The Information School at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is pleased to announce Michele Besant (MA ’93, PhD ’99) has been selected by the Alumni Board as the recipient of the 2023 Alumni of the Year Award. This annual award recognizes outstanding alumni in recognition of leadership and accomplishment in the field of library and information studies.
Besant served the iSchool in three different capacities at different stages of her career: as an MA student (1993) and PhD graduate (1999), as the Director of the iSchool Laboratory Library, and finally as Associate Director of the iSchool.
“We are thrilled to honor Michele Besant as our 2023 Distinguished Alumni,” said Alan Rubel, professor and director of the iSchool. “Michele’s dedication to the iSchool, our students, and our communities is unmatched. Her depth of understanding, attention to people and needs, and ability to make connections across all areas of library and information studies helped the iSchool plan and navigate growth, and ensure an excellent education for a whole generation of students.”
Nominations cited Besant’s efforts to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment as well as her leadership in developing community with diverse stakeholders in the department as well as on campus and in the greater community. Additionally, Besant was foundational in the development of the Tribal Libraries, Archives and Museums program, Jail Library Group and Allied Drive Story Time.
Congratulations Michele Besant!!