Campaign Page

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Men's Basketball and Women's Gymnastic teams are launching a campaign for a new space dedicated to the two teams. This new space will be built within the existing available space on the second level within the Williams Center.  

The Lucas Burns & Elaine Yankunas Suite Complex will provide dedicated spaces for the Men's Basketball and Women's Gymnastics teams. The office and meeting space will allow both teams the much needed growth for sport operations as well as student-athlete development. 

Lucas Burns, a beloved member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men's basketball program from 2009-12 and dear friend to many in the Whitewater community, passed away from brain cancer in 2020. A proud member of the 2012 national championship team, Lucas was a kind, generous man who had a way of lifting everyone he encountered. Following his graduation, he continued to be a wonderful ambassador of the university as owner and operator of 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater, repeatedly giving back to the men's basketball program and the entire athletic department. Lucas' family, teammates and friends have come together in support of this multi-program suite complex to assist the UW-Whitewater extended family that welcomed and supported him over the course of his time in the community. It is the group's hope that this gift continues to foster the traditions that Lucas enjoyed and support future Warhawk student-athletes as they reach for their dreams. 

Elaine Yankunas served as UW-Whitewater's head women's Gymnastics coach from 1977-1984, and is considered instrumental in forming a strong foundation for the Warhawk team that continues today.  Elaine was known for creating a supportive team atmosphere for athletes and her ability to develop the individual athlete to best of her ability. Her family and friends have come together to honor her commitment to helping young women develop self-confidence, athleticism, and team work. 

If you are interested in contributing towards individual room naming rights, please contact Kiefer Sullivan within the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Foundation office at SullivanKM14@UWW.edu or 262.472.5646. 

Click here to learn more about the project and assist Warhawks Reaching New Heights.