MADISON – Gov. Tommy G. Thompson has been appointed to lead the statewide business council formed by University of Wisconsin System President Ray Cross. The UW System Business Council, comprised of more than two dozen business and industry leaders from across Wisconsin, is designed to foster increased dialogue with corporate leaders and to better align the university with the needs and expectations of employers.
“We are pleased Gov. Thompson agrees to chair this important leadership council,” President Cross said. “Gov. Thompson’s proven record of economic development reflects his tireless commitment to advancing positive change. With his leadership, the council will help further broaden and deepen university connections with business and industry.”
Gov. Thompson said, “It is a great honor to chair the UW System Business Council and to assist in guiding conversations focused on identifying the best pathways for addressing the state’s current and future talent and workforce needs. Solving these issues requires our best thinking, and the council convenes a diverse range of dynamic and experienced thought leaders. It will be much easier to adapt to the fast pace of change in today’s world when we all work together to address the needs and interests of the state and all of its citizens.”
The UW System Business Council was originally formed two years ago as a result of strategic listening sessions President Cross held around the state to hear from a broad range of community, industry, and government stakeholders. The announcement of Gov. Thompson’s appointment coincides with the group’s fall 2018 meeting, which included conversations with UW System Chancellors and other invited business and government leaders. The overall intent is to foster greater collaboration, to find new ways of growing graduates in high-demand fields, and to discuss how best to expand the awareness and adoption of high-impact practices such as internships.