Rockhurst University Names Dean of Health and Human Services

Rockhurst University has named Jennifer Friend, Ph.D., dean of the College of Health and Human Services effective July 3. Friend is currently the associate dean in the School of Graduate Studies and director of the Preparing Future Faculty program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

“I am delighted that Dr. Friend has accepted our invitation to join Rockhurst University,” said Doug Dunham, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs. “Dr. Friend brings with her a broad array of experiences in a variety of academic settings that make her an excellent fit for this position.” 

At UMKC, Friend has served as interim deputy provost, interim director for assessment, and as a faculty member in the School of Education. Her professional experience also includes working as a middle grades principal and secondary language arts teacher in the Shawnee Mission School District in Kansas. She received her Ph.D. in urban leadership and policy studies in education from UMKC in 2004, with dissertation research on same-gender grouping in science classes.

As dean of the Rockhurst University College of Health and Human Services, Friend will oversee one of the University’s four major academic units. The CHHS offers undergraduate degrees in education, communication sciences and disorders, and exercise and sport science. Graduate programs include education, physical therapy, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders. The college is home to more than 50 faculty and staff members.