Martin named as interim chancellor at UW-River Falls

Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman named veteran higher education leader Michael V. Martin as interim chancellor of UW-River Falls. The appointment takes effect Sept. 7.

Martin will succeed Maria Gallo, who announced today that she will retire from UW-River Falls.

“Mike Martin has extensive experience as a higher education leader and has come highly recommended by Chancellor Gallo,” Rothman said. “I am delighted he has agreed to lead the university until we find a permanent chancellor.”

Martin has served as president of New Mexico State University, chancellor of Louisiana State University, chancellor of Colorado State University, and most recently president of Florida Gulf Coast University. He has held numerous faculty and administrative positions at the University of Minnesota. He also has a Wisconsin connection having taught at UW-Eau Claire.

'My interests and familiarity with UWRiver Falls make this an exciting opportunity,' said Dr. Martin. 'I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students and the greater River Falls community. Comprehensive universities like UW-River Falls are the lifeblood of communities and serve as a foundation for economic prosperity.'

Gallo said she will introduce Martin to the university community and to regional partners in the coming weeks.

Gallo, who joined UW-River Falls in 2021, announced her retirement in a message to campus today. She said she is moving to Florida and will travel, spend time with family and friends, write, and volunteer.

Regent President Amy B. Bogost and Rothman praised Gallo.

“As the 20th leader of UW-River Falls, Chancellor Gallo remained focused on student success, affordability, and career readiness,” Bogost said. “The partnerships she forged with employers and the community will help sustain the university in the coming years.”

“Chancellor Gallo has kept UW-River Falls focused on future growth and sustainability even while navigating challenging financial times,” Rothman said. “She championed the new Science and Technology Innovation Center currently under construction, which is sure to attract new students and faculty. We are grateful for her leadership and service to the university.”

Rothman said a search committee will be named in due course to identify a permanent UW-River Falls chancellor.