Parkside Works
Office for Partnership and Workforce Innovation
Cultivating Talent. Driving Progress. Fueling Innovation.
Parkside Works serves as the university’s engine for partnerships and innovation — collaborating with the community and aligning education with workforce needs to advance student career goals, upskill professionals, and empower lifelong learners to drive regional prosperity.
This pioneering platform connects higher education to industry, government, nonprofits, and community partners, fostering real-world learning and equipping people with career-ready skills.
By serving as a centralized “front door” to UW-Parkside’s academic programs, research, and workforce training, Parkside Works exemplifies leadership in innovation and positions southeastern Wisconsin as a launchpad for new ideas and economic growth. Leading this effort is Steve Donovan, UW-Parkside alumnus and community advocate, who serves as executive director for Partnerships and Workforce Innovation.
Parkside Works will deepen collaboration by:
- Connecting partners with academic programs, continuing education, research, and workforce training
- Supporting emerging sectors such as AI and healthcare
- Expanding high-impact learning and continuing education opportunities
- Linking students with career-ready experiences
- Convening leaders around regional economic and cultural development
“I believe that, together, we have the power to transform our communities into better places to live, work, and do business,” said Donovan. “UW-Parkside is uniquely positioned to foster these connections. I’m honored to return to my alma mater to help build partnerships that drive growth, opportunity, and long-term success for our region.”
Donovan brings over 30 years of leadership in banking and business development to the position, having most recently served as Executive Vice President at Community State Bank. A UW-Parkside alumnus twice over, Donovan’s deep ties to Racine, Kenosha, and Walworth counties and his passion for community impact have shaped a career focused on connecting people, resources, and opportunities.
In addition to his professional background, Donovan has held numerous leadership roles in civic organizations, including the UW-Parkside Foundation Board, RKCAA, RAMAC, Racine Founders Rotary Club, YMCA boards in both Racine and Kenosha, and the Racine Community Foundation. He has earned several accolades for his community service and professional excellence, including the RAMAC Business Person of the Year, American Cancer Society Spirit of Hope Award, The YMCA’s Leadership Award of Excellence, and UW-Parkside Distinguished Alumni Award.
Parkside Works strengthens university role as a regional talent pipeline
UW-Parkside not only prepares students to graduate with skills and confidence but also offers current employees the opportunity to upskill through continuing education and customized training. This comprehensive approach shows that when universities partner with external stakeholders, they can transform lives, empower the workforce, and shape a more resilient future for Wisconsin.
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UW-Parkside invites businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies to shape the next generation of leaders.
Contact us to explore how we can work together. Let’s innovate, educate, and grow, together.
parksideworks@uwp.edu | 262-595-3453