Gregory Heinselman named dean of students at UW-Eau Claire

Gregory Heinselman has been named permanent dean of students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire after serving as interim dean since August 2022.

The move is effective immediately.

“Gregg has been an invaluable campus leader and student advocate during the past two years in his role as interim dean of students,” Chancellor James Schmidt says. “His desire to remain a member of the Blugold community demonstrates his commitment to our students’ success.”

The dean of students determines policies and practices that promote a safe environment for students, including overseeing and responding to student behavior issues. The dean of students communicates with students and colleagues to promote student success and development.

Teresa O’Halloran, interim assistant chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion and chair of the search and screen committee, says she has enjoyed working with Heinselman during his time as interim dean of students.

“Gregg is a highly skilled, experienced and empathetic leader who understands that the needs of our students come first,” O’Halloran says. “I was pleased but not surprised that the campus community responded so positively to Gregg as a candidate for the permanent position.”

Heinselman has more than 30 years of higher education experience in student affairs, including roles at UW-Platteville, UW-River Falls and Central Washington University. He has worked in leadership positions across the Universities of Wisconsin for 24 years.

“My philosophy of education as the dean of students is that all students are unique and have their own lived experience,” Heinselman says. “The university should provide a stimulating educational environment where students can grow mentally, physically, emotionally and socially.”

UW-Eau Claire is a unique place for teaching and learning, Heinselman says, where faculty are engaged and truly care about student success, and students are empowered to shape their own educational journey.

“I am excited to continue to serve UWEC students, the campus and the Universities of Wisconsin in this permanent role,” Heinselman says. “I look forward to what our incoming students want to experience and achieve, and will continue to collaborate with faculty, administration, staff and students to advance the mission of the university.”

Heinselman holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northern Arizona University and a master’s degree in education from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas.