Anthony Dodd Sr

UW–Parkside was far enough from Milwaukee for me to grow on my own, yet close enough that I could return home whenever I needed support. The campus itself was diverse, close knit, and welcoming—an environment where I felt seen, included, and encouraged. Its beautiful setting and strong sense of community made it a place where students could truly belong. And importantly, Parkside was affordable, allowing me to pursue my education without placing an overwhelming financial burden on myself or my family.

Professor Jonathan Shailor had a major influence on my time at UW–Parkside. His course in Conflict Analysis and Resolution shaped how I understood leadership in corrections and the role of communication and policy in creating safer, healthier environments. I also admired his work with the Shakespeare Prison Project, and years later, when I stepped into leadership at the Milwaukee County House of Correction, he was one of the first people I contacted. Together, we partnered with Feast of Crispian to bring a Shakespeare‑based conflict‑resolution and emotional‑support program to our facility. His impact has stayed with me throughout my career.

My advice to current students is to learn from the people around you—especially from their mistakes. Wisdom doesn’t only come from your own experiences; it comes from paying attention to the experiences of others.

Always make sure you have options, because options are leverage. Never limit yourself or allow anyone else to limit you. Keep developing new skills, building relationships, and expanding your opportunities so you can move confidently in any direction life takes you.

If you encounter something you don’t like, don’t settle for complaining. Step up, take ownership, and change it. Leadership begins when you decide to improve the world around you rather than accept it as it is.

One of the greatest highlights of my career has been leading the effort to create a housing pathway for returning justice‑impacted individuals. This initiative provides temporary, stable housing for people leaving our facility—removing one of the biggest barriers they face when reentering the community. By partnering with organizations like Project Return, we are able to identify individuals with housing needs, support them through the transition, and ensure they have a foundation that allows them to focus on employment, treatment, and other supportive services.

Another major highlight of my career was helping bring the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy to the Milwaukee County House of Correction on March 29, 2022. It was the first time in history that an NBA championship trophy had ever visited a correctional facility, giving the individuals in our care the chance to share in a moment of pride for the Milwaukee community. The visit was part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ social justice and civic engagement outreach, including voter registration and education efforts. Being able to create a meaningful, inclusive experience for our residents remains one of the most memorable and impactful moments of my professional journey.

The biggest influence on my life has been my father, Thomas Genske. He pushed all of his children to pursue a strong education and instilled in us the mental toughness needed to navigate life’s challenges. I remember the countless rides to and from school when he would ask about my grades and talk to me about why education mattered. Those conversations shaped my discipline, my work ethic, and my commitment to continuous growth. Today, he can rest assured that I was listening all along, and the values he taught me continue to guide my life and career.

My family is the foundation of everything I do. My wife, Nikiya Harris Dodd, has served as a Milwaukee County Supervisor, State Senator, and Milwaukee Alderwoman—making her the only Black woman in Wisconsin’s history elected to all three branches of local and state government. Through her leadership and dedication to public service, I have learned a great deal about what it means to serve with purpose, integrity, and commitment to community. She has also been recognized with a Distinguished Service Award from UW–Milwaukee, a testament to her impact and legacy.

Together, we strive to set an example for our son, Anthony Dodd Jr., showing him the importance of service, education, and leaving a positive mark on the world. Our hope is that the work we do—individually and as a family—creates a legacy he can be proud of and inspired by.

Finish Strong!