Chancellor

Chancellor

The Universities of Wisconsin invites applications and nominations for the position of chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL). The new chancellor will succeed Dr. Joe Gow, who is stepping down in June 2024 after 17 years of distinguished service.

Established in 1909, UWL is a public university enrolling approximately 10,300 undergraduate and graduate students within a vibrant community in one of the most beautiful regions of Wisconsin. UWL is part of the Universities of Wisconsin, a constellation of 13 universities and 26 campuses that promote educational and career opportunities in all corners of the state, serving more than 161,000 students each year.

UWL offers 102 undergraduate programs in 30 disciplines, 30 graduate programs and two doctoral programs. Long recognized as a top mid-sized university in the Midwest, UWL is the No. 1 public university in Wisconsin with fewer than 25,000 students, according to U.S. News & World Report.

UWL comprises three colleges, Science & Health, Business Administration, and Arts, Social Sciences, & Humanities and two schools, Visual & Performance Arts and Education, that seek to prepare and inspire the next generation of scientists, business leaders, creative thinkers, artists, educators and engaged global citizens.

Students, staff and faculty frequently say they were drawn to UWL because of its strong academic reputation, its vibrant and affable culture, and the La Crosse area’s abundant natural beauty. These qualities have allowed UWL to stand out among its peers, leading to years of

record-setting enrollment at a time when many universities are experiencing declines.

The ideal candidate for chancellor will embody many of the following characteristics and qualifications: A demonstrated history of navigating the trends, challenges and opportunities within the local and global landscapes of higher education; a track record of financial stewardship, with the ability to balance wishes, needs and priorities within a finite budget; a willingness to engage and embrace diverse perspectives in strategic decision-making; a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and the critical role these values play in student success, workforce development and community enrichment; a dedication to keeping students at the center of day-to-day operations and decision-making; an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving, and a knack for generating support for innovative ideas; an analytical mindset that leverages data in both long-term and short-term planning; A strong political acumen that will serve the university in its legislative advocacy and navigation of the political process; a willingness and capability to drive fundraising efforts, positioning the university for aspirational philanthropic success; an eagerness to engage and collaborate with the community, underscoring UWL’s importance to the local culture, economy and workforce; an intellectual curiosity that reinforces a culture of self-discovery and academic exploration on campus; an enthusiasm for telling the university’s story through media, marketing, outreach and legislative advocacy; an executive disposition that commands respect and conveys confidence, positivity, accountability and compassion; a down-to-earth persona that establishes a sense of relatability and approachability among the campus and greater La Crosse communities; strong academic scholarship, teaching and/or research credentials, or equivalent professional experience; and a successful record of leadership in higher education or equivalent professional administration experience.

For formal consideration, applicants should submit a curriculum vitae or resume, at least five references with contact information, and a letter of application addressing the leadership opportunities and qualifications articulated in the position profile available at: https://diversifiedsearchgroup.com/search/20380-university-of-wisconsin-la-crosse-chancellor/

The position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by Jan. 2, 2024, are assured full consideration.

All nominations and applications should be sent in confidence to:

Steve Leo, Managing Director
Christopher Lee, Ph.D., SPHR, Managing Director
Vicki Henderson, Senior Associate
Kamilah Allen, Senior Associate
Storbeck Search
UWLChancellor@storbecksearch.com

Nominations and expressions of interest will be treated in confidence. References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. The university will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except as required by Wis. Stat. § 19.36(7), which requires disclosure of those identified as final candidates for the position of chancellor. Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require applicants and references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and harassment. This is a full-time position that will be performed on-site in the State of Wisconsin. Salary will be commensurate with experience and includes a generous benefits package.