The first student forum for Madison College’s presidential search took place on March 24. Dr. Dawn B. Crim spoke at length about her experience and what makes her a good fit for Madison College. Questions were sent in beforehand, asked online by viewers watching remotely and posed in person by attending students.
Dr. Crim spoke about her experience in higher education as well as how important education is for changing people’s lives.
She grew up in Philadelphia in a family of six and was the only one of her siblings to attend college. She has lived in Madison for 29 years and has experience working at both UW-Madison as associate dean for the School of Education and spent 10 years serving on the Edgewood College Board of Trustees.
“I envision having higher, stronger enrollments, making sure that AI is a part of the workforce, that students are learning whether it’s technical education or a career path, raising dollars to support that work, building strong partnerships in the community,” said Dr. Crim about her vision for Madison College.
Dr. Crim also has experience at the state government level, having previously worked as secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services as well as assistant state superintendent for student and school success at the Department of Public Instruction. Some of her work was during COVID-19, an experience she felt demonstrated her ability to lead in times of crisis.

When asked about how she supported shared governance, particularly student voices, in her previous roles, Dr. Crim mentioned how her role at UW-Green Bay involves working with student government at all four campuses — particularly with raising money, increasing student engagement and promoting inclusivity.
She expressed her desire to listen to student voices and partner closely with student government at Madison College.
When asked to share her thoughts on how to support Madison College’s diverse student body in succeeding, Dr. Crim emphasized the importance of ensuring every Madison College student receives equitable treatment and the support they need for their particular circumstances. She specifically highlighted her experience in ensuring scholarships were available to first-generation students.
Presidential priorities were another topic brought up by students. Dr. Crim talked about a concept known as the four C’s: connection, curiosity, courage and caution.
This involves understanding campus culture by working closely with staff and students, learning what people want from the campus, and considering the information they provide while also managing long-term plans.
Dr. Crim emphasized her commitment to equity and support for students from diverse backgrounds. Several questions addressed her work with LGBTQ+ students and her role as chief diversity officer at UW-Green Bay. Other examples included her efforts to institute blind hiring practices by removing names from résumés, offering construction and electrical exams in Spanish during her time as secretary and supporting rural students through the Rising Phoenix dual enrollment program at UW-Green Bay.
When asked why she thought these student forums were important, Dr. Crim said, “You’re the reason we’re here, you’re the reason we do what we do. So it’s important to hear their voices, to ensure that we’re providing the quality education that they’re looking for so that they can meet their goals. So that’s what this is about, so I was really glad that people came and shared that with me.”