BARABOO, Wis – Representative Karen DeSanto (D-Baraboo) released the following statement on the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Chancellor Tammy K. Evetovich’s announcement of the future closure of the University of Wisconsin Platteville-Baraboo Campus.
“I was deeply disappointed and saddened to learn of the news to close the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Baraboo campus effective May 2026. I understand the decision was not made lightly and was due to continual declines in enrollment, but we must also acknowledge this is part of a greater trend of closing 2 year campuses that have suffered at the hand of nearly a decade of insufficient funding in the State Budget due to Republicans’ lack of investment in the Universities of Wisconsin. This has eroded the UW-System’s ability to support students across the state and forced the decision to eliminate positions or outsource resources which has also negatively impacted enrollment.
“The spring 2026 closure will create an education gap that will greatly impact first generation students and those looking for a local and affordable way to ease into their college program. This will hurt our young people and continue to decrease access to higher education in rural areas. The Baraboo Campus is an important facet of the community and I am concerned about the effect that this will have on the area’s economy, tourism, jobs, and housing. I will continue to push for a greater investment in Wisconsin’s public education, including increased funding for our colleges and universities. Our state is world-renowned for our public education opportunities and I’ll fight to keep it that way. To invest in education is to invest in the future of Wisconsin.
“My office is available for assistance for students, faculty, and staff impacted by today’s news.”
