State of UWO forum highlights stability, steady progress throughout the institution

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Chancellor Manohar Singh opened and led the university's inaugural, Feb. 10 State of UWO forum with a clear message: UWO is making steady, strategic progress, and the momentum is generated by the entire university community.

Watch the full recording of the Feb. 10 State of UWO forum here:

Chancellor Singh and UWO administrative leaders outlined several strides, indicative of the university's unmistakable momentum:

• While spring 2026 enrollment reflects a slight year-over-year decline, the rate of decreasing enrollment at UWO is slowing significantly. Early indicators for Fall 2026 are especially encouraging, with new first-year admits up 47%, confirmed students up 20% and Titan Takeoff registrations up 31%. The growth of Direct Admit in Wisconsin-now 66% of incoming admits at UWO-has strengthened the university's competitive position as faculty and staff sharpen focus on yield and personalized outreach.

• The "Oshkosh Infinite" strategic planning process continues to gain momentum, informed by 20 listening sessions and nearly 500 participant surveys to date.

• Finance and Administration reported strengthened unrestricted balances surpassing $5 million as of fiscal-year 2025's close, Universities-of-Wisconsin-leading UWO IT command in cybersecurity efforts, Human Resources position control and other stabilization efforts and $1.1 million in 2025 events revenue, all signaling disciplined stewardship and operational focus.

• Student Affairs leaders emphasized that student success at UWO is being intentionally designed. Student-support programs such as Titan Tough and TRIO-recently renewed with $3.7 million in federal funding-are delivering strong retention outcomes, while expanded mental health services, recreation participation and engagement initiatives are fostering student belonging and persistence.

• Shared governance groups remain active partners in shaping UWO's direction, advancing academic policy updates and contributing to strategic planning. Faculty Senate, Senate for Academic Staff and University Staff Senate presidents shared reports outlining fall semester work and spring semester priorities focused on the support and development of UWO's people.

"Momentum at UW-Oshkosh is not accidental-it is the result of focused strategy, shared governance, disciplined stewardship and a deep commitment to our students," Singh said. "We are seeing encouraging signs in enrollment, measurable gains in student success and renewed energy through our strategic planning process. Most importantly, this progress belongs to all of us. When faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners move forward together, there is truly an infinite power in what we can accomplish."