Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - Steve Zielke, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville vice chancellor for administrative services, will retire on Jan. 1, 2007. The university will hold a farewell reception for him on Thursday, Dec. 14 from 1-4 p.m. in the University North and South Rooms of the Pioneer Student Center.

With almost 40 years of service to UWP in various positions, Zielke has conflicting feelings about leaving the university because, he said, it's hard to leave now when the prospects for UWP's future are so positive and stable; it hasn't always been this way and he is proud of having been a part of working through the tough times. He said that it is so hard to leave friends and colleagues but concluded, "Everybody's put up with me long enough; it's time to go."

During his years at UWP, Zielke has fulfilled many roles, first as assistant director and director of housing, then as director of auxiliary services, assistant chancellor for business affairs and, finally, as vice chancellor for administrative services. He said he is most proud of being a part of UWP's progress and witnessing it become very secure for its future. He attributed much of this progress and security to Chancellor David Markee who, Zielke said, exemplifies a true leader. He's also proud of being able to contribute to the caring and considerate atmosphere that is characteristic of UWP.

Chancellor Markee said, "I have known and worked with Zielke two separate times over the past 35 years. I have enjoyed his professional expertise and sense of humor. He has been an outstanding leader at this university for many years and will be missed. We all wish him the very, very best in his retirement."

"I'm grateful for the chance to have been in a position where decisions could be made to benefit the Southwest Wisconsin and Platteville communities," said Zielke. "I've learned from UWP that in order to be happy in life, we must genuinely care about others." He credits Lloyd Linden, former assistant chancellor for student affairs, for this life lesson and many others. "The administration has always seen UWP as an integral piece in the well-being of Platteville and Southwest Wisconsin, and I hope it continues to be a priority," Zielke said.

As for professionalism, Zielke said that he's learned to make sure that his work coincides with the goals of the university. "Professionals need to make sure they aim for larger organizational goals, and that's what I've done here," he said.

Zielke attested to the notion that UW-Platteville, the Platteville community and Wisconsin are places where long-term friendships are made and said, "Almost all of my dearest and closest friendships were made while I was in college here and working here. A huge number of people genuinely care for each other in this community. With this attitude, people make and keep friends a lot easier." And in closing, he said, "I will most definitely do whatever I can for this university after my retirement."

Contact: UWP Office of the Chancellor, (608) 342-1234, burkholj@uwplatt.edu Prepared by: April Schmidt, UWP Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, schmidap@uwplatt.edu