MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced three appointments to the University of Wisconsin (UW) Board of Regents. The governor has appointed Tim Nixon, Jack Salzwedel, and Desmond Adongo. These appointments fill the vacancies created by the expiration of three former appointees’ terms that expired May 2024.

“Our UW System is at a critical juncture after a decade-long war waged on higher education by Republican lawmakers in our state, the devastating results of which we are seeing firsthand as campuses close their doors, layoff staff, and cut programs,” said Gov. Evers. “The work of the UW Board of Regents is as important as ever, and I have full confidence that the three individuals I am appointing today are ready and prepared to face these challenges head-on, to do what best interest for our students, faculty, and staff, and to ensure we have the fully funded, fully functioning UW System that Wisconsinites deserve and that meets the needs of our students, our workforce, and our local communities.”

Nixon’s appointment fills the vacancy created by the expiration of Regent Bob Atwell’s term for a term that expires May 1, 2031. Nixon is a commercial lawyer at Godfrey & Kahn for the firm’s Bankruptcy and Financial Restructuring Team. He is a frequent lecturer and speaker on matters involving commercial litigation, the Uniform Commercial Code, and bankruptcy law. Nixon earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Green Bay, his master’s degree from the Robert M. Lafollette School of Public Affairs at UW-Madison, and his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.

“I am honored that Governor Evers asked me to serve the University and the people of Wisconsin,” said Nixon. “I love the institution. I attended the Manitowoc County Center and have degrees from UW-Green Bay and UW-Madison. This is an opportunity to give back, in a unique way, to an institution that has done much for me and my family.” 

Salzwedel’s appointment fills the vacancy created by the expiration of Regent Mike Jones’ term for a term that expires May 1, 2031. Salzwedel is the former chair and CEO of American Family Mutual Insurance Company, a position he held from 2011 to 2021. Prior to becoming chair and CEO, Salzwedel was the president and COO of American Family, and served in many different roles and leadership positions at the company since his start there in 1985. Salzwedel earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. He has served on several boards, including the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors, the American Family Children’s Hospital Development Advisory Board, the Aldo Leopold Foundation, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Dane County, and the UW Chancellor’s Advisory Board, among many others.  

“Having grown up, lived and worked in the state of Wisconsin for most of my life, I consider it an immense honor and privilege to be selected to serve on the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents,” said Salzwedel. “This work, while not easy, is very important—and I look forward to serving the university system and all the people affiliated with it for the betterment of our great state.” 

Desmond Adongo’s appointment fills the non-traditional student regent position and the vacancy created by the expiration of Regent Jennifer Staton’s term for a term that expires May 1, 2026. Adongo is a student at UW-Oshkosh, where he is double-majoring in economics and environmental studies. He has also obtained a certificate in geographic information systems. Prior to attending UW-Oshkosh, Adongo worked as a learning and development operations coordinator at Foot Locker Inc.  

“I am excited and humbled to be nominated for the non-traditional students’ Board of Regents role,” said Adongo. “As a non-traditional student, I hope to bring a unique perspective to enhance and prioritize all student experiences on every UW campus regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. I look forward to collaborating with faculty, administrators, and students to establish, cultivate, and promote a vibrant and meaningful culture where current and future students are endowed with the tools for success.”