University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee News Press Release:
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee held the inauguration of its 10th chancellor, Thomas Gibson, on the university’s 70th anniversary. The ceremony took place on Friday, September 25, at the UWM Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts.
According to a UWM press release, more than 25 universities, colleges and academic institutions from across the United States were represented by delegates at the ceremony. This included 20 presidents and chancellors.
More than 50 UWM faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members participated in a formal academic procession. The ceremony was emceed by Visit Milwaukee President and CEO Peggy Williams-Smith.
The inauguration week was built around the theme “Always Dream Bigger.” It featured musical performances and remarks from students, university leaders and representatives of the Universities of Wisconsin.
“The theme reflected both UWM’s history of innovation and Chancellor Gibson’s vision for expanding opportunity, impact and excellence across the university,” UWM said in a press release.
In his inaugural address, Gibson outlined his vision for UWM:
“I want our region to feel that UWM is Milwaukee’s university and the entire city is our classroom,” Gibson said. “And if Milwaukee is our classroom, it is also where our work must show up. Our impact cannot stop at the borders of our campus.”
Reflecting on the inauguration theme, Gibson emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for others.
“One of the things my journey has taught me is that dreaming bigger is not simply about finding a bigger stage for yourself,” Gibson said. “It is about making the stage bigger for others. Making room for more people to step forward. Creating opportunities for people to discover what they can do.”
Three strategic imperatives that will shape UWM’s future:
- Advancing student success and opportunity.
- Elevating innovation, discovery and problem-solving.
- Deepening community engagement and impact.
“Just as our founders did 70 years ago, we must always look ahead to what the needs of tomorrow are and then position ourselves to be ready to meet them,” Gibson said. “UWM must be the university the future demands.”
Campus Update from Chancellor Gibson
September 25, 2026 Statement to UWM Community:
Dear UWM Community,
“Today, I was honored to be inaugurated as the 10th chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I feel proud to serve this remarkable university and to work alongside our amazing students, faculty and staff.”
“As we continue our work together, we will be guided by three imperatives: advancing student success and opportunity; elevating innovation, discovery and problem solving; and deepening community engagement and impact. These imperatives are the foundation for everything we do.”
“I am deeply grateful to each one of you who participated in this week’s celebratory events. I invite you to experience it again — or for the first time — by clicking on the links below.”
“Thank you again for your enthusiasm and support. Today is truly a great day to be a Panther!”
Best regards,
Dr. Thomas Gibson
Chancellor
About Chancellor Thomas Gibson
Thomas Gibson was selected by the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents as UWM’s 10th chancellor in March 2025 and began his tenure on July 15, 2025.
Before joining UWM, Gibson served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point from 2021 to 2025 and as a professor in the School of Education.
Earlier in his career, he served as vice president for student affairs and vice provost at Bowling Green State University, associate vice president for student affairs at Ball State University and associate dean of student development at York College.
Gibson holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Eastern Connecticut State University, a master’s degree in education from the University of New Haven and a doctorate in educational leadership and higher education administration from Johnson & Wales University.