The University of Wisconsin (UW) Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (DOVS) is pleased to announce that Jessica Karls-Ruplinger, JD has been chosen to serve as the next Chief Administrative Officer. In this role, Karls-Ruplinger will be responsible for broad administrative leadership and operational expertise for the clinical, educational, research and community engagement programs of the department.
“I am deeply honored to join DOVS, which is recognized as one of the leading ophthalmology programs in the nation,” said Karls-Ruplinger. “From the moment I arrived, I have been impressed by the remarkable accomplishments of our dedicated providers, researchers, and staff. Their unwavering dedication, enthusiasm, and genuine compassion for our mission are truly inspiring.”
“It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome Jessica to this pivotal role,” said Department Chair Terri Young, MD, MBA. “Jessica’s extensive leadership experience in policy development, strategic planning, human resources, and operations, combined with her commitment to our People First culture, makes her the perfect fit as our Chief Administrative Officer.”
Karls-Ruplinger joins DOVS from the UW Department of Surgery, where she served as the Director of Research Operations. Prior to that, she served as Chief of Staff in the Office of Human Resources at UW-Madison. She also served more than 13 years as an attorney for the non-partisan Wisconsin Legislative Council.
Karls-Ruplinger’s first day with DOVS was January 27, 2025. She replaces Linda Callow, MBA, who will retire after 17 years of service to the department and 31 years with UW—Madison.