Chancellor's Office

Interim Chancellor

Dr. Maria Cuzzo

University of Wisconsin-Superior

“Education changed my life for the better, and I believe it can change every life that embraces the power of learning.”

About Interim Chancellor Cuzzo

Dr. Maria Cuzzo serves as Interim Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Superior, bringing more than 30 years of experience as a faculty member, academic leader, and administrator dedicated to student success and institutional excellence. She has been a member of the UW-Superior campus community for decades, advancing the university’s mission through leadership in both academic and administrative roles.

Prior to her appointment as Interim Chancellor, Dr. Cuzzo served as Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, where she provided strategic oversight of academic programs, accreditation, faculty development, and student success initiatives. In this role, she played a central part in shaping the university’s academic direction while strengthening its commitment to quality, access, and innovation.

Commitment to Student Success and Academic Excellence

Interim Chancellor Cuzzo believes deeply in the power of education to transform lives, strengthen communities, and expand opportunity. She is committed to fostering inclusive, student-centered learning environments that support intellectual growth, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong dedication to teaching and mentorship. A full professor in the Department of Human Behavior, Justice, and Diversity, she previously served as coordinator of the Legal Studies and Criminal Justice program—one of UW-Superior’s most innovative and impactful academic programs. Her work emphasizes experiential learning and preparing students to succeed in a complex and evolving world.

Dr. Cuzzo also founded and directed the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, advancing faculty development and instructional innovation across campus. Her leadership in accreditation efforts and institutional planning has helped strengthen academic quality and ensure continuous improvement in student outcomes.

Academic and Professional Background

In addition to her work at UW-Superior, Dr. Cuzzo has served as a mediator for the Douglas County Court Commissioner’s Office and practiced law as an associate attorney in Superior, Wisconsin. She has also held teaching and research roles at the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

Dr. Cuzzo earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from Augustana University. She holds both a Juris Doctor and a Ph.D. in American Government with an emphasis in Constitutional Law, American National Institutions, and Judicial Process and Political Theory from the University of Minnesota. Her academic and professional experiences reflect a strong foundation in law, public policy, and higher education leadership.

Education is a transformative experience that opens students’ eyes, invites exploration of new ideas, and encourages the development of community involvement and commitment. There is nothing more exciting than seeing that ‘ah-ha’ moment when a student learns something they had never considered before, and watching how that one moment can spark powerful dreams, goals, and the capacity to bring them to life.
Dr. Cuzzo

Leadership Though Collaboration and Service

As Interim Chancellor, Dr. Cuzzo continues to guide UW-Superior with a focus on collaboration, shared governance, and student-centered success. She is committed to working alongside faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to advance the university’s mission and expand its impact across the region.

Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of UW-Superior’s strengths and opportunities, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring the university remains a place where students thrive, innovation is encouraged, and the community is strengthened.