WiscNet names David Lois as executive director

David Lois has been appointed executive director of WiscNet, a nonprofit association and statewide data network that promotes collaboration among schools, colleges and other institutions across the state.

Lois replaces Norm Stoner, who is retiring. Lois currently is the senior information technology management consultant for the UW System. He starts his new job Thursday, June 24.

The network is connected to the Internet at UW–Madison and UW-Milwaukee. Lois brings to WiscNet a strong technical management background with a solid foundation in education, says Tad Pinkerton, head of the Division of Information Technology at UW–Madison and member of the WiscNet board.

Lois graduated from UW–Madison in 1986 with a degree in electrical and computer engineering and has worked in many facets of technology around Madison. His work includes building administrative computer networks at UW–Madison and UW Hospitals and Clinics. He also worked in the Biotron research laboratory building and designing custom network control computers.

For the past five years, Lois has worked for the UW System on statewide networking initiatives. Lois was a member of the original team that developed the strategic plan to procure and build BadgerNet, a telecommunications network set up to assist schools and distance learning consortiums statewide.

Pinkerton says WiscNet, which includes nearly all Wisconsin colleges, technical colleges, and universities as well as most K-12 school districts, is more than a data network — it’s a community of colleges, universities, K-12 schools, libraries, local and state agencies and other organizations.

Through the network, these institutions are able to share information and promote more effective communication, Pinkerton says. WiscNet melds “communities of interest” within its membership and provides added-value services such as electronic mail accounts, web page hosting and web filtering in addition to Internet access.

To reach Lois after June 24, call (608) 265-6761; davelois@wiscnet.net