The new area of work called Experiential Education will be led by Mo Kappes, the former advisor of ALPs.
In spring semester 2023, Adventure Learning Programs (ALPs), which was formerly sponsored by the Center for Leadership & Involvement (CfLI), will be joining University Recreation & Wellbeing (Rec Well) establishing a new area of programming and offerings focused on leadership, teamwork, and hands-on experiences. This new area, Experiential Education, will be led by Mo Kappes, formerly the ALPs Advisor, as the new Assistant Director of Experiential Education.
“We are excited about what the future holds with the addition of ALPs to our programs,” Aaron Hobson, Director of Rec Well said. “This transition presents opportunities for us to reach more Active Badgers in ways we haven’t before. Mo had done an incredible job with ALPs establishing a strong program that fosters teambuilding and leadership skills in those who take part in their workshops. These elements will be key in building our work in experiential education.”
In this new role, Kappes will shape the vision for this work. This includes the management and leadership of two facilities: the High & Low Challenge Course, as well as the indoor climbing & bouldering center within the Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center (opening in Spring 2023). As well, she’ll develop additional programming focused on building confidence, community, and connections.
“Even though ALPs is moving to a new organizational home, the strong partnership between CfLI and ALPs will continue as both organizations work together to further student leadership development on campus,” Mark Kueppers, Director of CfLI said.
ALPs have been supported well by CfLI for the past 30 years and has seen the organization grow from a small group of 15 students to what it is today— 40 staff serving over 3,000 students a year.
Kappes also reflected on this long-term connection, “This change allows new pathways for ALPs and experiential education to grow reaching not only students and faculty/staff but eventually businesses and organizations within the Madison community.”
ALPs facilitates workshops on the outdoor high and low ropes courses between April 1 – November 1. The courses are located several miles outside Stoughton, WI. In addition, they offer team building workshops that are available year-round as well as facilitation training for college students. If you are interested in learning more or booking a workshop or training visit www.recwell.wisc.edu/alps. Workshops are free to all UW-Madison students. For other individuals, a price quote will be provided upon request.