Peterson named dean of College of Arts and Sciences 

April 24, 2025 - The University of Wisconsin-River Falls has named Karl Peterson as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) after a national search. Peterson has served as interim dean since January.

“Dr. Peterson brings valuable expertise and a record of achievement to the deanship, positioning both himself and the College of Arts and Sciences for ongoing success,” said Interim Provost Wes Chapin. “He rose through the faculty ranks, being promoted to full professor, and has had progressively more responsible leadership positions throughout his career, including serving as department chair, associate dean and interim dean.”   

Peterson joined UWRF in 1999 and has served as a faculty member and chair of the Chemistry and Biotechnology Department, associate dean and interim dean. He has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Distinguished Teaching Award and CAS awards for service, teaching and advising.

For nearly a decade, Peterson has been a staunch advocate for the university’s new Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech). He has provided vital contributions as part of the SciTech Design Leadership Team, ensuring faculty and department priorities have been conveyed throughout the design process. He has also developed important business collaborations resulting in tangible external support for the new facility, which will also be home to the new University Business Collaboration Center.

Peterson shared his enthusiasm for the future of both the college and the university and will continue to utilize his encouraging leadership approach in his new role.

“I’m looking forward to providing stability to CAS and UWRF as we chart the shared course forward.”

Peterson earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and his Ph.D. in organic chemistry at Iowa State University. He will begin his new role June 1.