Workshops on October 26 and 28 with Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Cuisine. WUD Film will also be screening Coraline on October 27 , Pulse on October 28, and Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 29.
— … even if you’re not into Halloween: There are many non-Halloween events that you can find at today.wisc.edu. Or play hard, get fit, and live well with Recreation & Wellbeing.
Show respect for all cultures and each other:
— Culture is not a costume: Before choosing a costume that represents a culture or identity that you don’t hold, think about its significance. Costumes that are racist, crude, or culturally insensitive can impact others. Learn more about Halloween cultural awareness from University Housing.
No matter what you choose to do this weekend, be safe, have fun, and take care of each other. It’s what Badgers do.
Christina Olstad, EdD (she/her)
Dean of Students