Special alumna to receive Blugold Spirit Award during Homecoming Week

Tietz, a 1971 UW-Eau Claire graduate who serves as president and CEO of McDonough Manufacturing, will receive the university’s newest alumni award, the Blugold Spirit Award. Established in 2018 by the UW-Eau Claire Alumni Association, the Blugold Spirit Award recognizes UW-Eau Claire supporters who demonstrate a true commitment to and abiding love for the campus.

Tietz, who often says her “blood is blue and gold,” is a frequent attendee of campus athletic events with her husband, Roger. The pair also have been steadfast supporters of many Foundation projects, and the Tietz family generously established a scholarship for students in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Tietz says the beauty and ongoing improvements to campus make her especially proud to be a Blugold.

“Since graduating in 1971, I’ve held UWEC close to my heart,” Tietz says. “To be recognized for having Blugold spirit is an honor that I hope sets an example for all my fellow Blugolds. Supporting UWEC is my way of giving back to the institution that gave so much to me.” 

An Eau Claire native, Tietz earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. At the time, she planned to pursue a career working with special needs young adults, but the family business took her work life in a different direction.

“As a Blugold student, it was always my hope to work with young adults with Down syndrome, but after graduation, my career at McDonough became my focus,” says Tietz, who began working at her father’s business in the ninth grade and recently celebrated 60 years with the family sawmill equipment manufacturing business. She is a third-generation family owner and CEO.

As the Blugold Spirit Award winner, Tietz will serve as the Homecoming parade marshal and receive a special introduction during the Homecoming football game in Carson Park on Saturday, Oct. 8.