UW-Parkside Welcomes Steve Scherer as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Marketing & Recruitment
Kenosha, Wis. — January 12, 2026 — The University of Wisconsin–Parkside announced today the appointment of Steve Scherer as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Marketing & Recruitment.
The University of Wisconsin–Parkside announced today the appointment of Steve Scherer as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Marketing & Recruitment, effective January 5, 2026.
In this newly unified role, Scherer will lead both marketing and student recruitment efforts, aligning two strategic functions under a single vision. The appointment reflects UW-Parkside’s continued commitment to increasing brand awareness, strengthening community engagement, and connecting more prospective students with the opportunities Parkside offers.
Scherer brings more than a decade of experience in sales and marketing, brand development, and community engagement. His leadership will focus on creating a cohesive, student-centered approach to outreach that clearly communicates Parkside’s value, career-focused education, and areas of distinction.
“Steve understands UW-Parkside because he has lived it,” said Chancellor Lynn Akey. “He brings a rare combination of strategic marketing expertise, deep community ties, and an authentic commitment to student success. Unifying marketing and recruitment under his leadership positions Parkside to tell our story more clearly and reach students who will thrive here.”
A proud UW-Parkside alumnus, Scherer’s personal connection to the university informs his passion for expanding access to higher education and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. His appointment underscores Parkside’s mission to serve learners at every stage of life with practical, high-impact educational experiences.
“I was a newly married transfer student working three jobs when I attended UW-Parkside,” said Scherer. “When you're balancing multiple jobs and a family, you need to know exactly the cost of tuition, have access to professors who care, and have opportunities for professional experience. That's what UW-Parkside is all about, and that's why I'm excited to be here.”
In addition to his professional background, Scherer has held numerous leadership roles in local civic organizations, including the UW-Parkside Foundation Board, the Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce, RAMAC, Crossway Community Church, and Youth For Christ of Southeast Wisconsin.
Scherer will be based on the UW-Parkside campus in Kenosha and will begin his duties immediately.
Since its founding in 1968, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has been a trusted partner for the region’s higher educational needs, empowering students to thrive, advancing applied knowledge, and developing talent for the future. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs, designed to foster personal and professional growth through real-world and impactful learning experiences. Located in the dynamic Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, UW-Parkside offers unmatched access to world-class internships, professional networks, and endless career-building opportunities, placing students at the center of it all.
Media contact:
Communications Manager
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
marcomm@uwp.edu