UW-Eau Claire Chancellor Announces Move to New University
after over a decade at UWEC, Dr. James Schmidt will begin a new chapter at James Madison University
This morning, after over a decade as chancellor of UW-Eau Claire, Dr. James Schmidt announced the end of his time at the university. As of July 1, Schmidt will be the new president of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Dr. Mike Carney, current interim provost, will step into the role of interim chancellor.
Schmidt has been at the helm of a transformative era at UWEC, beginning his tenure in July 2013. Since then, partnerships like those with Mayo Clinic Health Systems and the City of Eau Claire have grown tremendously. "(Schmidt) has been a catalyst for transformative growth, seamlessly connecting public and private partners to bring bold visions to life," David Minor, Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, said in a recent media release.
"His leadership has reshaped the physical landscape of Eau Claire and strengthened the city's economic and cultural vibrancy for generations to come," Minor said.
Over the years, Schmidt has overseen countless projects at the university, including the opening of Centennial Hall; the construction of new student housing like The Suites and Haymarket Landing; the redevelopment of Garfield Avenue, creating a primary pedestrian path connecting to upper and lower campus with access to the Chippewa River; the creation of the campus arboretum; and much more.
"During his 12 years as chancellor, Schmidt conferred 25,580 degrees to undergraduate and graduate students," the media release noted. During his tenure, the university was listed as a top producer of Fulbright U.S. master's student awards seven times in the last 12 years; added 14 undergraduate and six graduate programs in high-demand areas like healthcare, science and engineering, and professional studies; expanded athletic opportunities with added programs for men's soccer and baseball, and women's lacrosse; established the Mark Stephen Cosby Honors College, the only named Honors College in the UW system, and more.
Of Carney, Schmidt said he has full confidence in his ability to lead the university forward in this time of transition. "Mike Carney is a well-respected and long-tenured leader on campus. He is fully engaged in the continued transformation of our university into a nationally recognized destination for innovative student learning and success," Schmidt said.
Read UW-Eau Claire's full media release here.
