Since 1948, the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (AOS) has been at the forefront of weather, climate, and ocean science, with nationally recognized graduate and undergraduate programs. Our faculty have long maintained breadth and special strength in three areas: climate systems, including the ocean; satellite and remote sensing; and weather systems, including synoptic-dynamic meteorology.
How your gifts make an impact
We can maintain our reputation and the work we do because of generous gifts from alumni and friends like you. Your gift creates opportunities and directly supports our students, faculty, and staff as they continue shaping the field and advancing weather, climate, and ocean research.
Why we need your support
Across communities, many have witnessed firsthand the immense importance of AOS professionals — and the research, models, and observations they rely on, often developed here at UW–Madison — in saving lives and protecting property. Severe weather threats are becoming increasingly complex in our rapidly changing climate, and the observing technology, modeling tools (including AI), and training of future professionals all need to adapt to keep pace. We are doing that right here every day, and your support helps make it possible.
At the same time, with an uncertain federal funding landscape, our department faces an urgent need to supplement traditional sources of support for student research and education. Gifts to our discretionary fund are used in many impactful ways, such as enabling students to gain hands-on research experience and attend academic conferences. These career-building opportunities are critical to their success yet are increasingly scarce. We’re calling on the AOS community to rally around our students and help them thrive.
Thanks for your commitment and generosity to AOS. We’re truly grateful for the support. On, Wisconsin!