MADISON, Wis.— University of Wisconsin System leadership issued these statements today:
UW System Regent President Andrew S. Petersen:
“Chancellor Van Galen has been an exceptional leader and chancellor for the UW System. His commitment to UW-River Falls students, faculty development, and innovative program delivery is noteworthy. Dean’s ability to analyze, plan, and implement change on his campus was always done in a thoughtful, inclusive manner. He was a tenacious fundraiser and cheerleader for UW-River Falls. The UW System is losing a great, forward-looking leader. Dean Van Galen has been a terrific contributor to the strength and vitality which is UW-River Falls.”
UW System President Ray Cross:
“Dean Van Galen has been an outstanding leader for UW-River Falls and a trusted voice within the UW System. His vision and execution have made the university better. He has enhanced the undergraduate experience by emphasizing research and internships, fostered growth in the number of adults completing degrees, expanded international education opportunities, and created innovative partnerships with the business community. He has been an excellent chancellor, and we will miss his steady, guiding hand.”
See UW-River Falls’ announcement: Chancellor Van Galen selected as president of Missouri Southern State University
The University of Wisconsin System serves approximately 170,000 students. Awarding nearly 37,000 degrees annually, the UW System is 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. More than 80 percent of UW System graduates stay in Wisconsin five years after earning a degree. The UW System provides a 23:1 return on state investment. UW System universities also contribute to the richness of Wisconsin’s culture and economy with groundbreaking research, new companies and patents, and boundless creative intellectual energy.