2008 Walton S. Bittner Service Citation

For Outstanding Service to UCEA

The Walton S. Bittner Service Citation, established in 1968, recognizes a member for outstanding contributions to continuing education at his or her institution, and for service of major significance to UCEA. The award was initiated in appreciation of Bittner's long-term commitment as a NUEA executive officer, and in recognition of the devotion with which he served the Association. Bittner was Secretary/ Treasurer of NUEA from 1927-1956.

Mary S. Grant

University of Wisconsin-Extension

Associate Dean, Continuing Education, Outreach and E-Learning; Associate Director, Broadcasting and Media Innovations

Over the last 25 years, Mary S. Grant has worked to advance continuing education while assuming increasingly important leadership roles in the University of Wisconsin System. As her career progressed, Grant also helped to extend the reach of the Association.

At UW-Extension, Grant has consistently championed the highest levels of professional practice within the field of continuing and adult education. According to Marvin Van Kekerix, Vice Chancellor, University of Wisconsin Colleges and University of Wisconsin-Extension, Grant has been a leader in system-wide strategic planning for Extension, implemented a variety of critical approaches, and nurtured creative programming.

Grant began her career in the field in 1983, as Interim Director of Continuing Education at the University of Wisconsin College-Baraboo/ Sauk County and has served the University of Wisconsin System in a variety of roles since. She was Director of Continuing Education at the University of Wisconsin Colleges prior to joining the University of Wisconsin-Extension just over a decade ago.

"Mary's UW System colleagues across the state respect her strong personal commitment to continuing education, as well as the passion and creativity that she brings to every task," observed Kevin P. Reilly, President of the University of Wisconsin System.