Press Release: Gov. Evers Appoints Héctor Colón to the UW Board of Regents

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today appointed Héctor Colón to the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents. This appointment is effectively immediately, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of Gerald Whitburn on Jan. 23, 2020.

“The UW Board of Regents plays a critical role in not only the success of the UW System, but the success of each of our students,” said Gov. Evers. “I believe Héctor's experience turning around budgets, advocating on behalf of some of Wisconsin's most vulnerable residents, and visionary leadership style will serve the Board well.” 

“Throughout my career, I have focused on addressing complex issues impacting people and communities, while improving budgets and organizational efficiency,” said Colón. “I look forward to bringing that experience to the UW Board of Regents and I want to thank Governor Evers for this appointment.” 

Colón has served as the president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) since 2017. Since his time with LSS, the organization has seen multi-million dollar surpluses after years of budget shortfalls. He also served as the executive director of the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services where he ended a 30-year waitlist for disability services and led countywide initiatives on ending chronic homelessness, reforming juvenile justice, and transforming mental healthcare. In 2019, Colón was named the Nonprofit Executive of the Year by BizTimes Media and Hispanic Man of the Year by UMOS.