Dear Warhawks,

Welcome to the 2019-20 academic year. For some of you, this day marks the first day of your last year on campus. For others, like me, it marks the first day of your first year at UW-Whitewater. No matter where you are in your journey — in the beginning, middle or nearing the end — we all have so many opportunities ahead of us.

As your new chancellor, I am here to listen, to learn and to lead. You’ll hear me say that often this first year because it is important that I learn about all of you and that we are partners in this discovery process. I am counting on your candor and your desire to make UW-Whitewater the best place it can be to learn, live and lead.

We will celebrate our accomplishments, and there will be many. If our history is any indicator of our future success, you’ll often hear me congratulate students, faculty and staff on their achievements, which reinforces the excellence that has been in the fabric of our community for more than 150 years.

There will be obstacles along the way because life often challenges us. Your journey here has shown that obstacles can become opportunities.  Just remember that there are people here to help you with those difficult situations. When I began my tenure here a month ago, I quickly learned that UW-Whitewater is a community of supportive and caring people who want others to succeed. So you will never be alone in those tough times. And no matter where you are in your journey, know that you belong here and you matter in this community of learners.

In the coming weeks, I will hold listening sessions. Please join me to share your hopes, desires and opportunities for our campus. You’ll receive more information on those sessions soon.

Best wishes for a wonderful first day and a fruitful academic year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Dwight C. Watson

Chancellor