When Chancellor Biddy Martin introduced her new Madison Initiative for Undergraduates, she did so in front of dozens of University of Wisconsin student leaders, including members of this editorial board. Instead of holding a press conference with solely university administrators, legislative leaders and other supporters, Martin opened the doors of her home to hold informal roundtable discussions on her innovative plan.
This signaled an important part of Martinâ??s plan â?? incorporating students, answering their questions, hearing their praise and receiving their critiques. She fielded initial support and resistance from students at the dinner and devoted herself to listening more.