Liz Wuorinen will serve as interim dean of the College of Health Sciences and Professional Studies, effective July 1. Her term will be one year, or until a permanent solution to the college's leadership has been determined. She has served as associate dean in the College of Health Sciences and Professional Studies and director of the School of Health and Human Performance for the past eight years. Her director role will continue during her time as interim dean.
Wuorinen assumes the post from Joe Lubig. He is stepping down after three years in the role and will continue as associate dean and director of Education, Leadership and Public Service.
"I am happy to have been chosen to serve as the interim dean for the College of Health Sciences and Professional Studies (CHSPS),” she said. “I plan to bring my passion for academic excellence, experience in administration, and dedication to our college to this position. I look forward to continuing the collaborative work with the faculty and staff in the CHSPS to enhance the academic programs, further the research initiatives, and ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of their chosen professions. I am excited to begin this journey and continue the success established by my predecessors."
“Dr. Wuorinen has a positive track record of leading the School of Health and Human Performance with professionalism and creativity,” stated Anne Dahlman, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, in an email announcing the appointment. “For example, collaboratively with faculty, she has launched three new master's programs, a 3+2 in athletic training and two online programs: administration of outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism; and applied sports psychology.”
Dahlman said she and the Provost's Office team will visit with campus stakeholders early in the fall semester to engage in conversations about the most suitable leadership structure for the schools, departments and programs in the College of Health Sciences and Professional Studies.
Wuorinen earned her doctorate in exercise physiology and a supporting specialization in exercise endocrinology from the University of Michigan. She taught at four higher education institutions before joining NMU.