Finalists Compete for Universities of Wisconsin Presidency

Three candidates vie to lead the state's 13-campus system following a recent leadership transition.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Higher Education

Finalists Compete for Universities of Wisconsin Presidency

Live Poll

Should public universities prioritize candidates with local ties when searching for a new system president?

Three finalists for the Universities of Wisconsin presidency participated in a public forum at UW-Parkside. None of the candidates has strong ties to Wisconsin as they compete to lead the state's massive higher education system.

Why it matters

The search follows the April 2026 firing of former president Jay Rothman, which stemmed from disagreements regarding artificial intelligence and other institutional concerns. The incoming leader will navigate complex budget negotiations and political pressures from state officials.

The Universities of Wisconsin system manages an operating budget of nearly $8 billion for 165,000 students across 13 campuses. Meanwhile, UW-Madison saw its international student enrollment decline by 9% this fall.

The players

Steven Holley

He is one of three finalists vying for the position of president for the Universities of Wisconsin.

Tonjanita Johnson

She is one of three finalists identified by the UW Board of Regents for the system presidency.

Bernard Savarese

He is a finalist for the presidential role within the Universities of Wisconsin system.

Renée Wachter

She serves as the current interim president of the Universities of Wisconsin system.

Jay Rothman

He was the former president of the Universities of Wisconsin until his termination in April 2026.

The details

The search committee is tasked with selecting a successor to interim system president Renée Wachter, who currently manages the system. Finalists Steven Holley, Tonjanita Johnson, and Bernard Savarese are participating in public forums before the committee moves to closed deliberations.

April 2026: Jay Rothman was fired as UW system president.
Monday, October 26, 2026: First public forum held at UW-Parkside.
Tuesday, October 27, 2026: Second public forum held at UW-Madison.
Wednesday/Thursday, October 28-29, 2026: Search committee deliberations.
November 3, 2026: New Wisconsin governor and Legislature elected.

Culture Shift

The presidential search reflects a pivot point for the university system as it prepares for negotiations over the 2027-29 Wisconsin biennial budget. This transition marks a departure from previous administrative priorities toward new leadership expectations.

The new president will play a direct role in shaping the future of the 13-campus system, which impacts the academic experience for 165,000 students. Residents should monitor how the eventual hire handles enrollment trends and state-level budget priorities.

The takeaway

Selecting a new system leader is a critical juncture for balancing institutional autonomy with shifting legislative and budgetary demands. Students and staff should prepare for potential policy changes once the new administration begins its term.