2015 Assembly Joint Resolution 39
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: commending and congratulating Chancellor Richard J. Telfer for his contributions to the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and to the state of Wisconsin.
Whereas, Richard J. Telfer will retire from his position as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on June 30, 2015; and
Whereas, Richard J. Telfer was appointed as chancellor in 2008 and has served UW-Whitewater as provost, vice-chancellor, associate vice-chancellor, assistant dean of the graduate school, chair of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, professor, and assistant professor; and
Whereas, Richard J. Telfer served as interim president of the University of Wisconsin System after the departure of President Kevin Reilly in October 2013 until the appointment of President Ray Cross in February 2014; and
Whereas, during Chancellor Telfer's tenure, UW-Whitewater established several nationally recognized programs including the Academic Advising and Exploration Center, the Undergraduate Research Program, the McNair Scholars Program, and the Honors Program; and
Whereas, under Chancellor Telfer's guidance, UW-Whitewater has strengthened retention and graduation rates, developed freshmen learning communities, reached record enrollment, completed the largest fundraising campaign in the university's history with more than $48 million secured, established the university's first doctoral program, and initiated the new student seminar; and
Whereas, Chancellor Telfer established a partnership with the City of Whitewater to build and develop the successful Innovation Center and Technology Park; and
Whereas, UW-Whitewater won 22 national athletic championships during Chancellor Telfer's tenure; and
Whereas, Chancellor Telfer's leadership has ensured that students will have a modern learning environment for many years to come; and
Whereas, despite the challenges facing higher education, Chancellor Telfer has never lost sight of the importance of a well-rounded liberal arts education and the capacity of institutions like UW-Whitewater to produce value; and
Whereas, Chancellor Telfer has been a respected voice in higher education throughout the state, and UW-Whitewater has flourished under his tenure; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the Wisconsin legislature commends and congratulates Chancellor Richard J. Telfer for his contributions to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and to the state of Wisconsin and wishes him a long and healthy retirement with his wife, Roni, and their family; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide a copy of this resolution to Chancellor Richard J. Telfer.
