The governor's office did not specify when the meeting occurred or provide further details about the incident.

In a statement, Evers said he expects the regents he appoints to conduct themselves with professionalism.

"It is my expectation that UW Regents I appoint behave themselves with decency and decorum, and that they treat people with dignity and respect at all times," Evers said. "Unfortunately, today, a regent failed to uphold that basic standard."

The Board of Regents' top two leaders, President Kyle Weatherly and Vice President Ashok Rai, issued a joint statement supporting the governor's decision.

"We stand with Governor Evers in affirming that every member of the Board of Regents must uphold the highest standards of conduct and treat others with dignity and respect," they said. "Serving on the Board of Regents is a privilege that carries significant responsibility. We support the Governor's action and reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a professional and respectful environment for everyone who serves and supports the Universities of Wisconsin."

With Evers' term ending in January, Governor-elect David Crowley will appoint a replacement to the board.

The dismissal marks a rare public rupture on the Board of Regents, which oversees the state's public university system. The board has faced pressure in recent years over issues including campus free speech, diversity programs and the system's budget. The governor's office did not say whether the altercation involved a specific staff member or whether additional review is underway.

The University of Wisconsin System serves roughly 160,000 students across its campuses. Regents are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate, and they set policy for the system's colleges and universities.