Bill M. and Betty J. Bumgardner
Bill Bumgardner built a distinguished career in industrial arts education, earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in industrial arts from Emporia State Teacher’s College, followed by a master’s in educational specialties in industrial technology from Pittsburgh Kansas State University. His teaching journey began in Kansas, where he spent fifteen years at schools in Lincolnville, Reading, and Parsons before joining UW-Platteville in 1967. At UW-Platteville, Bill taught industrial arts (later known as technology education) and supervised student teachers until his retirement in 1988 as associate professor emeritus in industrial technology education. His passion for hands-on learning extended beyond the classroom through his ten-year leadership of the UW-Platteville Children’s Industriology Workshop during summer sessions. Bill’s artistic talents, supported by his minor in art, found expression through crafts, leatherwork, stained glass, woodworking, and painting. He remained active in his community as a member of American Legion Post No. 42 and First Congregational United Church of Christ in Platteville, where he served in various capacities.
Bill married Betty Richardson on August 27, 1950, beginning a partnership that would span over six decades and deeply impact education in two states. Betty earned her elementary education degree from UWP in 1970 and brought her own dedication to teaching, starting in a one-room schoolhouse for two years and teaching elementary grades for five years in Kansas. She later taught fourth grade for nineteen years in Wisconsin’s Southwestern School District in Hazel Green until her retirement. Betty’s warm, outgoing personality made her a beloved figure among her large family, many friends at Pioneer Ridge Apartments, and her church family. She remained active in First Congregational United Church of Christ, American Legion Auxiliary, and AAUW, while enjoying reading, card games, movies, and socializing.
The Bumgardners’ commitment to education extended through their five children: Lynn, Debra, Tammy, Randy, and Brenda. Three of the children became University of Wisconsin-Platteville alumni and educators themselves. Lynn earned her secondary education degree with a major in comprehensive art from University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1975 and became a high school teacher. Debra followed with an elementary education degree from University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1976, and Randy earned both his bachelor’s degree in physical education1(976) and master’s degree in counselor education (1994) from UWP. This family legacy represents decades of dedication to shaping young minds and fostering educational excellence.
Following Bill’s passing in 2011 and Betty’s in 2021, this scholarship serves as a lasting tribute to their shared passion for education and their belief in empowering future educators. The Bumgardner family’s multi-generational connection to UW-Platteville and their lifelong commitment to teaching will continue to inspire and support students pursuing careers in education for years to come.