Troy Runge, a professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering, assumed the role of interim dean for CALS on July 10 after former CALS dean Glenda Gillaspy moved to a new position as director of the Wisconsin Rural Partnerships Institute. Prior to taking on the interim role, Runge served as associate dean for research and extension. In this Q&A, he shares how he will approach leading the college through its leadership transition.

What inspired you to step into this role?

Like many who work at UW, I have always been motivated by service, whether that’s serving students, supporting faculty and staff, or helping advance the mission of the university. Having grown up on a farm in north-central Wisconsin, I have a deep appreciation for the role CALS plays in the lives of people across our state. This college and this university have shaped my career, and when the opportunity arose to help lead CALS during this transition, I felt a responsibility to contribute. It’s both an honor and a privilege to serve as interim dean.

What are the primary things you hope to achieve while in this position?

My primary goal is to ensure that CALS remains strong and forward-looking during this transition while preparing the college for its next dean. In addition to supporting our teaching, research, outreach, and Extension missions, I want to use this period to engage the college in refreshing its strategic vision and strengthening ties with alumni and stakeholders. By gathering perspectives on our strengths, opportunities, and aspirations, we can provide the next dean with a clear understanding of where CALS is today and where we believe it can have its greatest impact in the years ahead. This is an opportunity not just to maintain momentum but to help position the college for continued success.

What college initiatives will continue to be priorities during your time as interim dean?

Many of the college’s priorities will remain unchanged during my time as interim dean. Our focus will continue to be on excelling in our core mission areas of teaching, research,  outreach, and Extension. Student success remains at the center of that work, including expanding experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, research experiences, field programs, and other hands-on activities that prepare students for meaningful careers. Supporting our research enterprise also remains a priority, particularly as our faculty, staff, and students continue to generate discoveries that benefit Wisconsin and beyond. While CALS will continue to engage in important campus-wide initiatives, this is not a time to launch a large number of new college initiatives. Instead, we will focus on executing well in the areas that define our mission and preparing the college for its next chapter.

How will things work administratively during this time?

Our goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible. As part of that effort, we recently welcomed Vatsan Raman, associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, as interim associate dean for research, and we rebalanced responsibilities within the dean’s office. These changes are intended to provide continuity, clarity, and support across the college.

One thing I would emphasize is that the dean’s office operates very much as a team. We work closely together across all mission areas, and we are committed to making sure people get connected with the right resources and support. If you are unsure where to direct a question or request, don’t worry too much about finding the perfect contact. Reach out to any member of the leadership team, and we will make sure you are connected with the appropriate person. Our goal is to be accessible, responsive, and supportive.

How can people in the college help you in your efforts?

One of the great strengths of CALS is its people. Our faculty, staff, and students are the reason this college is so highly regarded, and my first request is simply that you continue the outstanding work you already do.

I would also encourage everyone to be intentional about telling the CALS story and connecting their work to the college. Across Wisconsin and beyond, CALS faculty, staff, and students are making an extraordinary impact. As I work to strengthen relationships with alumni, donors, and other stakeholders, it helps when those accomplishments are clearly recognized as CALS accomplishments. Whether you’re working with producers, communities, research sponsors, or students, take opportunities to highlight the role of CALS in that success. The more effectively we communicate our collective impact, the stronger we will be in building partnerships, attracting support, and advancing our mission.

What can you tell us about the search for a new dean for CALS?

The search for a permanent dean will be led by the Office of the Provost. The provost’s office will oversee the process, including the formation of a search committee and engagement with stakeholders across the university and beyond. A recent eCALS post includes some additional details. At this point, our focus is on maintaining the college’s strong momentum while supporting a successful search process. As details and timelines are finalized, information will be shared with the CALS community.