Dec. 8 declared Bernie Patterson Day in Stevens Point
For the City Times
STEVENS POINT – Mayor Mike Wiza has declared Dec. 8 as Bernie Patterson Day in Stevens Point, in “recognition of his decade of service as Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.”
In a proclamation to the chancellor today on Dec. 4, Wiza said the day is to show appreciation for the chancellor’s work, vision, and dedication to the community.
“Patterson led through challenging times with wisdom and compassion,” Wiza said.
Patterson retires in early January after 10.5 years as chancellor.
“He introduced a vision to become a new kind of public university, more responsible to local needs and more relevant to solving regional problems,” Wiza said. “Patterson built relationships with numerous businesses in, creating internships and job opportunities for students and a professional talent pipeline for the state and region employers.
“Bernie has become an icon in our community, a familiar face who was always promoting UWSP and the City. He is a friend to many, and we’ll miss him dearly.”
Patterson served on numerous boards in the community, including: Portage County Business Council, United Way of Portage County, Rotary, Worzalla Publishing, and the Marshfield Clinic. He also supported many nonprofit organizations.
Wiza encouraged community residents to wear purple and gold or Pointer apparel on Dec. 8 and making a donation in the chancellor’s honor.
The cupola atop Old Main at UW-Stevens Point, which was refurbished during Patterson’s era, will be lit in purple Tuesday night.