Badger Corps has officially launched its inaugural membership drive
Badger Corps, a new volunteer-led network dedicated to connecting and supporting military-connected UW–Madison alumni, faculty, staff, students, and supporters, has officially launched its inaugural membership drive. Founded in 2026, the organization seeks to foster community, assist student veterans, and honor the university's long-standing military tradition.
Membership is open to anyone passionate about serving military-connected Badgers, regardless of whether they have military experience or attended UW–Madison. Board Chair Keith Balts, a 1992 UW–Madison graduate and retired U.S. Air Force colonel, noted that all that is required is a desire to share time, talent, or resources to assist military-connected individuals on campus.
Inspired by Clemson University’s 28-year-old Clemson Corps, Balts envisioned bringing together diverse military and veteran communities under a single umbrella at UW–Madison. Following an exploratory year involving conversations with ROTC commanders, University Veteran Services, local alumni, and the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association, a founding committee drafted the organization's charter and established its board of directors in June 2026.
With a student-first mission, Badger Corps aims to increase awareness, raise financial support for cadets and student veterans, host campus events, and preserve military heritage. Director of University Veteran Services Joe Rasmussen emphasized that the network offers student veterans valuable connections and career assistance, including internship opportunities for first-generation students. The network plans a steady expansion starting with informal social gatherings and gradually building toward larger events and broader community outreach.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.