Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has appointed Nicholas Katona as the new vice chancellor for University Advancement and Alumni Relations. In this role, Katona will also serve as the executive director of the UW-Stout Foundation, as announced by Chancellor Katherine Frank on March 24.

Katona's responsibilities will include providing strategic direction for the university's development plans and alumni engagement to bolster support for the institution. According to Frank, this aligns with the mission and identity of Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University.

Katona is joining UW-Stout from his current position as the vice president of Advancement & Alumni Engagement at St. Cloud State University. He also serves as executive director of the St. Cloud State University Foundation Inc. and St. Cloud State University Alumni Association.

Chancellor Frank highlighted Katona's qualifications, stating, “During the interview process, Nic demonstrated a strong understanding of UW-Stout’s Polytechnic mission and presented a strategic vision for increasing support for our faculty, staff, and students.” Frank further remarked on Katona’s commitment to enhancing connections with the university's extensive network of over 76,000 alumni.

Katona holds an M.P.S. in Political Management and Fundraising from The George Washington University. He brings extensive experience in development and philanthropy from several institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Speaking about his new appointment, Katona stated, “It is an honor to join Stout and advance its polytechnic mission. With the changing landscape of higher education, Stout’s focus on supporting students by preparing them to be successful in the workforce and advancing innovative research sets us apart from our competitors.” He expressed his enthusiasm for connecting with the university's communities and strengthening the institution.

Katona will commence his new duties at UW-Stout on May 1.

Linda Funk, president of the UW-Stout Foundation Board of Directors, expressed her support for Katona’s appointment, saying, “We are pleased and excited to welcome Nic Katona to the UW-Stout Foundation and Alumni Association. His experience and passion for UW-Stout is a great match. The Foundation Board looks forward to working with Nic to accomplish our goals to support the university.”