A Message from Steve Hancock: Spring/Summer 2024-25

Dear USM Community,

At University School of Milwaukee, we commit ourselves to cultivating excellence in learning, leadership, and citizenship—for every student, every day. This mission is not static; it demands innovation, reflection, and bold thinking as we prepare young people to thrive in a world of  constant change.

This issue of USM Today brings that spirit of innovation to life. Our feature story takes readers inside our College Guidance program, where dedicated counselors partner with students to navigate the increasingly complex admissions process. You will read the stories of Ezran Anastas ’25 and Izze Keller ’25—two distinct journeys shaped by resilience and thoughtful support. The article also sheds light on evolving trends in college admissions, from essays that reflect an authentic voice and ways students can directly influence their admissions approach to how students discover their “right-fit” schools.

Throughout this issue, you’ll find further examples of USM’s forward-looking approach to education. Our students and faculty are embracing new ideas—whether it’s the innovative Tower Projects celebrating a decade of impact, expanded partnerships with Kinship Community Food Center that build empathy in our youngest learners, or students crafting vibrant art in our newly equipped ceramic studios, supported by the generosity of gifts to our USM Fund.

Across our divisions, we continue to evolve, with enhancements to educational technology, dynamic new internship and professional skills programs, thoughtful updates to Middle School grading practices, and campus improvements, such as the dining hall renovation, which will serve as a new hub for community life.

Each of these stories reflects a school that is alive with purpose, grounded in mission, and eager to help students stretch, grow, and lead.

Thank you for your partnership in this great work. I hope you enjoy the issue.

Steve Hancock
Head of School