News & Events

Justice Sandra Day O’Connor was an American icon, the first woman on our Nation’s highest court. She spent her career committed to the stable center, pragmatic and in search of common ground. Defined by her no-nonsense Arizona ranch roots, Justice O’Connor overcame discrimination early on, at a time when law firms too often told women to seek work as secretaries, not attorneys. She gave her life to public service, even holding elected office, and never forgot those ties to the people whom the law is meant to serve. She sought to avoid ideology, and was devoted to the rule of law and to the bedrock American principle of an independent judiciary. Justice O’Connor never quit striving to make this Nation stronger, calling on us all to engage with our country and with one another, and her institute’s work to promote civics education and civil discourse has touched millions. She knew that for democracy to work, we have to listen to each other, and remember how much more we all have in common as Americans than what keeps us apart.

As a mark of respect for the memory and longstanding service of Sandra Day O’Connor, retired Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that on the day of her interment [Tuesday, December 19], the flag of the United States shall be flown at half‑staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on such day. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.

                            JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

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Editor’s note: The following press release was received from the UW-Whitewater College of Business and Economics.

Graduates of UW-Whitewater DBA (Doctorate of Business Administration) Program Shine in Their Professional Pursuits 

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater proudly announces the completion of its 2023 Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program by eleven outstanding individuals. These graduates – Patrice Achu, Tobin Anderson, Eric Barber, Betty Carew, Michelle Gabor, Kokou Gadedji, Chris Harper, Melissa Nelson, David Rollins, Rizvana Zameeruddin, and Emily Zoet – mark a significant milestone as they prepare for their commencement ceremony in December.

Reflecting on their transformative experiences, these graduates have shared invaluable insights into the program’s impact on their careers and scholarly contributions. Dr. Patrice Achu, this year’s commencement speaker, highlighted, “The program’s deep understanding of strategic leadership, research methodologies, and the ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world business challenges” as a standout feature that prepared them for leadership roles.

The program’s emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills resonated strongly with the alumni, enabling seamless application of theoretical knowledge to practical business contexts. Dr. Emily Zoet affirmed her commitment to ongoing professional development, stating, “I will continue in my role as Assistant Professor of Accountancy at Ferris State University, researching sustainability issues in accounting, including climate change risk.”

Dr. Eric Barber, another program alumnus, expressed intentions to continue building upon learned skills and contribute to research in the areas of management and organizational behavior. He further announced participation in the 2024 Academy of Human Resources Development (AHRD) conference, showcasing ongoing dedication to scholarly engagement.

Key highlights from the graduates included the invaluable networking opportunities, exposure to diverse perspectives, and collaborative experiences with classmates and professors. They praised the program’s unique approach, combining self-study with live group discussions and a collegial, supportive learning environment.

Dr. Melissa Nelson, securing a tenure-track position in Silicon Valley, emphasized her enthusiasm for continued research and publishing articles in esteemed journals, contributing to the evolving landscape of academia.

When asked what he enjoyed about the program, Dr. Tobin Anderson replied with “The mix of self- study and live discussions challenged my thinking, taking our learnings to an additional level,” highlighting the program’s unique approach that enriched the learning experience.

The UW-Whitewater DBA program continues to empower professionals, equipping them with the tools and expertise to excel in their careers and contribute significantly to their respective fields.

Updated on 12/16/23 at 11:55 p.m. to provide photo credit.

Photos of the Whitewater High School Winter Gala on December 6, courtesy of Tom Ganser