Board of Visitors

Members of the Board of Visitors for the UW–Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences work with the dean and provide external perspectives and financial resources to advance the mission of the college.

Members have the following charge:

1. Deepen their knowledge about the activities, priorities and accomplishments of the college.
2. Financially support CALS programs.
3. Build a vibrant network of CALS alumni and friends who can advocate on behalf of the college with other stakeholders, policymakers and funders.

The board functions at the pleasure of the dean.

Membership:

Membership on the board is for a term of three years, renewable for an additional term (total six years). Invitations for renewal are at the discretion of the dean.

New members of the board will be appointed annually by the dean and will be formally introduced at the fall meeting.

In the selection of candidates for the board, the following criteria will be considered.

The candidate will:

1. Exhibit leadership in areas that relate to the work of the college;
2. Demonstrate interest in advocating on behalf of college programs and priorities to other stakeholders; 
3. Be part of a Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association giving society, give $1,000 annually to the college, or have created an endowment to support a CALS program;
4. Participate in events and programs that support the college and the university.

Members of the board will become emeritus board members at the conclusion of their terms and will be formally recognized for their service at the spring meeting.

Meetings:

Meetings will be scheduled twice yearly on the UW–Madison campus. 

A fall meeting will typically be held over two half-days (a Thursday afternoon and Friday morning), in conjunction with other campus activities (such as Lunch with the Chancellor or the Honorary Recognition awards program).

A spring meeting is typically held over one full day.

Meetings provide members information on college priorities and include time to network with fellow board members and CALS faculty, staff and students. Detailed agendas and supporting materials will be provided in advance of each meeting.

Responsibility for Expenses:

Board members are responsible for travel costs and overnight accommodations.  For those needing overnight accommodations, we arrange for a block of rooms at local hotels.

Meals and meeting expenses are covered by the college.