Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Health Related Professions

On Sept. 15, 2006, Provost C. Jack Maynard appointed a Health Professions Taskforce and charged that Taskforce to develop a strategic plan for a comprehensive college of health-related professions. The Taskforce was composed of health and human services faculty from the College of Nursing, the College of Health & Human Performance (HHP), and the College of Arts & Sciences. The Taskforce also included students from HHP and Nursing and healthcare providers from the local community.  Provost Maynard will recommend at the February Board of Trustees meeting a new college be formed focusing on health sciences, human services, and nursing.  It is recommended that the new name of the college be The College of Nursing, Health and Human Services.  If this action is approved by the Board of Trustees, a new search for a dean will begin immediately. 

Below are some highlights from the Taskforce Report:

Taskforce Findings and Recommendation

The Taskforce found that "Numerous universities have successfully formed comprehensive colleges of health to strengthen and support training in health professions." They further state that, "Although ISU is not identically-situated to other schools where this has been successful....; we nevertheless believe there is merit to following this model at Indiana State." The Taskforce further stated that they believe that a more comprehensive college focused on the health related professions could:

a) increase the visibility of health professions at ISU
b) empower the faculty who advocate for health professions
c) promote greater collaboration between health-oriented units
d) attract external resources
e) initiate and develop new health-oriented programs
f) strengthen ties with community partners
g) better meet regional and state needs

The Taskforce clearly states that just "merging" the existing colleges of Nursing and Health and Human Performance without addressing a number of significant issues could negatively impact these programs, the faculty, and our students. The specific issues or concerns identified include:

a) resources
b) visibility
c) identity
d) leadership opportunities
e) transition time

The complete reports from the Health Professions Taskforce and Provost's Recommendation are included on this website.