PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has appointed Dr. Carolyn Keller dean of the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture, effective immediately.
Keller’s appointment follows Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Laura Reynolds’ recommendation and recognizes Keller’s successful service as interim dean, her demonstrated leadership and the college’s progress during the past year.
“Dr. Keller is a thoughtful, collaborative and student-centered leader who has earned the confidence of colleagues across the college and university,” Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Laura Reynolds said. “Her leadership will provide continuity while creating new opportunities for students, faculty, staff and the communities we serve.”
During Keller’s tenure as interim dean, BILSA completed successful accreditation reviews for the School of Business and Applied Engineering Technology Management programs, advanced new public health and health sciences programs and expanded partnerships designed to address critical workforce and health care needs across the region. The college also assumed stewardship of a $6.5 million rural health grant supporting the university’s regional mission.
“I am honored to continue serving BILSA and grateful for the faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners whose dedication drives the college forward,” Keller said. “Together, we will build on our momentum, strengthen opportunities for students and continue meeting the needs of our region.”
Keller joined UW-Platteville in 2018 as director of academic assessment and went on to serve in several academic leadership roles, including associate provost, and assistant provost of graduate programs, assessment, teaching and distance learning. She became interim dean of BILSA in June 2025 and is a professor of sociology.
As dean, Keller oversees a college serving approximately 1,700 undergraduate students, five online graduate degree programs and a collaborative physician assistant program with UW-Madison. The college includes more than 100 faculty and staff, manages an annual budget exceeding $18 million and operates the university farm. BILSA is also one of three institutions participating in Wisconsin’s Dairy Innovation Hub.
Keller holds a doctorate in sociology as well as master’s degrees in sociology and Slavic and East European studies from The Ohio State University. She earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations and social relations from Michigan State University.
