MADISON, Wis. – Ray Cross, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Extension and University of Wisconsin Colleges, was named today by Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald to serve on a task force to study the future of the University of Wisconsin System.

In a message to employees, Cross said, “I look forward to representing not just the interests of our two institutions, but the best interests of the whole state on this task force. There is no issue more critical to our economic success than the future of the University of Wisconsin system.”

A list of the 12 members appointed Sept. 30 is here: http://legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/sen13/news/.

The 17-member Special Task Force on UW Restructuring and Operational Flexibilities will also include one named by the minority leader of each house, two from the governor, and one jointly chosen by the co-chairs of the Finance Committee to serve as the chairperson. Rep. Steve Doyle of Onalaska has been announced as one of two Democratic appointees. Other members remain to be announced.

The UW Colleges and the UW-Extension are two statewide institutions led by a single chancellor. UW Colleges is comprised of 13 freshman-sophomore campuses and UW Colleges Online that offer an associate degree in arts and science and prepare students of all ages and backgrounds for baccalaureate and professional programs. The UW-Extension includes Cooperative Extension offices in 72 counties and three tribal nations, 12 Small Business Development Centers and Outreach and E-Learning programs delivered via the 26 UW System campuses and distance-learning channels, as well as the statewide networks of Wisconsin Public Radio and Wisconsin Public Television.