Gov. Evers appoints social services leader to UW regents board

MADISON — Democratic Gov. Tony Evers appointed a former boxer who now leads a social services organization Thursday to fill an open spot on the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents.

Evers picked Hector Colon, president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The organization helps facilitate adoptions, helps people become foster parents, helps settle refugees and helps the homeless find housing. Colon also has served as executive director of the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services.

He also was a member of the U.S. national boxing team for seven years, capturing seven national titles. He competed in the 1992 Olympic trials, losing to Jessie Briseno. He currently serves on USA Boxing's board of directors.

Evers said in a statement that he's impressed with Colon's ability to handle multi-million budgets and advocacy for some of Wisconsin's most vulnerable citizens.

Colon replaces Gerald Whitburn, who resigned in January without explanation. Former Republican Gov. Scott Walker appointed Whitburn to the Board of Regents in 2011 and again in 2018. His term would have ended in May 2025.