MADISON, Wis.—Robert Brinkmann has been named the next Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. He is the university’s 16th leader.
The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents today approved Brinkmann’s appointment, following a recommendation made by a selection committee. He will assume the leadership post on July 1, 2026.
“Dr. Brinkmann’s educational background in the natural sciences and sustainability is a perfect match for UW students at Stevens Point,” said Regent Jack Salzwedel, chair of the Search and Screen Committee. “As the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Northern Illinois University, he understands the complex challenges and opportunities that face higher education today. We are thrilled to be able to name him as the next Chancellor at UW-Stevens Point.”
A graduate of UW-Oshkosh and UW-Milwaukee, Brinkmann is currently Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Northern Illinois University, a position he has held since 2020. He was vice provost for research and dean of graduate studies/director of sustainability studies at Hofstra University, a private university on Long Island, New York City. Brinkmann has also served in administrative roles at the University of South Florida, where he was also a faculty member.
“I am pleased that Dean Brinkmann is returning to the Universities of Wisconsin,” said Jay Rothman, President of the Universities of Wisconsin. “He understands the student experience and the importance of the breadth that a liberal arts education at UW-Stevens Point can deliver.”
“I’m very excited to welcome Dr. Brinkmann to the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point,” said Regent President Amy B. Bogost. “Dr. Brinkmann brings a lifetime of leadership in higher education and specifically sustainability and natural sciences. We owe a debt of gratitude to the dedicated committee of Regents, campus members, and local partners who worked relentlessly to bring us a leader who so deeply cares about our campus and will ensure UW-Stevens Point’s environmental legacy isn’t just honored but will have a resilient future for the university and community.”
“I am truly honored to return to Wisconsin to accept the chancellorship of UW-Stevens Point,” said Brinkmann. “I’m committed to advancing academic excellence, innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement that empowers our students and strengthens our impact beyond the region.”
Brinkmann earned his bachelor’s degree in geology from UW-Oshkosh. He received a master’s in geology from UW-Milwaukee and a Ph.D. in geography from UW-Milwaukee.
President Rothman and the Special Regent Committee for the UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Search recommended Brinkmann to the full Board of Regents. The Committee includes Regents Salzwedel, chair; Haben Goitom; Noah Fritz; Linda Terwilliger; and Jill Underly.
The Search and Screen Committee includes members of the Special Regent Committee and Kristi Roth, Professor, School of Education, vice chair; Tom Bertram, Administrative Human Resources Coordinator; Michael Estanich, Professor, School of Performing Arts; Jennifer Hess, Associate Director, Continuing Education and Outreach; Pete McPartland, Chairman and CEO, Sentry Insurance; and Caden Morschauser, President, Student Government Association.
Brinkmann succeeds Thomas Gibson, who was hired as chancellor of UW-Milwaukee.
Resources:
CV: wisconsin.edu/news/download/Brinkmann,-Robert-CV.pdf
Photo: wisconsin.edu/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/142/2026/02/Brinkmann-Robert-Headshot.png
UW-Stevens Point: www.uwsp.edu/
About UW-Stevens Point
Founded in 1894 as a teacher’s college, the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point is one of the 13 Universities of Wisconsin. Campuses in three convenient central Wisconsin locations – Stevens Point, Wausau and Marshfield – offer inspiring professors, dynamic programs and diverse opportunities that give students a transformational experience. One of America’s best values for purpose-driven education, UW-Stevens Point is distinctive for academic excellence, research, applied learning and sustainability. Students may choose from 80 majors, 73 minors and 18 graduate programs, including doctorates in audiology, physical therapy and educational sustainability. UW-Stevens Point includes a 280-acre nature preserve for both academic and recreational use. It offers a welcoming, supportive atmosphere focused on student success. Learn more at www.uwsp.edu.
About the Universities of Wisconsin
The Universities of Wisconsin serve more than 164,600 students. Awarding more than 37,000 degrees annually, these 13 public universities are Wisconsin’s talent pipeline, putting graduates in position to increase their earning power, contribute to their communities, and make Wisconsin a better place to live. Nearly 90 percent of in-state Universities of Wisconsin graduates stay in the state five years after earning a degree. The universities provide a 23:1 return on state investment. The Universities of Wisconsin also contribute to the richness of Wisconsin’s culture and economy with groundbreaking research, new companies and patents, and boundless creative intellectual energy. Learn more at wisconsin.edu.