Last week, Paul Fanlund of The Capital Times offered an in-depth analysis of Chancellor Biddy Martin’s first two years at UW-Madison. Fanlund found Martin to be an optimistic and enthusiastic leader who remains exceedingly careful and disciplined. Her approach to the Wisconsin Legislature stands in stark contrast to her predecessor, John Wiley, who often fought public battles with members of the legislature.
Martin also indicated how she will lead the university through the tough state budget deliberations ahead. She maintains that the university should remain internationally competitive by charging median tuition, but hold the neediest students harmless through increased fundraising and need-based financial aid. With her trademark optimism, Martin said she believes legislators prefer to keep tuition increases low, even with declining federal support of the university.