​UW-Stevens Point has a new chancellor.

Dr. Thomas Gibson, who served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice Provost at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, has been named the 15th Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, which has campus locations in Stevens Point, Wausau, and Marshfield.

The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents unanimously approved Gibson's appointment on Oct. 20, following a recommendation made by a selection committee. Gibson will assume the leadership post on January 11, 2021.

Learn more about Gibson in his curriculum vitae and campus presentation.

Chancellor Bernie L. Patterson announced March 2 that he will retire at the end of 2020 after serving since July 2010. 

The search process began with Listening Sessions Tuesday, April 7, with the goal of gathering feedback from faculty, staff and students from all three UW-Stevens Point campuses as well as community members. This feedback was used to develop the Chancellor Search Opportunity Summary and prospectus for applicants.

On Sept. 14, UW System President Tommy Thompson announced four finalists for the position of UW-Stevens Point chancellor.

The 11-member Search and Screen Committee, led by Regent Karen Walsh, chair, and Professor of English Mary Bowman, vice chair, recommended the list of finalists.

Virtual public forums were held for each candidate in late September and early October.