UW-River Falls launches “Duel of the Decades” online campaign: 1980s vs. 1990s Falcon pride

River Falls, Wis. – Which decade rules: the ’80s or the ’90s? The University of Wisconsin-River Falls is inviting alumni, students and the community to cast their votes, share their stories and show off their style in the university’s first-ever “Duel of the Decades” campaign, running now through early December as part of Impact Week, which will run Dec. 1-5.

From big hair and Walkmans to flannel and dial-up internet, the Duel of the Decades asks Falcons everywhere to weigh in on the best music, fashion and trends from the ’80s and ’90s.

“Trends are cyclical—we’re seeing scrunchies, oversized denim and even cassette tapes making their way back on campus,” said Pedro Renta, director of alumni relations. “This campaign is a fun way to connect generations of Falcons, our alumni from the ’80s and ’90s, our current students and the community who cheered them all on.”

a graphic with the text "UWRF duel of the decades, 80s vs. 90s" two people, one with a boombox on their shoulder and one wearing headphones are pictured

Adding a bit of nostalgia to the mix, Mandy Jeppesen, annual giving manager, invites alumni to “turn back time” and revisit the Falcon spirit that never fades.

“This campaign is all about connection and celebration,” Jeppesen said. “We’re inviting our ’80s and ’90s alumni to turn back time. Pull out your favorite UWRF memories – from late nights in the residence halls to cheering in the stands – and see how far our campus has come. You’ll find so much that’s new, but also so much that still feels like home. That’s the magic of River Falls. It keeps growing, but it never forgets its roots.”

From themed social media challenges and nostalgic playlists to photos and stories from the archives, the Duel of the Decades offers Falcons everywhere a chance to reminisce, reconnect and celebrate the university that has shaped so many lives.

The Duel of the Decades may be all about throwbacks, but its impact is forward focused. Every vote, post and gift fuels the future of Falcon pride, helping ensure today’s students can build the same kind of memories that make UWRF unforgettable. The hope is that those who loved their time on campus in the past will help shape its future by supporting the UWRF Impact Fund, the university’s most flexible source of support for student success and emerging priorities.

Celebrate, share and show your decade pride

Falcons from every era are invited to get in on the action:

  • Vote: Cast your vote in online polls comparing iconic trends such as arcade games versus Game Boys, mullets versus big hair, Walkman versus Boombox, and declare which decade reigns supreme.
  • Share: Post your favorite throwback photos and campus memories on social media using #UWRFDueloftheDecades and tag @UWRiverFalls.
  • Engage: Cheer on your decade, comment, tag classmates who’d love to reminisce and join the conversation with students, alumni and community members celebrating what makes UWRF timeless.
  • Give: Keep the Falcon spirit soaring by making a gift to the UWRF Impact Fund, supporting today’s students and ensuring the next generation of memories is just as unforgettable.

Follow the UWRF Alumni Association on Facebook and Instagram or connect on LinkedIn.

Impact Week runs Dec. 1-5, extending Giving Tuesday into an entire week of generosity. More information, polls and support opportunities can be found at students.uwrf.edu/give/impact-week.