“I am troubled by reports that the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents are trying to remove President Jay Rothman without providing any clear reasons. This lack of transparency is unacceptable. President Rothman deserves to know exactly why the Board has lost confidence in his leadership.
I commend President Rothman for his work in helping the Universities of Wisconsin hold their own amid nationwide declining enrollment. He has made tough decisions to sustain our campuses and protect educational access for Wisconsin students.
I am concerned that the push to oust him may actually stem from his strong support for free speech and open inquiry on our campuses—core principles that must be defended in higher education.
The Board owes Wisconsin taxpayers, students, and families a full explanation. They should provide specific reasons or stand down from this effort.”
