Photo caption: Gregory Heinselman comes to UW-Eau Claire with decades of experience in student affairs, including prior administrative roles at two other UW System universities. (Photo by Shane Opatz)
On Aug. 8, Gregory Heinselman officially began a two-year term as interim dean of students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Heinselman comes to UW-Eau Claire with decades of experience in student affairs, including prior administrative roles at UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls and most recently as dean of student success at Central Washington University.
“I was looking to return to the Upper Midwest and the dean position at UWEC especially interested me for the unique responsibilities and the impact this role can have on student success and well-being,” Heinselman says.
“With years of experience in the UW System, I was familiar with this campus, and the university’s incredible academic reputation made the job very appealing. My conversations with Vice Chancellor Olga Diaz made clear her focus on student support and success. I knew this was a position in which I could have impact in helping students thrive.”
Diaz is pleased to officially welcome Heinselman to campus and says it's clear he is ready to get to work serving Blugold students.
"Gregg will oversee the Dean of Students Office team as well as Counseling Services and Student Health Service, and he will serve as an advisor to Student Senate," Diaz says. "He has already demonstrated that he is proactive and approachable. During this interim role, I have asked him to modernize processes to ensure a positive experience for current and future Blugolds."
In his first full week on campus, Heinselman says he has identified a few initial priorities for fall, which include:
- An assessment of integrated health programs and services offered to students.
- Identifying and supporting the holistic needs of all students.
- Continuing to elevate and celebrate all the ways in which students create community on campus.
“My philosophy is straightforward. I strive to create an inclusive environment that supports and provides agency to students, faculty and staff,” Heinselman says. “I hope to be a community-builder and I will challenge students to do the same. We want them to know that our office exists to support their success and to challenge them to find their purpose at UW-Eau Claire.”
The Dean of Students Office is open weekdays from 7:45 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. and appointments can be made at 715-836-5626 or via email at dos@uwec.edu.
