Central Wisconsin News

A retired educator couple, Jim and Madeleine Haine from Stevens Point, have made a significant financial contribution to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The Haines have pledged an additional $500,000 to the Sentry School of Business and Economics at UW-Stevens Point, increasing their lifetime donations to over $822,000. This funding aims to enhance recruitment efforts and provide more opportunities for students by developing new spaces and programs within the Sentry School.

In recognition of their generosity, the administrative suite at the Sentry School will be named the James and Madeleine Haine Office in the renovated Sentry Hall, scheduled to open in 2028. This office will serve as a central hub for decision-making within the school.

"We believe in supporting a program that Jim has been part of since 1976, and one he has led on several occasions," said the Haines. "We want to see it continue to grow and inspire future generations."

Jim Haine spent 32 years teaching business law at UW-Stevens Point, achieving professional success while motivating many students. He also held multiple leadership roles as department head and contributed to establishing the arts management program at UWSP.

"Teaching at UW-Stevens Point was one of the most enjoyable things I’ve ever done," he said. "I never thought of it as 'work.' My students were some of the best people I’ve ever gotten to know."

Madeleine Haine is a UWSP alumna who had a successful 26-year teaching career in Mosinee. Since retiring in 2006, she has been active in local schools and is part of the Stevens Point Area Retired Teachers’ Association (SPARTA).

Beyond his academic role, Jim Haine worked as a corporate attorney, systems analyst, programmer, and began his career as a financial management officer in the U.S. Navy.

Since Jim's retirement from UW-Stevens Point in 2008, both he and Madeleine have continued their support through financial contributions. Their efforts have coincided with notable growth at the Sentry School; first-year enrollment increased by 22% this year alone, with overall enrollment rising by 11%. Since 2019, there has been a total increase of 51% in enrollment.

"We are so thankful for the amazing support of Jim and Madeleine," said Kevin Neuman, head of the Sentry School of Business and Economics. "Their vision for the Sentry School helped launch us on the path of growth we’ve been experiencing."

The Haines' donation marks the first interior named space within what will become Sentry Hall after extensive renovations. The building project follows Sentry's $10 million gift in 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2028.

For more information about how the Sentry School is preparing future business leaders, visit www.uwsp.edu/sentryschool.