Today@Sam Article

SHSU Announces New Dean of College of Health Sciences

Feb. 19, 2025
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

Ryan K. Zapalac has been named the new dean of the Sam Houston State University College of Health Sciences (COHS), effective March 1. Zapalac, professor of kinesiology at SHSU, has been serving in the interim dean position since July 6, 2024.

“Dr. Zapalac is a skilled administrator who quickly earned the trust of the faculty, staff and students in the college,” Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael T. Stephenson said. “I am pleased to see him help continue to grow the College of Health Sciences.”

During his nearly 20 years at SHSU, Zapalac has served as assistant department chair, acting department chair, associate dean of academic affairs, graduate programs and community engagement, and most recently, as interim dean. Prior to his time at SHSU, he was a lecturer at Rice University. Zapalac is a first-generation college graduate who received his PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Houston in 2004.

Sam Houston State University’s College of Health Sciences includes the School of Nursing as well as three academic departments: Human Sciences, Kinesiology and Public Health. In addition, the Department of Physical Therapy and Department of Physician Assistant Studies and Athletic Training were approved to be added to the college by the Texas State University System Board of Regents earlier this month. COHS is comprised of undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on clinical training and work-based learning.

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