MADISON – Albert J. Beaver, interim chancellor of University of Wisconsin-Extension since 1997 and one of the UW System’s most senior administrators, announced today that he will retire on July 1, 2000.
“Since February 1997, we have worked together to promote the value of UW-Extension and chart its course for a dynamic future,” Beaver said in a written statement to UW-Extension faculty and staff announcing the retirement. “For me personally this experience has been an excellent capstone to a 33-year career in the UW,” Beaver said.
“It is with sincere regret that I accede to Al Beaver’s wish to retire from the UW and his Extension Chancellorship next July,” said UW System President Katharine C. Lyall, joining Beaver in the statement.
“Al has been a dedicated and tireless public servant. Most recently, his steady hand and resourceful leadership have helped strengthen UW-Extension and place the institution on the road to a bright and productive future,” said Lyall.
Beaver joined the faculty at UW-River Falls in 1966 as an assistant professor of soil science. Since joining UW System Administration as an academic planner in 1973, he has served in a number of leadership positions. From 1981-84, he served as special assistant to the executive vice president. In 1984 he was appointed assistant vice president for academic affairs. In 1988 he was named associate vice president for academic affairs, and served as acting vice president from 1990 to 1991, and as acting senior vice president in 1994. He holds doctorate, master’s and bachelor’s degrees in soil science from UW-Madison.
Lyall said she intends to ask the UW Board of Regents to begin the process of selecting the next chancellor of UW-Extension at its September meeting. “Our goal is to find someone who is as passionate about, and committed to, public service in public higher education as Al Beaver,” said Lyall.
UW-Extension coordinates a spectrum of learning opportunities through educational programs in Cooperative Extension, Extension Communications, including Wisconsin public radio and television, Continuing Education, and Small Business Development Centers. Extension’s collaborative relationships with the 26 UW universities and colleges, the 72 Wisconsin counties, and local, state, and federal agencies and groups helps deliver UW knowledge and resources statewide.
Contact:
Sharyn Wisniewski
(608) 262-6448