Madison Reporter

Dr. Beth Giles-Klinkner has been appointed as the new provost of Madison College, a role in which she will guide the strategic direction of the institution's academic affairs. Her extensive experience in learning sciences and organizational leadership positions her well for this role.

Giles-Klinkner was one of three finalists for the position and will assume her new responsibilities immediately. She served as Madison College's Interim Provost during the 2023-24 academic year.

Madison College President Jack Daniels expressed his confidence in Giles-Klinkner, stating, “I have full trust in Beth’s ability to guide the academic affairs of our institution and continue the forward momentum she has already started.” He praised her skills in fostering collaboration within the college and her understanding of offering relevant and responsive academic programming. "Her skills led me to choose her as our next provost. I am confident she will continue to advance the mission and vision of our college,” he added.

In response to her appointment, Giles-Klinkner said, “I consider it an honor to serve in this role for Madison College. It is a life-changing place for our students, and I am eager to support and grow our programming well into the future.”

Giles-Klinkner earned a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, along with a master’s degree from Miami University in Ohio. She is an active member of the Madison community, involved in local school district endeavors and building relationships with workforce partners and community-based organizations that positively impact local and regional communities.

Her early career experiences teaching in an urban setting inspired her decision to pursue a Ph.D., preparing herself to address educational inequity at a systemic level. After achieving her doctorate, she built and directed the UW System Institute for Urban Education before transitioning to the University of Wisconsin Madison where she spent many years directing the Education Outreach and Partnerships Office. She also worked at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Giles-Klinkner served as interim provost for the 2023-24 academic year, following the retirement of Dr. Turina Bakken, who had been with the college for nearly 25 years.