Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System

Overview

The Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System is a governing body responsible for overseeing the University of Wisconsin System. It consists of 18 members, primarily appointed by the Governor of Wisconsin, with the exception of two student regents who serve two-year terms. The Board operates under Chapter 36 of the Wisconsin State Statutes.

Structure and Responsibilities

The Board is composed of:

• Governor-Appointed Regents: 16 members serve seven-year terms, providing stability and continuity in governance.
• Student Regents: Two students are appointed for two-year terms, ensuring student representation. One of these positions is reserved for a non-traditional student.
• Ex Officio Members: The state superintendent of public instruction and a representative from the Wisconsin Technical College System Board serve as ex officio members.

The Board's primary responsibilities include:

• Policy Governance: Establishing policies and rules for the UW System.
• Strategic Planning: Focusing on future educational needs for Wisconsin.
• Admissions and Standards: Setting admissions standards and policies.
• Budgetary Oversight: Reviewing and approving university budgets.
• Regulatory Framework: Developing the operational framework for individual campuses.
• Leadership Appointments: Appointing the UW System President, chancellors, and deans.
• Tenure Grants: Granting tenure appointments to qualified faculty members.

Operations

The Board conducts regular meetings eight times annually, with special meetings as needed. The President, Vice President, and Executive Director are elected during the Board's annual meeting each June. The Board President determines committee memberships and other appointments.

Notable Decisions

Recent decisions by the Board include approving new academic programs, managing tuition adjustments to align with inflation, and supporting initiatives that promote economic development and academic innovation across Wisconsin campuses. The Board's role is crucial in balancing academic excellence with state legislative priorities and ensuring the UW System's strategic alignment with state educational needs.