Van Kekerix named interim dean for Division of Continuing Studies

Marv Van Kekerix, provost and vice chancellor of University of Wisconsin-Extension will fill the role of interim vice provost for livelong learning and dean of UW–Madison’s Division of Continuing Studies (DCS).

"We deeply appreciate Marv’s willingness to step in and guide this division during an important time of transition," says Provost Patrick Farrell, who announced the appointment. "He has deep experience and the perfect mix of skills."

At UW-Extension, Van Kekerix serves as the institution’s chief academic and operating officer, providing broad leadership for academic and program planning and administrative support areas. He was first appointed as provost and vice chancellor of UW-Extension in October 2000, having served as the interim provost since July 2000. He also served as interim chancellor there from September 2004 through December 2005, and as interim chancellor of UW Colleges and UW-Extension from January to April 2006. Most recently, he has provided leadership for cross-institutional collaboration and strategic planning. He has a long history in distance education systems with the UW System, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and nationally.

At DCS, Van Kekerix is expected to serve for 18 months to two years, beginning on Feb. 1, 2008. His salary will be $180,000.

The search committee appointed after the retirement of Dean Howard Martin finished its work this past summer. However, UW–Madison Chancellor John D. Wiley and Farrell have decided to restart the search process in 2008.

In the interim, Van Kekerix is expected to work with DCS faculty and staff to conduct an assessment and develop plans for the division for the next five years, focusing on ways to make the expertise of UW–Madison faculty and staff more widely available to non-traditional students of all ages.

DCS offers educational programs and services grounded in the rich intellectual and professional resources of UW–Madison’s faculty and staff, and facilitates outreach opportunities in the schools and colleges. While DCS plays many roles in offering and supporting outreach opportunities, its overarching purpose is connecting the campus and the broader community of lifelong learners.