All four of Milwaukee's institutions of higher education are going through big changes right now.
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University have gotten new university leaders in the last year. Milwaukee Area Technical College installed its new president in July 2024, and Milwaukee School of Engineering is preparing to welcome its new president in January.
None of these leaders are coming into a cakewalk.
The federal government is cracking down on university hiring practices, pulling research grants and capping student financial aid in some cases. Students are wondering whether college is "worth it" when they see the price tag, and they're thinking about the impact of AI on their future careers.
So what does it all mean for students, staff and the future of higher education in Milwaukee?
WUWM education reporter Katherine Kokal spoke with Jason Stein, the president of the Wisconsin Policy Forum, about the challenges and bright spots in higher education.
How to attend Policy in a Pub on higher education on Sept. 8
WUWM has partnered with Wisconsin Policy Forum for Policy in a Pub at Merriment Social on Sept. 8.
Join us and hear about recent Forum research that looks at impacts to higher education institutions, from the next state budget, as well as potential federal funding cuts.
Then, WUWM’s education reporter Katherine Kokal will moderate a panel discussion among Milwaukee area leaders in higher education: Marquette University President Kimo Ah Yun, Milwaukee Area Technical College President Anthony Cruz, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Chancellor Thomas Gibson, and Eric Baumgartner, incoming president of the Milwaukee School of Engineering.
The event begins at 5 p.m. with mingling, appetizers and a cash bar.
The event is free, but you have to register here.
Katherine Kokal is the education reporter at 89.7 WUWM - Milwaukee's NPR. Have a question about schools or an education story idea? You can reach her at kokal@uwm.edu
