Makda Fessahaye

Makda Fessahaye joined the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in April 2022 as the Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Human Resources Officer. In her role, she leads the Department of Human Resources and oversees all human resources functions and initiatives for UWM.

Previously, Makda served as the City of Milwaukee’s Chief Human Resources Officer and Director of the Department of Employee Relations, and as the Administrator of the Division of Adult Institutions for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Earlier in her career, Makda worked as an attorney, practicing employment, privacy, and open government law.

Makda has been recognized for her professional accomplishments including the Wisconsin Women in Government Rising Star Award, Madison365's Most Influential Black Leaders, and Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.

Makda earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from Northwestern University, and Juris Doctor from Marquette University Law School.