SOMERS - Oct. 6 has been designated as Higher Education Day in Wisconsin. Described as a "single day dedicated to thousands of futures," University of Wisconsin System president Kevin Reilly said this is an opportunity for all educational institutions to assist Wisconsin students in focusing on life goals and the role education can play in reaching them.

Wisconsin Higher Education Day is set aside to raise awareness among all state residents that higher education in Wisconsin is accessible and to inspire students of all ages to reach for post-secondary education as a goal. The day is meant to educate children and adults about saving for post-secondary education by making them aware of the savings and financial assistance programs available to them through EdVest and other resources.

Wisconsin Higher Education Day organizers said post-secondary education is vital to Wisconsin's future for a variety of reasons. They said the future requires workers who are flexible and creative; that college can help people build careers in their fields of interest; that a college education makes people well-rounded; and that higher education provides a more secure future for all citizens.

One of the most important things any society does for its children is to provide them with future possibilities. Wisconsin provides many incentives for families to save for and afford higher education. These programs exist to help families reach the goal of post-secondary education. Informing people about these programs is an important goal of Wisconsin Higher Education Day.

This is the third year in which Wisconsin's government officials, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the UW System have collaborated for this important celebration. In the past, the UW System's involvement has included opportunities for students, families, and state leaders to visit campuses. In 2007, UW System financial aid offices, including UW-Parkside's office under financial aid director Randy McCready, held "open houses" to help individuals better navigate the complex topics of aid and tuition.

For more information about Higher Education Day, visit the Web site http://highereducationday.wi.gov/ or call Molly Dillman at (608) 263-2227.