Office of the Provost

Dean Robbins review

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The Office of the Provost is conducting a review of Paul Robbins, Dean of the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. This review is a normal part of our evaluation and support procedures. As part of this review, the provost has appointed Dr. Terry Warfield, Professor Emeritus, Wisconsin School of Business, to chair a committee to gather feedback from faculty, staff, and partners of the institute.

Survey

The institute’s faculty, staff, and select partners will receive an email with a link to a confidential survey starting October 7, 2026. This is your opportunity to share your experiences and perspectives on Dean Robbins’s leadership and the direction of the institute. The survey takes only a few minutes, and your feedback will play a major role in shaping the committee’s report.

Interview Option

Instead of completing the survey, the institute’s faculty, staff, and partners may provide feedback in conversation with two members of the review committee. To request a confidential interview, please complete a brief form by October 28, 2026. A committee member will follow up to schedule a time with you.

Dean Review Committee Members

If you have questions about the review, please contact Kelly Conforti Rupp, assistant vice provost for career and leadership development.

  1. Shelby Ellison, associate professor, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences; Nelson affiliate
  2. Elizabeth Hennessy, professor, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
  3. Eric Klister, Web Operations Manager, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
  4. Tara Mohan, academic planner, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
  5. Mario Ortiz-Roblez, professor, College of Letters and Science, English; Nelson affiliate
  6. Rosemary Russ, professor, School of Education, Curriculum and Instruction; Nelson affiliate
  7. Terry Warfield (chair), professor emeritus, Accounting and Information Systems, Wisconsin School of Business
  8. Kelly Conforti Rupp, assistant vice provost for career and leadership development, Office of the Provost