Chippewa Valley Times

Gregory Heinselman has been appointed as the permanent dean of students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, effective immediately. Heinselman had been serving in an interim capacity since August 2022.

"Gregg has been an invaluable campus leader and student advocate during the past two years in his role as interim dean of students," Chancellor James Schmidt said. "His desire to remain a member of the Blugold community demonstrates his commitment to our students’ success."

The role of the dean involves determining policies and practices that ensure a safe environment for students, managing student behavior issues, and fostering communication between students and colleagues to promote their success and development.

Teresa O’Halloran, interim assistant chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion and chair of the search and screen committee, expressed her satisfaction with working alongside Heinselman during his tenure as interim dean. "Gregg is a highly skilled, experienced and empathetic leader who understands that the needs of our students come first," O’Halloran stated. "I was pleased but not surprised that the campus community responded so positively to Gregg as a candidate for the permanent position."

Heinselman brings over 30 years of higher education experience in student affairs to his new role. His career includes roles at UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls, Central Washington University, and leadership positions across the Universities of Wisconsin for 24 years.

"My philosophy of education as the dean of students is that all students are unique and have their own lived experience," Heinselman explained. "The university should provide a stimulating educational environment where students can grow mentally, physically, emotionally and socially."

He also emphasized UW-Eau Claire's distinctive teaching environment where faculty are engaged in student success, allowing them to shape their own educational journey.

"I am excited to continue to serve UWEC students, the campus and the Universities of Wisconsin in this permanent role," Heinselman said. "I look forward to what our incoming students want to experience and achieve, and will continue to collaborate with faculty, administration, staff and students to advance the mission of the university."

Heinselman holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northern Arizona University and a master’s degree in education from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas.