Search | Menu President Berne launches 100 Conversations, connects with community
Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne served as both welcoming committee and campus guide as she greeted students on campus last week. “It’s been a long buildup to this day for all of us,” Berne says of her new role leading one of Wisconsin’s top technical colleges.
Since July 1, Berne has been crisscrossing the 12-county district, regularly visiting all seven college campuses.
Through her “100 Conversations” initiative, Berne gathered diverse perspectives from those invested in Madison College's success in meeting students' needs.
"We are moving forward in unison," Berne says. "Embracing our commitments to students, ensuring we are doing everything in our power to help each individual complete their higher educational journey."
Her goal is clear: for Madison College students to complete their credentials, a milestone she sees as pivotal for graduates to earn higher wages, experience better health outcomes, and pass on the benefits of higher education to their children.
Embracing commitment to students
Berne saw that firsthand when she visited kids at the Truax Early Learning Campus, which provides a critical childcare resource to students who are parents.
With the Early Learning Campus now open at Goodman South, efforts will be amplified to provide students with resources to help manage their life responsibilities, so they can continue their education.
"Our students' successful completion of a degree or credential can positively change the trajectory of a family," Berne says. "It also sets a standard for what we all want for the generation that follows: an opportunity to expand their horizons by knowing that higher education is a family tradition."
100 Conversations
Throughout the past six months, Berne has prioritized meaningful engagement with faculty and staff, holding town halls, meetings, and informal gatherings across all campuses.
These conversations have helped her understand employees’ experiences, aspirations, and the challenges they face in supporting students every day. These insights are shaping Berne’s leadership approach and reinforcing her commitment to fostering a collaborative, supportive workplace culture where employees feel valued and heard.
Berne has also emphasized outreach to K-12, higher education and workforce development partners, over the last part of 2025.
In August, Berne congratulated the first cohort of the surgical technology apprenticeship program on their smart decision to upskill their credentials for a vital healthcare career. It is the first-of-its-kind program in the nation made possible by partnering with UW Health, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), and the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin.
She joined faculty, staff and students in cutting the ribbon on the new Dental Assistant and Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Clinic to support the Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary Certificate Program.
Berne acknowledged Madison College’s partners who advocate for accessible, high-quality education and their collaborations for making the new clinic possible.
“At Madison College, we believe education should be responsive, inclusive and transformative,” Berne said. “By listening carefully to our healthcare partners, students and the community, Madison College has delivered a solution to the state’s dental care shortage. This clinic equips students with the skills and confidence they need to step into high-demand roles and succeed.”
These are just a few of the powerful collaborations Berne continues to pursue to bring opportunities to students and positively impact communities.
Beyond the classroom, President Berne celebrated the accomplishments of Madison College student-athletes. She was in the bleachers, cheering on the women’s volleyball team at the national championship tournament in Iowa, and supported the men’s soccer team in their first-ever national championship.
Strategic vision
In 2026, Berne is ready to share takeaways from her "100 conversations" and introduce a strategic vision that builds on current strengths and future aspirations.
"I invite you to join me in embracing these commitments, because ultimately, to change student lives, we must change," Berne said. “The work is ours.”
Learn more about President Berne's leadership.
