Madison Reporter

Catherine Golden has been appointed as the associate vice provost and senior director of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Office of Strategic Consulting. She will assume her new role on July 9, following her tenure as assistant vice provost for academic initiatives at Purdue University since 2021.

The Office of Strategic Consulting was previously led by Interim Associate Vice Provost and Director Charles Meyer since 2023. Golden expressed her enthusiasm for the position, stating, “I’m honored to step into this leadership role and excited to work collaboratively with faculty and staff across campus on strategic initiatives that will advance UW–Madison’s mission and priorities.”

Golden emphasized the potential impact of collaborative efforts, saying, “Together, we have a tremendous opportunity to shape the future of our institution in meaningful ways and to work together on creative approaches that advance our mission and maintain the excellence that defines UW–Madison.”

In her new capacity, Golden will guide strategic direction for the office, engage with campus leadership in planning efforts, and join the Provost’s leadership cabinet. Her achievements at Purdue include aiding in establishing Purdue University in Indianapolis as an additional location for Purdue in West Lafayette.

Golden's previous roles include serving as associate dean for George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Services. She also founded an independent higher education consulting business.

Provost Charles Isbell welcomed Golden's appointment by stating, “I’m delighted to add Catherine’s skills and talents to our leadership team.” He also acknowledged Charles Meyer's contributions over his interim period: “I also want to express my deep appreciation for Charles Meyer, who skillfully led the office over the past two years.”

The Office of Strategic Consulting provides various services such as strategic planning, project management, policy management, capacity building, process improvement, organization design and change management. It supports numerous strategic initiatives across campus functions while assisting leaders in advancing institutional priorities.

Golden will lead a team of 50 colleagues reporting directly to the provost with a dotted-line relationship to the vice chancellor for finance and administration.