Robert Brinkmann named new chancellor of UW-Stevens Point

Robert Brinkmann has been named the next Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He is the university's 16^th leader.

The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents today approved Brinkmann's appointment, following a recommendation made by a selection committee. He will assume the leadership post on July 1, 2026.

"Dr. Brinkmann's educational background in the natural sciences and sustainability is a perfect match for UW students at Stevens Point," said Regent Jack Salzwedel, chair of the Search and Screen Committee. "As the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Northern Illinois University, he understands the complex challenges and opportunities that face higher education today. We are thrilled to be able to name him as the next Chancellor at UW-Stevens Point."

A graduate of UW-Oshkosh and UW-Milwaukee, Brinkmann is currently Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Northern Illinois University, a position he has held since 2020. He was vice provost for research and dean of graduate studies/director of sustainability studies at Hofstra University, a private university on Long Island, New York City. Brinkmann has also served in administrative roles at the University of South Florida, where he was also a faculty member.

"I am pleased that Dean Brinkmann is returning to the Universities of Wisconsin," said Jay Rothman, President of the Universities of Wisconsin. "He understands the student experience and the importance of the breadth that a liberal arts education at UW-Stevens Point can deliver."

"I'm very excited to welcome Dr. Brinkmann to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point," said Regent President Amy B. Bogost. "Dr. Brinkmann brings a lifetime of leadership in higher education and specifically sustainability and natural sciences. We owe a debt of gratitude to the dedicated committee of Regents, campus members, and local partners who worked relentlessly to bring us a leader who so deeply cares about our campus and will ensure UW-Stevens Point's environmental legacy isn't just honored but will have a resilient future for the university and community."

"I am truly honored to return to Wisconsin to accept the chancellorship of UW-Stevens Point," said Brinkmann. "I'm committed to advancing academic excellence, innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement that empowers our students and strengthens our impact beyond the region."

Brinkmann earned his bachelor's degree in geology from UW-Oshkosh. He received a master's in geology from UW-Milwaukee and a Ph.D. in geography from UW-Milwaukee.

President Rothman and the Special Regent Committee for the UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Search recommended Brinkmann to the full Board of Regents. The Committee includes Regents Salzwedel, chair; Haben Goitom; Noah Fritz; Linda Terwilliger; and Jill Underly.

The Search and Screen Committee includes members of the Special Regent Committee and Kristi Roth, Professor, School of Education, vice chair; Tom Bertram, Administrative Human Resources Coordinator; Michael Estanich, Professor, School of Performing Arts; Jennifer Hess, Associate Director, Continuing Education and Outreach; Pete McPartland, Chairman and CEO, Sentry Insurance; and Caden Morschauser, President, Student Government Association.

Brinkmann succeeds Thomas Gibson, who was hired as chancellor of UW-Milwaukee.