Walsh University Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mike Dunphy has named Dr. Jacqueline Novak ’88, as Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences and Education. After a thorough selection process, Dr. Novak emerged as the ideal candidate to lead the School into its next chapter of academic excellence. Her wealth of experience and dedication to the University's mission make her well-suited for this pivotal role. Dr. Novak is poised to assume her permanent position as Dean, commencing her duties on February 12, 2024.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Novak for her outstanding leadership in her role as Interim Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences and Education,” said Dr. Dunphy. “She has played a pivotal role in shaping the Walsh 4.0 strategies and elevating the School’s profile on a regional, national and international scale. I look forward to our ongoing collaboration as she assumes the position of Dean.”
Over the years, Dr. Novak has exhibited exceptional dedication and versatility by assuming various significant roles. Notably, she undertook the responsibilities of Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Sciences from 2016 to 2022, showcasing her adeptness in academic leadership and administrative acumen.
Most recently, beginning in June 2022, Dr. Novak assumed the role of Interim Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, further solidifying her commitment to advancing the University's academic mission and fostering excellence within her academic domain.
Beyond her distinguished role as the Interim Dean, she has demonstrated exemplary leadership in various capacities. Serving as the Chair of the FAR council for the Great Midwest Athletics Conference from 2021 to 2023, she demonstrated her commitment to supporting student-athletes. In 2022, Dr. Novak was selected to participate in the Division II FAR Advanced Leadership Institute, showcasing her dedication to continuous personal and professional development. Most recently, she was invited by Congresswoman Emilia Sykes to join her Girls in S.T.E.A.M. Advisory Board for 2024, emphasizing her advocacy for women in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Furthermore, Dr. Novak played a pivotal role in establishing early assurance programs with NEOMED and LECOM, facilitating pre-med students at Walsh in gaining early acceptance to medical school and furthering their academic pursuits.
Dr. Novak received her Ph.D. in physiology and biophysics from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, her Master of Science in Biology from The University of Akron and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Walsh University in 1988.
