UW administration grows while faculty numbers decline

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The University of Wisconsin System’s administration is growing while faculty numbers are declining.

The number of system employees categorized as “administration and academic leaders” grew by 53 positions, or 3.5%, between 2014 and 2017, according to Wisconsin Public Radio. The number of faculty members at the system’s two- and four-year schools dropped by 491 positions, or about 7.7%, over the same period.

UW-Madison faculty numbers dropped by 80 positions, a 4% decline. The flagship university’s administration grew by 52 positions, an 11% increase.

UW-Madison spokeswoman Meredith McGlone says the administrative growth is related to increased regulations. She says the school hired more mental health counselors and more sexual violence support personnel.

System spokesman Mark Pitsch attributed the decline in faculty numbers to retirements.