Karl E. Minges is New Dean of CHP

Health researcher, educator and leader to bring his expertise to health professions students

Karl E. Minges has joined Sacred Heart University as dean of the College of Health Professions (CHP). Minges most recently worked at the University of New Haven where he served as associate dean for research in the School of Health Sciences. In that role, he was responsible for strategic planning and grant management. Prior to that, he was interim dean of the School of Health Sciences there.

In his role at Sacred Heart, Minges will be responsible for managing, supervising and evaluating the programs and personnel in the College of Health Professions. In consultation with the department chairs, he will provide leadership to achieve program objectives such as curricular activities and the development of new programs (with particular attention to the state, regional and professional accrediting associations). He will oversee the recruitment, development and evaluation of full-time faculty, CHP staff and adjunct faculty; support efforts in faculty professional development; and organize, coordinate and supervise a plan for the regular review of academic programs. Minges will serve as a member of the President’s Senior Leadership Team, the Dean’s Council and the Provost’s Academic Affairs Leadership Council.

Minges is a health services researcher who earned his Ph.D. from Yale University; his Master of Public Health degree in sociomedical sciences from Columbia University; and his bachelor’s degree in social work, with minors in biology, sociology and Spanish, from Marist University. He was a Fulbright Scholar at Baker IDI Heart & Diabetes Institute in Melbourne, Australia, from 2009-2010.

“I have watched Sacred Heart University grow considerably into the pioneering university that it is today. To now be part of that growth trajectory is exciting, especially in the health professions where new frontiers of technological innovation and AI will shape the way health care is delivered and how health inequities are addressed,” Minges said. “What makes Sacred Heart University truly special is that its commitment to growth is supported by a vibrant community of students, faculty and staff. Together, they embody the values of community centeredness, respect for others and service that are central to the university’s identity, vision and mission. In short, it is easy to understand the university’s culture within the context of SHU’s history, teaching and principles.”

“I am looking forward to having Dr. Minges join the executive leadership team,” said SHU President John J. Petillo. “I am confident he will be a strong leader for the CHP and will quickly adapt to SHU’s culture while upholding the University’s mission.”

Adds Minges, “My ambition is for the students graduating from the College of Health Professions to not only exhibit excellence in clinical and leadership skillsets, but to also enter the workforce as person-centered, compassionate, kind and culturally competent individuals. Embodying its mission, SHU is uniquely positioned to provide this credential to students. I am eager to have the opportunity to shape the next generation of clinicians, leaders and educators who will impact the global good.”

Minges, his husband (an occupational therapist) and their children live in Cheshire.