1990 - 2000 John Kerrigan

Dr. John E. Kerrigan leadership began in the fall of 1990. A native of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, he earned degrees in liberal arts, engineering and political science from Loras College, the University of Iowa and the University of Colorado. Before his chancellorship at Oshkosh, he served as a civil engineer and worked for the Ford Foundation as a consultant to governments and universities in Jordan, Lebanon, Botswana, Indonesia, India and the Philippines. Through his vast international experience, Kerrigan gained expertise as a city manager, educator, and administrator, roles that would allow him to excel while at Oshkosh.

During his administration, Kerrigan worked to strengthen the relationship between the administration and student organizations. He held frequent meetings with the leaders of the student government and sought out the student perspectives on university issues. He actively supported community organizations such as the Rotary International, the United Way, and served on roughly 10 boards of area organizations. Kerrigan’s awareness of international affairs led to the establishment of the Vander Putten International Fund to focus on international initiatives and partnerships. In addition, the University increased funding to support international collaborative research opportunities for both faculty and students. His off-campus relationships increased the funding for student scholarships and internships, campus facilities, and faculty endowments.  

Kerrigan retired in 2000, and in 2004 he returned to his Alma Mater, Loras College, to served as interim president.  Kerrigan died November 5, 2012 in Dallas, Texas.  

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