New Name Announced For WI's Public Universities

EAU CLAIRE, WI — Wisconsin’s network of public universities has a new name.

Instead of the University of Wisconsin System, the 13 schools will now be known as the Universities of Wisconsin.

“Our new identity aims to broaden awareness of our universities across the state,” President Jay Rothman said in a news release. “We believe the Universities of Wisconsin identity is more relatable for students, families, and employers.”

The goal of the new name is to shift the focus from the larger university system to the specific schools, according to Rothman, who announced the change Tuesday at UW-Eau Claire. Gov. Tony Evers issued a proclamation to mark the occasion as Universities of Wisconsin Week.

New graphics, including a logo, will reflect the name change. Over the next several months, officials with the universities will update written materials, webpages, letterhead and more. The transition is expected to be finalized early next year.

“In 2024 we will have a fresh look, with a focus on our students and the 13 universities that provide the foundation for developing talent in Wisconsin,” Rothman said.

The University of Wisconsin System will, however, remain the official legal name of the state’s public universities. The schools serve roughly 161,000 students and award nearly 37,000 degrees annually.