Regents approve Harden as fifth chancellor

The UW System Board of Regents Friday formally approved Thomas K. Harden as the fifth chancellor to lead UW-Green Bay.

Harden, currently president at Clayton State University in suburban Atlanta, will start on June 1. Interim Chancellor David Ward will remain on through the transition.

“I greatly appreciate the Board of Regents’ vote to confirm me as next Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay,” Harden said. “It will be an honor to join a great system of higher education and a campus that has achieved so much. Working together, we have potential for even greater accomplishments and service to our students and to our region.

“I look forward to meeting with more people throughout the New North Region to learn about their thoughts regarding the role of UW-Green Bay and to better understand their wishes for the University. The University has clearly benefited from a highly involved community, a community where an entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to education are ingrained. I intend to build on the strong partnerships that will enhance Green Bay’s University of Wisconsin, the New North, and the state.

“I recently commented that when my wife Cathy and I started looking into this job we realized that there was something special about UWGB—its people. With a gifted faculty, warm and dedicated staff, excellent students, and unwavering community support, we have in place all the most important components for success.”

Harden was appointed on the same day as UW-River Falls’ new chancellor, Dean Van Galen.

“We have high expectations for these new leaders,” said UW System President Kevin P. Reilly. “This is a critical time for our nation, our state, and our universities. All UW campuses, including those in Green Bay and River Falls, will play a vital role in helping local communities face the challenges ahead. Chancellor Harden and Chancellor Van Galen bring experience, vision, and demonstrated competence to the important role of advancing these fine UW institutions and serving their many constituents.”

Harden will have an annual salary of $216,000. Nationwide, leaders of similar comprehensive universities (those offering baccalaureate and masters degrees) earn between $175,000 and $354,500, with a median salary of $225,750.

Harden said he plans to visit the campus and community several times before his tenure begins. Dates of his visits have not been determined.

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