Passing of former UW Regent President Michael J. Spector

Michael J. Spector, 74, a former UW System Regent who served as board vice president from 2009-11 and president in 2011-12, died Friday at his village of Shorewood home after a battle with cancer. “Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Mike’s family, friends, and colleagues,” UW System President Ray Cross said in a statement. “Mike was a remarkable individual who was passionate about his work, shaping the future for the students at all UW campuses.” A graduate of the UW and Harvard Law School, Spector spent 47 years in practice (often on civil rights cases) with the Milwaukee law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP, which he served as chairman. A lengthy and impressive obituary is online.