In today's digital age, understanding computers and data is not just essential, it's a necessity. From businesses to governments, every field relies on these technologies to thrive in our ever-evolving world. Imagine a future where everyone, no matter their background or discipline, possesses a solid grasp of data science, computing, and the ramifications of their intersection with society. This is the future we're building at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and I am deeply honored to be at the helm of this mission.Our recently formed school, nestled within the College of Letters & Science, boasts three departments nationally ranked in the top 15 of excellence in the study of computing, data, and information sciences. Yet, our aspirations go far beyond conventional education. We aim to foster a sense of 'data literacy' within our campus, across the entire state of Wisconsin, and, eventually, the world.Our unique position within a top ten research institution enables us to explore the dynamic interaction of technology and society, scrutinizing challenges such as data ethics, cybersecurity, and human-computer interaction, amongst others. We don't just teach computing; we instill an understanding of its impact on the world.At the heart of our efforts is collaboration. With UW-Madison's broad spectrum of expertise in health sciences, agriculture, engineering, business, and social sciences, we are perfectly positioned to join forces with industry, innovators, and government. Together, we're forging a path towards a better future, where advanced research and education equip individuals to navigate the digital landscape confidently.We're not just creating scholars; we're developing leaders of the future. Join us as we steer toward a new era of understanding, exploration, and innovation. Your support can help turn this ambitious vision into a transformative reality.