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Alumnus Raymond W. Cross Named University of Wisconsin System President

Raymond W. CrossMADISON, Wis. – Ferris State University alumnus Raymond (Ray) W. Cross, chancellor of University of Wisconsin Colleges and University of Wisconsin-Extension, has been named the next president of the University of Wisconsin System. His appointment was approved by the UW Board of Regents on Jan. 9 based upon the recommendation of a selection committee.

He will assume his responsibilities, as president, in February.

Cross earned a Bachelor of Science in Technical Education from Ferris, in 1978. The Ferris roots run even deeper for Cross. From 1977 through 1992, he was employed by the university in a variety of capacities in its College of Engineering Technology. Among other positions, he served as a professor, program director and department head.

Cross earned a Master of Science in industrial education from Central Michigan University, in 1981; a Ph.D. in college and university administration from Michigan State University, in 1991; and was awarded an honorary doctorate in science from Colgate University, in 2007.

The Ferris alumnus is excited about the work ahead as the new leader of the UW System.

“As we look at the mission of the UW System and the role of our central administration, we must consistently add value to the work being done by our talented faculty and staff statewide. We must explain the impact of their work and the effectiveness of our administration in terms that people will easily understand. We will seek out collaborations and efficiencies that serve the public good, and demonstrate that we are a part of – not apart from – what makes Wisconsin great,” Cross said in a news release issued by UW.