Campus Connection

James Beeby inaugurated as chancellor, marking new era for UWL

Chancellor James Beeby was inaugurated as the 11th leader of UW-La Crosse during a day of pomp, circumstance and community-wide celebration Friday, May 2, marking the start of a new era in UWL history.

Beeby, who began his role as chancellor July 1, 2024, was recognized during an academic procession through campus, an investiture ceremony in The Bluffs Ballroom in the Student Union, and a celebration with members of the campus and the community on the Union lawn.

During the roughly 90-minute investiture ceremony, longtime friends and more recent colleagues shared their impressions of Chancellor Beeby, revealing a portrait of a man dedicated not just to the mission of higher education, but to taking the time to uplift and truly listen to those around him.

It’s a depiction that should come as no surprise to those who have come to know Beeby since last July, when he arrived at UWL with the goal of supporting academic excellence, workforce development and community engagement — all through the simple act of listening, working together and creating personal connections.

Beeby echoed these themes of service and collaboration during his inaugural address, in which he described his aspirations for UWL’s future.

“We must continue to lift others as we climb and take care of one another at this fine university,” he told the audience of staff, faculty, students and other dignitaries. “Please take joy in this collective endeavor. I ask that you stand by me, with me — together with our colleagues, alums and friends — to work collaboratively to move UWL forward and build a brighter tomorrow.”

Beeby also paid homage to the influential UWL leaders who came before him, including Provost Betsy Morgan, former Vice Chancellor for Administration & Finance Bob Hetzel, and former Chancellor Judith Kuipers, who died last October at age 87.

“Each of us here today stands on the shoulders of others and their collective work and dedication to make this place better,” Beeby said. “There is a lot to live up to in thinking about the past, and I carry that legacy seriously as we strive to elevate UWL.”

'Come to La Crosse'

UWL presidents and chancellors

• Fassett A. Cotton, 1911-24
• Ernest A. Smith, 1925-26
• George M. Snodgrass, 1927-39
• Rexford S. Mitchell, 1939-1966
• Samuel G. Gates, 1966-71
• Kenneth E. Lindner, 1971-79
• Noel J. Richards, 1979-91
• Judith L. Kuipers, 1991-2000
• Douglas N. Hastad, 2000-06
• Joe D. Gow, 2007-23
• James M. Beeby, 2024-present

Reactions to Chancellor Beeby’s inauguration

Chancellor Beeby’s extensive experience in student success and his enthusiasm make him a perfect fit for this university. As a first-generation college student himself, he deeply appreciates both the challenges and the sometimes unexpected opportunities that can arise as part of the college experience.

— Jay Rothman, Universities of Wisconsin president

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is contributing to our state’s ability to maintain a strong economy and strong workforce, retain our homegrown talent, solve problems from our smallest towns to our largest cities, and to make life better for everyone who is proud to call this great state home. This is the Wisconsin Idea in action. As a longtime champion of higher education and the first member of his family to attend college, I have no doubt that Chancellor Beeby will continue that proud tradition and protect the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s promise for future generations.

— State Sen. Brad Pfaff, on behalf of Gov. Tony Evers

When I first met Dr. Beeby, I was awarded the Betsy Morgan Improving Lives Distinguished Alumni Award. I remember that day because we had a recipient lunch, and he was able to work the table in conversations beyond introductions, which let me know not only is he a person of business, but that he also values people and relationships. And that, to me, is an important quality of a successful leader.

— Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey

When reflecting on this new era of leadership, I often hear from my peers that they feel seen (by Chancellor Beeby). It shows up in everyday moments like attending athletic events, eating at the dining hall or taking the time to learn our names. It comes from someone who leads with empathy and walks through campus not above us, but with us.

— Emma Latus, UWL Student Association president

I have the opportunity to work very closely with Chancellor Beeby, and I can tell you his cheerful outlook, positive attitude and approach is infectious and uplifting. His optimistic vision for our future is contagious.

— Kimberly Schliebe, University Staff Council chair

During the chancellor search process, I had the opportunity to sit in on one of the small group panels when candidates came to visit, and I remember something that Dr. Beeby said. It made me smile, and it honestly made me say, “Yes, this is someone who really gets it.” He mentioned that he’s often late to meetings. But it’s not because he loses track of time or he doesn’t value someone’s time. It’s because, as he walks across campus, he will often get stopped by students, by staff, by community members sharing concerns, sharing their stories, and he’ll listen. Because those small, spontaneous moments of connection matter to him … and he understands that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room or always being at the center of attention — it’s about listening.

— Pearl Bearhart, Academic Staff Council chair

There’s a lot to celebrate about UWL. We are a strong institution despite so many challenges, and I’ve seen a lot of them, as I’ve been here a minute. But I wouldn’t still be here if I didn’t believe in my heart that UWL is a great place to be. Chancellor Beeby knows this, too. And as I’ve been slowly getting to know him over the past many months, and as I’ve been observing him do his work as chancellor, it has become clear to me that he is a strong advocate of his new home and the people who make it great.

— Anne Galbraith, Faculty Senate vice chair

James and I have known each other for 37 years. We met as undergrads.

Excellent shoes, excellent manners; a love of cricket, cups of tea, cakes, scones and conversation meant young James was popular with people who judge one on such things. And his intellect and hard work meant he was popular with those who perhaps don’t notice the former qualities. His music taste was unquestionable. He appreciated his varied friends. And he even learned to tolerate losing at cards.

What I really want to emphasize is that James is being himself when he goes about being the chancellor with you all. He has experienced the power of education to change lives, including his own. He understands the wide-ranging economic, social and cultural importance of all this. And he is transformational in his enthusiasm for excellence.

— Jo Mead, longtime friend

He is my friend. He is my brother. He is my peer. He is my mentor. He is a North Star for me. When I think of James, I think of brilliance. I think of humility, honesty, patience, humanitarianism, democratic spirit, student-centered, giver — but also, British.

— Ronald Rochon, California State University, Fullerton president

Chancellor Beeby is the right leader at the right time for this university, and we can’t wait to see how things unfold.

— Amy Bogost, Board of Regents president