UW-Oshkosh begins comprehensive plan to adapt to changing tech, demographics

PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK

OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — UW-Oshkosh began planning its path forward on Monday night, a plan called “Oshkosh Infinity” that will focus on the non-traditional.

It will address how the university plans to adapt amidst the changing technological world and the upcoming population decline set to hit universities.

The plan will have three main focus points, according to Chancellor Manohar Singh.

1. Financial sustainability and vitality
2. Serving the community
3. Ensuring students feel successful

In addition to the population decline, students see less value in college overall (not specifically UW-Oshkosh) right now, though enrollment is healthy for the 2025-26 fall semester.

“People are choosing not to pursue post-secondary education across all demographic groups, but particularly among some of the groups that we serve right here in Northeast Wisconsin,” said Ed Martini, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at UW-Oshkosh.

Listening sessions to give feedback:

1. Thursday, Oct. 30, 9 a.m., Reeve Ballroom A
2. Monday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m., Reeve 307
3. Thursday, Nov. 6, 2:30 p.m., Reeve 307
4. Thursday, Nov. 6, 5:30 p.m., Location TBD
5. Monday, Nov. 10, 3 p.m., Reeve 307
6. Thursday, Nov. 13, 8:30 a.m., Clow N151
7. Friday, Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m., Sage 1210
8. Friday, Nov. 14, 3 p.m., Location TBD
9. Thursday, Nov. 20, 3:30 p.m., Reeve Ballroom
10. Monday, Nov. 24, 9 a.m., Reeve 207
11. Two more meetings TBD will take place online

The plan will supplant its previous strategic plan, UWO2030, which was created under Chancellor Andrew Leavitt and before the university eliminated its $18 million deficit.

The plan isn’t yet written, but non-traditional just may be the main theme.

It’ll look to expand community college partnerships, create new grad programs for adults, and recruit more non-traditional students, including ones who have dropped out, according to Singh. It may even adjust programs, as he believes the changing tech world requires students to be more well-rounded.

“The traditional degree programs have to evolve as more innovative,” said Singh, who began as chancellor on July 1, 2025. “It should not just be focusing on job creation, but it should be focusing on [being] innovative enough that we do not lose the sight of liberal arts and humanities.”

The community will find out just how creative the plan may be when it’s released next fall.