The UWM Post caught up with UWM Chancellor Thomas Gibson via email to get his perspective on his first year in the position and some general advice for 2026 first-year UWM students.
Last fall, Chancellor Gibson allowed UWM Post to be his first interview while in his new position. Read that story HERE.
Q&A with UWM Chancellor Thomas Gibson
UWM POST: What has been your biggest takeaway from being the UWM Chancellor for one year?
Chancellor Gibson: “My biggest takeaway has been the power of the UWM community. Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from our students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners across Milwaukee and the region. Their dedication and passion reinforce UWM’s impact, and they’ve made me even more optimistic about our future.”
UWM POST: If you could put this new school year under a theme, what would that theme be and why?
Chancellor Gibson: “I’d call this year ‘Connection and Opportunity.’ My first year was about learning and building relationships across campus and the community. Now, we can build on those connections to create new opportunities for our students, strengthen partnerships and advance UWM’s role as a public-serving research university.”
UWM POST: What is one activity or event that you would recommend to a first-year student at UWM?
Chancellor Gibson: “I encourage first-year students to get involved on campus. Whether it’s attending a sporting event, joining a student organization, or meeting new people at campus activities, these experiences help students build friendships and a sense of belonging. Those connections are often the foundation for success in college and beyond.”
UWM POST: How do you think a first-year UWM student can go about making an impact at UWM or in the Milwaukee community?
Chancellor Gibson: “Start by getting involved. UWM offers countless opportunities to volunteer, participate in research, engage with community organizations and join student groups. Making an impact doesn’t require a big title or grand gesture. It starts with showing up, contributing your talents and finding ways to connect your strengths with community needs.”
UWM POST: Do you have any general advice for a first-year college student?
Chancellor Gibson: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The transition to college can be challenging, and no one is expected to do it alone. UWM has a strong network of faculty, staff, advisors, tutors and wellness professionals who are here to support you. Taking advantage of those resources is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
This was included in MKZine!
“MKZine: Student Lifestyle Guide” – Volume 1, Issue 1 – September 2026
“MKZine: Student Lifestyle Guide” is available for viewing online here: https://uwmpost.com/special-projects/mkzine-uwm-student-lifestyle-guide
