After 24 years, Concordia University Wisconsin’s long-enduring president is retiring.


Rev. Patrick T. Ferry, Ph.D. is currently the most tenured college president in Wisconsin—also far-outpacing the average tenure of college presidents nationwide.

Additionally, he is, literally, the longest-running president in the state. Since Dec. 20, 2012, he’s run at least three miles every single day, outside of an eight-day stretch in 2019 when his running streak was put on pause by doctor’s orders due to complications from the flu.

To honor his staying power, the CUW community put together a “Final Run” effort in recognition of his service to the university. Yesterday, CUW surprised President Ferry with cheering stations along his routine 3-mile route around campus.

In the media

TMJ4’s Stephanie Haines turned out to capture the event. Click on the button below to view the segment which aired last night.

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