MADISON, Wis.—Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman issued this statement today on the departure of Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin:
“As the flagship of the Universities of Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin–Madison has long been a prized asset for all Wisconsinites. During her tenure, Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin brought unbounded energy, resilience, and deeply thoughtful leadership to this great university. As she now takes on a new opportunity at another prestigious institution, we extend our substantial gratitude for her service and wish her continued success in the years ahead.”
“Chancellor Mnookin helped elevate UW–Madison’s research enterprise to new heights. Under her leadership, the university returned to the top five in national research expenditures for the first time since 2014 and surpassed $1.93 billion in research investment during fiscal year 2024. This accomplishment reflected the creativity of faculty, staff, and students whose work advanced discovery, fueled innovation, and reinforced UW–Madison’s status as one of the world’s leading research institutions and a critical goal of the Universities of Wisconsin (UWs) strategic plan.”
“She also launched the RISE Initiative, a major effort that concentrated UW–Madison’s interdisciplinary strengths on society’s most complex challenges. Through new faculty hiring, improved research infrastructure, and enhanced learning opportunities, RISE accelerated innovation in artificial intelligence, environmental resilience, human health, and other areas deeply important to Wisconsin and the world.”
“Chancellor Mnookin championed the Wisconsin Exchange, an initiative that strengthened UW–Madison’s commitment to viewpoint diversity and meaningful civil dialogue. Through this work, the university expanded opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to engage thoughtfully across differences. The initiative supported a campus community where a wide range of perspectives could be welcomed, respected, and constructively discussed, another fundamental component of the UWs strategic plan.”
“Throughout her service, Chancellor Mnookin strengthened UW–Madison’s role as a powerful economic engine for the state. Together with affiliated startups, the university contributed more than $30.8 billion in economic activity and graduated thousands of students each year who entered the workforce prepared to lead and innovate. Her leadership advanced a university that has long helped support Wisconsin’s economic vibrancy.”
“As Chancellor Mnookin begins her next chapter, we thank her for her contributions and wish her every success. We look forward to ensuring that UW–Madison continues to thrive and to carry forward the tradition of excellence it is known for worldwide.”
Chancellor Mnookin will remain in her role through the spring commencement. After consulting with the Board of Regents, UW-Madison, and other stakeholders, I will in the near term appoint an interim chancellor to succeed Chancellor Mnookin. The Board of Regents will thereafter commence a search process for Chancellor Mnookin’s permanent successor.”