Zimpher to Lead University of Cincinnati

Nancy L. Zimpher, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, will become the 25th president of the University of Cincinnati on Oct. 1. Zimpher was recommended to the UC Board of Trustees by a Presidential Search Committee on Tuesday, culminating a search underway since Nov. 26, 2002.

Zimpher will lead a comprehensive, public, research university serving 33,000 students, and undergoing a major transformation of its campus. The University of Cincinnati earns more than $260 million in research funding each year, and has been known for the real-world character of its academic programs since 1906, when the university created the world’s first system of cooperative education. UC academic programs in music, medicine, design, architecture and the sciences are ranked among the top 10 in the nation.

A native of Gallipolis, Ohio, Zimpher earned a Ph.D. in teacher education and administration in higher education from Ohio State University, where she served as executive dean of the Professional Colleges and dean of the College of Education. She was named chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in May 1998. 

George A. Schaefer Jr., Chair of the UC Board of Trustees, said, “In appointing the search committee last November, the Board charged the members to identify an outstanding leader who could shape the future of the University of Cincinnati. The skill and dedication of our committee is evident in the candidate they have recommended. Dr. Zimpher is a dynamic and effective leader with the proven ability to integrate the university as a committed partner in the progress of its community. Her appointment indicates a great future for the University of Cincinnati.”

“We have an outstanding, thoughtful, energetic person in Nancy Zimpher," said Joseph A. Steger, who will end 19 years as UC’s president on Sept. 30. “I have known her for several years, and she will be an exceptional president.”

Zimpher will hold an academic position as full professor in UC’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services.

Biography of Dr. Zimpher

Remarks by Dr. Zimpher

View a Webcast of the Board of Trustees Announcement:

From campus, use the Central Campus Version.

All others, please use the following links:

High Bandwidth Version (DSL, cable modem)

Low Bandwidth Version (56K modem)