Biography

Chancellor Schmidt grew up in a small town in Minnesota and headed to Winona State University for his undergraduate degree. He holds a doctorate in educational policy and administration from the University of Minnesota, a master’s degree in business administration from the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Winona State University. Immediately prior to joining UW-Eau Claire, Chancellor Schmidt served as vice president for university advancement at Winona State University and as executive director of the WSU Foundation board of trustees.

The leader of UW-Eau Claire may be known to the public as Chancellor James C. Schmidt, but to the students on campus, he will always be known as Chancellor Jim. His reputation as a staunch defender and champion of the university and its students took root on the day of his inauguration, November 8, 2013, when he announced his guiding concepts of joy, audacity and public good. Schmidt has implemented a broad range of initiatives that support students, faculty and staff; strengthen ties with the community of Eau Claire; and uphold the university's strong tradition of excellence.

Shortly after James Schmidt arrived on campus, students encouraged him to open a Twitter account. Through the medium of @ChancellorJim, students came to know the new chancellor as the real-life, approachable Chancellor Jim. Nowadays students tweet him with questions ranging from the silly to the serious and greet him on campus as a celebrity and a friend.

Occupations

• Chancellor -- Date: 2013 - present

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