New Leadership to Spearhead Growth and Campaign for a State-of-the-Art Nursing Facility
Valparaiso University is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Gmitter, Ph.D., PT, MS, as the new Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions. A visionary leader with a distinguished career in healthcare education, workforce development, and academic innovation, Dr. Gmitter brings a wealth of experience that will propel Valpo’s nursing and health professions programs into a new era of growth and excellence.
Dr. Gmitter’s appointment comes at a pivotal time, as the College of Nursing and Health Professions embarks on a transformative campaign to build a state-of-the-art health professions facility. This initiative will enhance hands-on learning, integrate cutting-edge simulation technology, and create an advanced educational environment that reflects the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
Previously, Dr. Gmitter served as Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Career Programs at Malcolm X College in Chicago, where she led more than 20 healthcare programs, including 12 with specialized accreditation. Under her leadership, she expanded curriculum offerings, strengthened accreditation efforts, and secured millions in funding to support workforce development. Her work includes securing $2.4 million in HRSA funding to grow healthcare apprenticeships and over $4 million in funding to enhance workforce development initiatives emphasizing health equity and access. Throughout her career, she has championed nationally recognized apprenticeship models, established strategic partnerships with universities and healthcare organizations, and played a key role in shaping policies that advance equitable healthcare training.
"Dr. Gmitter brings a remarkable depth of experience and a forward-thinking vision for the future of healthcare education at Valparaiso University," said Eric Johnson, Provost of Valparaiso University. "Her expertise in developing innovative academic programs, securing vital funding, and cultivating strong industry partnerships will be invaluable as we expand opportunities for our students and advance the College of Nursing and Health Professions. With Dr. Gmitter’s leadership and the launch of a campaign for our new health professions facility, Valpo is poised to strengthen its role in preparing highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals."
As Dean, Dr. Gmitter is dedicated to building upon Valparaiso University’s tradition of excellence in nursing and health professions education. She will lead the university’s vision for the new health professions facility, which will expand hands-on clinical simulation spaces, enhance research opportunities, integrate the latest healthcare technologies, and deepen partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers. Her leadership will ensure that Valpo students graduate fully equipped to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry while serving communities with expertise, compassion, and innovation.
“I am honored to join Valparaiso University as Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions,” said Dr. Gmitter. “Valpo’s mission to ‘lead and serve’ deeply resonates with me, and I look forward to building on its legacy of excellence in healthcare education. Together with faculty, students, and industry partners, we will drive innovation, foster student success, and prepare graduates to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector.”
“As Northwest Indiana experiences rapid growth, the healthcare field faces critical workforce shortages. Valparaiso University is committed to addressing these challenges with agility, collaboration, and a clear vision for the future. The campaign for a new health professions facility represents a transformational investment—ensuring our graduates are equipped to lead with skill, confidence, and a deep commitment to patient care.”
The campaign for the new health professions facility will focus on securing funding, engaging alumni and community partners, and developing an innovative learning environment that will solidify Valparaiso University’s position as a leader in healthcare education.
For more information on the College of Nursing and Health Professions, visit valpo.edu/college-of-nursing-and-health-professions.
