27 Oct Six Rising Stars Honored by the Wisconsin Alumni Association Honorees
Sarah Schutt, Jacob Kushner, Liz Dennett, Faatima Khan, Stephanie Phillips, Kyle Nakatsuji, and Matthew Conway // Photo by Lynette Yahn
2025 Forward Awards recognized UW alumni pushing the boundaries of humanitarian efforts, sustainability, health equality, journalism, and innovation.
The Wisconsin Alumni Association celebrated six remarkable young alumni at its Forward Award Recognition ceremony on October 9, honoring Badgers who are translating their UW–Madison education into world-changing impact.
Held in Memorial Union’s Great Hall during Homecoming week, the event brought together alumni, family members, mentors, and campus leaders to recognize rising stars who exemplify early-career excellence and embody the Wisconsin Idea’s commitment to service, discovery, and progress.
“There is really nothing better than to have a part of the Badger community that produces such incredible alumni,” said Sarah Schutt, chief alumni officer and executive director of the Wisconsin Alumni Association, as she opened the awards presentation.
The 2025 Forward Award honorees are tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges — from humanitarian crises and climate change to health equity and misinformation — with creativity, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.