Project Description
In 1990, Dave Solie began a 34-year at WXOW TV in La Crescent, Minnesota. Three years later he began teaching radio and television news writing at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. In both careers, Dave applied a concept that he learned as a 14-year-old student from a teacher at Onalaska High School – We affect others and they affect us.
As a news reporter and anchor he focused on stories that highlighted people who contributed to their communities. As a teacher, he helps students understand how their hard work can make a difference, not only for them, but for others.
Dave and his best friend and wife Janice moved to Onalaska in 1995. Janice taught in the Onalaska School District for 18 years at Northern Hills and Eagle Bluff Elementary Schools. They have three children, all Onalaska High School graduates. Kelly is a principal at Northern Hills Elementary School. David III, named for his grandfather, is a middle school teacher and Katie is a nurse.
Onalaska High School is also where Dave developed his love for music. For more than 50 years he has been in the same rock band with the same people, two of whom he met at Onalaska Middle School.
Dave graduated from OHS in 1978, earned a BS from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, and a JD from the University of Toledo College of Law.
Induction Classification: Class of 1978
Induction Year: 2026
2026 Wall of Excellence Induction Ceremony
Watch the 2026 Wall of Excellence Induction Ceremony of Dave Solie held at Onalaska High School on October 2, 2o26.
WHO WILL BE INDUCTED NEXT?
Nominations for the Wall of Excellence are accepted every year in the spring. Past nominations that have not been inducted can be nominated for consideration. There can be up to three inductees per year. The induction ceremonies are held in the fall as part of the homecoming festivities.
Calling All Onalaska Alumni! Send Us Your Updated Contact Info!
The Alumni Association partners with Onalaska High School to keep updated records of alumni. This helps individual classes with connecting for class reunions as well as the All-Class Reunion held every three years. Click on the button to send us your updated contact information.
