News

  1. UW System pandemic response critical for Wisconsin

    By Tommy Thompson, President, University of Wisconsin System

    June 23, 2021

    “Having launched a vaccination site at a few campuses, the System did save the state, and I want to say that publicly. The System saved the state, in its responsibility and its actions.” Those are the words of one of our newest members of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents, Dr. Ashok Rai, President […]

  2. Wisconsin needs investments in our universities

    By Tommy Thompson, President, University of Wisconsin System

    April 28, 2021

    You’ve probably heard about what happened at Van Hise Hall at UW-Madison this month: two concrete slabs broke off the façade and crashed to the ground in front of the main entrance. Thankfully, no one was injured or killed. Unfortunately, it is an example that illustrates the need for more investment to upgrade the aging […]

  3. UW System planning to maximize in-person instruction for Fall 2021 semester

    By Tommy Thompson, President, University of Wisconsin System

    February 18, 2021

    In a traditional university setting, students learn and grow through their interactions with peers and faculty. This sort of engagement – in and out of the classroom – builds sharper thinking, contributes to social development, and enriches communities. As University of Wisconsin System campuses plan for the fall semester, we will be seeking to maximize […]

  4. Why we need to improve prison education

    Op-Ed By Tommy Thompson, President, University of Wisconsin System

    December 22, 2020

    I first started thinking about prisons during my early years in the Assembly, more than 50 years ago. I believed then, and I believe now, that we need to give people who have committed a crime a second chance. I’ve been thinking more about this lately as I reflect on my accomplishments in political life […]

  5. UW System is cultivating a culture of responsibility in responding to COVID-19

    By Tommy Thompson, President, University of Wisconsin System, and Andrew S. Petersen, President, UW System Board of Regents

    September 30, 2020

    After UW-Eau Claire students were gathering in crowds early in the semester some of the university’s seniors delivered this message to the freshmen: We want to remain on campus and we know you do too, so take the virus seriously. Wear a mask, watch your distance, and wash your hands. At the same time, university […]