UW-Oshkosh Chancellor Andrew Leavitt to step down, continue as faculty member

OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV) — University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Chancellor Andrew Leavitt announced he will step down from his position next year and transition to a faculty role as a professor of chemistry.

In an email to the UW-Oshkosh community on Oct. 16, Leavitt said he would step down on June 30, 2025. He cited his commitment to the institution’s best interests as a reason for the decision. “The institution is on the right track, and it won’t lose a step through the leadership transition next summer,” he said.

Leavitt has served as chancellor since his appointment in the fall of 2014. During his tenure, he focused on positioning the university for a strong future, a point emphasized by Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman, who stated, “Since his first day as chancellor, Chancellor Leavitt has embraced the challenges that come with leadership.”

As he prepares to step down, Leavitt remains committed to securing state funding to modernize university facilities, including a library revitalization. “These goals will be my focus over the next eight months,” he said. “They are geared toward achieving one outcome: a strong, sustainable UWO.”

Leavitt expressed gratitude to students and staff for their support over the past decade. “I will cherish the memories made and the people I have met in this role. It has been the honor of my life,” he added.

The university will begin the search for its next chancellor immediately.

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