The University of Wisconsin-Madison announced that Provost Charles Isbell, Jr. will be leaving his position to become the next chancellor of the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and a vice president of the University of Illinois System. His new role is set to begin on July 16.
Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin shared this news with faculty and staff, acknowledging Isbell’s contributions since he became provost in 2023. “This is a remarkable opportunity, and while it is bittersweet for us at UW–Madison, I am happy for Charles, his wife Sheila, and their children Joni and Cody,” Mnookin stated.
Isbell’s departure marks a significant transition for UW-Madison. John Zumbrunnen, currently Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning, will serve as Interim Provost following Isbell’s departure. Mnookin expressed confidence in Zumbrunnen’s leadership during this interim period: “I am confident that under his leadership we will be going from strength to strength.”
A search for a new provost is planned to commence in the fall.
For further information about Isbell’s appointment at the University of Illinois, interested parties are directed to visit the official announcement on their website.
