System Board

Frances Huntley-Cooper is a distinguished public servant, community leader and lifelong advocate for equity, education and opportunity. With a career spanning city, county, state, national and international leadership, she brings decades of experience in governance, workforce development and community engagement to the WTCS Board.

Frances earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from North Carolina A&T State University, a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration from the University of Wisconsin’s La Follette Institute of Public Affairs.

Her professional career began with a 28-year tenure at the Dane County Department of Human Services where she worked with children, youth and families. She later transitioned to state service as administrator of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Workers Compensation Division where she also chaired the Wisconsin Workers Compensation Advisory Council and was elected president of the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions (IAIABC), the leading international organization for workers’ compensation systems.

In 1991, Frances made history as the first African American elected Mayor in Wisconsin, serving the City of Fitchburg from 1991–1993. Her groundbreaking leadership and continued civic contributions have inspired generations of leaders committed to public service.

A committed advocate for higher education, Frances served 15 years on the Madison College Board of Trustees, holding leadership roles as board chair, vice chair and secretary.

Frances is honored to join the WTCS Board and bring her wealth of knowledge and experiences gained through both her work and public service.

"I am committed to ensuring Wisconsin's technical colleges provide accessible, high-quality education that empowers students, strengthens communities and meets the evolving needs of our workforce."

Term Expires May 2029